Most tourists in Italy flock to the country’s major attractions and cities, paying homage to the wonders of Rome, Florence and Venice. They are, of course, must-see destinations. But once the major cities have been explored, travelers should take the less traveled path to discover Italy’s tiny towns, dotting mountainsides and valleys. Have you ever been to Rome in August and wondered where all the locals are? The truth is that they’re likely in one of these towns, as Italians in major cities make a mass exodus toward the coast every summer. From the Italian Riviera to the farthest reaches of Sicily, there are plenty of seaside villages to please travelers in search of pristine beaches, ancient ruins, art, culture, and delicious cuisine.

Rome

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Venise

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Florence

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Pisa

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Naples

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Milan

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Verona

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Orta San Giulio

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Urbino

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Positano

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Lake Como

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Scilla

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San Leo

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Atrani

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Cala Gonone, Sardegna

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