It’s day one of our Destination: Italy week and we’ve asked one of our favorite Italy photographers to be our go-to expert for this portion of the DestinationX series. Rochelle Cheever specializes in shooting destination weddings and elopements and has shot all over Italy, but here are her favorite, can’t-miss romantic spots that often fly under the radar!

1. Puglia

Puglia is at the “heel” of Italy in the southern part of the peninsula. The region is known for its whitewashed stone and hundreds of kilometers of gorgeous coast along the Mediterranean Sea. Lecce is well known for its Baroque architecture and Alberobello is known for its Trulli, or cone-shaped stone huts.

Must-See Spots: Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Lecce, Alberobello, Taranto, Otranto & Gallipoli 

2. Umbria

Umbria is the region that borders Tuscany and Lazio. It’s very similar to Tuscany, dotted with many medieval hilltop towns.

Must-See Spots: Orvieto, Assisi, Gubbio & Spoleto

3. Ponza

This island is close to Rome and a favorite spot for Romans. The whole island is magical with grottos and caves. It is less famous than Capri, but equally as beautiful.

Must-See Spots: Explore the many caves and grottos.

4. Sicily

The largest of the Italian islands found in the southern tip of Italy. It is filled with Bysantine and Baroque architectural gems with touches of Arab influence. The food here is amazing and Sicily is where the famous cannoli is made. It is also home to Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe.

Must-See Spots: Syracuse, Noto & Taormina

5. Ischia

A volcanic island known for its mineral waters. It is close to Capri and a bit bigger than its sister Island. The seafood is exquisite here and Ischia is home to my favorite spaghetti alle vongole.

Must-See Spots: Visit the many curative, natural hot springs.

6. Calabria

Located in the Southern Italy, Calabria dates back to ancient Roman times when it was a major commercial port. It is built on a reef and is a popular summer bathing spot.

Must-See Spot: Tropea

7. Procida 

This is another island near Ischia and Capri and it is a lot less touristy. There are beautiful pastel homes and the island is filled with lemon orchards.

Must-See Spot: The island makes a perfect day trip for lunch and photo-ops.

8. Sperlonga

A seaside town in-between Rome and Naples. It’s known for its whitewashed houses and is conveniently accessible by public transport from Rome.

Must-See Spot: Emperor Tiberius’ villa ruins

9. Gaeta

Located in Central Italy, the city dates back to Roman times. It has many Roman ruins and is a popular summer place for Italians – especially Romans.

Must-See Spot: Visit one of the city’s seven beautiful beaches.

10. Punta Ala

Located in Tuscany, Punta Ala is a favorite sailing and yachting destination for Italians. It has vast beaches and the town is immersed in nature.

Must-See Spot: Punta Ala castle

Stay tuned throughout the week as Rochelle shares her inside tips and tricks for couples honeymooning or saying “I do” in the gorgeous country of Italy. From her “10 Most Photogenic Spots” to her dream four-day itinerary for a visit to Rome, we’ll have you in tip-top shape for your destination wedding or honeymoon in Italy!