21 Days of Hidden Gems and Local Cuisine Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Sassi di Matera, an ancient cave dwelling complex that offers a fascinating glimpse into Matera's history. Wander through the narrow streets and marvel at the unique architecture.

Enjoy lunch at one of Matera's local eateries before heading to Madonna delle Virtù Church (Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtù). This historic church is carved into the rock and provides an intriguing look at religious art and architecture.

In the evening, treat yourself to an authentic Italian dining experience at Matera Dining Experience at a Local's Home. Enjoy homemade dishes prepared by locals while learning about their culinary traditions.

Start your day with a visit to Trulli of Alberobello World Heritage Site (Trulli di Alberobello). These iconic cone-shaped houses are unique to this region and offer a captivating glimpse into traditional Apulian architecture.

Have lunch at Trattoria Terra Madre, where you can enjoy delicious local dishes made from fresh ingredients. Afterward, explore more of Alberobello or join an e-bike tour to see nearby attractions like donkey farms and mills.

For dinner, dine at Evo Ristorante, known for its innovative cuisine that blends traditional flavors with modern techniques. End your evening with a leisurely walk through Alberobello's charming streets.

Begin your exploration of Siena with a visit to Siena Cathedral (Duomo), one of Italy's most impressive Gothic cathedrals. Admire its intricate facade and stunning interior filled with artworks by renowned artists.

Have lunch at Osteria Le Logge, offering delectable Tuscan cuisine in an elegant setting. Afterward, head to Piazza del Campo, Siena's main square known for its unique shell shape and historic significance.

Conclude your day with dinner at La Finestra, where you can enjoy exquisite dishes while overlooking Siena's beautiful cityscape. Take an evening stroll around the illuminated streets before retiring for the night.

Start your day with a visit to Orvieto Cathedral (Duomo di Orvieto). This stunning Gothic cathedral is renowned for its intricate facade and beautiful frescoes inside. Take your time to appreciate the artistry and history of this magnificent structure.

For lunch, head to Trattoria del Moro Aronne, where you can enjoy traditional Umbrian cuisine in a cozy setting. Afterward, explore Orvieto Guided Walking Tour of Underground Orvieto, which will take you through the fascinating underground tunnels and caves that lie beneath the city.

Dine at Osteria da Mamma Angela for dinner, savoring delicious local dishes. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through Orvieto's charming streets, taking in the ambiance of this historic town.

Lecce Roman Amphitheatre (Anfiteatro Romano di Lecce) is a perfect start to your day. This ancient Roman amphitheater is located in the heart of Lecce and offers a glimpse into the city's rich history. Wander around and imagine the spectacles that once took place here.

Le Zie Trattoria is an excellent choice for lunch, offering authentic Salento cuisine. Afterward, visit Lecce Cathedral (Duomo di Lecce), an architectural masterpiece known for its baroque style and intricate details.

Osteria degli Spiriti awaits you for dinner with its delightful menu featuring local specialties. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk through Lecce's illuminated streets, admiring the baroque architecture under the night sky.

Basilica of San Domenico (Basilica di San Domenico) is an ideal morning destination. This historic basilica houses beautiful artworks and relics, including those of Saint Dominic himself.

Osteria al 15 offers a delicious lunch menu featuring traditional Bolognese dishes. After lunch, explore Two Towers (Due Torri), Bologna's iconic medieval towers that offer panoramic views of the city from their top.

For dinner, indulge in more local flavors at one of Bologna's renowned restaurants (specific restaurant not listed). End your evening with a leisurely stroll around Piazza Maggiore, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Begin your day by visiting Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta). This iconic site draws lovers from around the world who come to see Juliet’s balcony and leave love notes on its walls.

Enjoy lunch at Osteria da Ugo, known for its delightful Veronese cuisine. Afterward, head to Verona Arena, one of Italy’s best-preserved Roman amphitheaters where you can imagine ancient gladiatorial contests or attend modern-day concerts.

Dine at Ristorante Al Cristo Verona, offering exquisite dishes in an elegant setting. Conclude your day with a romantic walk along Verona’s charming streets or enjoy an evening performance at the Arena if available.

Start your day with a visit to Miramare Castle (Castello di Miramare). This stunning castle, perched on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its former residents.

For lunch, head to Antica Trattoria Suban, known for its traditional Triestine cuisine. Afterward, explore Piazza Unità d'Italia (Piazza Grande), one of the largest sea-facing squares in Europe. Take in the beautiful architecture and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

Harry's Piccolo is an excellent choice for dinner, offering gourmet dishes in an elegant setting. End your evening with a relaxing walk through Trieste's historic streets, soaking in the city's unique blend of Italian and Austro-Hungarian influences.

Villa Cimbrone Gardens is a perfect start to your day. These beautiful gardens offer stunning views of the Amalfi Coast and are filled with statues, fountains, and lush greenery.

Ristorante Pizzeria Vittoria is an excellent choice for lunch, offering delicious Italian dishes with a view. Afterward, visit Ravello Duomo (Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta e San Pantaleone), a historic cathedral known for its beautiful mosaics and serene atmosphere.

Cumpa' Cosimo awaits you for dinner with its delightful menu featuring local specialties. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk through Ravello's charming streets, admiring the coastal views under the night sky.

Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi) is an ideal morning destination. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its stunning frescoes by Giotto and serene atmosphere.

Ristorante La Stalla offers a delicious lunch menu featuring traditional Umbrian dishes. After lunch, explore Temple of Minerva (Tempio di Minerva), an ancient Roman temple that has been beautifully preserved.

Ristorante Metastasio is perfect for dinner, offering exquisite dishes with panoramic views of Assisi. End your evening with a peaceful stroll through Assisi's historic streets.

Begin your day at Santa Margherita Basilica (Basilica di Santa Margherita). This hilltop church offers not only spiritual solace but also breathtaking views over Cortona and the surrounding countryside.

Enjoy lunch at La Bucaccia da Romano, known for its delectable Tuscan cuisine made from fresh local ingredients. Afterward, join Cortona Traditional Vegetarian or Vegan Italian Cooking to learn how to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes using seasonal produce.

Dine at Ristorante La Loggetta, which offers exquisite meals in an elegant setting overlooking Cortona’s charming streets. Conclude your day by taking a leisurely evening walk through this picturesque town.

Start your day with a visit to Lucca Cathedral (Duomo di Lucca). This beautiful cathedral is known for its stunning facade and intricate interior. Take your time to explore the artwork and architecture.

For lunch, head to a local eatery before exploring Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, a unique oval-shaped square that was once a Roman amphitheater. Wander through the charming streets and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

For dinner, choose one of Lucca's renowned restaurants (specific restaurant not listed). End your evening with a relaxing walk along the city walls, taking in the views of the historic center.

Ducale Palace (Palazzo Ducale Mantova) is an ideal morning destination. This grand palace complex offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Gonzaga family and is filled with beautiful frescoes and artworks.

Osteria dell'Oca offers a delicious lunch menu featuring traditional Mantuan dishes. After lunch, explore Te Palace (Palazzo Te), another stunning example of Renaissance architecture with its impressive frescoes and gardens.

Ristorante Aquila Nigra is perfect for dinner, offering exquisite dishes in an elegant setting. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through Mantua's historic streets, soaking in the ambiance of this charming town.

Accademia Carrara is a perfect start to your day. This renowned art gallery houses an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance paintings and sculptures.

La Tana offers a delightful lunch menu featuring local specialties. Afterward, explore Bergamo Città Alta Highlights Self-guided Walk, which will take you through the historic upper town with its medieval streets and stunning views.

Al Carroponte awaits you for dinner with its innovative cuisine that blends traditional flavors with modern techniques. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk through Bergamo's charming streets.

Begin your day at Enzo Ferrari Museum (Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari). This museum offers an intriguing look into the life and legacy of Enzo Ferrari, founder of the iconic car brand.

Enjoy lunch at Osteria Francescana, one of Modena’s most renowned restaurants known for its innovative cuisine. Afterward, join Modena Parmesan, Balsamic Vinegar, Lambrusco Tour + Lunch to learn about Modena’s famous culinary products.

Dine at Ristorante L'Incontro, offering exquisite dishes made from fresh local ingredients. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through Modena’s historic center.

Start your day with a visit to Parma Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese Tour. This tour will give you an in-depth look at the production process of one of Italy's most famous cheeses, complete with tastings.

Osteria del 36 is an excellent choice for lunch, offering delicious local dishes. Afterward, explore Parma Prosciutto di Parma Tour, where you can learn about the traditional methods used to produce this world-renowned ham.

Trattoria del Tribunale awaits you for dinner with its delightful menu featuring local specialties. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk through Parma's historic streets, soaking in the ambiance of this charming city.

Urbino Private Walking Tour with Ducal Palace Ticket is a perfect start to your day. This tour will take you through the historic center of Urbino and include a visit to the magnificent Ducal Palace.

Start your day with a Foliage hike to Lake Malghette. This scenic hike offers breathtaking views of the alpine landscape and is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning fall colors.

For lunch, head to Osteria a Le Due Spade, known for its delicious local cuisine. Afterward, explore Trento guided walking tour of the historic centre, which will take you through Trento's charming streets and highlight its rich history and beautiful architecture.

Ristorante Al Vo is an excellent choice for dinner, offering exquisite dishes made from fresh local ingredients. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll through Trento's historic center, taking in the ambiance of this picturesque town.