Published on March 30, 2026
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After five years and 20,000 miles spent exploring 100 Italian cities, towns, and villages, Jasmine L Quan, a seasoned travel expert, has shared her insights into Italy’s best and worst destinations. Known for traveling with her pet cat, Gigia, Jasmine discovered not only the popular, well-trodden spots but also hidden gems that often go unnoticed by the average tourist. Her journey has led her to uncover places where culture, history, and hospitality flourish, and places where the hustle of modern life takes away the charm of Italy’s beautiful landscapes.
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Her findings are now featured in a book titled Gigia’s Italy: A Cat’s-Eye View, where she shares her adventures and offers her top recommendations, both for those traveling solo and families. For those seeking a more authentic and less crowded experience in Italy, Jasmine’s recommendations highlight destinations that offer peaceful beauty, rich history, and fantastic cuisine, without the overwhelming crowds of famous cities like Rome, Venice, or Florence.
1. Treviso, Veneto – A Quiet, Sophisticated Alternative to Venice
Jasmine’s number one destination is Treviso, a town in Veneto, often referred to as “Little Venice” for its stunning canals and charming architecture. Unlike its bustling neighbor, Venice, Treviso offers a more laid-back atmosphere with a refined drinking culture, high-end gastronomy, and medieval charm without the heavy crowds. With its rich Roman history and Venetian influence, the town is a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful yet culturally rich destination.
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2. Sulmona, Abruzzo – The Heart of Authentic Italian Culture
Jasmine’s second pick is Sulmona, located in Abruzzo, known for its rugged landscapes, medieval festivals, and authentic Italian traditions. Famous for being the birthplace of the Roman poet Ovid, Sulmona is a historically rich town with a slower pace of life. Jasmine particularly enjoys the festivals, like the Giostra Cavalleresca (medieval joust) and the local food, including traditional porchetta and sausages marinated in olive oil.
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3. Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia – A Coastal City with a Literary History
Trieste ranks third on Jasmine’s list. This coastal city located in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region is known for its grand history, literary ties, and stunning Adriatic views. Trieste was once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and its blend of Italian and Austrian influences makes it a unique cultural hotspot. The surrounding Friuli region offers even more hidden treasures, such as Udine, famous for its Venetian-style squares.
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While Milan is known worldwide for its fashion and finance scene, Jasmine has named it as her least favorite destination. Although it’s a major international city, she finds Milan’s industrial pace and lack of natural spaces overwhelming. Despite being surrounded by breathtaking locations like Lake Como and Bergamo, Milan’s bustling urban environment makes it less appealing for those seeking an authentic and relaxing Italian experience.
For travelers planning to visit these hidden gems, public transport in Italy is excellent, with trains connecting most of the country’s major cities and small towns. For business travelers, Milan and Trieste offer robust business hubs with good international connectivity. However, if you’re looking for quieter destinations like Treviso or Sulmona, it’s best to rely on regional trains or even bus routes that take you through the scenic countryside.
Jasmine L Quan’s journey through Italy has allowed her to see the country through a unique lens. By focusing on towns and cities beyond the tourist hotspots, she’s uncovered a new Italy—one rich in culture, history, and local flavor. For tourists looking to experience authentic Italy, these hidden gems provide the perfect escape from the crowds.
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, there’s always something new to discover in the quiet corners of Italy. So, plan your trip to places like Treviso, Sulmona, and Trieste, and immerse yourself in the true beauty of Italy away from the tourist crowds.
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Tags: Italy, Sulmona, Treviso, Trieste, wales
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Monday, March 30, 2026
Monday, March 30, 2026
Monday, March 30, 2026
Monday, March 30, 2026
Monday, March 30, 2026
Monday, March 30, 2026
Monday, March 30, 2026
Monday, March 30, 2026

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