Italy is a land of timeless beauty, rich culture, and irresistible food. From the snowy Alps in the north to the sunny coastlines of the south, every corner of the country tells a story. While places like Rome, Venice, and Milan are famous worldwide, Italy is also full of small, hidden treasures that most visitors never get to see. These lesser-known spots offer a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Italian life.

As an Au Pair in Italy, you’re not just a visitor, you live like a local. This gives you the perfect opportunity to discover Italy beyond the guidebooks. Of course, it depends on what type of adventures you’re looking for, but there’s truly something for everyone.

Here are some special places to add to your travel list during your stay:

1. Campo Tures (Alto Adige) 

This alpine village is a fairytale. It is a small village in the mountains of northern Italy, in the Aurina Valley. It’s great if you love nature, castles, and quiet places away from the city. 

You can visit the Tures Castle (Burg Taufers), one of the best-preserved castles in the area, with old rooms, medieval halls, and even a knight’s room. 
A short walk through the forest will take you to the beautiful Riva Waterfalls.
There’s also a small mineral museum with colorful stones from the local mountains. And if you want to relax, you can go to Cascade, a spa and pool with amazing mountain views.

2. Pitigliano (Tuscany)

Rising dramatically from a cliff of volcanic tuff stone, Pitigliano is a village known as “La Piccola Gerusalemme” (Little Jerusalem), for its strong Jewish heritage.
In the old Jewish quarter, you can visit the historic synagogue, a kosher bakery, and a small but touching museum.

Then, take time to explore the mysterious Vie Cave, ancient Etruscan roads carved into the rock, perfect for a walk back in time.
The majestic Palazzo Orsini, once home to a noble family, now houses a museum and a fascinating art collection.
And don’t miss the Fontana delle Sette Cannelle or the old Mediceo aqueduct, both perfect postcard moments.

3. Castelmezzano e Pietrapertosa (Basilicata) 

These two hidden villages, carved right into the rocky cliffs of the Dolomiti Lucane, look like something out of a fantasy novel.
They’re connected by the Volo dell’Angelo (Angel's Flight), a zipline that lets you soar through the air between them. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the view? Absolutely unforgettable!
You can also hike between the villages, take in panoramic views from the ruins of an old Norman castle, and wander through the narrow cobbled streets that feel frozen in time.

4. Alberobello (Puglia)

The town is known for its trulli: small white stone houses with cone-shaped roofs, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Explore the Monti district, which is more touristy, but still beautiful. Then walk over to the Aia Piccola district, where locals still live in the trulli, and you’ll find a quieter, more authentic feel.
Visit the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo that’s now a museum, and stop by the Trullo Church of Saint Anthony, a one-of-a-kind place of worship.

5. Marzamemi (Sicily)

Looking for a relaxing seaside spot? Marzamemi is perfect. 
This small village in southeastern Sicily is full of charm, colorful boats, white houses, and a quiet piazza where you can enjoy a granita and slow down.
Try the local seafood, walk by the harbor at sunset, and just enjoy the calm vibe. 

6. Is Arutas beach (Sardinia)

Is Arutas is famous for its unique sand made up of small, colorful quartz pebbles in shades of pink, white, and green. It’s a dreamy beach in Sardinia that feels totally different from anything you’ve seen before. 

Relax on the sand and swim in crystal clear water. Take photos of the unusual landscape (just remember, the pebbles are protected, so no collecting!), and explore the nearby coastal nature for a peaceful retreat.
 

Being an Au Pair in Italy is not just a job, it’s a cultural immersion. And discovering hidden gems is part of that experience. You’re not just seeing Italy through a camera lens; you’re feeling it, living it, and building memories in places most people don’t even know exist.
So go out there. Ask questions. Get lost (a little!). Try the homemade gelato in a forgotten village. These small, secret places might just become the most meaningful part of your story.