What are great destinations in Italy for someone looking to avoid the hubbub of Milan and Venice?

 1. Capri

Capri: Named by National Geographic as one of the 50 places to visit in your lifetime, Capri is a beautiful tourist paradise, like a fairyland in the sea. Beyond its stunning natural marvels, Capri is renowned for a lifestyle and culture that encompasses beaches, vibrant nightlife, shopping, and delicious lemon-based drinks.

Arriving by boat from Sorrento, you are greeted by a scene split between the golden glow of sunset on cliffside towns and the jewel-like azure waters of the Blue Grotto; every view offers a deeply soothing, quintessential summer experience. A celebrated resort destination since Roman times, the island boasts a beautiful environment and a pleasant climate. Here, you’ll find everything from blue skies, white clouds, and sandy beaches to ancient Roman castles and exquisite Mediterranean cuisine.

2. Bologna

A historic medieval city in Europe, Bologna is also the "Motor Valley" capital, home to the Ferrari factory and museums dedicated to Lamborghini and Maserati. It is hailed as Italy's culinary capital, with food widely recognized as the country's most delicious, authentic, and classic. The enticing aromas wafting through the city's famous porticoes make it hard to tear yourself away.

3. Burano

Italy’s most colorful town, Burano is perfect for a day trip from Venice, easily accessible by water bus or water taxi. While it lacks "must-see" monumental landmarks, it is ideal for a leisurely stroll. Every house is painted in a unique, rainbow-like hue; standing on a bridge offers a panoramic view of these weathered, macaron-colored homes, and the town's charming alleyways are not to be missed.

4.Parma

Parma ham. I think many people know Parma ham. It can be considered the Hermès of Italian hams. Its reputation and production process are both commendable. Parma is the quietest major Italian city I've ever seen. Evenings are typically aperitivi time, a time for Italians to enjoy afternoon tea. The city has a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere, with university students casually strolling the streets. The locals are polite and friendly, and you can easily explore the core area in two days.

Why is Pisa often suggested to skip as a major stop on a first Italy trip?

 It is not just the oddity of the leaning tower, the Piazza del Duomo is strikingly beautiful.

Also, Pisa has more to offer.

But now the big “BUT” comes.

It is extremely overrun with tourists, especially in high season. The area is full of tacky souvenir stores and many of the tourists are making fools of themselves.

It is really hard to bear.

I am sorry to say that Pisa is the worst of mass tourism.

I have been there two or three times, each time for just an hour or so, that was enough. So, we have made it a stop, but not a major one. Our major stops in Tuscany were Florence, Siena, Volterra, San Gimignano, Populonia. Pisa was just a quick glance.

Guess, which of the pictures I took!