Lido di Venezia, a barrier island facing the Adriatic Sea, offers a serene escape from the crowds of Venice. A short ferry ride away from Piazza San Marco, the Lido boasts private and public beaches, providing a perfect retreat from the summer heat. Once a jet-set oasis in the 1950s and 1960s, the Lido continues to attract celebrities, especially during the Film Festival in late August-early September. The historic Excelsior Hotel and other luxury accommodations make it an ideal base for exploring Venice.
Lake Maggiore, located in Piedmont and Lombardy, offers a quieter alternative to the popular Lake Como. With its stunning villas, gardens, and lake activities, Lake Maggiore provides a picturesque setting without the crowds. Stresa, a charming town on the lake, is home to the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées and the enchanting Borromean Islands. Verbania and other lakeside villages offer a peaceful retreat for travelers.
Bolgheri, in Tuscany, is a hidden gem known for its wine district, Bolgheri DOC, producing renowned Super Tuscans. Visitors can enjoy wine tours and tastings at top estates like Ornellaia and Castello del Terriccio. The Viale dei Cipressi, a famous tree-lined road, adds to the region's allure.
The Italian Riviera's Riviera di Ponente, west of Genoa, offers a quieter coastal experience compared to the bustling Riviera di Levante. Seaside towns like Celle Ligure, Cervo, and Noli provide a glimpse into Italy's maritime history. Bordighera and Alassio, popular since the 19th century, offer elegant villas, sandy beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
The Costiera Cilentana, or Cilento Coast, south of Salerno, presents a tranquil alternative to the crowded Amalfi Coast. With its attractive beaches and cultural sites like the Temple of Hera in Paestum, Cilento offers a glimpse into Italy's past. Coastal towns such as Agropoli, Castellabate, and Palinuro provide a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking a quieter coastal experience.
