The 3 Most Underrated Villages in Italy (That You’ll Want to Keep All to Yourself)

Tucked away in the heart of Umbria, these three hidden gems offer the kind of Italian charm travelers dream about — but rarely find.

Umbria
22. Sep 2025
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The 3 Most Underrated Villages in Italy (That You’ll Want to Keep All to Yourself)

You’ve heard of Tuscany. You’ve seen the Amalfi Coast.

But this is where the real magic happens.

Southern Umbria, in the province of Terni, is home to villages that feel like the Italy you thought was gone. No crowds. No tourist traps. Just stone-paved alleys, ancient churches, local wine, and the kind of silence that makes you forget what day it is.

I’m talking about places where you’re more likely to meet a grandmother making pasta by hand than a tour group holding iPads.

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of owning a home in Italy... or just living like a local for a while... these three villages are where you start looking.

Let’s go.

Narni — The Medieval Fairytale No One Talks About

Let me set the scene. You’re standing on a rocky ridge, looking out over a deep green valley. The bell tower rings. A breeze carries the smell of fresh bread.

Welcome to Narni — a medieval town so perfectly preserved it feels like you’ve stepped onto a movie set (without the Hollywood prices).

Here, you can explore Underground Narni — ancient stone passageways, secret chambers, a chapel carved into rock. Not spooky. Just fascinating.

In May, the whole village transforms for the Corsa all’Anello, a historical festival with jousting, music, and more pageantry than a Renaissance court.

Hungry? Try the gnocchi alla collescipolana — thick with sausage, beans, and tradition. Wash it down with a glass of Ciliegiolo di Narni, a local red wine that deserves global fame.

Most visitors? They pass it by on their way to somewhere else. That’s their loss.

Amelia — 3,000 Years Old and Still a Secret

Amelia is one of the oldest towns in all of Italy — pre-Roman, actually — and somehow, no one talks about it.

Its polygonal walls are like a giant stone hug around the historic center. Inside, you’ll find hidden courtyards, sunlit piazzas, and cobbled streets that haven’t changed in centuries.

Want history? The bronze statue of Germanicus in the Archaeological Museum is worth the trip alone.

Want food? Order grilled lamb with rosemary and tozzetti cookies dipped in dessert wine.

Amelia is a place where the past doesn’t just sit in a museum — it lives in the buildings, the festivals, the food. And when the sun sets over those ancient walls? You’ll wonder why you’ve never heard of it before.

(And you'll hope no one else does.)

San Gemini — Water, Ruins, and Truffle Pasta

San Gemini is a spa town. But not the fluffy white robe kind. Think: ancient Roman springs, slow afternoons, and locals who’ve been drinking this water for generations.

It’s elegant, quiet, and just a little mysterious.

The streets? Lined with flower boxes and noble palaces. The churches? Romanesque perfection. The vibe? Pure relaxation.

Nearby, you’ve got Carsulae, a Roman archaeological site where you can wander past temples and forums without a ticket line in sight.

And when you’re hungry (you will be), try the strangozzi with truffle, fresh-baked bread, and locally cured meats. Pair it with Trebbiano Spoletino, and you’ll start rethinking your life choices.

In autumn, the Giostra dell’Arme brings the entire town into the streets for a medieval tournament. You’ll swear you time-traveled.

Why This Matters

Because these villages are still theirs.

Not overrun. Not over-marketed. Not curated for Instagram.

They’re lived in. Loved. Protected.

And if you're smart — or just lucky — you can be part of that. Whether it’s a weekend visit, a home purchase, or a long slow sabbatical... the province of Terni is still under the radar.

But not for long.

Categories
Abruzzo
Abruzzo is a region in central Italy, located east of Rome, between the majestic peaks of the Apennines and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Much of its territory is covered by national parks and nature reserves, making it one of the greenest areas in Europe. The inland area is dotted with medieval and Renaissance villages, perched on scenic hills and steeped in a timeless atmosphere. The regional capital, L’Aquila, is a historic walled city, deeply marked by the 2009 earthquake, yet still rich in charm and tradition. Along the coast lies the evocative Costa dei Trabocchi, famous for its sandy coves and the characteristic trabocchi — ancient wooden fishing structures suspended over the sea. Abruzzo is an authentic land, where nature, history, and culture merge in a unique harmony.
Basilicata
Nestled between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas, Basilicata is a hidden gem in southern Italy. Known for its dramatic landscapes, ancient hilltop towns, and rich history, it offers a unique blend of nature and culture. Highlights include the stunning cave dwellings of Matera (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the untouched beauty of the Lucanian Dolomites. Basilicata is a land of authenticity, tradition, and quiet charm—perfect for travelers seeking Italy off the beaten path.
Calabria
Located in the southwestern tip of Italy, Calabria forms the "toe" of the Italian boot. It's a sun-drenched region known for its rugged mountains, charming ancient villages, and stunning coastline dotted with famous beaches. The largest city, Reggio Calabria, is home to the National Archaeological Museum and the Riace Bronzes — two iconic 5th-century BC Greek warrior statues.
Campania
Campania is a region in southwestern Italy, known for its ancient ruins and stunning coastline. Its capital, Naples, lies between the famous Mount Vesuvius and the deep blue Bay of Naples. To the south stretches the Amalfi Coast, renowned for its picturesque cliffside towns such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, where natural beauty meets rich history. The region is also crossed by the Volturno River—the longest river in southern Italy. Its valley is one of Campania’s most scenic and lesser-known areas, with green hills, ancient villages, and quiet rural landscapes. Particularly striking is the area near the Castle of Castel Volturno, where the river forms a scenic bend before flowing into the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Emilia-Romagna
Emilia-Romagna is a region in northern Italy that stretches from the Apennines to the Po River. Famous for its renowned cuisine, art cities, and Adriatic beaches, it offers a unique blend of culture and tradition. The capital, Bologna, is known for its ancient university and historic porticoes. Other cities, such as Ravenna with its magnificent Byzantine mosaics, make the region a fascinating destination for lovers of history and good food.
Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a region in northeastern Italy, rich in history, culture, and diverse landscapes. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea and bordering Austria and Slovenia, it blends Latin, Slavic, and Germanic influences. From the Dolomites to the vine-covered hills famous for their white wines, it offers both natural beauty and culinary delights. Trieste, the regional capital, retains the Central European charm of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire, with landmarks such as Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia and the seaside Miramare Castle.
Lazio
Lazio is a region in central Italy that combines centuries of history, picturesque landscapes, and cultural heritage. Its main city is Rome, the capital of the country and once the center of a vast empire. Here you can find many historical sites: from the ancient city of Ostia Antica to small villages hidden among hills, lakes, and the Apennines. The region is washed by the Tyrrhenian Sea and amazes with its natural diversity and rich traditions. The Colosseum — one of the most iconic symbols of Rome — is located here. But it's important to remember: this is not just a tourist attraction, but a former arena where gladiator fights and public executions took place. Today, it is a cultural heritage site, but its history is also a reminder of the cruelty of the spectacles that once entertained the masses.
Liguria
Liguria is a beautiful crescent-shaped region located in northwestern Italy, washed by the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Its coastline, world-famous as the Ligurian Riviera, offers breathtaking views and a unique atmosphere, divided into two charming parts: the Riviera di Levante and the Riviera di Ponente. On the Riviera di Levante lie the picturesque and colorful fishing villages of the Cinque Terre—true gems nestled between the sea and cliffs, perfect for those seeking unspoiled nature and authentic traditions. This area also includes the elegant resorts of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, attracting refined tourists with their scenic harbors, exclusive boutiques, and high-end restaurants. To the west, the Riviera di Ponente features towns with historical charm such as Sanremo, famous for its renowned Italian Song Festival, an early 20th-century casino, and a flower-lined promenade with palm trees that create a soft and relaxing Mediterranean atmosphere. Thus, Ligu
Lombardy
Lombardy, located in the heart of northern Italy, is one of the country’s most dynamic and wealthiest regions. Its capital, Milan, is a true global hub for fashion, design, and finance, featuring elegant neighborhoods, high-end boutiques, and one of Europe’s most refined culinary scenes. Milan’s historic center is dotted with prominent monuments, such as the famous Gothic-style Duomo—one of the largest cathedrals in the world—and the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic fresco, The Last Supper, a symbol of a rich artistic and cultural heritage. Moving northward, Lombardy offers breathtaking landscapes, including the picturesque Lake Como, a renowned pre-Alpine destination famous for its historic villas, lush gardens, and crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. This combination of modernity, art, and nature makes Lombardy a unique and captivating region, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Marche
Molise
Piedmont
Puglia
Sardinia
Sicily
Tuscany
Trentino-Alto Adige
Umbria
Umbria - the green heart of Italy. It is a land of medieval hilltop villages and quiet forests, of fragrant truffles and fine wines. Here, far from the crowded routes, every corner preserves the history of art, nature, and ancient traditions. Umbria reveals itself to those who seek the authentic soul of Italy — simple, warm, and timeless.
Aosta Valley
Veneto
Italian cuisine
Real Estate
In this section, you will find a selection of properties for sale in Italy, including independent houses, apartments, seaside villas, and countryside estates. Each listing contains detailed information: size, location, price, and main features. Perfect for those looking for a second home, an investment, or a permanent residence. Browse through all the updated listings and find the right property for you.
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