Secret Italy: Tuscia — Rome's Most Underrated Escape
If you love Tuscany and Umbria, let me introduce you to Tuscia.
This is the sixth edition of Secret Italy, my subscriber-only series sharing trusted recommendations and travel intel across Italy. You can browse previous editions here.
One of my favorite parts of Italy lies just an hour north of Rome, yet somehow it remains deliciously under the radar. If you’re looking for a cultural escape from the capital for a few days, you must add Tuscia to your list.
Tuscia was the ancient Etruscan heartland known as Etruria, and it's the reason Tuscany takes its name. The Etruscans preceded the Romans and were fundamental to their rise — teaching them engineering, architecture and even the alphabet — before being gradually absorbed into the empire.
Sitting between Rome and Florence, I suspect it has remained overlooked simply because it is overshadowed by two of Italy's biggest draws — which is exactly why it's so rewarding. If you love the landscapes of Tuscany or Umbria but want somewhere that still feels under-the-radar, you’ll really appreciate this region.
There is so much packed into a small area: Renaissance villas, Etruscan tombs, volcanic lakes, thermal springs and quaint local towns, all within an easy drive of Rome.
The region is clustered around the medieval city of Viterbo and dotted with charming agriturismi, boutique hotels and country estates that make the perfect base for a nature-filled escape. You’ll definitely want a car to explore properly.