7 Italian Port Towns That Are Free of Tourists-- For Now (Photo)

What’s better than Italy in the summer? The piazzas, the gelato, the Pope lollypops… It’s an absolute dream.

But there’s one thing better than Italy in the summer. It’s Italy in the summer minus the hordes of loud tourists. But weather.com has you covered. 

Check out these seven port towns that have yet to be overrun by tourists. (Though, yes, we understand the irony of our writing an article about hidden gems and recommending everyone flock there preceisely because they’re not overrun with tourists.) The Italian government is currently pushing to promote tourism outside of the major tourism hotbeds like Rome, Florence, and Milan. Last month, news broke about the country giving away castles for free as a way to promote tourism around the country. 

So, in true Italian spirit, hop on a train (or Vespa), or rent a car, and head out to see the rest of the country.

Here’s a start:

Two hours from Rome, this fishing town is a total catch. Ponza is filled with quaint boutiques run by kind individuals, and they have coffee like you’ve never had elsewhere. They also boast one of the most breathtaking beaches in Italy: Chiaia di Luna. The moon-shaped bay is truly a sight to behold. The majority of Ponza's visitors are Romans escaping the tourist trap that Rome becomes in the summer. 

Tuscany has ports, too! The port town of Porto Santo Stefano infused with ancient Spanish and Italian history, and great food. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or love nature, Porto Santo Stefano has something that will appeal to you sensibilities.

Piombino, nicknamed “Little Paris,” is teeming with extraordinary architecture, museums, and delicious local food. For the best view of this former naval base, trek up the sea cliff to Piazza Bovio, and prepare to have your breathe taken away.

Camogli; legit, why aren’t you there yet? It’s filled with Italy’s wealthiest, casually vacationing while drinking wine and basking in the sun. This hidden spot on the Italian Riviera is notable for its piazzas and nature paths with stunning views. 

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Okay, so we know this one already gets some tourists annually. (Can you see why, based on the photo!?) But it often gets overshadowed by its neighbor, Portofino. Here’s our push for why you should head on over, stat.  The sprawling promenades, the art nouveau casino, and the decadent Belle Epoque hotels are just three of the draws of this City of Flowers. San Reno also hosts a music festival every February, that’s not to be missed.

The small, picturesque fishing town of Porto Venere is a short boat ride away from the famous Cinque Terre, the UNESCO World Heritage Site best known for its colorful buildings), but doesn’t have all the obnoxious tourists, so you can really get the local flavor. Enjoy sea food, good wine, and fresh produce.