Vietri Sul Mare, Italy town skyline on the Amalfi Coast

These hidden gems offer a glimpse into authentic Italian life, complete with breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine and rich traditions. Here’s a Guide to the top 20 small towns in Italy that are definitely worth a visit.


  1. Bolzano: where the Alps meet Italian culture
  2. Bassano del Grappa: a toast to tradition
  3. Varenna: a Lakeside retreat
  4. Portofino: a chic seaside resort
  5. Brisighella: a hidden gem in Emilia-Romagna
  6. Orvieto: a hilltop marvel
  7. Arezzo: the birthplace of art and history
  8. Civita di Bagnoregio: the dying town
  9. Pienza: a renaissance gem
  10. Spello: a colorful town with roman ruins
  11. Matera: the city of stones
  12. Taormina: Sicily’s jewel
  13. Nemi: the strawberry capital
  14. Ostuni: the white town
  15. Cefalù: a medieval seaside town in Sicily
  16. Bosa: a colorful town in Sardinia
  17. Lampedusa: a taste of the Mediterranean
  18. Lipari: the heart of the Aeolian Islands
  19. Agrigento: the Valley of the Temples
  20. Procida: a Jewel of the bay of Naples

Overview of the allure of small towns in Italy

Small towns in Italy provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. They often feature narrow cobblestone streets, quaint shops and local eateries where you can savor regional specialties. Exploring these towns allows travelers to experience Italy’s diverse culture and heritage firsthand. Many of these towns are steeped in history, showcasing beautiful architecture and stunning natural scenery.

Northern Italy: hidden gems

1. Bolzano: where the Alps meet Italian culture

Visitare Bolzano ecco l'itinerario perfetto per 2 (o 3!) giorni

Bolzano is a picturesque town nestled in the Dolomites, known for its stunning mountain views and unique blend of Italian and Austrian cultures. The Ötzi Museum, which houses the famous ice mummy, is a must-visit.

2. Bassano del Grappa: a toast to tradition

Famous for its wooden bridge, Ponte degli Alpini, Bassano del Grappa is also renowned for its grappa production. Enjoy local wines and traditional dishes in this charming town.

3. Varenna: a Lakeside retreat

Located on the shores of Lake Como, Varenna is known for its colorful houses and beautiful gardens. Stroll along the lakeside promenade or visit the historic Villa Monastero.

4. Portofino: a chic seaside resort

Portofino, Italy

This glamorous fishing village on the Italian Riviera is famous for its picturesque harbor and upscale boutiques. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants while soaking up the sun.

5. Brisighella: a hidden gem in Emilia-Romagna

Located in Emilia-Romagna, Brisighella is a medieval town surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. It features three hilltop towers and offers visitors a taste of local wines and traditional cuisine.

Central Italy: timeless beauty

6. Orvieto: a hilltop marvel

Perched on a volcanic rock, Orvieto is famous for its stunning cathedral and underground tunnels. The town’s medieval charm makes it a perfect day trip from Rome.

7. Arezzo: the birthplace of art and history

Arezzo boasts beautiful Renaissance architecture and is home to the Antiques Fair held every month. Don’t miss the stunning frescoes by Piero della Francesca in San Francesco.

8. Civita di Bagnoregio: the dying town

a view of Civita di Bagnoreggio

Known as “the dying town” due to its eroding cliffs, Civita di Bagnoregio offers breathtaking views and a unique atmosphere. The picturesque walk across the bridge to reach this hilltop village is unforgettable.

A view of Civita di Bagnoregio

Italy’s Ghost Towns: Exploring Abandoned Villages and Ruins

Explore Italy’s ghost towns—abandoned villages that reveal stories of the past. Discover Craco, Roscigno Vecchia, Pentedattilo and more, uncovering their mysteries and embarking on ghostly tours.

9. Pienza: a renaissance gem

Pienza

Renowned for its Renaissance architecture and pecorino cheese, Pienza is a small town in Tuscany that embodies the beauty of the Italian countryside. Its charming streets are perfect for leisurely strolls while enjoying scenic views.

10. Spello: a colorful town with roman ruins

Spello is known for its flower-filled streets and well-preserved Roman ruins. Visit during the “Infiorata” festival when the streets are adorned with colorful flower carpets.

Southern Italy: coastal charms and rustic delights

11. Matera: the city of stones

Weekend a Matera

Famous for its ancient cave dwellings known as Sassi, Matera offers a unique glimpse into history. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been used as a filming location for numerous movies.

12. Taormina: Sicily’s jewel

Corso Umberto Taormina

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea, Taormina features stunning views of Mount Etna and ancient Greek ruins like the Teatro Antico. Its charming streets are lined with shops and cafes.

13. Nemi: the strawberry capital

This charming town is located near Rome and is famous for its wild strawberries. Nemi offers beautiful views of Lake Nemi and has a quaint atmosphere with narrow streets and local eateries serving delicious strawberry desserts.

Spiaggia Gallipoli di notte

Italy’s Coastal Escapes: A Guide to the Most Beautiful Towns

Dreaming of an Italian escape? This guide unveils Italy’s most captivating coastal towns, from the iconic Amalfi Coast to hidden gems in Puglia and Sicily. Discover sandy beaches, charming villages, and cultural delights waiting to be explored.

14. Ostuni: the white town

Located in Apulia and Known as “La Città Bianca”, Ostuni features whitewashed buildings that create a striking contrast against the blue sky. Wander through its narrow streets filled with artisan shops.

15. Cefalù: a medieval seaside town in Sicily

cefalu-cosa-vedere

Located in Sicily, Cefalù is a picturesque seaside town with stunning beaches and a rich history. The Norman cathedral and medieval streets add to its charm, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and cultural experiences.

16. Bosa: a colorful town in Sardinia

Situated in Sardinia, Bosa is known for its colorful houses along the Temo River. The town features a medieval castle, beautiful beaches nearby and a relaxed vibe that makes it perfect for leisurely exploration.

The islands: unique flavors and landscapes

17. Lampedusa: a taste of the Mediterranean

Lampedusa is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches such as Rabbit Beach, often considered one of the best in Italy. Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants while soaking up the sun.

spiaggia mondello

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18. Lipari: the heart of the Aeolian Islands

Isole Eolie cosa vedere nell'arcipelago Patrimonio UNESCO Lipari

Lipari is famous for its volcanic landscape and rich history dating back to ancient times. Explore archaeological sites or relax on beautiful beaches surrounded by nature.

19. Agrigento: the Valley of the Temples

Valle dei Templi, l’area archeologica più grande al mondo

Agrigento features some of Sicily’s most important archaeological sites, including well-preserved Greek temples set against a stunning backdrop of rolling hills.

20. Procida: a Jewel of the bay of Naples

Isola di Procida: spiagge da sogno e colori al largo di Napoli

Procida is known for its colorful houses lining the harbor and charming streets filled with local shops and eateries. It is less touristy than nearby islands like Capri but equally enchanting. Procida is easily reachable by ferry from Naples and makes for a delightful day trip.