My favorite gem in Italy is just an hour from Venice. It's packed with stunning scenery and feels like stepping into a fairytale.

• Bassano del Grappa is a charming Italian city that's about an hour from Venice.
• I love visiting Bassano because it's less touristy than the major cities I've been to.
• Bassano also has lots of great restaurants, shopping opportunities, and stunning views.

I love the historic alleyways, picturesque canals, and gondolas of Venice.

If you want a true taste of Italy, however, you'll probably want to venture beyond the floating city's tourist-packed cobblestone streets. One of my favorite spots to visit is Bassano del Grappa, which is only an hour's train ride from Venice.

The enchanting city is located along the Brenta River at the base of the Dolomites. My family has nearly 200 years of history there, and every time I visit Bassano, I am left more in awe.

Although many tourists from around Italy and the surrounding countries make their way through Bassano, I've noticed it remains a hidden gem among American travelers.

The city is brimming with history, culture, art, outdoor adventure, and stunning scenery, making it a worthwhile stop on an Italian getaway. Here's why I love visiting this charming city.

In Bassano, I'm able to immerse myself in true Italian living — without the major crowds

I love visiting tourist hubs like Venice or Milan, but in my experience, I get a better idea of true Italian culture when I'm visiting Bassano.

For example, I've noticed that far fewer Bassano residents speak English, and most businesses are small or family-owned.

The city can get crowded with visitors in the summer, but it feels less curated for tourists' comfort than other popular spots. Visiting Bassano feels like being a guest observing everyday local life, which, to me, is what traveling is all about.

I love the food scene in Bassano

In general, I've found the food in Bassano is fresher and more authentic than in the heavily touristed cities throughout Italy.

Many operations are small, family-run businesses that take pride in providing the highest quality of cuisine and friendly service.

For example, my family has owned Ristorante Birraria Ottone for the past 150 years.

The fine-dining restaurant serves classic Italian dishes from a seasonal menu in an elegant and relaxed atmosphere — my favorite item is the white asparagus risotto in the springtime. I might be biased, but dining here is a must when visiting Bassano.

I also love visiting Danieli, a bar and restaurant in the center piazza, which is one of my favorite spots for an aperitif.

The gorgeous Ponte Vecchio offers a picture-perfect moment

One of Bassano del Grappa's main landmarks is Ponte Vecchio (meaning "Old Bridge"). This impressive wooden bridge spans across the Brenta River and connects each side of downtown.

The center of the bridge has the best view of the river, lined with yellow and pink townhouses and with a backdrop of the mountain range — it's like stepping into a fairytale.

There are plenty of opportunities to shop, from luxury goods to affordable market finds

Bassano is full of fashionable boutiques, luxurious leather goods, and ceramic shops with local artisan pieces.

My favorite shopping experience is the weekly market that happens every Thursday morning. Stretching across three large piazzas in the center of town, you'll find piles of affordable clothing, home decor, souvenirs, accessories, food items, and more.

The market is always bustling with bargaining shoppers, and it's a fun way to find unique gifts and special mementos to bring home.

There are lots of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors

Bassano's natural beauty alone makes it worth the visit, from the Alpine river to the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. It makes sense why this region is a hot spot for outdoor adventurers.

Those who want an adrenaline rush can paraglide off the nearby Monte Grappa. However, I like to enjoy a more slow-paced approach to the outdoors, which is why I love walking along the dirt paths that line the river.

In this area, I'll often pass by sunbathers sprawled out on rocks, dragonflies fluttering through willow trees, historic villas with luscious gardens, and views of the paragliders floating in the distance.