Top 5 Hidden Italian Villages Expats Should Discover

Very often, when traveling to Italy or even when moving here, it can be difficult to discover what we Italians would call “chicche“, in other worlds, hidden gems: small, lesser-known places where you can experience an authentic side of Italy, steeped in history and ancient traditions. We’ve compiled a list of our five favorite villages, each unique in its own way, yet all easily connected to other points of interest. Arquà Petrarca (Padua, Veneto) Arquà Petrarca is undoubtedly one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, tucked away in the Euganean Hills. Best known as the place where poet Francesco Petrarca spent his final years, it’s believed he chose this spot because the landscape reminded him of his beloved Tuscany. Indeed, it’s hard not to be captivated by the charm of this village, from the friendliness of its residents to the cozy little restaurants lining the streets. Today, you can visit Petrarca’s historic home for just over 6 euros. The best times to visit are in spring or summer, or in early October during the Festa delle Giuggiole, a local celebration dedicated to the jujube fruit, which is widely cultivated in this area. The most convenient way to reach it is by…