When I first started planning my Italian adventures, I kept gravitating toward the usual suspects: Rome, Florence, Venice. And while those cities absolutely deserve their fame, I quickly learned that some of my most memorable moments in Italy happened in the smaller towns I stumbled upon along the way.
There’s something special about watching the sunset from a hilltop village, wandering cobblestone streets without a crowd in sight, or sharing a meal at a family-run trattoria where they still make pasta by hand. These 21 towns gave me exactly that. Whether you’re drawn to seaside escapes, medieval architecture, or simply want to experience a slower pace of Italian life, I think you’ll find a few places here that speak to you.
Table of Contents
- Polignano a Mare
- Locorotondo
- San Gimignano
- Castelluccio
- Vipiteno
- Vernazza
- Pacentro
- Civita di Bagnoregio
- Ostuni
- St. Magdalena
- Borghetto
- Cefalu
- Pitigliano
- Pietrapertosa
- Portofino
- Savoca
- Saluzzo
- Praiano
- Stilo
- Alberobello
- Procida
Beautiful Towns in Italy Worth Visiting
1. Polignano a Mare
Region: Puglia | Population: 18,014
The first time I saw Polignano a Mare perched on its limestone cliffs above the Adriatic, I understood why people kept recommending it. This whitewashed town has a way of stopping you in your tracks. The historic center sits right on the edge of rocky cliffs, and when you look down, you’ll see crystal-clear turquoise water meeting the pebble beaches below.
I spent an afternoon walking the narrow streets of the old town, popping into small shops and cafes. The best part? Finding a spot along the waterfront to watch local kids jump off the cliffs into the sea. If you’re visiting in summer, the beach can get busy, but the water is worth it. For a quieter experience, I’d suggest visiting in late spring or early fall.
What I loved: The dramatic coastal setting and surprisingly good seafood restaurants tucked into the old town.
2. Locorotondo
Region: Puglia | Population: 14,156
Locorotondo translates to “round place,” and once you see it from a distance, you’ll understand why. The town forms a perfect circle on its hilltop, surrounded by the rolling hills of Valle d’Itria.
What stood out to me here was how quiet and authentic it felt. This isn’t a town that gets overwhelmed with tour buses. I wandered streets lined with whitewashed houses, peeked into courtyards filled with flowers, and stopped at a few wine bars to try the local sparkling white wine. The views over the valley, especially toward the trulli houses scattered across the countryside, are worth the visit alone.
What I loved: The peaceful atmosphere and excellent local wine that’s produced right in the region.
3. San Gimignano
Region: Tuscany | Population: 7,780
San Gimignano is one of those places that looks almost too perfect, like it was designed specifically for postcards. The medieval towers rising from this walled hilltop town create a skyline unlike anywhere else in Tuscany. Fourteen of these towers still stand today, remnants of a time when wealthy families built them as symbols of power.
I’ll be honest, San Gimignano does get crowded during peak season. I visited in early June and still had to navigate through groups of tourists in the main piazza. But if you arrive early in the morning or stay for the evening, you can experience the town in a different light. I particularly enjoyed walking the walls at sunset and sampling the local gelato, which several shops claim is the best in the world.
What I loved: The unique medieval architecture and the golden hour light on those ancient towers.
Pro tip: Stay overnight if you can. The day-trippers clear out by evening, and the town becomes much more peaceful.
4. Castelluccio
Region: Umbria | Population: 150
Visiting Castelluccio feels like stepping into a different world. This tiny hilltop village sits at about 1,450 meters above sea level, surrounded by the Piano Grande, a vast plateau that becomes a canvas of wildflowers during late spring and early summer.
I need to mention that Castelluccio was hit hard by earthquakes in 2016, and much of the village is still being rebuilt. But the landscape is what draws people here, especially during la fiorita (the flowering), typically from late May to early July. When I visited, the plains were covered in red poppies, yellow rapeseed, and purple cornflowers. It’s one of the most beautiful natural displays I’ve seen in Italy.
What I loved: The flower bloom is worth planning your trip around if you can time it right.
Good to know: Come prepared for cooler temperatures, even in summer. This is a high-altitude location.
5. Vipiteno
Region: Trentino-Alto Adige | Population: 6,967
Vipiteno threw me off at first. This is Italy’s northernmost town, but walking through it felt more like being in Austria. The architecture, the language (German is spoken more than Italian here), even the food, all reflect the region’s unique cultural blend.
The town center is compact and easy to explore on foot. I particularly enjoyed the Torre delle Dodici (Tower of the Twelve), which marks the entrance to the medieval old town. The surrounding Dolomites create a dramatic backdrop, and if you’re visiting in winter, the nearby ski areas are easily accessible.
What I loved: The blend of Italian and Austrian cultures, and the proximity to some stunning mountain scenery.
Best for: Anyone who wants to experience a different side of Italy, especially if you’re into skiing or mountain hiking.
6. Vernazza
Region: Liguria | Population: 852
Of the five villages that make up Cinque Terre, Vernazza captured my heart the most. Maybe it’s the natural harbor where colorful fishing boats bob in the water, or the way the pastel buildings cascade down to the small beach. There’s just something about this place that feels right.
I stayed two nights here, which I think is ideal. During the day, you’ll share the village with day-trippers hiking between the Cinque Terre towns, but in the evening, when the crowds thin out, you get to experience Vernazza at its best. I’d sit at a cafe near the harbor with a glass of local white wine, watching the sunset paint the buildings in warm light.
What I loved: The evening atmosphere when the village feels like it belongs to the locals (and lucky overnight visitors) again.
Pro tip: Book accommodation well in advance. There aren’t many options in the village, and they fill up quickly.
7. Pacentro
Region: Abruzzo | Population: 1,279
Pacentro isn’t on most tourist itineraries, and that’s exactly what makes it special. This medieval village sits in the Abruzzo mountains, with narrow stone streets winding between ancient buildings. The ruins of the Caldora Castle, with its two distinctive towers, dominate the skyline.
What I appreciated most about Pacentro was how lived-in it felt. This isn’t a museum town; people actually live and work here. I watched old men playing cards in the piazza, smelled bread baking in the local bakery, and had one of the best pasta dishes of my trip at a small family restaurant that didn’t even have a menu.
What I loved: The authentic mountain village atmosphere without any tourist infrastructure cluttering the experience.
Good to know: Come prepared to communicate in Italian. English isn’t widely spoken here.
8. Civita di Bagnoregio
Region: Lazio | Population: 11
Yes, you read that population number correctly. Only 11 people call Civita di Bagnoregio home year-round, though the village swells during the day with visitors. And I understand why people make the effort to come here.
Civita sits on a plateau of volcanic rock, slowly eroding away. To reach it, you have to walk across a long pedestrian footbridge, which adds to the sense of entering another time. Once inside the medieval walls, you’ll find a tiny village with a church, a few houses, and some shops and restaurants catering to visitors.
I visited on a weekday morning and had the place almost to myself. Walking the narrow streets with the valley dropping away on all sides felt surreal. There’s a melancholy beauty to this place, knowing it’s slowly disappearing due to erosion.
What I loved: The otherworldly feeling of being in a village that exists almost outside of time.
Best for: Photography enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates unique historical sites.
9. Ostuni
Region: Puglia | Population: 31,148
Ostuni earned its nickname “the White City,” and once you see it from a distance, gleaming white against the blue sky, you’ll understand why. The old town is a maze of whitewashed buildings, narrow alleyways, and sudden views over the olive groves below.
I spent a full day here and could have easily spent another. The Ostuni Cathedral, with its mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine elements, is worth a visit. But honestly, I enjoyed just getting lost in the old town, climbing stairs that led to unexpected viewpoints, and stopping for an espresso when my legs needed a break.
What I loved: How easy it is to lose yourself exploring the white-walled streets of the historic center.
Pro tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Those cobblestone streets and stairs add up.
10. St. Magdalena
Region: Trentino-Alto Adige | Population: 370
St. Magdalena is barely even a hamlet, just a small collection of wooden houses and a centuries-old church nestled in a valley. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for with its setting. The Geisler Mountains rise dramatically behind the village, creating one of the most photographed scenes in the Dolomites.
I visited in autumn when the valley was golden and the mountains had their first dusting of snow. It’s the kind of place where you just want to sit and soak it all in. There are hiking trails nearby if you’re feeling active, or you can simply enjoy the pastoral scenery.
What I loved: The postcard-perfect mountain backdrop and the sense of peace that comes from being in such a small, remote place.
Best for: Hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful mountain escape.
11. Borghetto
Region: Veneto | Population: 160
Borghetto surprised me with how charming such a small place could be. Located not far from Lake Garda, this tiny village sits along the Mincio River, which flows from the lake. The old stone houses literally perch over the water, and an ancient mill still stands in the village.
I arrived around lunchtime and ate at one of the restaurants serving tortellini di Valeggio, a local pasta specialty. After lunch, I walked along the river path and watched the water flowing beneath the buildings. It’s incredibly peaceful, and the medieval atmosphere feels authentic rather than manufactured for tourists.
What I loved: The riverside setting and how the village has maintained its character despite being close to popular tourist areas.
Good to know: Borghetto is close to Verona and Lake Garda, making it an easy day trip if you’re staying in either location.
12. Cefalu
Region: Sicily | Population: 14,310
Cefalu sits on Sicily’s northern coast, and it has everything I look for in a seaside town: a beautiful beach, a charming historic center, and excellent seafood. The massive rock face rising behind the town creates a dramatic backdrop, and if you’re up for the climb, the views from the top are worth the effort.
I spent most of my time wandering the narrow medieval streets, popping into small shops, and eventually making my way to the waterfront. The Norman cathedral in the town center is impressive, but I was equally happy just sitting at a beachfront cafe with a granita, watching people swim in the clear water.
What I loved: How it combines history, beach life, and Sicilian charm in one compact package.
Best for: Anyone who wants a beach town with more character than your typical resort.
13. Pitigliano
Region: Tuscany | Population: 3,795
Pitigliano is one of those towns that makes you stop and wonder how it was even built. The entire village sits on a outcrop of volcanic rock, and when you approach it from the valley below, it looks like it’s growing straight out of the cliff face.
Inside the town, I discovered narrow streets, a well-preserved Jewish Quarter (Pitigliano was once home to a thriving Jewish community), and an ancient Etruscan tunnel system carved into the rock. I hired a local guide to show me through the tunnels, which was fascinating. Above ground, the views across the valleys are panoramic.
What I loved: The dramatic setting and the layers of history you can explore, from Etruscan times through the Renaissance.
Pro tip: Visit the Jewish Quarter and the small museum there. It tells an important story about this community’s history in Tuscany.
14. Pietrapertosa
Region: Basilicata | Population: 1,018
Pietrapertosa is another one of those stone villages that seems to grow out of the mountainside. Located in the Basilicata region’s Dolomiti Lucane (the little Dolomites), this town is known for its dramatic setting and for an attraction called the “Flight of the Angel.”
I’ll admit, I’m not great with heights, but I still tried the Flight of the Angel, a zip line that connects Pietrapertosa with the neighboring village of Castelmezzano. You fly through the mountains at speeds up to 120 km/h, and yes, it’s as exhilarating as it sounds. Even if you’re not into extreme activities, the town itself is worth visiting for its medieval architecture and mountain views.
What I loved: The combination of natural beauty and the thrill of that zip line experience.
Best for: Adventure seekers and anyone who wants to experience a lesser-known part of southern Italy.
15. Portofino
Region: Liguria | Population: 416
Portofino is tiny but glamorous, the kind of place where you might spot a superyacht in the harbor or a celebrity having lunch at a waterfront restaurant. The colorful buildings around the harbor create a picture-perfect scene, and I can see why artists have been painting this view for decades.
I visited for an afternoon and found it crowded but still charming. The best moments were away from the main harbor, walking up to the church of San Giorgio or hiking to Castello Brown for views over the bay. If you’re visiting in summer, come early or late in the day to avoid the biggest crowds.
What I loved: The classic Italian Riviera beauty, even if it comes with a side of glitz.
Good to know: Portofino is expensive. Budget accordingly for meals and drinks.
16. Savoca
Region: Sicily | Population: 1,707
If you’re a fan of “The Godfather,” you’ll recognize Savoca. Several scenes from the film were shot here, including Michael Corleone’s wedding. But even if you’ve never seen the movie, Savoca is worth visiting for its medieval atmosphere and hillside location overlooking olive groves and the coast.
I walked the narrow streets, visited the church where the movie wedding was filmed, and stopped at Bar Vitelli, which appeared in the film and still serves drinks to visitors. The views from the upper part of town, looking out over the Sicilian countryside toward the sea, are beautiful.
What I loved: The combination of movie history and authentic Sicilian village life.
Best for: Film buffs and anyone exploring northeastern Sicily.
17. Saluzzo
Region: Piedmont | Population: 16,968
Saluzzo doesn’t get as much attention as some other Piedmont towns, but I found it to be a lovely place to spend a day. The medieval center has red-tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, and elegant buildings that reflect its history as the capital of a Renaissance marquessate.
What makes Saluzzo special is its location. The Alps rise in the distance, creating a dramatic backdrop for this already pretty town. I visited the castle, wandered through the old town, and had an excellent meal at a restaurant serving traditional Piedmont cuisine, including local cheeses and wines.
What I loved: The alpine views and how it felt more like a local town than a tourist destination.
Good to know: Saluzzo is close to some excellent hiking areas if you want to combine town exploration with mountain activities.
18. Praiano
Region: Campania | Population: 2,026
Praiano sits on the Amalfi Coast between the more famous towns of Positano and Amalfi. It’s smaller and quieter than either of its neighbors, which is exactly why I enjoyed it. The town climbs the hillside in typical Amalfi Coast fashion, with houses stacked one above another.
I stayed two nights here and appreciated having a base that felt less chaotic than nearby Positano. The beach is rocky rather than sandy, but the water is clear and perfect for swimming. At night, I’d walk down to one of the waterfront restaurants and enjoy fresh seafood while watching the lights twinkle across the bay.
What I loved: Getting the Amalfi Coast experience without the overwhelming crowds.
Best for: Anyone who wants to explore the coast but prefers a quieter home base.
19. Stilo
Region: Calabria | Population: 2,541
Stilo isn’t a name that comes up often in conversations about Italian towns, but this ancient village in Calabria has a special charm. Perched on a hillside near the Ionian coast, Stilo is known for its Byzantine churches, particularly the Cattolica, a small 10th-century church with a distinctive five-dome design.
I visited on a hot afternoon and had the place mostly to myself. The upper part of the village offers views over the countryside toward the sea. It’s the kind of place where you can feel the weight of history, from its Greek and Roman roots through its Byzantine period.
What I loved: The sense of discovering something that most travelers miss.
Good to know: Stilo is in southern Italy and can be quite hot in summer. Visit in spring or fall if you can.
20. Alberobello
Region: Puglia | Population: 10,735
Alberobello is famous for its trulli, those distinctive cone-roofed houses that dot the landscape of this part of Puglia. The town has two districts filled with these whitewashed structures: the Rione Monti and the Rione Aia Piccola.
Walking through Alberobello felt a bit like being in a fairytale village. The trulli were originally built as temporary shelters and storage buildings by agricultural workers in the 1800s. Today, many have been converted into shops, restaurants, and small hotels. I even stayed in one, which was a unique experience, though I’ll note that they can be quite dark inside.
What I loved: The unique architecture you won’t find anywhere else in Italy.
Pro tip: The Rione Aia Piccola is less touristy than the Rione Monti and feels more authentic.
21. Procida
Region: Campania | Population: 10,496
Procida is the smallest and least developed of the islands in the Bay of Naples. While Capri and Ischia draw most of the attention, Procida has managed to maintain its fishing village character. The Marina Corricella, with its pastel-colored buildings climbing up from the harbor, is one of the most photogenic spots I’ve seen in Italy.
I spent a day here, taking the ferry from Naples. I walked the narrow streets, watched fishermen mending their nets, and ate at a small restaurant where the owner’s wife was making pasta in the back room. It felt authentic in a way that’s increasingly rare in Italy’s more popular destinations.
What I loved: How it feels like a real working fishing village that just happens to be beautiful.
Best for: Anyone looking for an island escape that’s less polished but more genuine than the better-known alternatives.
Planning Your Italian Town Tour
Best Time to Visit
I’ve found that spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds. Summer can be hot, especially in southern towns, and popular places like San Gimignano and Cinque Terre get quite crowded.
How to Get Around
Many of these towns are small enough to explore on foot once you arrive. For getting between towns, I relied on a combination of trains and rental cars. Trains work well for places like Cinque Terre, while a car gives you more flexibility for hilltop towns in Tuscany and Umbria.
Accommodation Tips
In smaller towns, accommodation options can be limited. I learned to book well in advance, especially for places like Vernazza or Civita di Bagnoregio. Many of these towns also have agriturismos (farm stays) in the surrounding countryside, which can be a good alternative if you’re willing to drive.
Conclusion
Italy’s smaller towns have given me some of my favorite travel memories. They’re places where you can slow down, connect with local life, and experience a different pace. Whether you spend a few hours or a few days in each place, I think you’ll find that these towns offer something special that big cities can’t quite match.
I’d love to help you plan your trip. If you’re looking for more Italy inspiration, check out my other guides on the site, or feel free to reach out if you have questions about visiting any of these beautiful towns.
What is the most beautiful small town in Italy?
It’s hard to pick just one, but I keep thinking about Civita di Bagnoregio with its dramatic hilltop setting, and Vernazza for its perfect combination of colorful buildings and harbor views. Each town has its own unique appeal depending on what you’re looking for.
When is the best time to visit Italian towns?
I recommend visiting in spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be very hot and crowded, especially in popular destinations.
How many days do I need to visit these towns?
You could see most of these towns in a day each, but I’d suggest spending at least 2-3 nights in regions like Tuscany, Puglia, or Cinque Terre so you can explore multiple towns without rushing. This also lets you experience places in the evening when day-trippers leave.
Do I need a car to visit small Italian towns?
It depends on where you’re going. For Cinque Terre and coastal towns, trains work great. For hilltop towns in Tuscany, Umbria, and Puglia, I found having a car much more convenient. Some towns like Civita di Bagnoregio and Castelluccio are difficult to reach without your own transportation.
Are these towns suitable for families?
Most of these towns are family-friendly, though keep in mind that many have steep streets and stairs. Towns like Alberobello and Procida tend to be easier for families with young children. I’d be cautious with very small children in places like Pietrapertosa if you’re planning adventure activities.
