8Castelmezzano, Basilicata – Italy
Carved dramatically into the Lucanian Dolomites, Castelmezzano is a mountain village that feels worlds away from Italy’s tourist circuit.Â
Stone houses cling to jagged cliffs, connected by staircases and narrow passages. Though inland, its Mediterranean light and timeless rhythm place it firmly in southern Italy’s cultural heart.
Why it’s uncrowded: Its remote location has protected it from mass tourism, making it ideal for travelers seeking authenticity.
