If you’re looking for a vacation destination that offers picturesque villages, rolling hills, and stunning seaside towns, look no further than Italy. What’s not to love about small towns in Italy? From the food to the wine and the incredible scenery, these towns have it all. And what’s even better is that they’re off the beaten path – so you can really enjoy your time there without hordes of tourists. As you explore the charm of Italy, consider venturing into other top choices as well. The best family destinations in Europe offer a blend of rich culture and family-friendly activities that can create lasting memories. Whether it’s the historic streets of Paris or the magical ambiance of Barcelona, there’s something for every family to enjoy across the continent.

Best Small Towns in Italy

Photo Credit: Deposit Photos

Imagine waking up each morning to a breathtaking view of the Italian countryside. With its many medieval villages and awe-inspiring landscapes, Italy is a photographer’s dream come true. So what are you waiting for?

Lucca

Photo Credit: Wheatless Wanderlust

by Matt and Alysha of Wheatless Wanderlust

If you’re looking for a charming small town in Tuscany to add to your Italy itinerary, Lucca should be at the top of your list. The most unique aspect of Lucca is its intact city walls, which date back to the Renaissance. A walk along the walls circumnavigating the city is a must–do, and the ever-changing views of the surrounding valleys backed by the characteristic mountains of northern Italy’s famed.

For an incredible 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, climb up 230 steps to the top of the Torre Guinigi, a tower in the historic center of Lucca with a garden of oak trees planted on top, and sweeping views of the entire city. From here, you’ll see the many towers of Lucca, which were built in medieval times, and you’ll be treated to some of the best views in the city.

The historic center of Lucca is remarkably well preserved. You’ll meander through narrow, car-free streets, emerge onto piazzas filled with cafes to grab a coffee and do some people-watching, and historic churches, the oldest of which – the Basilica of St Frediano – was built in the 12th Century.

While you’re exploring the historic center, don’t miss a visit to Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, which is an ellipse-shaped piazza built on the site of an old Roman amphitheater. The piazza is lined with cafes and restaurants, and would be a great place for an atmospheric lunch in Lucca.

Praiano

Photo Credit: The Girl With Blue Sails

Written by Olivia from the Girl With Blue Sails travel blog

The coastal, hillside city of Praiano on the Amalfi Coast is one of the most enchanting towns in Europe. If you have 5 days in the Amalfi Coast you will want to make this the top of your list

With white and pastel houses covering the hill down to the water, Praiano has a quaint small-town charm mixed with a beautiful coastal Italian feel. With a local beach, restaurants on the shore, and plenty of gorgeous views, Praiano is worth staying at least a couple of nights if passing through the Amalfi coast.

Located next to the iconic town of Positano, Praiano is a wonderful place to stay for those looking for a more quiet and relaxing setting. There are local neighborhood shops and welcoming hotels and restaurants all around the town. At night the city lights up like a blanket of stars thrown over the hill. The ocean waves can be heard crashing on the shore through open windows in the summertime.

One local and visitor favorite is the Marina di Praia Beach beach cove, which is just a short walk down from the town. On the walk down, restaurants are perfectly set up along the way for enjoying the views of the water, the beach, and the sunset. Praiano moves at a slow pace, perfect for enjoying la dolce vita.

Sovana

Photo Credit: Travel Connect Experience

By Lisa of Travel Connect Experience

Sovana is a village of barely 122 souls in southern Tuscany and is off the radar of most local and international travelers. The historic center consists of a small piazza and two narrow streets where the houses of the few inhabitants stand next to historical monuments full of artistic treasures such as the Praetorian Palace, the Municipality Palace, the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, and the ruins of the Aldobrandesca Fortress.

All these historic buildings are of medieval origin and have a peculiarity: they are all built with tufa stone, of which this part of Italy is rich. Sovana in fact is part of the “Archaeological Park Cities of Tufa”, together with the nearby towns of Pitigliano, Sorano, and San Quirico. These towns all rise on large, flat spurs of tufa stone. 

The archaeological park is known for Etruscan necropolises (10th to 4th centuries BC) and mysterious paths carved into the rock by the Etruscans, including the Hollow Road of San Sebastiano, 2 km away from Sovana, which is one of Tuscany’s hidden gems. 

Near Sovana, there are also the Tomb of the Siren and the Tomb of Ildebranda, monumental burial places excavated in the rock. Before the Roman conquest, Sovana was one of the twelve main cities of the Etruscan Confederation. What impresses people about Sovana, besides its incredible history, is the calmness of the village and its surroundings, which are full of woods, vineyards, and olive groves. 

Siena

Photo Credit: It’s Not About the Miles

Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Siena, a Tuscan hill town located about 48 miles south of Florence, is one of the prettiest towns you can visit in Italy and indeed in all of Europe. Its history, architecture, and pretty streets will captivate you.

One of the biggest attractions in town is the Piazza del Campo, the fan-shaped main square and one of the largest squares in Europe. It is lively any time, but especially so during the Palio, a horse race held twice a year.

At the square, you can also climb to the top of the Torre del Mangia for spectacular 360-degree views over the town and the surrounding countryside.

Siena’s Duomo is one of the most beautiful in Italy. The facade of the cathedral is stunning, but the interior is equally impressive, with art even on the floor. It is also home to the Piccolomini Library, where every inch of the walls and ceiling is covered in art.

Wandering the pretty cobbled streets of the town to admire the brown brick buildings is a must, as is trying local cuisine.

Be sure to have the local soup, which features bread and cannellini beans, and pici pasta with pecorino cheese from nearby Pienza. Local desserts, such as panforte, dried fruit and but cake, and ricciarelli, soft biscuits made with almond paste.

While one day in Siena will allow you to see the significant sights, it’s a town where you could easily spend more time!

Taormina

Photo Credit: Travel Geekery

By Veronika at Travel Geekery

Taormina in Sicily has everything you’d look for in a picturesque town. Beautiful historical sights, breathtaking views, and the beach.

Its no. 1 landmark, the Ancient Greek Theater, is the main tourist draw. The amazingly preserved Greek-built amphitheater was later modified by the Romans and served as a place for gladiator battles and performances.

From the theater, you can admire magnificent views of the Ionian Sea below and the majestic Mount Etna fuming in the distance, peeking at you through clouds.

The historical city center wraps along a boulevard called Corso Umberto, lined with stone churches and historical residences. You can find this pedestrian area between two large gates. Piazza IX Aprile is the main square in Taormina and houses two charming churches. From the piazza, you can enjoy yet another magical view of the coast and the Sicilian landscapes around.

A short cable car ride down the hill takes you to the beaches. There are a few to choose from, but if you don’t mind a 10-minute walk, go to the Isola Bella beach, which is the most spacious of them all and even features a small island called Isola Bella. You can cross over to the island and explore the little speck of land together with remnants of a house that was built there in the last century.

Pienza, Italy

Photo Credit: Italy Foodies

By Lori of Italy Foodies

One of Italy’s enchanting towns can be found in the heart of Tuscany in the ancient town of Pienza. Located in central Tuscany between Montalcino and Montepulciano, it’s easy to bypass Pienza on your way to someplace else but resist the temptation to keep driving and stay awhile.

First made famous in the Middle Ages by native son Enea Silvio Piccolomini, the once-unknown local grew into one of Pienza’s most illustrious citizens when he became Pope Pius II in 1458.

Located on the old pilgrimage route from Rome, the new Pope naturally made sure his birthplace received lots of love and attention, adding layers of Renaissance aesthetics and constructing monuments, typically reserved for Rome or Florence.

Today, the town square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site born from Piccolomini’s vision and deserves a closer look for its rich history.

Known as Piazza Pio II, the square features several stunning buildings designed by Renaissance architect Bernardo Rossellino: the Piccolomini Palace, with its stunning trapezoidal piazza, the Borgia Palace, and the Pienza Cathedral with its pure Renaissance exterior and an interior in the late Gothic style of south German churches.

Pienza is also a popular stop for foodies and wine lovers as well. Nestled in one of Italy’s most prolific wine regions, Pienza is well-known for its sheep’s milk pecorino cheese made.

A local food and wine tour is a great way to try the local Tuscan wines and charcuterie, or better yet visit one of dozens of farms who specialize in making the famous Pecorino di Pienza.

Santa Maria di Leuca, Puglia, Italy

Photo Credit: A Taste for Travel

Michele Peterson of A Taste for Travel

Set at the tip of the Salento peninsula of Puglia in southern Italy, Santa Maria di Leuca is one of Europe’s most enchanting towns.

While best known for its stunning Ionian and Adriatic coastlines dotted by beach clubs, historic watchtowers, and hidden coves, it’s much more than the sum of its beautiful beaches.

There are so many things to do in Santa Maria di Leuca you can easily stay a week or longer. One of its major draws is its important role as a pilgrimage site. The Basilica Santuario di Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae is an impressive church and plaza overlooking the sea, the spiritual heart of Puglia and the hub for ancient walking paths leading to Rome, France, and religious towns and pilgrims’ way stations in between.

Many of the nearby villages also host religious festivals dedicated to saints and they make charming day trips on market days.

A landmark within the town of Santa Maria di Leuca itself is its charming oceanfront promenade lined by gracious mansions, palm trees and quaint outdoor cafes, bars and restaurants. The promenade overlooks the picturesque marina where you can take a boat tour to explore hidden sea caves along the coastline or sip cocktails on a sunset cruise to wrap up a perfect day.

Cortina D’Ampezzo

Photo Credit: Crave the Planet

From Dr. Morgan Fielder, Doctor of Physical Therapy At Crave the Planet

The enchanting mountain village of Cortina d’Ampezzo rests in a gorgeous emerald valley surrounded by white limestone peaks.  Each alpine 4-story home or office is draped in red and pink geraniums and decorated with dark wood porches.

Nested near the UNESCO world heritage site of the Dolomites in Northern Italy, Cortina d’Ampezzo allows people who want Nature with a good dose of food and wine to experience the taste and outdoor freedom.

Everyone should travel to Italy to experience the magnificent cities — but the small towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo really let you step of the touristic treadmill and feel like a local.

It’s perfect to pair with a visit to Venice with easy transportation, either by public bus or rental car.

My favorite excursion is to Rifugio Averau,  a mountain-top hut accessible by chair lift from the valley.  It’s near the famous Cinque Torri WW1 outdoor history experience and ski area. It’s best recipe is a 30-year-old taste explosion.  This delight is a nuts and cheese ravioli that compels the biggest foodie to come back year after year.

If you can book a stay at one of the local mountain huts, called a “rifguio”, like Rifugio Lazazuoi it’ll be a night you’ll never forget.

Ostuni

Photo Credit: Italian Trip Abroad

by Toti and Ale of Italian trip abroad

Travelling around Italy, you will discover many enchanting villages, some of the most pleasing in Europe. It’s easy to be astonished by the marvelous landscape and fairytale towns. Going down the heel of the boot of the Italian Peninsula, you will uncover a Region washed by the Adriatic Sea, often left behind in the conventional tourist’s guides.

Puglia is a fabulous area of Italy worth visiting all year round. There are beautiful white-washed towns in the centre of the country, leaving visitors speechless. The most popular, especially among locals, is Ostuni.

This little town on top of the hills of Valle d’Itria is well known for being the doors of Salento, which is the southern part of the region, famous for crystal blue water and paradisiac beaches. Ostuni is simple and traditional, giving visitors the authentic taste of Italy.

Walk around the central Square “Piazza della Libertà”, walk up to the old town to marvel around the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption. The beautiful church standing in the centre of Ostuni is in pure Romanesque style, well preserved with a beautiful rose window to testify the splendour of past time. Afterwards, stroll around the narrow alleyways of the white city of Puglia, get lost around the many things to do in Ostuni.

Vietri sul Mare

Photo Credit: Jou Jou Travels

Jackie of Jou Jou Travels

Castellammare del Golfo, Sicily

Photo Credit:Pasta, Pretzel, and Passports

by Marianne of Pasta Pretzel and Passports

Located just one hour west of Sicily’s capital Palermo, Castellammare del Golfo is a beautiful small town in Italy. Centered around their marina, the town is filled with beautiful shops, restaurants, gardens, cafes, and even a castle! This town is definitely worth a visit if you are heading to Sicily!

But one of the best things to do when you are visiting Castellammare is to go to the beach! You can’t go wrong with several scenic and amazing beaches just a short walk or drive away.

Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve is another place to visit for absolutely stunning natural vistas. This pristine area features 7 km of windswept shores, precipitous cliffs, turquoise water, natural coves, and grottos for swimming. Hike, swim, or just relax in the Sicilian sun.

If you are looking to do a little shopping, head to the Quattro Canti and Corso Garibaldi, where you will find quaint little boutiques, gelaterias, and artisanal shops filled with amazing locally made goods. This cobblestone pedestrian-only area is very picturesque, with a beautiful view of the marina and castle from the central gardens.

But for an absolutely incredible view of the town, take a short drive up to the Belvedere. Not only is it a photographer’s dream, but you will also find a really nice restaurant tucked into the hillside.

And speaking of food, when in Sicily, you just have to try the local delicacies! Head down to the marina where you will find some excellent seafood restaurants. Many of the restaurants feature open-air dining, with freshly caught seafood and unbelievable sunset views.

 

Vernazza

Photo Credit: Dymabroad

by Dymphe at Dymabroad

Vitorchiano

Photo Credit: Strictly Rome

Claudia Tavani, Strictly Rome

Tuscia is one of the lesser-known regions of Italy, located between Northern Lazio, Tuscany and Umbria. One of Tuscia’s best kept secrets is Vitorchiano, a lovely small town about 20 minutes drive from Viterbo, the capital of Tuscia, and around one hour drive from Rome.

A simple walk through the historic center will reveal lovely churches – take care to notice Sant’Antonio da Padova church, a Neoclassic-style church built in 1793, and the Franciscan convent right next to it. You should also try to spot the town hall.

Yet, the best thing in Vitorchiano is the view of the village from afar. If you walk through the center past the lovely fountain, you will get to an under passage that will take you to the Belvedere, from where you can walk down to get down on a short, easy hike. From there, you can see the village from below.

Yet, the best uninterrupted view of Vitorchiano is from Via della Teverina, a five minutes walk from Piazzale Umberto. Go there for sunset and the pink hues of the sky over the old town will give it a mystical aura.

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