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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Venice and Rome are undeniably two of Italy’s most captivating destinations, but to truly experience the country like a local, exploring its picturesque small towns is a must. The intimate dolce vita, combined with medieval villages and breathtaking natural landscapes, offers a journey unlike any other.
Much like the country itself, these small towns in Italy are steeped in romantic ambiance and boast a tempting culinary scene that’s sure to captivate anyone.
List of the Most Charming Small Towns in Italy
Lonely Planet and Travel and Leisure praised the beauty Neive and Porto, promising that classic Italian looks. Other enchanting small towns in Italy include:
Neive, Piedmont
As one of the most stunning small towns in Italy, Neive unfolds a serene, almost magical atmosphere at every turn. Surrounded by vine-covered slopes and ancient medieval stone walls, this quaint village is a haven for wine enthusiasts.
The star of the show is obviously the four signature wines—Dolcetto d'Alba, Barbaresco, Moscato, and Barbera d'Alba—that truly put this town on the map for connoisseurs.
Porto Venere, Liguria
Tucked away on the Ligurian coast, Porto Venere is a hidden gem that rivals the more famous Cinque Terre towns nearby. With its dreamlike seafront views and charming alleyways reminiscent of Cinque Terre, this lesser-known town attracts more Italian visitors than international ones. A true feast for the eyes, Porto Venere is adorned with historic structures and colorful houses, creating a scene straight out of a postcard.
Spello, Umbria
Spello rightfully secures a place among the most beautiful small towns in Italy for its awe-inspiring cultural and artistic heritage. The town lets visitors immerse themselves in the exquisite preserved historic treasures, such as the 12th-century Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore and Borgo Antico di Colle Pino. Spello is also famous for its stunning floral displays. Therefore, don’t be surprised to see vibrant flowers blooming in every alley.
Treia, Marche
Named after the goddess Trea-Jana, the ancient village of Treia is another Italy’s best-kept secret. The firmly local charms, in particular, continue to be the main appeal of the town, complementing the jaw-dropping landscapes.
To soak in the classic of Treia, head to the town center and stop by at the Piazza della Repubblica, where ancient buildings neatly line the streets, imposing walls, and evoking a sense of timelessness.
Atrani, Campania
For those looking to escape the bustling crowds of the Amalfi Coast, Atrani is the place to be—just a kilometer away. Though it’s known as Italy’s tiniest village, Atrani’s allure is unmatched.
This idyllic village seamlessly blends medieval beauty with stunning coastal views, creating a peaceful, almost otherworldly atmosphere. To fully embrace the charm of this fishing village, simply visit Piazza Umberto I, where you can sip a comforting espresso and gaze out toward the sparkling sea views.
Anghiari, Tuscany
When talking about Anghiari and show-stopping landscapes, the two are inseparable. The maze of cobblestone lanes, ancient stone buildings, and terraced homes offers a journey that captures Italy’s unique grace. History buffs will find plenty to explore, with gems like the brilliant Museo della Battaglia e di Anghiari retelling the town’s rich past.
Sperlonga, Lazio
Sperlonga is simply flawless. This stunning town lies beneath an unbeatable backdrop, surrounded by rocky promontories and turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The hilltop-perched whitewashed houses are equally captivating, adding to the town’s charm. Taking in Sperlonga’s serene ambiance is easy—simply relax at Piazza della Libertà, sip a coffee, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. For all the beauty, Sperlonga somehow stays under the radar.
Brisighella, Emilia-Romagna
Among the beautiful small towns in Italy, Brisighella stands out with its sweeping vistas of cobblestone streets and medieval towers. One of the town’s main attractions is the Three Hills of Brisighella—home to the Rocca Manfrediana fortress, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Monticino, and the clock tower—which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. On top of the town’s scenery, Brisighella is also a treasure for foodie, hosting numerous culinary events throughout the year.
Cefalù, Sicily
The lovely Cefalù is another worth-exploring Italy’s small town that is dominated by medieval architecture. Its labyrinth of narrow streets makes for a delightful wander, while the nearby beaches offer the perfect escape to relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Don’t miss the chance to visit the 17th-century Bastione di Capo Marchiafava, where you’ll be treated to the town’s most breathtaking views.
San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily
San Vito Lo Capo is a picture-perfect coastal town located in the western part of Sicily. Known for its stunning white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters, it’s a haven for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts.
If you prefer to stay dry, the town’s streets are just as inviting, with colorful buildings and inspiring cafes lining every corner. San Vito Lo Capo is also home to the annual Cous Cous Fest, a food festival celebrating the region’s rich culinary traditions, making it a perfect destination for food lovers.
Italy’s small towns offer an entirely different experience from the well-known cities, blending history, culture, and natural beauty in a way that larger destinations simply can’t. If you’re inspired to explore more hidden gems in Europe, be sure to discover our guide to the best small towns in England.
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