Italy’s ‘village of villages’ contest has revealed its 5 must-visit hidden gems 

Italy’s hidden gems are worth the journey (Picture: Getty Images)

Italy has long been one of the top destinations for British travellers.

Each year, almost 5 million of us descend on La Dolce Vita, making it the third most popular holiday spot for UK tourists, only trumped by Spain and France.

However, statistics show that most beeline for cities such as Rome, Milan, Venice, and Florence — all of which are struggling with mass tourism.

Venice recently doubled its controversial tourist tax, while the capital has threatened entry restrictions at iconic sites like the Trevi Fountain. 

There’s never been a better time to veer off the beaten path and explore lesser-known regions. And, in peak 2025 style, a reality TV show is on hand to help.

What is the ‘villages of villages’ contest?

Metro recently discovered a wholesome series that showcases Italy’s hidden gems.

‘Il borgo dei borghi,’ which translates to Village of Villages, has been running since 2014, and sees the most beautiful Italian towns compete for the illustrious title.

Since launching on Rai 3, a channel run by Italy’s state broadcaster, the show has become a cultural phenomenon. It airs annually, with episodes dropping weekly, and spotlights one village from each of the regions that have been selected to take part. 

Over the course of the series, viewers get a glimpse into what makes each place so special, from traditional rituals and local cuisine, to breathtaking landscapes and close-knit communities.

Who won the ‘villages of villages’ contest this year?

The winner of Il Borgo dei Borghi is chosen through a combination of public voting and a jury of experts. The latter is comprised of leading figures in the country’s tourism, history, and environmental industries.

While Militello in Val di Catania, a commune in Sicily, was awarded this year’s crown, four other spectacular villages also made it to the final. Let’s take a look.

Militello in Val di Catania, Sicily

Sitting quietly in the southeast of Sicily is Militello in Val di Catania. Most holidaymakers head straight to the capital, Palermo, and other coastal locations like Syracuse and Taormina. 

But clearly, they’re missing a trick with this inland beauty. 

Picture yourself wondering these rustic streets on a warm summer’s day (Picture: Getty Images)

Militello in Val di Catania’s position on the slopes of the Iblei Mountains provides the village with a spectacular backdrop.

Traditional Baroque architecture has landed the town on the UNESCO World Heritage List of Late Baroque Cities of the Val di Noto.

At a glance, Militello in Val di Catania is made up of dozens of palaces, over 20 churches, ornate domes and bell towers  – all of which have played a part in its history. The Church and former Abbey of Saint Benedict is the third most important Benedictine monastery in Sicily for its size. 

Inside, medieval furnishings and altars in polychrome marble are perfectly preserved. The church is free to enter.

Other landmarks include the Chiesa Madre San Nicolò, a Baroque Cathedral with a Museum of Sacred Art in the vast crypts below. The museum can be visited during the church’s opening hours, when mass is not being celebrated.

As for entertainment, the festivals of Madonna della Stella and Saint Salvatore take place on September 8 and August 18, respectively, and are big dates in the village calendar. 

No trip to Militello in Val di Catania is complete without tasting the local speciality, Cassatelle della zia monaca, baskets of shortcrust pastry stuffed with almonds, jams, liqueur, cinnamon and cloves.

Agliè, Piedmont

If you’re heading to Turin, make a pitstop in Agliè. Just 35km north of the city, this village is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Castle of Agliè has held the title since 1997, as part of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy. The building is a sight to behold both inside and out, and has a history spanning seven centuries. The castle and its gardens are open to the public via guided tours, which cost €12 (£10).

Elsewhere in the town, you can wander through narrow streets, marvel at traditional houses, well-preserved medieval architecture, and churches.

Agliè and its surrounding areas are also excellent for hiking, biking, and trail running.

Vignanello, Lazio

Around 60km northwest of Rome is the quaint village of Vignanello.

Nestled in the foothills of the Cimini Mountains, this central Italian jewel is a melting pot of rolling hills, waterfalls, charming piazzas and cobblestone streets.

Perhaps the main attraction is Castello Ruspoli, a Renaissance-era castle with a highly Instagrammable garden. From mazes to fountains, it’s like something out of a period drama. Guided tours are available from March through to December. A €15 (£12.56) ticket includes entry to certain parts of the castle, the Chapel of Santa Giacinta, and the Renaissance gardens. 

Elsewhere, Vignanello is famous for its DOC wines, products made within a specific geographical area in Italy. Favourites like Greek Vignanello, Vignanello Superiore, and Domenico are a hit among locals and tourists alike, and can be sampled in many restaurants around town. 

Pair one of these wines with dishes specific to Vignanello and the Lazio cuisine, including iconic pasta dishes like Carbonara, Amatriciana, and Cacio e Pepe. On TripAdvisor, Ristorante Palazzo Pretorio is regarded as one of the best in the village. It’s been described as a ‘very welcoming place’ serving ‘great food with high value for money.’

Aieta, Calabria

From the middle of Italy to the south, Aieta in Calabria is another celebrated village with a whole different personality.

Aieta is also on the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy list, thanks to its position in the hills of the Pollino National Park.

Fancy something especially rural? Aieta in Calabria should be on your bucketlist (Picture: Getty Images)

The village dates back to the Byzantine era, and was originally known as Asty Aetou, or ‘City of the Eagle.’ Though you may assume this is because the area is prone to one or two of these birds of prey, it’s actually because the town sits over 500 metres above sea level. 

One Google and you’re met with leaning houses with terracotta roofs, surrounded by sprawling forests and hills. It’s like something out of a fairytale. 

The Pollino National Park makes Aieta an ideal place for outdoor and adventure lovers. Defined by deep gorges, ancient forests, mountain peaks and crystal clear streams, there are so many hikes and walks for all abilities. Not to mention horseback riding through the woods, where you’ll spot the famed Aieta Red Lily.

Calabria, as a region, is also known for its delicious cuisine, with the beloved ‘Nduja sausage being its crowning glory. If you don’t indulge in the simple but classic spicy ‘Nduja pasta (unless you’re veggie or vegan), you’ve not experienced the real Calabria.

Maiori, Campania

When you think of Campania, you likely associate it with Amalfi Coast favourites like Sorrento and Positano, or the bustling streets of Naples.

But Maiori, a lesser-known spot on the same famous coast, has just as much to offer as its famous neighbours. If not more.

For one, you’ll find fewer crowds – and if you’ve been to one of Amalfi’s busier counterparts, you know that the number of tourists can be quite overwhelming.

Maiori also boasts the longest unbroken stretch of beach on the Amalfi coastline, so there’s more than enough sea and sand to go around.  

Step away from the beach and into the historic centre, where you’ll be transported back in time. While Maiori dates back to the Roman era, you’re more likely to find buildings still standing from the 13th century.

This includes the collegiate church of Santa Maria a Mare – one of the most beautiful churches on the Amalfi Coast – which was founded after a statue of the Virgin Mary washed up on the beach in 1204. 

The stunning village also features brightly coloured homes synonymous with the region, plus an abundance of lemon groves that showcase the region’s sustainable agriculture.

As it’s a coastal village, seafood is a major focus. Fresh shrimps, redfish, pezzogne, bream, sea urchins, and octopus are featured heavily in the cuisine, often in dishes like scialatielli ai frutti di mare, a beloved seafood pasta recipe.

All that’s left to do is eat, drink (Aperol Spritz is synonymous with the Amalfi Coast), and sunbathe.