©Alexander Henke via Unsplash
If the goal is to lead yourself away from traditional itineraries, the 'Luminous Destinations 2026' initiative provides an innovative tool to access a lesser-known Italy, where wonders lie hidden, just waiting to be appreciated.
The modern traveler seeks authenticity, balance and the chance to get in touch with the essence of the places he or she visits: Visit Italy responds to this need with a recognition that spotlights the country and celebrates the areas that are redrawing the future of the tourism industry.
The project is distinctly innovative and can make travel a more mindful experience, carving out unknown routes and promoting connections. Those looking to reach lesser-known destinations, far away from tourist overload and rich in a strong identity, will find the story of an initiative that promises to radically change our approach to Italy and its most hidden riches.
An invitation to discover Italy outside the spotlight
Luminous Destinations 2026 presents itself as an invitation to curious travelers, to those who want to look beyond the most celebrated destinations to encounter the Italy that exists off the big stage. At a time when tourism demands new forms of balance and authenticity, Visit Italy proposes a recognition that upgrades the country by highlighting those little-told areas that preserve exceptional heritage.
Presented during the Borsa Internazionale del Turismo 2026 in Milan (BIT) from February 10 to 12, the project saw a specialized jury appointed by Visit Italy select ten destinations that will receive the title "Luminous Destinations" for 2026.
The criteria to receive the recognition? In a nutshell:
- The ability to develop innovative forms of tourism.
- Creating awareness about the area.
- Actively working in the area with initiatives and investments.
- Ensuring harmony between travelers - residents and environment - community.
Beauty far away from the masses
Luminous Destinations 2026 aims to show the way to all those who like to explore places where beauty does not suffer from mass-tourism, but remains authentic and alive. It offers the chance to redefine your way of getting to know Italy through less trodden paths and stories that deserve the stage.
As already emphasized, each place chosen must know how to inspire, engage and have a positive impact on local communities. Luminous Destinations combines digital storytelling with physical presence in the area, aiming to increase visibility, connections and new opportunities for those who deserve to be discovered. For anyone seeking a less travelled Italy, the project will be a valuable guide. So let's look at the recommended destinations.
The ten destinations of 2026
These are the selected destinations that represent the pinnacle of a conscious tourism, firmly rooted in the territory:
Viterbo (Lazio)
One of the best preserved medieval centers in Europe, characterized by a strong historical and warm identity.
Monreale (Sicily)
Art, spirituality and landscape converge around the UNESCO-recognized cathedral.
Livigno (Lombardy)
Alpine destination at the forefront of sustainability, soft mobility and responsible hospitality.
Borutta (Sardinia)
The quiet interior of Sardinia, characterized by archaeology, spirituality and rural landscapes.
Arezzo (Tuscany)
City of arts and crafts that unites Renaissance heritage with artisan traditions that are still alive and practiced.
Oratino (Molise)
Village that protects intangible heritage through sculpture and music.
Castelsaraceno (Basilicata)
Appennine village where nature, technology and landscape are intertwined in a harmonious dialogue.
Cingoli (Marches)
The 'balcony of the Marches' that is becoming a symbol of slow tourism and quality of life.
Gerace (Calabria)
Medieval village in the Aspromonte, an exemplary model of tourism linked to history, craft and territory.
Genoa (Liguria)
Layered and authentic city, an urban laboratory linking harbor, culture and historic districts.
(©visititaly.eu via GreenMe 2026/Managing Editor: Selma Keshkire - The Press Junction/Picture: ©Alexander Henke via Unsplash)