Eighteen outstanding small Italian towns to explore
Escape the tourist hordes and uncover some lesser-known, yet breathtaking Italian gems – recommended by travel enthusiasts like you!
Italy may be synonymous with bustling metropolises like Rome and Florence, but with these places becoming increasingly crowded, it's high time to venture off the beaten path to find some of the best small towns in Italy.
I reached out to fellow jet-setters, Italian residents, and expats to get the scoop on the most charming small towns Italy has to offer. From bustling coastal towns with secret natural wonders, to medieval walled cities that have eluded the tourist eye, these hidden treasures are perfect additions to your Italian adventure – whether you're planning a road trip across Italy or a holiday in one specific region.
Table of Contents:* Map of the Hidden Gems of Italy* 18 Charming Small Towns You Shouldn't Miss + Mantua, Lombardy + Scilla, Calabria + Camogli, Liguria + Val di Mello, Lombardy + Cividale del Friuli, Friuli-Venezia Giulia + Portopiccolo, Friuli-Venezia Giulia + Polignano a Mare, Puglia + Spello, Umbria + Ostuni, Puglia + Orvieto, Umbria + Rocca di Papa, Lazio + Bassano del Grappa, Veneto + More Hidden Treasures
Map of the Hidden Gems of Italy
Wanderlog
18 Charming Small Towns You Shouldn't Miss
Mantua, Lombardy
Known locally as la bella addormentata – the sleeping beauty – the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mantua is surprisingly overlooked by tourists. Despite its incredible palaces, piazzas, and Renaissance art and architecture, Mantua deserves far more attention!
Tip: The Guardian suggests staying at Hotel Broletto in Mantua, an elegant and family-run hotel housed in a 15th-century mansion. Situated between the boutique-lined Piazza delle Erbe and the grand Piazza Sordello, with its white marble baroque cathedral, this is a fantastic choice for travelers!
Scilla, Calabria
This picturesque coastal town, known for its legends and crystal-clear, relaxed waters, offers an authentic, serene seaside experience far from typical tourist crowds.
Tip: Don't miss the impressive Park of the Cyclops, where you can discover ancient ruins and incredible natural beauty!
Camogli, Liguria
This small seaside village on the Ligurian coast is praised for its picturesque beauty and less urban atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful coastal escape in Northern Italy.
Tip: Take a stroll to the impressive San Rocco Chapel and arguably one of the most photographed scenes in Europe – the colorful "pots full of glowing flowers" (Fiumarella delle Favare) in late August!
Val di Mello, Lombardy
This secluded valley, known for its stunning mountainous landscapes and crystal-clear streams, offers a quiet nature retreat away from crowded spots like Lake Como.
Tip: Head over to the 1756 San Rocco church for incredible views of the valley, or take a Hike to Rifugio Tambio for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Cividale del Friuli, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Rich in Roman history, this small town offers a deep cultural experience without the noise of mainstream tourism. Explore fascinating architecture, historic sites, and the picturesque Norus Riverbank – an excellent example of Roman urban planning and a must-visit for those seeking an authentic slice of Italy.
Tip: Visit the museum "Museum of the Local Prehistory" to dive deeper into the town's history and archaeology.
Portopiccolo, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
A modern, sustainable seaside village built in a former limestone quarry with a marina and upscale accommodations, Portopiccolo is carbon-neutral and focused on eco-tourism – perfect for travelers looking for eco-conscious options.
Tip: Take a boat tour around the charming around the village to admire the rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters.
More Hidden Treasures
Check out the other small towns below to discover even more charming hidden gems off the beaten path in Italy:
- Polignano a Mare, Puglia
- Spello, Umbria
- Ostuni, Puglia
- Orvieto, Umbria
- Rocca di Papa, Lazio
- Bassano del Grappa, Veneto
- More Hidden Treasures
Stay tuned for part two of our "Small Towns in Italy" series, where we'll cover even more undiscovered, yet breathtaking Italian gems recommended by travel enthusiasts!
In addition to the mentioned hidden treasures, there are more charming small towns worth exploring in Italy, such as Polignano a Mare in Puglia, Spello in Umbria, and Ostuni also in Puglia. These towns offer a peaceful escape from tourist crowds, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the beauty of Italy's lesser-known regions (Polignano a Mare, Spello, Ostuni).
Another captivating small town is Orvieto, located in Umbria, known for its stunning gothic architecture, including the Orvieto Cathedral, and the largest intact underground complex in the world, the Orvieto Underground (Orvieto).
For those who appreciate eco-conscious travel, consider visiting Rocca di Papa in Lazio, or Bassano del Grappa in Veneto. These small towns not only provide a breathtaking setting for exploration but also prioritize sustainable practices (Rocca di Papa, Bassano del Grappa).
Keep an eye out for part two of our "Small Towns in Italy" series, which will reveal even more enchanting, off-the-beaten-path destinations recommended by fellow travel enthusiasts (Part 2 of Small Towns in Italy series).
Whether you're planning a road trip across Italy or a holiday in one specific region, these hidden gems can enhance your travel experience and provide exceptional opportunities for adventure, food, lifestyle, and exploring the beauty of Italy (Adventure, Food, Lifestyle, Travel).
