A beautiful Italian city is known as the Florence of the country's south, and has fewer tourists than the likes of Venice, and Rome. Joanne Lynn, head of European product at tour operator Riviera Travel, included the sunswept travel destination among seven "hidden gem" spots in Europe to visit this summer.

Lynn included Lecce, in the Apulia region, as choice spot for those looking for "traditional Italy", as well as Alberobello, and Matera, two towns close enough for a day trip by car. “For an authentic Italian experience, discover a quieter, traditional region of Italy known for its whitewashed hill towns, centuries-old farmland and Mediterranean coastline," the travel expert said.