Here are a few suggestions based on my experiences.
- Val Chisone in the Italian Alps: The peaceful and beautiful Val Chisone is a hidden treasure. You can stay at the inexpensive Bella Baita Bed and Breakfast with wonderful hosts, great food, and breath-taking views.
- Brisighella, Emilia-Romagna: The northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna is known for its outstanding cuisine. The medieval town and spa center of Brisighella makes a good base for exploring nearby towns and cities of Eastern Emilia-Romagna .
- Urbania in Le Marche: Le Marche is a beautiful region in central Italy. Urbania is a lively medieval town where you can experience Italian life in a friendly small-town atmosphere. It's in a scenic position in the hills, but the town itself is flat, making it pleasant for walking. Urbania has good restaurants, bars, and cafes, making it a good base for exploring the region.
- Abruzzo Region: The Abruzzo region, south of Le Marche. is a remote region often overlooked by tourists. It has spectacular natural scenery, medieval castles and villages, monasteries, and Roman ruins.
- Puglia, the heel of the boot: Although tourism is picking up in Puglia, it's still a relatively inexpensive and less crowded region to explore. Much of Puglia is coastline with beaches. Inland are archaeological sites, vineyards, Baroque architecture, and trulli, cone-shaped houses. Puglia Maps
- Scala dei Turchi, Sicily: The Bed and Breakfast Scala dei Turchi has inexpensive lodging, friendly owners, and good breakfast. The nearby coastline has some of the best, yet uncrowded, beaches in Sicily. It's a good base for visiting Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples.
