Liliana Mascolo, a local of Positano, Italy, and a third-generation employee of Hotel Poseidon, shares her insight into the overtourism that is overcrowding the Amalfi Coast and offers alternative, underappreciated villages in Italy for a unique vacation experience in 2025. Liliana has witnessed the evolution of Positano from a long-stay destination for wealthy Italians to a destination for short-term visitors with rigid itineraries seeking to tick off popular sites on social media. To avoid the crowds, Liliana recommends exploring lesser-known destinations such as Tropea, Mount Abetone, Castellabate, and Varenna.
Tropea, located over 400 km south of Positano, offers stunning beaches similar to those found in Positano but without the overwhelming crowds. This hilltop village overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea is a peaceful retreat with beautiful landscapes that attract local Italian families, rather than hordes of foreign tourists. Despite winning prestigious awards, Tropea remains a hidden gem where visitors can enjoy the sunset without dealing with large crowds and long queues, making it an ideal alternative to the crowded beaches of Positano.
For travelers seeking a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of popular destinations, Liliana recommends Mount Abetone in the Apennines mountain range. This popular ski resort in Italy offers a serene environment for relaxation and reconnection with loved ones, away from the FOMO found in Positano. Embracing the joy of missing out (JOMO) trend, visitors can unwind by the fireplace with a glass of wine and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains without feeling the pressure to engage in typical tourist activities.
Instead of visiting the increasingly popular village of Atrani for set-jetting experiences, Liliana suggests exploring Castellabate, approximately 120 km south of Naples. Made famous by the Italian comedy ‘Benvenuti al Sud’, Castellabate offers a picturesque setting with friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere. With few attractions beyond a castle, an observation deck, and a small museum, visitors can immerse themselves in the moment, reminiscent of the charm Positano once exuded before it became overrun by tourists.
Travelers looking for a quieter experience in Italy can visit Varenna, a village on Lake Como, during the off-season. With fewer than 1,000 residents, Varenna offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Bellagio. The village features a 12th-century castle, the romantic Walk of Lovers, and opportunities for stargazing, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a serene and celestial experience. Additionally, Varenna is conveniently located for exploring other nearby attractions in northern Italy, such as Milan and Lake Garda.
While Italy’s tourism industry continues to thrive, with over €50 billion in revenue from 57 million annual visitors, Liliana emphasizes the importance of exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations to avoid overcrowding and experience a more authentic side of the country. By visiting lesser-known villages and regions, travelers can enjoy a unique and unforgettable vacation away from the crowds, queues, and clichéd attractions that have come to define popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast. With Liliana’s suggestions, travelers can discover hidden gems and create lasting memories in Italy in 2025.
