10 destinations not to be missed in Italy in 2025

The village of Roccasecca, whose name tells of the presence of an old fortified village - the ancient castle of the Counts of Aquino on Mount Asprano - and of the typical dryness of the land in this area, is among the most beautiful and interesting to discover in Lazio for your next trip in 2025.

Part of the province of Frosinone, strategically positioned in a quiet hilly landscape along the Melfa river close to the valley of the Liri river a little further south, Roccasecca is a perfect destination for those looking for tranquility and charm, just two hours journey from Rome and near other places of great cultural interest, such as Cassino, Anagni and Sora.

Roccasecca is famous mainly for being the birthplace of Saint Thomas Aquinas, an iconic figure in the history of Christianity, whose figure gives the territory a strong connotation as a destination of interest especially for religious tourism.

But not only that, because Roccasecca, with its delicate hilly landscapes that inspire a sense of deep calm and regeneration, is also a great place for those who love slow tourism and are looking for new places to discover and visit on hikes: among these, the hermitage of Saint Michael Archangel cannot be missed, a small countryside church located at the foot of the castle (within the hamlet of Caprile sull’Asprano), where it is possible to admire beautiful frescoes, in particular those representing the ascension of Christ and Saint Michael with the Virgin Mary.

Roccasecca, as a location for famous Italian films such as Il Medico dei Pazzi and Gli Onorevoli, also hosts a statue dedicated to Totò (Antonio de Curtis), known by all Italians as the prince of laughter.

The mountains of Abruzzo represent a special destination for thousands of tourists, perfect both for spending a holiday in the snow or for exploring adventurous paths and trails in the warmer seasons. The strength of this territory absolutely lies in its picturesque villages, such as Santo Stefano di Sessanio, silent guardians of stories and traditions consolidated in the shadow of the Gran Sasso d'Italia for centuries.

With just over 100 inhabitants permanently resident within the village, Santo Stefano di Sessanio - like many other small villages on these mountains in the province of L'Aquila - is certainly among the quietest and least crowded places all over Italy. A peculiar feature, which distinguishes it as an ideal location for a retreat or a green experience in the purity of nature, to enjoy individually or perhaps as a couple for a romantic experience out of the box.

The historic village of medieval origin, later enriched with important renaissance buildings (second half of the 16th century) characterized by the strong Florentine influence in the region, despite so many earthquakes that have devastated the land of central Italy is still well preserved today. In the heart of the town stands the Medici Tower - which collapsed after more than five centuries with the 2009 earthquake, but whose reconstruction was completed at the end of 2021 - which crosses the gaze of the solemn bell tower of the Church of Saint Stephen Martyr, at the south-eastern end of the village.

Perhaps, by orienting to that direction, both towers look at the nearby Rocca Calascio, an evocative historical location of great tourist interest reachable with a wonderful guided nature trail through breathtaking landscapes of mountains and valleys, especially suitable for lively summer days or picturesque autumn mornings. If instead you want to try your hand at snow sports and visit this fantastic corner of Abruzzo in the white magic of winter, don't miss the ski route along the Gran Sasso Horse Trail.

Langhe-Monferrato, a territory part of the Unesco Heritage since 2014 and the historical, artistic and cultural pride of Piedmont, are undoubtedly among the most appreciated Italian tourist regions, especially by international tourists. A wonderful land, where to discover extraordinary cities of art, explore landscapes and natural beauties, experience the passion of ancient folk traditions - such as the donkeys palio in Cocconato d'Asti - and taste unique food and wine delicacies, in particular white truffles, hazelnuts and the prestigious Barolo wine.

If you are planning to visit the rolling hills of the Langhe-Monferrato in 2025, perhaps on your bicycle for an even slower experience, then you absolutely must discover the splendid city of Alba (Cuneo), symbolically acknowledged as the capital of these lands.

A creative city for food and wine, a city of a hundred towers, a city of chocolate, as well as one of the happiest towns in Italy, there are many qualities that make Alba a truly unmissable destination. Its flagship is certainly the splendid Piazza Risorgimento, a place rich in history and charm where you can admire the wonderful Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the picturesque Town Hall in pink and - just nearby - the ancient towers that remained intact after centuries of history, in particular that of Palazzo Marro, or “castellaccio”.

The best time to visit Alba? Of course in the period of grape harvesting, between the end of summer and mid-autumn, a special occasion to taste the best wines of Piedmont and fall in love with the landscape with the enchanting colors of this season.

While everyone in the world recognizes Rome as the papal city and the core of the history of Christianity and classical civilization, only a few know of another fascinating city in Lazio that can boast - at least to a small extent - the same accomplishments as the Capital: we are talking about Viterbo, an ancient city with an Etruscan past in the north of the region.

Viterbo is indeed remembered in history books as the city of the popes, a name that was attributed to it in the second half of the 13th century when, following multiple historical events related to politics and power that affected the Eternal City at that time, it officially became the new papal headquarter. A relatively short period of time, but of great impact for the history (even contemporary history): in fact here in Viterbo the first ever conclave was held, which in 1270-71 led to the election of Gregory X, thus initiating one of the most solemn and significant events that periodically catch the attention of the entire world.

The extraordinary historic, artistic and cultural beauty of an interesting destination like Viterbo can still be rediscovered today by visiting the prestigious Popes Palace, wonderful churches such as the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, the Santa Maria Nuova and the Abbey of Saint Martin in Cimino, the picturesque medieval district of San Pellegrino in the historic centre and the luxurious Villa Lante in Bagnaia.

Viterbo is also a destination of great interest for those looking for relaxing and regenerating trips in touch with nature. In fact, near the city there are Lake Bolsena, a small paradise for birdwatching, as well as numerous free thermal baths to enjoy the pleasant warmth of the healing waters, an iconic element of the history and culture of this region.

Like a glimpse painted in a quiet bucolic landscape hanging halfway between the hills of Le Marche and the Adriatic Sea, the village of Corinaldo is one of the most interesting and surprising destinations to visit this year, a place still little known by tourists, nonetheless lacking in truly unique attractions.

Located among the hills in the hinterland of Senigallia, in the northern part of the province of Ancona, the town of Corinaldo configures itself as an ideal location for tourists in search of serenity, tranquility and authentic experiences, rediscovering the beauty and pleasure of slow travel - why not, perhaps by bicycle - through extraordinary places nestled between the hills and the sea, gently caressed by the waters of the Nevola river.

The historical beauty of Corinaldo immediately strikes the gaze with its imposing walls, built between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance and today among the most beautiful and best preserved in the whole region, from which especially the large Rotonda Tower stands out. Inside the ancient walls, the magic and charm of the past of Corinaldo keep renewing again, among historic buildings, stone-paved alleys and streets, but above all with the evocative “Pozzo della Polenta” at the middle of the large staircase in Via La Piaggia, a fifteenth-century well about which many legends have been told over centuries.

In Corinaldo it’s also possible to visit numerous churches of refined beauty, such as the Church of Holy Mary of Intercession, the Church of Our Lady of Sorrow and the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, as well as the beautiful Sanctuary of Maria Goretti, saint and martyr originally from the village. For lovers of art, entertainment and music, Goldoni Theatre is also absolutely notable, just after the entrance of Porta Nova on the west side of the town.

A very popular destination in the hot summer months to experience a dreamlike seaside holiday between heavenly beaches and the good life, or to sail its crystal clear sea by boat discovering stunning views to admire and photograph, in 2025 North Sardinia is the destination that will surprise you the most.

But who said that Sardinia is a solid choice only for summer? This island with a history as ancient as mystical and fascinating, full of cities and villages so rich in traditions, liveliness and beauty, year after year is indeed conquering thousands of travelers from all over the world attracted by the wish to discover the most authentic essence of such incredibly evocative places, all year round. An ambitious action, as well as an important commitment for a region that is the flagship of Italian tourism, which thanks to initiatives like Salude & Trigu promotes the best events to experience and discover the lesser-known hinterland of the island, especially in the low season.

One of the most important cities that enthusiastically participate in the project every year is Santa Teresa di Gallura, a splendid seaside town nestled within one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world - between Costa Rossa and Costa Smeralda, north-east of the island - a place full of breathtaking views and attractions for an unforgettable trip. Among these, in addition to wonderful coastal landscapes, you can't miss Longonsardo Tower, the nuragic site Lu Brandali, the seaside location of Capo Testa and the evocative Moon Valley, a place with a surreal charm still frequented by hippie communities.

In particular, Santa Teresa is home to the event Primavera in Gallura, part of the Salude & Trigu program, a real folk festival that celebrates the return of the beautiful sunny season after winter and the rural tradition of Sardinian people through activities and representations related to green and ecosustainable tourism. Simply the perfect time to enjoy a dream destination by experiencing it like a true local!

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in the mediterranean area, nestled in the enchanting hilly landscape next to the border between Calabria and Basilicata near the Pollino National Park, the medieval village of Oriolo is a destination you absolutely must consider for your next trip to southern Italy.

Desired by many noble families for centuries, including the Sanseverino and the Pignone del Carretto, this village in the province of Cosenza is famous in particular for its castle, a solid fortress built in the Byzantine time as a defense against raids by marauders and then transformed into the house of the local lordship.

Oriolo is a perfect destination to discover along an on the road itinerary around the region, or as a starting point for adventurous excursions on foot or by mountain bike in the lands of Pollino - for example the incredible Raganello Gorges - or in the nearby valleys of the Sinni and Sarmento rivers. Don’t miss also some very interesting villages in the surroundings, such as Amendolara and Castrovillari in Calabria and Rotondella in Basilicata.

The green heart of Italy has always been a beloved destination for Italian and international tourists, a region rich in places, stories, traditions, art, beauty and delicacies that especially attract those travelers looking for a holiday in full tranquility, which can offer unique experiences and indelible emotions.

Absolutely no less relevant is its capital, the splendid Perugia, a city with a glorious past and an extraordinary cultural palmarès, which boasts among its impressive acknowledgments being the birthplace of artists such as Pinturicchio and Pietro Vannucci "Il Perugino", the artistic education of icons like Raffaello and Piero della Francesca, as well as the foundation of some of the very first Italian academic and cultural institutions such as the University of Perugia (1308), the Vannucci Academy of Fine Arts (1573) and the Augusta Library (opened to the public in 1623).

A city with remote origins lost in the age of the Etruscans and Umbrians, which has fully experienced every great era of humans from the Classical-Roman age to the Middle Ages, from the Renaissance to the Modern era, celebrated in the works of giants of world literature such as Dante and Charles Dickens and embellished with unique places to visit. Among these, the sumptuous Piazza IV Novembre, with the monumental Palazzo dei Priori - inside which there’s the extraordinary Sala dei Notari, completely and wonderfully frescoed - and the iconic Fontana Maggiore, but above all large churches of indescribable beauty such as the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, the Basilica of Saint Dominic and the Churches of Saint Augustine and Saint Filippo Neri.

Perugia is also home to prestigious historic buildings, such as Palazzo Gallenga Stuart, Palazzo Cesaroni, Palazzo Manzoni and Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, whose walls preserve and tell fascinating stories about the evolution of an ever-dynamic town, and places with a certain fairytale aura such as the Giardini del Frontone at Borgo Bello.

When you think of the Alps, the first thing that comes to mind is definitely a beautiful snow holiday between enchanting villages and adrenaline-filled ski or sled rides, a classic one-week ski vacation to be experienced in dreamlike locations within this extraordinary landscape masterpiece of nature.

Villages like Courmayeur, a destination too often associated only with winter holidays and snow, or perhaps Christmas, and which instead could become the location for the holiday of your dreams in the warmer seasons during 2025.

Visiting Courmayeur between spring and summer means experiencing the magical beauty of the awakening of nature in its most authentic form, in high mountains, with adventurous hikes in the green of the woods pampered by the bright colors and inebriating scents of newly bloomed flowers. For tourists who love sporty holidays, Courmayeur is not just about skiing in winter, but also an excellent destination for exploring mountain trails - finally free from the white winter frost - and practicing specific activities such as mountain biking, nordic walking and endurance trail, a particular running discipline on natural paths created to test even the most expert athletes.

The summertime is a special chance to discover the best of Aosta Valley also from an artistic and cultural point of view. In fact, Courmayeur hosts several museums, such as the Alpine Guides Museum "Duca degli Abruzzi", the Mont Blanc Museum and the evocative exhibition of mountain crystals and minerals, as well as many fairs and stores dedicated to local craftsmanship (based mainly on wood). In July, it hosts also the fascinating Celtic Festival within the Val Vény forest, celebrating Celtic peoples music, folklore and arts.

Sicily is a land of wonders, a true puzzle of different stories and cultures intertwined over the course of millennia, an island that boasts priceless beauty and extremely iconic places that make dream so many travelers from all over the world. Among these, certainly, the spectacular baroque charm of the architecture and art of Val di Noto cannot be missed, a territory that has been part of the Unesco World Heritage since 2002.

One of the most extraordinary and authentic places to discover in the area is the city of Ragusa, a jewel of sicilian baroque, symbol of rebirth - the ancient town was almost completely devastated by an earthquake at the end of the 17th century, making massive reconstruction work necessary that gave rise to real masterpieces - and of beauty, a truly unmissable destination on your next trip to the land of Etna, also carefully chosen as a prominent location for an iconic Italian television production.

The top expression of the purity of sicilian baroque art here in Ragusa gets rediscovered above all in the enchanting churches to admired in the two macro-districts of the city - Ragusa Superiore and Ragusa Ibla - such as the Cathedral of Saint John Baptist (one of the largest in Sicily), the Cathedral of Saint George, the Church of Santa Maria of Itria with its iconic blue-topped bell tower and the Church of Saint Joseph. Particularly worthy of attention are also the fantastic eighteenth/nineteenth-century historic buildings that embellish the streets of the city, such as Palazzo Zacco, Palazzo Cosentini and Palazzo La Rocca, and most of all (in Ibla) the picturesque building known as Circolo di Conversazione, or also Caffè dei Cavalieri, a truly one of a kind building since it was built specifically to give local intellectuals and nobles a space dedicated exclusively to free time and entertainment away from the masses.

The territory of Ragusa is also rich in attractions definitely interesting for those who love history, such as the elegant Donnafugata Castle and the numerous archaeological sites of Greek origin near Marina di Ragusa, for example Kamarina, Kaukana and Castiglione. Also not to be missed is the incredible exotic atmosphere of the Ibleo Garden, the oldest park in Ragusa (1858) that includes thick mediterranean and tropical vegetation, avenues, benches, fountains, ponds and sculptures with an aesthetic charm that, even today with renewed power, manifest the ancient memories of the Greek past of this beautiful island.