With tourist season tapering off in Italy as colder weather approaches, there are hidden gems that savvy travelers can explore in less crowded conditions, according to travel expert Maria Nuzzolillo. She recommends visiting lesser-known towns in Italy during the fall and winter, such as those in the Campania region, which offer unique experiences away from the typical tourist attractions.
Nuzzolillo encourages visitors to explore towns like Benevento in the Sannio wine country, which is about an hour away from the Amalfi Coast. Benevento is a charming city with a UNESCO Heritage church, a Roman theater, pedestrian-only areas with shops and restaurants, and a variety of year-round festivities. She suggests using Benevento as a base to explore nearby villages known for their fall celebrations, with rental car services available in the city.
Visitors can further explore the region by visiting towns like Cusano Mutri, known for its porcini mushrooms and month-long festival dedicated to these fungi. This town is also close to Castello Medievale, a medieval fortress ideal for hiking and horseback riding. For history and culture lovers, Sant’Agata is another charming town that offers 20 churches with unique architecture and art, as well as a special pastry called nfrennula, resembling a pretzel.
When it comes to indulging in Italian treats, Nuzzolillo recommends visiting San Marco, located northeast of Benevento, to find some of the best Torrone, a Christmas favorite. While Torrone can be found throughout Italy, she highlights the high-end artisanal delicacies made by family-owned shops in the area. Additionally, Nuzzolillo takes pride in her hometown of San Lupo for its bean growing and admits that she visits San Marco specifically for Torrone.
Overall, Nuzzolillo emphasizes the beauty of exploring Italy off the beaten path during the fall and winter seasons. By venturing into lesser-known towns and regions, travelers can immerse themselves in local traditions, harvests, festivals, and specialties without the tourist crowds. With unique experiences awaiting in places like Campania, visitors can discover the true essence of Italy beyond the popular tourist hotspots.
