When it comes to Italy, most tourists beeline to the famous cities like Rome and Venice.However, this surreal country is also home to some of the most beautiful villages in the world. With few locals, fewer travellers, and full of the famous Italian charm, these villages in Italy are the perfect spots for tourists to experience this country as if they were locals. So from the Sicilian seaside to the Tuscan halmets, these are the 10 best villages in Italy that you must add to your bucket list.
Top 10 Best Villages in Italy That Are Worth Visiting
Take a stroll down the narrow, medieval streets in one of Italy’s oldest villages or enjoy seaside dining in a quiet Italian hamlet. Stray off the popular cities and experience the true soul of this amazing country. These 10 beautiful villages in Italy offer an experience like no other.
1. Anghiari, Tuscany
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Situated just 30 km from Arezzo, Anghiari is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. This walled town is mostly known for the 1440 battle between Florence and Milan. However, Anghiari is high on the list regarding Italy’s loveliest spots. Sitting high up on a bluff, Anghiari is riddled with pedestrianized alleyways and crammed with grand palazzi and churches. To best experience this picturesque village, it is advised to take a stroll through its streets. You can also walk on the city walls for spectacular views of Umbria and the Apennine Mountains.
Things To Do: Stroll through the narrow streets of Anghiari, learn more about the Anghiari at Museo della Battaglia di Anghiari, Go for a swim in the Tiber, Check out the restaurants dotted around the village
Places To Stay: Agriturismo Borgo Del Senatore, Locanda Del Viandante B&B, Il Cardo Resort, Antica Dimora del Pellegrino, Vigna del Poggio
Must Read: Museums In Italy
2. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Veneto
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Cortina d’Ampezzo is a small village in the heart of the southern Alps and is often referred to as the “Queen of the Dolomites”. Surrounded by high peaks, Cortina is a chichi ski resort. In fact, this village has been chosen as the location for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The beautiful slopes of Cortina have always been a top destination for mountain and nature enthusiasts across the world. But that doesn’t mean it is exclusive to those in search of winter sports or activities. Take a stroll through the streets of the amazing village and enjoy some of the local cuisines. For people with a more refined palate, visit the hills outside town for El Brite de Larieto, a working farm with an amazing restaurant.
Things To Do: Go skiing or snowboarding in the Dolomiti Superski Region, Visit the Musei delle Regole d’Ampezzo, Go on a hiking tour, Go rafting or kayaking on the Boite River
Places To Stay: Hotel Mirage, Faloria Mountain Spa Resort, Hotel Columbia and Spa, Hotel Alaska Cortina, Hotel Corona
3. Tropea, Calabria
Overlooking sandy beaches and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, Tropea is one of the most spectacular villages in Italy. This coastline is often called the “la Costa degli Dei” or the Coast of the Gods and runs along the province of Vibo Valentia in Calabria. Tropea is also a pretty old city that is known for its palazzo-filled alleyways that come to an abrupt stop at cliff faces. The quiet locale is mostly visited by Italian tourists who know about the place. You will really get a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Things To Do: Check out the famous Tropea buildings that grow out of the rock, Enjoy the wonderful Tropea beach and its turquoise waters, Wander through the alleyways of this beautiful village, Indulge in the famous red onion-flavoured ice cream
Places To Stay: Residence New Paradise, Tenuta Tropeano, Sui Generis Tropea Luxury Rooms, La Torre del Mulino, Hotel Villa Antica Tropea
Suggested Read: Lakes In Italy
4. Norcia, Umbria
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Located in the centre of the Monti Sibillino National Park and surrounded by the Umbrian mountains, Norcia is one of the most ancient villages in Italy. Norcia was already a thriving town when Rome was just a minor settlement and has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. The village is rich in Karst caves and gorges, Norcia is perfect for rafting or canyoning enthusiasts. Even after suffering from a devastating earthquake in 2016, Norcia continues to rebuild itself and start again. Some historic buildings that you should visit while in the village include Statua Dedicata a San Benedetto Santo Patrono, Maiale brado di Norcia, and Piazza San Benedetto.
Things To Do: Visit the Basilica of Saint Benedict, Take a stroll around the Piazza San Benedetto, Hike in the Sibillini Mountains, Indulge in the local cuisines
Places To Stay: Relais & Chateaux Palazzo Seneca, Albergo Les Dependances, Azienda Agrituristica La Valle del Sambuco, Albergo Benito
5. Belluno, Veneto
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Perched on the high bluffs above the Piave River, Belluno is one of the prettiest villages in Italy. Belluno offers a dramatic view with a jaw-dropping backdrop of the jagged peaks of the Dolomites. To the south of this village are the mighty Alps. Apart from its gorgeous views, the village also holds a lot of historical charm that you can find in the town centre with Renaissance-era buildings, palazzi, and Romanesque churches. One of the best parts of the village? It’s just a little over an hour’s drive from the beautiful Italian city of Venice.
Things To Do: Explore the historic centre, Visit the Civic Museum of Belluno, Enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding Dolomite mountains, Go for a hike in the Dolomites
Places To Stay: Suites Hotel Astor, B&B Giardini dell Ardo, B&B Tisoi, B&B Piccole Dolomiti, Hotel Europa Belluno
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Florence
6. Monte Isola, Lombardy
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Monte Isola or Mount Island is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and sits on one the country’s most beautiful lakes, Lake Iseo. Two of the island’s most popular attractions are the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola and the Net and Memories Museum. The sanctuary is accessible from any location on the island by foot or minibus. It also offers a 360-degree view of the lake and is ideal for a picnic. On the other hand, the Net and Memories Museum is located in the small village of Porto di Siviano, inside the oldest netting factory in Monte Isola.
Things To Do: Explore the village on foot or by bicycle, Visit the Santuario della Madonna della Ceriola, Take a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Iseo, Taste some of the delicious seafood in Italy, Visit the Museo della Comunita Montisola
Places To Stay: Castello Oldofredi, La Foresta Monteisola, Residenza Borgo Antico, Casadina, B&B Tina
7. Collodi, Tuscany
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Carved into the side of a hill in Tuscany, the stunning village of Collodi is something straight out of fantasy or literature. And it almost is, as the village is famous for being the home of Pinocchio (or more accurately, the birthplace of its creator, Carlo Collodi). One of the village’s main attractions, the Pinocchio Park, was inaugurated in 1956 and tells the story of Carlo through sculptures, mosaics, and architecture by Italian artists. Just outside the park, you can also admire the world’s tallest wooden Pinocchio, a beautiful piece of art that will surely leave you amazed. A place full of magic, Collodi is definitely one of the best villages in Italy.
Things To Do: Take a stroll in the famous Pinocchio Park, Wander through the beautiful gardens of Villa Garzoni, Explore Collodi’s old town, and Visit the Butterfly House (Casa delle Farfalle).
Places To Stay: Fattoria Gamboro di Petrognano, A Collodi lo & Mamma, B&B Hotel La Piana, Tenita degli Obizzi
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Bologna
8. Pacentro, Abruzzo
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Situated on a plateau deep within the mighty Apennine Mountains, Pacentro is a small village that seems like a city in the sky. This majestic village dates back to the 8th or 9th century and sits 2133 ft above sea level in Majella National Park. One of the villages’s main attractions is its crystal-clear water that comes from local springs and snow melt of nearby mountains. One of the best times to visit Pacentro is during sunset when the lights of the village begin to turn on and create an almost magical atmosphere throughout.
Things To Do: Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Pacentro, Visit the ruins of Castello Caldora, Visit the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, Indulge in traditional Abruzzese cuisines, Go for a hike in the Majella National Park
Places To Stay: Medieval Village of Pacentro, Masseria La Rocca, L’incanto di Maja, La Minicasa, Pacentro Dimora del Castello
9. Bosa, Sardinia
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Situated on the beautiful coastline of West Sardinia, Bosa is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The village is set amidst a locale that consists of rocky hills, green valleys, and palm trees. Bosa provides a perfect escape from the busy life in the cities. As with any proper coastal town, Bosa is also home to many good beaches where you can enjoy a sunny day and go for a swim in the clear waters. The Bosa Marina Beach and Cumpultittu are two of the most popular beaches in the village and are fairly easy to get to.
Things To Do: Visit the Malaspina Castle, Visit the Cathedral of Bosa, Explore the various Museums dotted across the village, Try out the famous Malvasia wine
Places To Stay: Resort Isola Rossa, Palazzo Pischedda, Corte Fiorita Albergo Diffuso, Giardini Malaspina, Casa Pagio
Suggested Read: Italy In October
10. San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily
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San Vito Lo Capo is a small seaside village that is situated in the northwestern regions of Sicily and offers tourists a year-round charm. Being a coastal town, it has many beaches where you can soak in the sun and swim in the Mediterranean. However, one of the main highlights of this village is the Siciliambiente Film Festival and the annual Cous Cous Fest that takes place in September. Both these festivals offer the perfect opportunity for tourists to experience Italian culture and indulge in its world-famous food. All this combined, San Vito is the perfect place for people looking for a more outdoorsy vacation.
Things To Do: Go for a swim in the San Vito Sea, Bask in the Sun at San Vito Beach, Embark on a guided tour of Bue Marino’s Cove, Explore the Macari Beach
Places To Stay: Hotel Sikania, Hotel Perla Gaia, Patio 101, Hotel Achibea, B&B Aloe Comfort Rooms
Further Read: Scuba Diving In Italy
Italy is one of the finest and culturally rich countries in Europe. Millions of tourists visit this amazing country every year to experience its unique charm and indulge in the world-famous Italian food. But sometimes, you want to slip away from the crowds and enjoy a day on a secluded beach. With the help of this list of villages in Italy, you can do just that! So on your next trip to Italy, make sure to visit these amazing, picturesque villages of Italy and experience it like no other.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Villages In Italy
What is the most beautiful town in Italy?
Italy is a vibrant country with several beautiful cities and towns. Some of the most beautiful towns in Italy include:
- Manarola
- Montecatini
- Cortina d'Ampezzo
- Baveno
- Tivoli
Which city in Italy should I visit first?
Generally, the Italian capital of Rome is considered to be the best place to start travelling around Italy. The city is covered with several ancient monuments and holds a rich history within it. Some of the main attractions of this beautiful city are the Colosseum and the Pantheon.
What is the best way to travel from town to town in Italy?
Italian trains are considered to be the best mode of travel for tourists within Italy. These trains are fast, convenient, and comfortable and run on major routes like Florence to Rome and Milan to Venice.
What is the best month to visit Italy?
The months of April to June are typically considered to be the best for visiting Italy. The weather during this time is pleasant and crowds are bearable. Nature blooms as the snow begins to melt during this period and the rolling hills come to life after the chilly winters.
What is the most famous food in Italy?
Pizza is the most popular and eaten food in Italy. Pizza is considered to be a national symbol that represents Italy and its culinary expertise to the world. It is so popular, in fact, that UNESCO has acknowledged Pizza as an Intangible Culture Heritage of Humanity.
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