Watching Italy’s coronavirus agony unfold was unbearably sad for those of us who love this exuberant, gregarious country. But as the months went on, I began thinking more selfishly: Italy was coming back to life, but would the UK’s chaotic response to the pandemic deprive me of my Italy fix this year?

Now, with plans to lift the ban on non-essential travel afoot, things look more hopeful. But where to go? Busy cities don’t appeal, nor do Italy’s regimented beach resorts. With lots of Italians holidaying at home this year, quiet corners will be rare, but here are three worth trying.