When people think of Italy, they picture Tuscany. The cypress trees, the rolling vineyards, the hilltop towns glowing gold in the late afternoon. And they are not wrong to. But central Italy is so much more than its most famous postcard. Umbria sits just over the border, quieter and less polished, with truffles, Sagrantino wine, and a pace of life that feels like a gift. Lazio stretches far beyond Rome, into garden estates and Etruscan ruins and little towns that will make you forget you ever had an agenda. And Le Marche gives you mountains and an Adriatic coastline in the same breath.

In this episode, Anthony and Brian make the case for reversing the way most people travel this region: stay in the countryside, eat what is local, and let Florence be the day trip.

In this episode, Brian and Anthony explore the diverse macro regions of Italy, focusing on the Northeast. They discuss the cultural richness, culinary delights, and travel tips for experiencing Italy beyond the typical tourist destinations. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding local customs, food, and the unique experiences each region offers. They emphasize the value of longer stays to fully immerse in the Italian lifestyle and enjoy the beauty of cities like Venice, Bologna, and Verona.

In this conversation, Anthony Campopiano discusses the unique appeal of Italy's lesser-known regions, particularly Piedmont and the Riviera. He highlights how these areas offer a more authentic experience compared to the heavily touristed Tuscany, emphasizing the quality of food, wine, and the overall atmosphere.

In this episode of the Bella Italy Podcast, hosts Brian and Anthony discuss the philosophy of travel, emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity in travel experiences. They explore Italy’s macro regions, highlighting the diversity of culture, cuisine, and experiences across the country.

Embrace slow Italian travel with Brian and Anthony on the Bella Italy Podcast. Learn how to skip tourist traps, savor regional food traditions like Slow Food and build itineraries that help you connect with locals.

Discover how to escape Italy’s crowded hotspots, slow down, and experience the overlooked 99% of Italy with Brian and Anthony’s real stories and tips.