12 Best Small Towns in Italy

Nestled along Italy’s famous Cinque Terre, Vernazza’s colorful houses perch dramatically on rugged cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Cars are forbidden in the town center, letting you meander down narrow cobbled streets unbothered. The picturesque harbor serves as the heart of Vernazza, dotted with boats bobbing in the crystal-clear water. You’ll spot Doria Castle, an 11th-century fortress that stands tall, watching over the village. One of the best ways to take in the scenery is by hiking the Sentiero Azzurro trail, a coastal path connecting the Cinque Terre villages, or enjoy fresh seafood at a harbor-front restaurant, savoring the aromas of basil and garlic on the Ligurian coast.

Alberobello is known for its enchanting trulli houses, whitewashed with conical roofs that make the town feel like a fairy tale. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, Alberobello is home to over 1,500 charming structures, some dating back to the 16th century. Wander through the historic town center, where Primitivo wine flows as easily as conversation. Stay overnight in a trullo house for a uniquely immersive experience and visit the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in town that can help transport you to another era, surrounded by the mystery and magic of the unique architecture.

High atop a volcanic cliff, Orvieto beckons with its striking 14th-century Gothic cathedral, an architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate frescoes. Beneath the city lies a network of ancient caves and wells, offering glimpses into centuries past. Known for producing the famous Orvieto Classico white wine, this town has a rich connection to the Etruscan civilization, with historical artifacts found throughout the area. Tour the underground caves and wells, exploring layers of history below your feet, before visiting the magnificent Orvieto Cathedral. It’s a journey through time and Italian artistry, blending natural beauty with rich culture.

Cortona’s charm is woven into its well-preserved Etruscan walls and panoramic views of the Valdichiana valley, which unfold like a painting across the Tuscan countryside. Known as the setting for Under the Tuscan Sun, this town captures the romance of Italy’s rolling hills and sun-drenched villas. Art lovers can visit the Diocesan Museum to see works by Fra Angelico, while those intrigued by history can explore the Etruscan Academy Museum. In the summer, the Tuscan Sun Festival brings the town alive with music, art, and performances, blending culture with the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Dubbed the “Dying City” due to the gradual erosion of its volcanic plateau, Civita di Bagnoregio is accessible only by a long pedestrian bridge that seems to float above the valley. With a population of about 11 permanent residents, this ancient town, founded by the Etruscans over 2,500 years ago, offers a serene escape with breathtaking views. Crossing the dramatic footbridge into the town is like entering another world. Stroll through the narrow streets, visiting the San Donato Church, where 16th-century frescoes add a touch of timeless elegance to the quiet surroundings.

With its pastel-colored houses lining the Temo River and crowned by the 12th-century Malaspina Castle, Bosa is one of Sardinia’s hidden gems. The town is renowned for its Malvasia wine and intricate filigree jewelry craftsmanship. Along the riverbanks, you’ll find traditional Sardinian charm, best experienced by taking a boat trip on the Temo. Visit the Museo Casa Deriu to glimpse traditional Sardinian interiors and immerse yourself in the history and artistry of this unique town. Bosa offers scenic beauty and authentic experiences, capturing the heart of Sardinia’s culture.

Known as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, Spello is famous for its vibrant Infiorata festival, where streets transform into floral masterpieces every June. The town’s ancient Roman gates and walls offer a peek into the past, while the high-quality olive oil produced here is a taste of Spello’s rich agricultural heritage. Discover the local art scene by visiting the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, home to breathtaking frescoes by the Renaissance painter Pinturicchio. Whether you’re here for the olive groves or the art, Spello’s charm lies in its layers of history and natural beauty.

Atrani is the smallest town in southern Italy and retains its traditional fishing village charm along the Amalfi Coast. The 10th-century Church of San Salvatore de' Birecto sits as a quiet monument to Atrani’s past. Relax on the town’s small, uncrowded beach and soak up the views of colorful houses stacked above the coast. Not far from the shore stands the Grotta di Masaniello, a natural sea cave that invites exploration with its serene ambiance. The close-knit feel of Atrani is a slice of Amalfi that feels timeless, away from the busier neighboring towns.

A coastal gem with a captivating Norman cathedral, Cefalù combines beachside relaxation with architectural beauty. The town’s sandy shores stretch alongside the picturesque old town, where Arab-Norman architecture stands preserved in time. Nearby, the massive rock formation of La Rocca offers a rewarding climb with panoramic views of the coastline. The Mandralisca Museum is home to the famous Portrait of an Unknown Man by Antonello da Messina, offering a glimpse into Sicily’s artistic heritage. As the backdrop for the classic film Cinema Paradiso, Cefalù is steeped in cinematic charm, making it a dream destination for film lovers and beachgoers.

As the highest village in Basilicata, Pietrapertosa is carved into the rugged Lucanian Dolomites, its stone houses blending seamlessly with the landscape. The remains of a Saracen castle overlook the village, where dramatic views of the mountains unfold in every direction. You can soar above the valley to Castelmezzano, wander the Arab Quarter’s narrow streets built into the rock, or uncover the village’s storied past among the town’s natural offerings as you discover a sense of mystery that adds to Pietrapertosa’s allure.

Dozza is an open-air art gallery, with vibrant murals adorning the walls of this historic village. Every two years, artists gather for a mural painting festival, leaving behind an ever-evolving display of creativity. The Rocca Sforzesca fortress towers above, while the Enoteca Regionale wine cellar beckons with local wines, letting you sip the flavors of Emilia-Romagna. Wander the streets on a self-guided tour of the murals, each piece telling its own story. In Dozza, art and history blend seamlessly, making each corner a canvas of Italian charm.

Set in the Dolomites, Castelrotto embodies the Austrian-Italian cultural blend of South Tyrol. Known for its traditional Tyrolean music and costumes, this village comes alive with the annual Oswald von Wolkenstein Ride, a medieval equestrian competition. Take the Marinzen chairlift for sweeping views of the Alpe di Siusi to experience Europe’s largest high-altitude plateau, a perfect escape into alpine beauty. At the Pflegerhof farm, learn about local cheese production and savor the flavors of South Tyrol’s culinary heritage. With its rich traditions and scenic landscapes, Castelrotto offers a unique taste of alpine Italy.

Italy’s small towns are treasures, each brimming with character, history, and beauty that make every visit a unique experience. From the coastlines of Liguria to the rolling hills of Tuscany, these hidden gems bring Italy’s culture to life, offering moments that stay with you long after you leave.

For more inspiration on charming towns and beyond, explore our Italy travel guide or start planning your next unforgettable adventure with ideas from our Italy tours.