Italy’s big cities may get most of the attention, but some of my favorite places in Italy are the smaller towns. They are where you can slow down, wander cobblestone streets, linger over lunch, and see a quieter side of the country.

The best small towns in Italy range from medieval hill towns in Tuscany to colorful villages along the Amalfi Coast and seaside towns in Sicily and Puglia. Some are easy day trips from cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, while others are worth building an entire vacation around.

Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches, mountain scenery, incredible food, or a town that feels a little farther off the typical tourist route, these are some of the best small towns in Italy to visit.

How to Choose a Small Town in Italy

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With so many beautiful small towns in Italy, the hardest part may be deciding which ones fit into your trip. Rather than choosing a town simply because it looks beautiful, think about the region you are already visiting and the kind of experience you want to have.

For a classic Tuscany experience: Choose Pienza, Lucca, Siena, or Sovana. Pienza is surrounded by the rolling countryside most people picture when they imagine Tuscany, while Lucca and Siena have more to see and do. Sovana is the choice if you want somewhere much smaller and quieter.

For a coastal town: Look at Praiano, Vietri sul Mare, Vernazza, or Santa Maria di Leuca. Praiano gives you the beauty of the Amalfi Coast with a quieter feel than Positano, while Vernazza has the colorful buildings and dramatic scenery Cinque Terre is famous for. Santa Maria di Leuca is a great choice if beaches are a priority.

For Sicily: Choose Taormina if you want historic sites, restaurants, beaches, and plenty to do. Castellammare del Golfohas a more relaxed feel and is a good base for exploring beaches and the nearby Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve.

For Puglia: Ostuni is a great introduction to the region, with its whitewashed old town and narrow streets. Santa Maria di Leuca, at the southern tip of Puglia, is better if you want to spend most of your time along the coast.

For mountains and outdoor adventures: Cortina d’Ampezzo is the clear winner. Surrounded by the Dolomites, it is completely different from the hill towns and seaside villages elsewhere on this list.

For an easy addition to a bigger Italy itinerary: Consider where you’re already going. Lucca and Siena pair naturally with Florence and Tuscany, Vernazza with Cinque Terre, Cortina d’Ampezzo with Venice, and Vitorchiano can be added to a trip through Rome and central Italy.

You don’t need to see a dozen small towns to experience this side of Italy. Often, choosing one or two that fit naturally into your route and giving yourself time to explore is far more enjoyable than racing from town to town.

Best Small Towns in Italy

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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

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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.

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.

Praiano

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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.

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.

Sovana

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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.

 

Santa Maria di Leuca, Puglia, Italy

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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.

Cortina D’Ampezzo

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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.

Ostuni

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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.

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

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Castellammare del Golfo, Sicily

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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.

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

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Vitorchiano

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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 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.

Which Small Town in Italy Should You Visit?

The best small town in Italy really depends on the trip you are planning. If you’re visiting Tuscany, I’d choose Pienza or Lucca. For coastal scenery, Praiano and Vernazza are hard to beat, while Cortina d’Ampezzo is the obvious choice if you want to experience the Dolomites.

But don’t overlook some of the lesser-known towns on this list. Places like Sovana, Vitorchiano, and Santa Maria di Leuca give you the chance to see a different side of Italy away from its most famous cities.

Whichever you choose, leave yourself enough time to enjoy it. Small-town Italy is at its best when you aren’t rushing to the next stop.

Frequently Asked Questions About Small Towns in Italy

What is the prettiest small town in Italy?

There are dozens of contenders, but Pienza is one of the prettiest small towns in Italy. Its Renaissance center overlooks the rolling hills of Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia. Vernazza is another favorite if you’re looking for colorful buildings and dramatic coastal scenery.

Are small towns in Italy worth visiting?

Yes. Small towns are worth adding to an Italy itinerary, especially if you want to experience the country beyond Rome, Florence, and Venice. They often have beautiful historic centers, local restaurants, regional foods, and a slower pace than Italy’s major tourist destinations.

Do you need a car to visit small towns in Italy?

Not always. Towns including Lucca, Siena, Vernazza, and Taormina can be reached using public transportation. A rental car is more useful when exploring rural areas of Tuscany, Puglia, and other regions where you want to visit several villages that aren’t well connected by train.

What small towns in Italy are easy to visit from Florence?

Lucca and Siena are two of the easiest towns on this list to combine with a stay in Florence. Pienza is farther into the Tuscan countryside and takes more planning, but it is an excellent choice if you’re taking a road trip through Tuscany.

What small towns in Italy are near Rome?

Vitorchiano is about an hour north of Rome by car and makes a good addition to a trip through Lazio. There are also numerous small towns and villages throughout the surrounding region that can be visited as day trips from Rome.