When not in Rome.

With the arrival of colder weather, the tourist season dwindles in Italy, leaving an empire of hidden gems open to discerning travelers. less crowded conditionsshares a travel expert.

The best places to visit in fall and winter are bustling but lesser-known towns, miles from major cities and tourist hubs like the Amalfi Coast, according to Maria Nuzzolillo, who enjoys sharing her native Campania region with those interested. visitors.

“You participate in harvests and festivals. You can pick fruit and taste local specialties without the tourist veil,” says Nuzzolillo, from the small town of San Lupo, told Business Insider.

“The beauty of Italy, especially off the beaten track, is that even though the towns are half a mile apart, each has its own take on vacation and fall.”

She strongly urges visitors to head to her neck of the woods rather than the typical hotspots where “things are aimed at appealing to the masses.”

Nuzzolillo starts his list with the little-known town of Benevento in the Sannio wine region, which is “about an hour” from the Amalfi Coast, which can be very sleepy out of season.

“Benevento is a charming little town with a UNESCO-listed church – the Church of Santa Sofia – and a Roman theater which is still used today for special events such as operas,” explained the professional.

“It has a great pedestrian-only area with shops and restaurants open all year round, regardless of summer or winter.”

Nuzzolillo suggests using Benevento as a base to visit several charming villages known for their fall festivities and within driving distance. She pointed out that the city has a car rental service.

She recommends starting an hour north, in Cusano Mutri, “a little hidden town famous for its porcini mushrooms.” There is even a month-long mushroom festival.

It’s also close to the Medieval Castle, a medieval fortress and a dream for hiking and horse riding.

History and culture lovers will also be delighted in Sant’Agata, about an hour west of Benevento.

“There are 20 churches in the historic center from different periods and therefore different architecture and art,” Nuzzolillo said, mentioning that the area is known for a “special” pretzel-style pastry called nfrennula.

When it comes to places to stock up on Italian treats, some of the best Torrone, a Christmas favorite, can be found in San Marco, 25 minutes northeast of Benevento.

“There are all kinds of bakeries that are present all over Italy,” she said. “But in our region, there are small family shops that make very high-end artisanal treats for the holidays.”

The local, who prides herself on her home of San Lupo for its distinctive bean crop, admitted: “We go to San Marco for the Torrone.”