11 Beautiful Small Towns In Italy You Have To See

Featured Image: @vrajavali

Beautiful Small Towns In Italy are a Dime a Dozen. This country is filled with marvelous destinations that are sure to leave you amazed.

If you ever want to marvel at how much beauty there is in this world, book a plane ticket to Italy. Every corner of this country is filled with beautiful little hidden gems. We all know about the big romantic cities Italy has to offer, such as Rome and Venice, but there is so much more to this country that meets the eye.

One of the things on my bucket list is to rent a car and just drive through Italy, with a loose itinerary in hand.

A couple of the must-see destinations that aren’t on many travel guides are…

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Stunning Small Towns In Italy

1. Sorrento

If visiting Pompeii is on your bucket list (should be!) you might want to stay in Sorrento, a beautiful coastal town just an hour drive away.

This beautiful small town in Italy has plenty of hiking trails for an even better view of its charm.

It’s one of the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy and just a short train ride to places like Naples or perhaps even take a ferry to the Isle of Capri.

Sorrento is a great starting point for that dream vacation and sure to amaze you. 

2. Manarola

Manarola is one of the tiniest villages in Cinque Terre, but it packs a lot of character. Brightly covered home piled on top of each other and overlooking the Ligurian Sea.

You’ll feel like your in simpler times. Walk around (or rent a car) and explore everything this little gem has to offer. 

3. Atrani

Situated on the Amalfi Coast, it’s very likely you’ve never heard of this small town. However, if you want an authentic look at the Amalfi coast, without all the tourists, you’ll probably find it here.

The entire village is snuggled between two cliffs overlooking the sea.

Check out the Atrani Cathedral or perhaps spend the day in the Museum of Paper (Michael Scott would be so proud). 

4. Civita di Bagnoregio

This small town will give you some serious Medieval vibes.

Sitting atop a hill with cobbled streets and stone passageways, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale.

Founded more than 2,500 years ago, this lovely place is a gem you can’t miss. 

5. Portofino

You’ve probably seen paparazzi pictures of the rich and famous in Portofino.

It is a beautiful summer destination that can accommodate all budgets. Colorful fishermen homes and pebbled streets make this small town incredibly romantic.

Rent a kayak and get a unique view of the entire coast or climb up to Castello Brown, an old castle that boasts the most scenic view of the town.

6. Matera

Known as the City of Caves, this town was quite literally carved into the rocks and composed of a network of caves going all the way back to the Paleolithic era.

This city has come a long way in 70 years, it used to be known as ‘the shame of Italy’ and is now crowned the European City of Culture.

Explore this hidden city before the secret gets out.

7. Riomaggiore

Most of this village is squeezed between a narrow and steep valley.

Filled with colorful houses on both sides and a small harbor, this small village packs a punch with a great deal of charm and character.

This is the first village you hit in Cinque Terre if you’re heading north. Sit in a cafe and spend the day exploring this gem before moving on to your next destination, you’ll be so happy you did. 

8. Modena

The birthplace of the Ferrari, this medieval town is one of the most charming in Italy.

Walk around the Piazza Grande, where you can find many historical monuments, such as the cathedral and a 15th-century clock tower. 

If you’re a car enthusiast, check out the Enzo Ferrari Museum (20 minutes from central Modena) or the Lamborghini Museum, which is only 20km away.

9. Montefollonico

A walled city in Tuscany filled with charm. Thought to have been constructed in the 12th century, this small village has seen many fierce battles throughout history.

Cozy up at a restaurant for some authentic Tuscan pasta and Montefollonico’s famous Vino Santo. This wine is so popular in the village, they’ve named a December festival after it. 

10. Varenna 

I’m sure you’ve heard of the famous Lake Como.

Well, Varenna is one of the villages that looks over this lake, and the one I’d choose to visit. Spend the afternoon at the lake or climb up to the Castello di Vezio, a centuries-old castle with panoramic views.

Varenna is only an hour drive from Milan, but it’s practically another world. Walk around and enjoy the natural beauty of this village that’s just awe-worthy. You won’t want to leave.

11. Positano

And leaving, in my humble opinion, the best for last, Positano.

Positano is a gem you must explore! Have you ever dreamed of the iconic Amalfi Coast, with its pastel-colored houses tumbling down to the sea? Positano is the epitome of that dream.

Imagine wandering through winding, narrow streets lined with boutique shops and delightful cafes, all while being serenaded by the gentle waves of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

From lounging on its pebbled beaches to embarking on a boat trip to discover hidden coves and bays, Positano promises an enchanting experience.

Perched dramatically on the cliffside, it offers breathtaking views that you’ll find yourself snapping photos of at every turn.

Though just a few hours from Naples, Positano feels like a luxurious escape into a vibrant, yet surprisingly intimate world.

It’s a picturesque paradise that’s sure to capture your heart, making it hard to say goodbye.

I mean… just check out THIS hotel (not sponsored, just gorgeous…)

Tell me that isn’t the most stunning thing you’ve ever seen…

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