A recent study has identified Boccadasse in Genoa as Italy’s most Instagrammable hidden gem. Conducted by travel specialists Florence Tickets and Tours, the study analyzed the ‘hidden gems’ category on Tripadvisor for over 100 of Italy’s most populous and frequently visited cities. By counting the number of Instagram posts featuring each location’s name as a hashtag, the research determined the country’s top Instagrammable hidden gem.
Boccadasse, a charming old mariners’ village located at the eastern end of Genoa’s main promenade, topped the list with 137,595 posts. Its picturesque pastel-colored houses surround a cobblestone beach, and the village has been preserved, remaining unchanged, which makes it a popular tourist destination.
In second place is Stella del Diavolo, boasting 102,170 Instagram posts. Situated in Cagliari, Sardinia, its distinctive shape and prominent location on Poetto beach make it a notable feature of the area. For decades, this cape has been a favorite excursion spot just a short distance from the city center.
Procida Island comes in third with 97,832 posts. Located off the coast of Naples, this island is part of the comune of Procida, alongside Vivara, and is celebrated for its vibrant shoreline.
Further down the list, Milan’s Cimitero Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery) ranks fourth, with 79,657 posts. Known for its artistic tombs and monuments, it is one of the two largest cemeteries in the city.
Rounding out the top five is Palmarola Island, with 78,124 posts. Mostly uninhabited, this island lies in the Tyrrhenian Sea, near the coast of Latina and Rome, and features an incredibly rocky coastline adorned with natural grottos, bays, cliffs, and crags.
Magdalena Petrusic, a Travel Expert from Florence Tickets and Tours, shared her insights on the findings: “When visiting Italy, travelers typically know what to anticipate: stunning landscapes, priceless artworks, and expertly crafted structures. However, many tend to concentrate on just a handful of cities and attractions, overlooking the vast array of wonders that lie beyond the capital and major metropolises.
“The data sheds light on various locations and landmarks that may not be widely recognized but are definitely worth a visit. From the more traditional sites like cliffs and charming villages to the unique landscapes, such as the Monumental Cemetery of Milan.”