Planning Italy vacay? Skip these touristy spots
What's the story
Italy is famous for its rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes. But some tourist spots are so overrated that they can ruin your experience. From crowded streets to overpriced attractions, these places can leave you feeling underwhelmed. If you want to have a more authentic Italian experience, it's better to skip these overhyped destinations and explore hidden gems instead.
Venice
The crowded streets of Venice
While Venice is often touted as a must-visit city, its narrow streets and canals are often overrun with tourists. This makes it difficult to enjoy the city's unique charm. The gondola rides are also extremely overpriced, costing upwards of $80 for a short trip. Instead of Venice, consider visiting smaller towns like Burano or Murano, which offer similar beauty without the crowds.
Cinque Terre
The high prices of Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is famous for its colorful villages perched on cliffs along the Ligurian Sea. But the region has become so popular that it is now one of the most expensive places in Italy. Train tickets between villages can cost as much as $25 each way, and accommodation prices are often exorbitant during peak seasons. Exploring lesser-known coastal towns like Lerici or Portovenere can give you a similar scenic experience at a fraction of the cost.
Florence
The tourist traps of Florence
Florence is famous for its art and architecture but has also become a victim of its own popularity. The Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery attract long lines and high entrance fees (over $20 per person). Street vendors selling overpriced souvenirs only add to the chaos. Instead of Florence's crowded museums, visit smaller cities like Lucca or Arezzo for a more peaceful cultural experience.
Amalfi Coast
The hype around Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is often featured in travel brochures but is not as glorious as it is made out to be. The narrow roads are clogged with traffic jams during the peak season, and hotels are extremely overpriced (more than $300 per night on average). Instead of the Amalfi Coast, head to less-visited regions like Cilento National Park for stunning coastal views sans the tourist madness.