If you ever want to be amazed at how much beauty there is in this world, just book a plane ticket to Italy. Every corner of this country is filled with beautiful little hidden gems. We all heard of Venice and all of the small and romantic cities but there is so much more Italy can offer. One of the best adventures you can do is rent a car and just drive through Italy.

Sorrento

If a visit to Pompeii is on your list of sights you want to visit, you can stay in Sorrento – a beautiful coastal town just an hour away by car. This beautiful small town in Italy has many hiking trails for an even better view of its charm. It is one of the most beautiful cities in southern Italy and is a short train ride to places like Naples or you can even take a ferry to the island of Capri. Sorrento is a great starting point for this dream vacation and will surely amaze you.

Manarola

Manarola is one of the smallest villages in Cinque Terre, but it has a lot of character. Brightly colored homes, clustered next to each other and overlooking the Ligurian Sea. You will feel like in a fairy tale. Take a walk (or rent a car) and see all that this little gem has to offer.

Atrani

Located on the Amalfi Coast, it is very likely that you have never heard of this small town. However, if you want an authentic view of the Amalfi Coast, without all the tourists, you will probably find it here. The whole village is located between two rocks overlooking the sea. Check out Atrani Cathedral or maybe spend the day at the Paper Museum.

Civita di Bagnoregio

This small town will give you some serious medieval vibes. Settling on a hill, with cobbled streets and stone passages, you will feel the beauty and harmony of this place. Founded more than 2,500 years ago, this beautiful place is a gem you can’t miss.

Portofino

You have probably seen paparazzi photos of the rich and famous in Portofino. This is a beautiful summer destination that is affordable for all budgets. Colorful fishermen’s houses and rocky streets make this small town incredibly romantic.

Rent a kayak and enjoy a unique view of the entire coast or climb to Castello Brown – an old castle that boasts the most picturesque views of the city.

Matera

Known as the City of Caves, this city is literally carved into the rocks and composed of a network of caves dating back to the Paleolithic era. This city has come a long way in the last 70 years, it was known as the “shame of Italy” and was later crowned European City of Culture. Explore this hidden city before the secret comes to light.

Riomaggiore

Most of this village is crowded by a narrow and steep valley. Filled with colorful houses on both sides and a small harbor, the village will win you over with its charm and character. This is the first village you will come across in Cinque Terre if you head north. Sit in a cafe and spend the day exploring this gemstone before moving on to your next destination, you will be so happy that you did.

Modena

The birthplace of Ferrari, this medieval town is one of the most charming in Italy. Stroll through Piazza Grande, where you can find many historical monuments, such as the cathedral and the 15th century clock tower.

If you’re a car lover, check out the Enzo Ferrari Museum (20 minutes from Modena city center) or the Lamborghini Museum, just 20 km away.

Montefollonico

A fortified city in Tuscany, full of charm. This place has witnessed many fierce battles in history. Sit in a cozy restaurant for some authentic Tuscan pasta and the famous Vino Santo in Montefolonico. This wine is so popular in the village that they named the December festival after it.

Varenna

Surely you have heard of the famous Lake Como. Well, Varena is one of the villages that overlooks this lake. Spend the afternoon by the lake or climb up to Castello di Vezio, a century-old castle with panoramic views. Varena is only an hour away by car from Milan, but in practice, it is another world. Take a walk and enjoy the natural beauty of this village, which is just great. You will not want to leave.