Italy has always been in the short lists of first-time international vacationers and the country has never failed them. Travelers can find some of the planet’s most beautiful scenery both in and outside of Italy‘s major touristic, and still spectacular cities. Less-traveled yet stunning coastal towns on steep cliffs as well as medieval villages surrounded by lush green hills have recently become alternative destinations for those who now want more from the country.
Global travel agents group Globus picked eight of them that boast spectacular views and offer an relatively undiscovered glimpse of one of Europe’s most popular countries.
Ostuni
A sparkling white gem in a sea of greens (hills) and blues (Adriatic Sea), Ostuni – and its whitewashed houses – is one of the most stunning cities in Southern Italy.
Portofino
A fishing village pulled from the pages of a fairytale picture book, Portofino’s small harbor with colorful buildings, rests on the shore of the Italian Riviera.
Erice
A historic, walled-in medieval town located on top of Mount Eryx (about 2,500 feet above sea level), Erice is situated in the province of Trapani and offers sweeping views of the sea and valley below.
Ragusa
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ragusa is one of the most picturesque hilltop towns in Sicily (or anywhere). Its “modern” Baroque streets, piazzas and homes date back to 1693 (the year an earthquake razed the village).
Monterosso
Part of Italy’s “fabulous five” Cinque Terre villages, Monterosso offers travelers a beautiful beach, village – known for its lemon trees and anchovies – and incredible views for miles.
Volterra
Enclosed by stone walls sits this mountaintop town in the land of wine. With historical sites that date back to the 7th century BC, Volterra invites travelers to take a step back in time on its medieval, cobblestoned streets.
Spoleto
Resting in the shadow of mountains and surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, this hill-town is stunning in every way. Its beauty and views will leave you breathless.
Lecce
Described as the “Florence of the Baroque” and the “Rome of the South,” Lecce was also deemed the “most beautiful city in Italy” by 18th-century traveler Thomas Ashe.
Source: Globus
Images: WikimediaCommons