Everyone wants to visit Italy to be captured in the history and beautiful architecture of Rome, Milan, and Venice. However, many travelers do not fully capture the essence of Italian life, you have to visit some small towns in Italy. It’s in Italy’s small towns that you’ll really see the charming personality of not only the towns but of the people as well. Here are the best small towns in Italy that are perfect for any road trip through Italy.
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Small Towns in Italy: North
Bassano del Grappa
Explored by Milos of Happy Frog Travels
Bassano del Grappa is an impressive little town on the slopes of the mighty Alps. Due to the abundance of spectacular historic cities in the near vicinity, it somehow gets overlooked by tourists. Nevertheless, it’s a city that offers much.
Trains connect Bassano del Grappa with Verona and Venice, so you can visit it as a day trip. But to feel the rhythm of this gorgeous off-the-beaten-track destination, you should spend a night or two.
Bassano’s highlights are its historical buildings and outstanding views. The main site is undoubtedly the 16th Century Ponte Vecchio or the Old Bridge. It was designed by no other than the renowned Andrea Palladio. Other interesting sites include the medieval fortification with Castello degli Ezzelini, and two imposing city walls as its highlight.
Another place you should not miss is a museum dedicated to Bassano’s famous drink Grappa. The Poli Museo della Grappa showcases how Grappa is produced traditionally and at the end of your visit, you’ll be able to taste five different spirits.
If you do decide to spend a night in Bassano, you’ll be delighted to learn there are several great hotels. Our favorite is the Terraglio Rooms, an exclusive boutique hotel. Set in a neoclassical villa it offers a sophisticated ambiance and direct views of the Alps.
Bergamo, Lombardy
Explored by Steph of A Nomad’s Passport
Bergamo is a quaint small town in Italy’s Lombardy region. Located less than an hour away from the popular Milan, it can easily be combined with a city trip. After all, busses between Milan and Bergamo run frequently thanks to the Bergamo airport that some European airlines prefer. It is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway in Italy.
In general, this beautiful medieval town has a lot to offer and is the perfect place to explore if you wish to see a less touristic side of Italy. Here you can roam the cobble stone streets of the old parts of the city and flourish in the idyllic charm. Today, Bergamo is split into two parts. Hereby the upper Citta Alta and the lower Citta Bassa are connected with a funicular. Be sure to catch a ride up the hill so you do not miss out on this unique experience.
Some other great things to do in Bergamo includes wandering the old streets and taking a look at the old buildings and churches. It allows you to see the architecture of several centuries and gives you a deeper understanding of the country’s history. Roam the churches and people watch at places like Piazza Vecchia.
Additionally, visitors to Bergamo should take the second funicular up to Rocca di San Vigilio. The ride takes you up to the very top of the hill and you get the best view over the city and landscape. Be sure to head there for sunrise or sunset!
Da Franco is an amazing restaurant in Bergamo and if you are looking to stay the night, Hotel Excelsior San Marco is a great option.
Camogli, Italian Riviera
Explored by Elisa of France Bucket List
Camogli is a picturesque coastal town in the Italian region of Liguria. Located east of Genova, Liguria’s capital, Camogli is straightforward to visit on a day trip from Genova by train. You can also include Camogli on a fun Riviera road trip, combining the French Riviera and the Italian Riviera.
Camogli is a beautiful place to explore, and it is a popular Sunday day trip destination for people living in Genova. It has colorful architecture – very similar to that of Cinque Terre or Portofino –, an old town with narrow streets and a small pebble beach. The Castle of Dragonara and the lighthouse are particularly picturesque at the end of the beach.
Camogli is also an excellent place to taste regional cuisine, and you will find a couple of restaurants by the sea to enjoy great food and fabulous views. Don’t miss typical dishes like troffie al pesto, or pasta with nuts sauce!
The town is mainly a day trip destination, and visitors usually prefer to sleep in the Cinque Terre. If you wish to spend a night on site, La Locanda I Tre Merli looks very good and with an unbeatable location near the lighthouse.
Camogli is located 20km east of Genova. Trains from Genova leave from Brignole train station, and the journey to Camogli–San Fruttuoso takes only 20 minutes.
Manarola, Cinque Terre
Explored by me of Directionally Challenged Traveler
One of the most colorful small towns in Italy is the beautiful Manarola. It’s one of the five villages of Cinque Terre located on Mediterranean Sea. Easily accessible by train or car, Manarola is easy to get to from anywhere in Northern Italy. To get the iconic photo of the colorful buildings, head to Nessun Dorna. Be sure to get your reservations in advance, as the restaurant fills up quickly.
One of the best things to do in Manarola (and Cinque Terre as a whole) is to go hiking. There are beautiful views both of the coast and inland with the hills – many of which are covered in wine grapes. Get lost wandering the small roads of Manarola while your nose is enchanted with the smells of fresh homemade pizza and pasta!
This charismatic town is known for its fresh seafood so be sure to try some when you visit. Manarola is an active wine producer and hosts the Cinque Terre wine cooperative. Over 300 growers bring their grapes to the region to be made into Cinque Terre white wine or sciacchetra (a sweet dessert wine.)
Rimini, Emilia-Romagna
Explored by me of Directionally Challenged Traveler
The provincial capital of the Emilia-Romagna region is the beautiful small town – Rimini. The province borders the micro-country San Marino. This elegant town is known for its incredible beaches on the Amalfi coast.
There’s also a lot of history in Rimini. The Arco di Augusto is a magnificent structure dating back to 27 B.C. The arch marks the entrance of the city and is adorned with carvings of Neptune, Jupiter, and Apollo. Check out the nearby Pigna Fountain and bronze statue of Pop Paul V depicted as San Gaudenzo (the patron saint of Rimini).
If you’re lucky enough to visit in the summer, be sure to check out the long, sandy beach along the Amalfi coast. Even in the high season, you’ll be able to find room to spread out. In July, Rimini lights up its promenades in pink for a unique experience to socialize, dine, walk and of course – party.
The variety of things to do in Rimini makes it one of the best small towns in Italy!
San Daniele del Fruili
Explored by Shobha of Just Go Places
One of the best small towns in Italy is the charming San Daniele del Friuli. It is located in the province of Udine. San Daniele is best known among food connossieurs for having the best prosciutto in Italy. Parma ham is just more well known internationally because it has more than six times the prosciutto producers than in San Daniele.
San Daniele got its fame by a chance meeting of geographical conditions creating a microclimate whereby the mountain air from the Dolomites mets the warm air from the Adriatic and gets tempered by the air of a local river. The conditions are perfect for curing ham. You can take factory tours where they explain the process of making San Daniele prosciutto.
Famous for hundreds of years, San Daniele has got a coveted DOP designation from the EU. The DOP means that the prosciutto is made in the same way that artisans did in the middle ages. Napoleon was so impressed with this prosciutto that he stopped by San Daniele during his invasion of the area. Napoleon took all of the town’s prosciutto before marching on to Venice.
The famous microclimate of San Daniele is also responsible for another one of its attractions, the Biblioteca Guarneriana. This library has limited opening hours but is worth seeing. It has over 12000 ancient books including an original version of Dante’s Inferno.
In addition, to these two sights, the small town is charming with a medieval city center with winding streets and ancient buildings. There is an original city gate that was designed by Palladio. There is a Renaissance era chapel also that has beautiful frescoes and is known locally for being as beautiful as the Sistine Chapel.
Obviously the thing to eat in San Daniele is prosciutto! There are many variations of prosciutto in dishes from pasta to pizza served at the several restaurants in the historic town center where the Cathedral dominates a little square. The most convenient place to stay is the San Daniele Hotel right in the middle of the historic town.
The nearest city to San Daniele is Udine which is about 12 miles away. There are coach trips from Udine or Trieste to visit San Daniele if you are not driving yourself.
Vernazza, Cinque Terre
Explored by Dymphe of Dym Abroad
One of the most beautiful small towns in Italy is the town of Vernazza. This is a town that is part of the area of Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre consists of 5 towns along the coast that are all lovely to visit. You find here lots of colorful houses that are amazing and make Vernazza a very beautiful place. This makes the town of Vernazza a unique place to visit. Furthermore, Vernazza is home to some amazing viewpoints from where you can see the town and the blue sea from above. These views are one of the reasons why you should visit Cinque Terre.
You can find the best view in the town on the hike from Vernazza going to Monterosso al Mare. The hike is also amazing and really worth your time when you are in the town. Furthermore, there are lots of picturesque streets and shops. You find here lots of restaurants where you can try out some delicious Italian food. A great restaurant is Ristorante La Torre. It is easy to get to the town of Vernazza by train from other places in Italy. A city that is close to Vernazza is La Spezia. Another city nearby is the city of Pisa, where you also find an airport
Small Towns in Italy: Central
Barbarano Romano, Tuscia
Explored by Jade of The Migrant Yogi
Barbarano Romano is a charming medieval village in Italy with only 1,000 inhabitants! Nestled in the enchanted forests of Tuscia, Barbarano Romano is easily accessible from Rome. The village dates back to the 1200’s and is one of the most beautifully preserved villages in the entirety of Italy.
The best thing to do in Barbarano Romano is simply wander around the narrow, cobbled streets and admire the ancient buildings. There is an abundance of nature to enjoy in the surrounding areas – you will find the protected area of Martaranum Regional Park in Barbarano Romano! Marataranum Regional Park is best-known for its ancient Etruscan caves and necropoli, overgrown with plants and just begging to be photographed. From the forests of the park, you can follow paths that will lead you to neighboring villages.
There is one small bar in the village, perfect for a cappuccino and cornetto or glass of wine and panino. The people of Barbarano are friendly but don’t expect much English to be spoken (or understood). Just outside of the original medieval walls, you’ll find a delicious pizzeria if you’re looking for more of a sit-down meal.
The fastest way to access Barbarano from Rome is by rental car. You can, however, take a train from Rome to Oriolo Romano, and from there a bus to Barbarano Romano, which takes just over two hours in total.Discover the magic of Barbarano Romano and other hidden gems in Tuscia on the perfect, lesser-known day trip from Rome.
Pienza, Tuscany
Explored by Chrysoula of Travel Passionate
The small Tuscan town of Pienza, one of the most beautiful hilltop towns in Tuscany, lies in the valley of Val d’Orcia, 20 kilometers from Montepulciano and 118 km by road from Florence. Known as the ‘ideal city of the Renaissance’, it was the home of the humanist Enea Silvio Piccolomini who later became Pope Pius II. He had Pienza transformed into his Utopian dream, embracing all the principles of the Italian Renaissance. In three years, many beautiful buildings were built including the cathedral and central square.
The town has narrow cobbled streets filled with delightful small shops, some have been dug in the ‘Tufa’ which is compressed volcanic ash. Several shops sell ‘cacio’ – cheese. Pecorino di Pienza is a delicious sheep’s milk cheese ranging from mild to mature with a strong, rich flavor. There are shops selling other local specialties including wine, spices, and ‘pici’ – handmade pasta. If you see Pici con Cacio e Pepe on a menu it is pecorino cheese with handmade pasta! Osteria Baccus on Via del Casello has many different dishes featuring the pecorino and serves the local wine -Brunello. Just outside the town is Palazzo Piccolomini with its hanging gardens overlooking the Val d’Orcia. These were the setting for Zeffirelli’s ‘Romeo & Juliet’.
The drive from Florence to Pienza takes 1 hour 40 minutes, there is also a bus and train/bus to Montepulciano. A great place to stay is Relais II Chiostro di Pienza. This hotel was a 15th-century convent and is situated 100 meters from Pienza Cathedral.
Positano, Campania
Explored by Jyoti of Story at Every Corner
Italy’s Amalfi coast and especially Positano are an absolutely must on any itinerary for visiting Italy. It’s easy to get to from Rome by train or an easy 3 hour drive.
Once in Positano, it’s heaven on earth. The views and the hikes are to die for. One of the most popular hikes is the Walk of the Gods. Depending on your hiking ability and time, you can pick a section or do the entire day hike. The entire hike is perched up on the steep mountain with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea as far as the eyes can see.
Positano has many lovely places to stay with the views you’d want to devour all day. One such place is the Villa Rosa which is located on the upper section of the mountain in Positano. At the bottom of the mountain, towards the beach is the shopping and dining area with many gourmet Italian restaurants, some even offer cooking class. One can make their own traditional Italian meal, learn some tips and tricks and have a wonder dinner or lunch.
From Positano, you can take the bus to Amalfi, Ravello and many beautiful towns in the area for day trips, hikes or dining. From the beach, you can take a boat to the little towns and beautiful island to create memories of a life time.
Siena, Tuscany
Explored by Linn of Brainy Backpackers
One of the most beautiful towns in Italy is the Tuscan town of Siena. A short train ride or drive from Florence, it is easy to see the top attractions in Siena in one day. But if you want to soak in the charm, you should stay a few more days. The most prominent landmark is without a doubt Piazza del Campo. The shell formed square has been the center of happenings for centuries and even today, it is where the famous Palio di Siena takes place every year the 2nd of July and the 16th of August.
The rest of the year, it is the perfect meeting point, the best place to have a drink and people watch, have lunch at one of the many restaurants, or just sit in the square and chat. But Piazza del Campo also has some of the must-see attractions while in siena, like the beautiful fountain, Fonte Gaia, the Civic Museum, and Torre del Mangia. The 102 meter high tower has spectacular views of the square and the city. Worth visiting is also the astounding Siena Cathedral Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta. But best of all, is to wander the streets of Siena and immerse yourself in the old charming buildings closing up around the narrow cobblestoned streets that slide through tunnels under houses and through slim alleyways. This is where you can find small hidden foodie jewels serving the best pizza in town.
Certaldo, Tuscany
Explored by Joanna of The World in My Pocket
If you are looking for a non-touristy destination in Tuscany, consider visiting Certaldo. Easy accessible by train from Florence or Pisa, Certaldo is a small town known locally as the home of the Italian poet Giovanni Boccaccio.
Certaldo is divided between two parts: one on top of a hill and one at the base, where the train station is. The historical town is on top the hill. To reach it you can either take the funicular or walk on a steep road.
For such a small town, there are plenty if touristy attractions to see, starting with Bocaccio’s home, which has been transformed into a museum dedicated to his work. The tower of the palazzo he used to live in can also be visited, to admire the panorama of the Valley d’Elsa. Another beautiful palace in Certaldo is Palazzo Pretorio. This used to be the residence of the vicar in power. Over 700 vicars lived here over three centuries. The palace is decorated with beautiful coats of arms to commemorate the vicars sent from Florence. The interior of the palace is a museum displaying Etruscan artefacts found in the area but also original frescoes.
A hidden gem in Certaldo is the historical archery headquarter which is inside an old cellar. Here you can see armours, swords, bows and shields used in battles, in the Medieval times.
If you want to eat in Certaldo, Osteria del Vicario is highly recommended for its beautiful garden with panoramic views over the valley.
Trevignano Romano, Lazio
Explored by Annalisa of Travel Connect Experience
Trevignano Romano is a town of about 5000 souls located 40 km north of Rome. Also known simply as “Trevignano”, is one of three medieval towns overlooking Lake Bracciano, one of the cleanest lakes near Rome. Lake Bracciano is one of the Romans’ favorite destinations for outdoor weekends and vacations, the center of a protected nature reserve that also includes the nearby tiny Lake Martignano. In the period from May to December, Trevignano fills up with visitors, who love to spend hours sitting at one of the many cafes or restaurants that populate the lakefront. The 3 km long lakeside promenade, well-curated, is the main attraction of the place.
For your first visit, choose an apartment or B & B overlooking the lake, such as “Terrazza sul Lago”, so you can fully enjoy the long sunsets that paint the lake with warm colors and observe the wildlife that populates this paradise: swans, hawks, herons, sometimes flamingos. An appointment that you can not miss is the breakfast with coffee and pastries at the cafe “Bar Ermete”, in the square where there is also the building that houses the City Hall and the Etruscan Roman Museum, and the picturesque Watchtower Gate. Pass through the gate to explore the older part of the town until you reach the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, whose apse has a medieval fresco. From the church, continue to climb towards the most scenic point, where there are the ruins of the ancient fortress of Rocca Romana, from here you will enjoy a wonderful view of Lake Bracciano. To reach Trevignano Romano, take a train from Valle Aurelia Station to Anguillara Sabazia and then a bus to Trevignano.
Small Towns in Italy: South
Anacapri, Campania
Explored by Dharma of It’s Not About the Miles
Anacapri is one of two towns on the Isle of Capri in southern Italy. Even on a one day visit to the Isle of Capri, the town is a must-visit for its beauty and charm.
Located high above the Tyrrhenian Sea, Anacapri boasts beautiful water views. It is more rustic and less glamorous than the town of Capri, so it feels more authentic and charming.
Walk around the town, strolling the narrow alleyways, and browse the little shops, where you may see local craftsmen making the wares they sell, such as handcrafted footwear. The piazzas make for great rest stops, where you can nurse a drink while you people watch.
If you visit on a good weather day, take the chair lift to the top of Mount Solaro for incredible 360-degree views. You can walk back down, or ride the chair lift down, whichever you prefer.
Also worth visiting is the Villa San Michele, the former home of Swedish physician and author Alex Munthe. The interiors are gracious, but the terraces and gardens are showstoppers. Not only are they beautiful in their own right, they also offer great views over the sea.
The island of Capri can be accessed by ferry from Sorrento or Naples or the Amalfi Coast. Once on the island, take the local bus, all the way up to Anacapri. The ride is a little nerve-racking, but thrilling at the same time!
Castelmezzano, Basilicata
Explored by Erki of Genem Travels
Castelmezzano is a charming townlocated in the Basilicata region. A cute little town is also titled as one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy.
Castelmezzano has maintained its medieval architecture with colorful stone houses, narrow streets, and some remarkable churches. Just strolling around the town is one great activity to do. Also feeling that relaxing vibe around the magical town. The most prominent building is in the center of the town Mother Church of Santa Maria dell’Olmo.
The beautiful town is surrounded by scenic Lucanian Dolomites mountain range, with several hike trails around the area. Close-by neighboring town Pietrapertosa is also connected with a hiking trail with stunning views on the way. Also when being in Castelmezzano then a small walk to the famous landmark Gradinata Normanna is a must.
The most well-known activity in Castelmezzano is the high-speed zip-line Volo dell’Angelo. The Angel Flight takes you over the valley to Pietrapertosa and back with speeds reaching over 120 km/h. One of the fastest zip-lines in Europe.
There are several places to spend a night like B&B Al balcone delle dolomiti and in the town is also a Michel star restaurant Al Becco della Civetta.
Castelmezzano is a bit off-track from main roads. There isn’t high public transportation traffic. But still, it’s connected by local bus company SITA SUD. Castelmezzano would be a perfect day trip from historic Matera. It’s about an 80 km car drive.
Grottole
Explored by Marghertia of The Crowded Planet
Southern Italy is full of small villages, and sadly many of them have gone through a process of depopulation in recent years, as younger people move to the cities in search of employment. The people of Grottole, a tiny village in Basilicata not far from Matera, decided to take action to prevent their village from going abandoned. This is how the Wonder Grottole project was created. A young couple renovated a house in the historic centre, and equipped it to welcome travellers, for periods as short as one day and as long as one month (or even more, if they so wish). While staying in Grottole, travellers are invited to join a range of experiences led by locals, to foster relationships between locals and visitors and make them feel like temporary community members. You can learn beekeeping with Rocco, go on a walk in the olive groves with Vincenzo, or take an Italian language class with Silvia as you wander around the village. It’s worth visiting Grottole for at least a week to feel like you really ‘belong’, but even a day trip from Matera is loads of fun – you can stay in the Wonder Grottole house and ask for them to deliver an aperitivo for sunset in a scenic location. Trust me, you’ll fall in love!
Matera, Basilica
explored by Ania of The Travelling Twins
If someone asks me what place I liked the most while visiting Italy, I wouldn’t have a problem to say Matera in the Basilica. We ended up there by poor accident after exploring Puglia I realized that Matera, which I remember from the movie including The Passion of Christ (Mel Gibson), is nearby.
Matera, right after Petra in Jordan, is the coldest permanently inhabited place in the world known to us. The first inhabitants came here already in the Paleolithic. It was then that they decided to settle, at least perfectly adapted to it, the caves. There was no need to build dugouts, huts, or build more or less sophisticated houses. The conditions offered by the Sassi were sufficient – not only for the Paleolithic times but then for antiquity, the Middle Ages and modern times.
Of course, subsequent generations improved them. They dug additional rooms, made windows and doors, and constructed cisterns.
In 1952 people living in Sassi didn’t have electricity or sewage and were forced by the Italian Government to live in their homes. Sassi got abounded. Luckily in 1993, Matera was finally noticed! and became one of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Walking around Sassi di Matera truly move you back in time. Matera is of the most amazing towns not only in southern Italy but in the world.
Otranto, Apulia
explored by Corina from Packed Again
You may have heard of the Apulia region which is deep south in the heel of Italy. Within this region is Italy’s easternmost town, the beautiful Otranto. Its medieval charm and its location right on the Adriatic Sea with its azure and crystal-clear waters makes this place an absolute must visit.
Otranto is home to the 15th-century Aragonese Castle and 11th-century Otranto Cathedral, with its special rose window and ornate mosaic flooring. Go inside, sit down and admire the beautiful architecture.
Whilst walking through the medieval part of Otranto visit the harbour, and climb Torre Matta tower and marvel at the sweeping sea views.
The whole place makes you feel like you are stepping back in time. After exploring the history of Otranto make your way to the nearby popular Alimini Beach, and relax whilst watching the world go by.
When night falls, Otranto transforms into a romantic fairytale Italian village. Watching the sunset in one of the cute and typically Italian restaurants gives this visit the perfect ending.
Depending on where you’re staying within the Apuglia region it is probably easier to drive to Otranto than depend on the public transport. Close to the seafront you will find a large payable car park area.
Ostuni, Puglia
explored by Alessia & Toti of Italian Trip Abroad
If there is only one city you should plan to visit in Puglia, Italy, this is Ostuni. The whitewashed town in the heart of Valle d’Itria is an authentic gem in the Southern Region. Embedded on top of the green hills, Ostuni is often skipped, overshadowed by Alberobello or left behind on the travel guides. However the white town it’s a proper dreamy place with an awesome landscape and a maze of cute alleyways.
It’s easy to reach Ostuni from the second airport of Puglia, Brindisi, which is the proper gateway to the Salento. It’s also easy as well to reach Ostuni by car or public transport also from Bari, the Region Capital. Visiting Ostuni Old town will take you stepping back on time. Being a traffic-free walkable old town, you can reach the main landmarks easily. Your list should include a visit to Piazzetta Cattedrale. This place has got the vibes of the Italian style, with architecture, a cute bar with outdoor sitting area and the feeling to live in a dream.
The Cathedral, which gives the name to the square it’s stunning, thanks to the fascinating architecture, with elements of Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic style, which makes a unique impact on every visitor. Becoming famous more and more for the awesome colourful doors, you might have seen this town already on the gram. It is the famous city with the door named as “the door of Salento” which will let you meet the coastline of Puglia. From the cute Terrazas of Ostuni, you will be able to see the Adriatic sea, following the beautiful coastline of the Region. Grab a glass of local wine, and enjoy a typical Italian Aperitif.
You can spend a night nearby Ostuni, in a local Masseria, which it’s often outside the town and surrounded by nature, olive trees and vineyard. Include Ostuni in your trip to Puglia, for a bite of proper Italian Style.
Polignano a Mare
Explored by Ophelie of Limitless Secrets
Polignano a Mare is one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy! It’s part of the city of Bari in the South of Italy. More precisely, you will find it on the Adriatic Coast in the region of Puglia (Apulia) in the heels of Italy’s boot. This area has been settled since prehistoric times and nowadays it’s very touristic!
The best way to visit Polignano a Mare is to do a road trip to Puglia. This region has a lot to offer that it’s worth exploring: many charming towns and a stunning coastline! You can reach Polignano a Mare easily from Bari by train or by car if you have rented one. It’s around 30/45 min by car depending on the traffic, and around 40 min by train for 2,60 EUR only. This small town is one of the best places to visit in Puglia.
Here are some of the best things to do in Polignano a Mare. The Old Town is very pretty with all the houses made with white stones. You can walk around, appreciate the ambiance, and do some shopping if you like. Do not miss the church Chiesa Madre di Santa Maria Assunta from the 13th century. Polignano a Mare is also famous for its beaches. One of the most picturesque “Lama Monachile” is only minutes away from the Old Town. Last but not least you can get the best views of Polignano a Mare from the place named Pietra Piatta.
One good Italian restaurant that you can try in Polignano a Mare is “le Muse a il Mare” in the Old Town.
Small Towns in Italy: Sardinia & Sicily
Bosa, Sardinia
Explored by Rachel of Average Lives
Bosa is a delightful small colourful town in North Sardinia in Italy, which is home to less than 8000 people. Some people visit Bosa on a day trip from Alghero, but you really could spend much longer in the town. It is possible to reach Bosa by bus from Alghero, but the best way to get there is by car along the beautiful blue coastline.
Bosa’s main attraction is the incredible golden castle on the hill, which gives the town a magical feel. The 12th-century Malaspina Castle is only €4 to go inside and is also where you will find the best views from above. There is nothing like seeing the beautiful colors of the houses and the river Temo. Visit the 11th-century Cathedrale di San Pietro Extramuros, one of the oldest churches in Sardinia. After, one of the best things you can do is explore the lunar landscape of Cane Malu. It is a unique site, where you will find locals and visitors enjoying the natural swimming pool, where you can cliff jump if the waves are on your side.
Bosa comes alive in the evenings, especially in the summer months, where you’ll find locals relaxing, having a drink in the piazza, and socializing. Enjoy food at Sa Pischedda before staying at the charming Bomarosa B & B with its fabulous location. Undoubtedly, Bosa is a small town in Italy that you will not forget quickly. It is truly a hidden gem.
Carloforte, Isola di San Pietro, Sardinia
Explored by Claudia of Strictly Sardinia
Carloforte is a charming small town and the only settlement in the island of San Pietro, off the southwestern coast of Sardinia. Mostly unknown to mass international tourism, it’s one of the nicest small towns in Italy.
The town was founded by the Tabarkine, a small community of Genoese merchants living in the island of Tabarka, off the coast of Tunisia. When they had to leave Tabarka, they got permission from the then king to settle in San Pietro Island, where they founded the city. To date, the main language spoken in Carloforte is Tabarkine, which is more similar to Genoese dialect than to Sardinian language, and even to Italian.
Carloforte is a lovely place to explore. The town is a maze of narrow alleys and buildings in pastel colors. You will find many photo opportunities.
Great in the summer months, when it’s a perfect base to visit the beaches scattered around the island and for diving expeditions, Carloforte highlight during the year is the Girotonno festival, usually held between the end of May and the beginning of June, and which celebrates tuna – which abounds in the sea surrounding the island.
Carloforte can be explored on foot, but if you are keen on hitting the nearby beaches you will need a car.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION: Several ferries each day depart to Carloforte from Portoscuso or from the more charming Calasetta, a small town in Sant’Antioco island. They are both at roughly 1.5 hours drive from Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital. Although you can visit on day trips from Cagliari, it’s such a pleasant place that you should plan to spend a little longer there!
Modica, Sicily
Explored by Annabel of Smudged Postcard
Modica is located in the Val di Noto region of south east Sicily. As with the other towns in the area, Modica was destroyed by an earthquake in the late 17th century. It was rebuilt in a flamboyant Baroque style and nowhere is this better reflected than in its spectacular twin cathedrals of San Giorgio and San Pietro.
The main street of Corso Umberto I runs through the centre of the town in a deep valley with narrow streets twisting up the steep hillsides on either side. The town looks particularly atmospheric at night when the Baroque cathedrals are lit up and the lights from the houses on the steep hillsides twinkle in the evening light.
One of the most famous attractions in Modica is the chocolate shop Antica Dolceria Bonajuto which produces a unique type of grainy textured chocolate using a traditional recipe which dates back several hundred years. The shop runs tours of its kitchen which is a great experience if you’re visiting Sicily with kids. If you’re looking for an interesting place to stay in Modica, try Casa Talia – traditional stone cottages reworked to create a contemporary hotel with stunning views of this appealing Sicilian town.
Modica is a useful base for exploring the other Baroque towns of the region including Ragusa, Noto and Ispica.
Taormina, Sicily
Explored by Veronika of Travel Geekery
Taormina, a picturesque small town in the Northeast of Sicily, can be easily visited on a day trip from Catania. It takes an hour to drive the distance and the same amount if you opt for a direct bus or train.
There are many different things to do in Taormina. You shouldn’t leave out visiting the no. 1 landmark in the town – the ancient Greek theatre. Apart from its historical and cultural value, the views of the Ionian Sea and the Mount Etna in the distance are beyond mesmerizing.
Losing yourself in the streets of Taormina Old Town comes highly recommended too. Stroll along the Corso Umberto Boulevard all the way from Porta Messina to Porta Catania and admire historical churches and small galleries. This is where to buy souvenirs as well.
Don’t forget to indulge in delicious local cuisine and top it off with the famous Sicilian granita – a refreshing sorbet-like dessert. Taormina’s Bam Bar is the best place for it.
A short cable car down from the town center and you’re at the beach! There are two beaches to choose from within a short walking distance, and I highly recommend you opt for Isola Bella, which is slightly further away. It’s beautiful, spacious, and there’s a small islet you can explore for a fee.
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I feel I have only scratched the surface with the towns I have seen so far. Lucca was quite magical. I can’t wait to go back when the world reopens to do some more exploring in my favourite country! Sicily is calling.
I love visiting smaller villages when I travel – they have much more charm than the larger, often crowded larger cities! Thanks for all of the fascinating tips.
That’s a lovely guide. I am planning to visit the northern part of Italy this summer I would love to explore these beautiful towns.
I have stayed in several of these towns and they were incredible. I really loved my staff in the south of Italy except for the temperatures topping 100F in July! Great collab.
These towns all look so beautiful! I cannot wait to explore more of Italy