Italy is more than its famous cities. Beyond Rome, Venice, and Florence, this country has another side filled with hilltop villages, pastel coastal towns, and quiet mountain hamlets. These places may not make the headlines, but they leave a lasting impression. If you’re planning a trip and looking for peace, authenticity, and timeless charm, these villages deserve a place on your itinerary.

From the rugged coastline of Liguria to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the alpine valleys of Trentino-Alto Adige, the most beautiful villages in Italy reflect the country’s regional diversity. Each one tells a different story through its architecture, local traditions, food, and landscape. Travelers often say they discover the “real Italy” in these smaller towns, where life still follows a slower rhythm and hospitality feels sincere.

So, what makes a village beautiful in Italy? It’s not only the scenic views or ancient stone buildings. It’s how everything fits together—the surrounding nature, the smell of fresh bread from the bakery, locals chatting in the piazza, and the feeling that you’ve stepped into a postcard. 

This blog highlights some of the most captivating spots, along with tips on how to get there, what to see, when to go, and how to make the most of your time.

Vernazza: A Ligurian Jewel by the Sea

Vernazza is one of the five villages of Cinque Terre, perched along the Ligurian coastline. What sets it apart is the view from the hiking path above: rows of colorful houses hugging the cliffs, a small harbor, and a medieval tower standing watch. The setting feels unreal. And when you walk down into the village, it gets even better.

You won’t find cars here. Vernazza is built for walking. Cobbled alleys connect the beach, shops, and cafes. The Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia sits by the water and dates back to the 14th century. If you’re there around sunset, take the trail towards Monterosso for the best view—bring good shoes, as the path is steep and rocky in parts.

How to Get There
The easiest way is by train. Vernazza has a station on the Cinque Terre line, which runs frequently between La Spezia and Levanto. Avoid driving; parking is nearly impossible.

Best Time to Visit
Spring and early autumn are ideal. In July and August, the crowds swell, and the heat makes hiking uncomfortable. Late April to early June or September is the sweet spot.

What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes, a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a swimsuit. Many visitors take a dip in the harbor to cool off.

San Gimignano: Towers and Timeless Views

If you’re planning a road trip through Tuscany, San Gimignano is a must. Known as the “Medieval Manhattan,” it once had 72 towers, built by rival families to show off their wealth. Thirteen still stand today, giving the town its iconic skyline. But there’s more than just towers here.

Vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-lined roads surround the village. Narrow streets lead to squares, museums, and trattorias inside the walls. Climb Torre Grossa for panoramic views, or sit in Piazza della Cisterna with a gelato from Gelateria Dondoli (which has won multiple international awards).

How to Get There
If you’re not driving, buses run from Florence and Siena. The closest train station is in Poggibonsi, and buses connect there. Driving gives you more freedom to explore nearby villages.

Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early fall. Summer weekends are packed, so aim for weekdays. Early morning or late afternoon visits are quieter.

What to Bring
Cash for small purchases, light layers (it gets breezy at the top), and an appetite—you’ll want to try the local white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

Civita di Bagnoregio: The Dying Town That Refuses to Fade

Civita di Bagnoregio looks like a mirage. Sitting on a fragile cliff of volcanic rock, this ancient village rises dramatically above the Tiber Valley. What makes it so beautiful isn’t just the view and the story it tells. This town constantly fights erosion, is accessible only by footbridge, yet retains its medieval charm.

Once you cross the bridge, the noise and bustle disappear. Instead, you’ll find stone houses with flower-filled balconies, narrow passageways, and panoramic lookouts over the valley. The silence here is part of its appeal. It feels untouched.

Inside the village, visit the Romanesque Church of San Donato, located on the main square. Nearby, local trattorias serve dishes like pici pasta and wild boar. The village is small, but every corner is worth exploring.

How to Get There
Drive or take a train to Orvieto or Viterbo, then a local bus to Bagnoregio. From there, it’s a 15- to 20-minute uphill walk across the footbridge to Civita. Wear proper shoes—it’s a steep climb.

Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather. In summer, visit early in the morning to avoid the heat. Winter is quieter but can be foggy.

What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoes, cash (few places accept cards), and a camera. You won’t want to leave without photos of this surreal setting.

Castelrotto: A Gateway to the Dolomites

Tucked in the South Tyrolean region of northern Italy, Castelrotto (Kastelruth in German) is an alpine village that balances beauty and tradition. It’s a peaceful base for exploring the Dolomites near the Alpe di Siusi—Europe’s most extensive alpine pasture. What makes Castelrotto one of the most beautiful villages in Italy isn’t just its postcard-perfect look, but how it blends mountain culture with accessibility and charm.

The village center is lined with painted houses, flowered balconies, and a baroque church with a towering bell tower you can spot from miles away. It feels like time slows down here. Locals speak Italian and German, and the atmosphere is calm but welcoming. In winter, it’s a hub for snow sports. In summer, hikers and cyclists come for the views and trails.

Walking around the village, you’ll notice murals on many buildings—centuries-old frescoes depicting saints, farmers, and scenes from rural life. This connection to heritage is part of Castelrotto’s identity. The surrounding meadows, forests, and peaks make it easy to see why it’s considered among the top alpine destinations in the country.

How to Get There
The closest major city is Bolzano, just over 30 km away. From Bolzano, you can take a bus or rent a car. The drive is scenic and takes about 40 minutes. Trains run to Bolzano frequently from Verona, Innsbruck, and other cities.

Best Time to Visit
If you’re into hiking, late May through October is ideal. For skiing or snowshoeing, visit between December and March. Shoulder seasons (April and November) are quieter, but some services may be limited.

What to Bring
Layered clothing for quick weather changes, hiking shoes, and a light jacket are recommended, even in summer. Bring gloves, boots, and thermal layers if you visit in winter. A phrasebook or app that helps with Italian and German may also be helpful.

Unlike more crowded mountain towns, Castelrotto feels personal. You can start your day with a quiet walk, hear cowbells in the distance, and end the afternoon at a local bakery serving apple strudel. It’s where you talk to the shopkeepers, where the pace is just right.

If you plan to explore Alpe di Siusi, Castelrotto gives you easy access without the tourist crush. Cable cars and buses connect the town to trailheads and ski lifts. The views across the Dolomites from nearby vantage points are breathtaking.

And if you’re traveling with kids or seniors, it’s a gentle introduction to the alpine landscape—less extreme in elevation, yet full of that South Tyrolean spirit.

Alberobello: The Fairytale Village of Trulli

Alberobello is unlike any other village in Italy. Located in Puglia, it’s best known for its rows of Trulli—whitewashed, conical-roofed houses that look straight out of a storybook. These unique dwellings, built without mortar, have earned the village a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. What makes Alberobello one of the most beautiful villages in Italy is its architectural singularity and the dreamlike atmosphere it creates.

The old town is divided into two main areas: Rione Monti and Aia Piccola. Rione Monti is more touristy, with trulli housing cafes, shops, and small museums. Aia Piccola is quieter, where families still live in traditional trulli homes. Walking through these lanes feels like stepping into a different era. Every turn reveals another white dome, another curious symbol painted on a roof, another handmade souvenir on display.

Despite its popularity, the village maintains a gentle rhythm. Shopkeepers greet you in dialect. The air smells of almond pastries and olive oil. And if you climb up to Belvedere Santa Lucia, you’ll get a panoramic view of the trulli rooftops—like a sea of limestone cones under the southern sun.

How to Get There
The nearest major city is Bari. From Bari’s central train station, regional trains take about 1.5 hours to reach Alberobello. If you prefer driving, the journey is just under 90 minutes and offers scenic views of olive groves and vineyards.

Best Time to Visit
Late spring and early autumn are perfect. The summer months can be hot and crowded. If you visit in December, the village hosts charming Christmas markets and light shows.

What to Bring
You should bring a sunhat and water bottle for walking the white stone streets, a camera with a good zoom lens for the rooftops, and comfortable shoes. The old town has uneven paths.

Alberobello isn’t just pretty—it’s curious. It makes you stop and ask, “Why were these homes built this way?” The answer lies in a blend of history and clever tax avoidance. The dry-stone construction meant houses could be dismantled quickly to evade property taxes. Today, they’re celebrated as a symbol of Puglian heritage.

If you enjoy architecture, you’ll appreciate the fine details: the keystones, the white symbols (often with spiritual meaning), and the unique building methods. Trulli restaurants offer local pasta dishes like orecchiette with turnip tops or rich lamb stew if you’re here for the food.

Staying in a trullo is possible, too. Many have been turned into guesthouses, offering a truly memorable overnight experience. Waking up in a cool stone room, with morning light streaming through tiny windows, is part of what makes Alberobello unforgettable.

Calcata: Italy’s Village of Artists and Mystique

Calcata isn’t your typical Italian hill town. Perched on a rocky outcrop above a lush forest valley in northern Lazio, this village combines mystery, creativity, and stunning views. What makes Calcata one of the most beautiful villages in Italy is how it fuses crumbling medieval architecture with a thriving community of artists, musicians, and writers. It’s not just scenic—it’s alive with personality.

At first glance, Calcata seems lost in time. The village is compact, with ancient stone buildings and arched doorways wrapped in ivy. But step inside and find vibrant studios, quirky galleries, and bohemian cafes. Since the 1960s, artists have settled here, bringing a spirit of reinvention that breathes new life into the old stones.

What makes this place extra special is the view. The cliffs drop steeply into the Treja Valley, covered in dense woodland. If you take a short walk to one of the nearby trails, you’ll find scenic spots perfect for a picnic or a quiet pause. It’s a place that invites you to linger.

How to Get There
Calcata is about an hour’s drive from Rome. The best way to reach it is by car, especially since there’s no direct train service. If you’re using public transport, take a train from Rome to Civita Castellana and then a local bus to the village. Parking is available outside the old town, as cars aren’t allowed in the historic center.

Best Time to Visit
Spring and early autumn are perfect for enjoying the forest trails and outdoor cafes. Weekdays are quieter, especially if you want to wander the narrow streets without crowds.

What to Bring
Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone paths, a small bag if you plan to shop at local artisan stores, and a notebook if you’re inspired to sketch or write. This place has that kind of effect.

Calcata is not polished, and that’s part of its charm. You won’t find luxury boutiques or souvenir stalls on every corner. Instead, you’ll stumble upon a handmade jewelry shop tucked into a cave or a painter selling watercolors from their doorway.

It’s a place where creativity fills the cracks. Locals organize open-air concerts, poetry readings, and seasonal festivals. The blend of old-world setting with a modern artistic soul makes Calcata more than just a picturesque destination—it’s an experience.

A legend adds to its mystique. For centuries, Calcata was believed to hold a holy relic—the foreskin of Jesus—hidden in its church. The Vatican later removed it, but the story still echoes through the town’s folklore.

Pitigliano: The Cliffside Village Known as Little Jerusalem

Pitigliano rises like a fortress from the cliffs of southern Tuscany. Its houses and alleys are carved from tufa stone, blending almost seamlessly with the rock. What makes Pitigliano one of the most beautiful villages in Italy isn’t just the view—it’s the layers of history, culture, and tradition that shape every street.

Often called “Little Jerusalem,” Pitigliano has a deep Jewish heritage that dates back to the 16th century. Jewish families fleeing persecution found refuge here and lived peacefully alongside Christian neighbors for centuries. The village still preserves this story, with a restored synagogue, kosher bakery, and old Jewish quarter open to visitors.

Wandering through Pitigliano feels like walking through centuries of craftsmanship. The alleys wind and drop, revealing hidden courtyards, arched passageways, and sweeping views of the valleys below. The village’s warm, golden hue changes with the sun, making it a photographer’s dream.

How to Get There
The nearest major towns are Grosseto and Orvieto. From either, you can drive to Pitigliano in about 1.5 hours. A car is the easiest option. There are some regional buses, but they are infrequent and take longer.

Best Time to Visit
April to June and September to October offer pleasant weather without the heavy crowds. Summer is beautiful but can be hot, especially midday. Consider staying overnight to enjoy the village after day-trippers leave.

What to Bring
A camera, comfortable walking shoes (there are many ups and downs), a scarf or light layer for visiting religious sites, and a small backpack if you plan to shop for local crafts or wines.

Pitigliano is more than a pretty village—it symbolizes coexistence. Few places in Italy hold such a rich and visible blend of cultures. You’ll see it in the architecture, in the museums, and even in the food.

Don’t miss the ancient Jewish bakery, where you can still try sfratto, a spiced nut pastry tied to the town’s Jewish history. Visit the Orsini Palace and the Etruscan cave pathways below the city, used for wine storage and as secret passages.

From above, the whole village looks like it grew straight out of the rock. And in a way, it did. Pitigliano’s charm lies in how naturally it belongs to its landscape, and how it has managed to carry its history forward with pride and care.

Tellaro: A Seaside Secret on the Gulf of Poets

Tucked into the cliffs east of La Spezia, Tellaro is a small fishing village that feels like a hidden treasure. Overlooking the Gulf of Poets, this Ligurian hamlet is often described as one of the most romantic villages in Italy—and for good reason. What makes Tellaro one of Italy’s most beautiful villages is how its colorful houses spill down to the sea, surrounded by olive groves, winding lanes, and waves crashing on the rocks below.

Unlike Cinque Terre, which draws large crowds, Tellaro remains peaceful. Its charm lies in the simplicity: fishing boats bob in the harbor, laundry hangs from pastel balconies, and cats nap under lemon trees. The atmosphere is quiet, relaxed, and intensely local.

The heart of the village is the Church of San Giorgio, perched dramatically above the water. Legend says it was saved from a pirate raid by a giant octopus that rang the church bells—an odd but beloved story that adds to Tellaro’s personality. Walking up the hill, you’ll find views stretching along the rugged Ligurian coast.

How to Get There
The easiest way is by car from La Spezia (about 30 minutes). There’s no train station in Tellaro, but nearby towns like Lerici or Sarzana are connected by public transport. From there, you can take a bus or a short taxi ride. Parking is limited, so arrive early.

Best Time to Visit
Late spring and early fall are ideal. Summer is lovely but it can get hot, especially in the narrow, sunny alleys. September offers warm water for swimming and fewer crowds.

What to Bring
If you plan to access the rocky beach, bring swimwear, a towel, and water shoes. A camera is essential, especially for sunset shots. Bring cash, as many small restaurants and shops don’t accept cards.

Tellaro is the kind of place people return to again and again. It’s not about major attractions—it’s about feeling something. You hear the sea all day and night. You eat the catch of the day in a family-run trattoria. You get lost in narrow alleys with unexpected sea views.

If you’re into literature, you’ll appreciate the village’s connection to poets and writers who once stayed nearby. D.H. Lawrence and Lord Byron spent time in the region, drawn by the light and the sea.

The village glows softly at night under streetlamps, and the calm becomes even more magical. If you stay overnight, you’ll likely share the views with only a few other travelers—and the sound of the sea.

Castell’Arquato: Medieval Majesty in Emilia-Romagna

Castell’Arquato is the place that makes you pause the moment you see it from afar. Built along a sloping ridge, this village in the Emilia-Romagna region looks like a painting—stone towers, slanted rooftops, and cypress trees all rise above a patchwork of vineyards. What makes Castell’Arquato one of the most beautiful villages in Italy is its incredibly preserved medieval layout, paired with a cinematic atmosphere that feels right out of a historical drama.

As you enter the old town, you walk uphill along cobbled streets that open into the Piazza Monumentale. You’ll find three of the village’s major landmarks here: the 12th-century Church of Santa Maria Assunta, the Palazzo del Podestà, and the Visconti Fortress. Each building tells a story of power, faith, and artistry from centuries past.

It’s not just the architecture that impresses. The views from the fortress walls stretch over the Val d’Arda, with rolling hills that change color through the seasons. And if you’re interested in wine, you’re in luck—Castell’Arquato sits in the heart of the Gutturnio-producing region. Cozy enotecas offer tastings of this local red, often served with cured meats and regional cheeses.

How to Get There
Castell’Arquato is about 40 km from Piacenza and best reached by car. If you rely on public transport, trains go to Fiorenzuola d’Arda, followed by a taxi or bus. Driving is more convenient and lets you explore nearby villages as well.

Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal. The landscape’s colors are vibrant, and local events like medieval festivals often take place in September. Summer is warm but manageable, especially in the evenings.

What to Bring
Comfortable shoes for uphill walking, a lightweight scarf for church visits, and a small wine tote if you plan to bring back a bottle or two. A good phone camera is enough to capture cinematic views.

Some places feel old; Castell’Arquato feels untouched. You don’t just see the medieval past—you walk through it. Locals take pride in maintaining the historical integrity of the buildings and the traditions that come with them.

If you visit during the annual Rivivi il Medioevo festival, you’ll see the village transformed with costumes, reenactments, and medieval banquets. It’s not staged—it’s heartfelt. Locals of all ages participate, turning the event into a living memory of the past.

There’s a stillness here that lets you slow down. Whether sipping wine on a shaded terrace or sitting on a stone bench overlooking the countryside, Castell’Arquato invites you to stay a little longer than planned.

Malcesine: Where Lake Garda Meets the Mountains

Malcesine sits on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, where medieval walls meet alpine peaks. This village has long captured the hearts of artists, poets, and travelers—and it’s easy to see why. What makes Malcesine one of the most beautiful villages in Italy is its stunning position between the blue waters of the lake and the dramatic rise of Monte Baldo behind it.

At the center of the village is the Castello Scaligero, a 13th-century fortress perched on a rocky outcrop above the lake. From its tower, the view is unforgettable: sailboats drift below, mountains frame the horizon, and terra-cotta roofs cascade down toward the shore. Inside the castle, you’ll find a small museum and exhibitions, including one dedicated to Goethe, who visited the village in 1786.

Malcesine’s old town is a maze of cobbled lanes lined with shops, cafes, and hidden courtyards. You can walk from the harbor to the base of Monte Baldo in under 15 minutes. Take the cable car that climbs over 1,700 meters to panoramic alpine meadows for a more dramatic perspective.

How to Get There
From Verona, it’s about a 90-minute drive. Buses also run from Verona and nearby towns around the lake. If you’re coming from the northern end, ferries connect Malcesine to other lakeside villages like Limone and Riva del Garda.

Best Time to Visit
May through September offers the best weather for lake and mountain activities. July and August are busiest, but early mornings and evenings are still calm. Late spring or early autumn is best for fewer crowds.

What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes, layers for the cooler air at Monte Baldo, and a camera with a wide-angle lens. If you’re planning to hike or bike up top, pack accordingly. Local shops also sell significant picnic provisions.

Malcesine is where contrasts meet—lake and mountain, medieval and modern, energy and calm. You can kayak or paddleboard in the morning, wander ancient alleys in the afternoon, and be on a mountain ridge by evening.

The village doesn’t just rely on its looks. It offers experiences: sailing lessons, open-air concerts at the castle, and hiking routes that feel like something out of a movie. And when you sit by the lake with a glass of chilled Lugana wine, you realize you don’t need to go anywhere else for a while.

Despite its popularity, Malcesine has preserved its soul. It welcomes visitors without feeling overrun, and that balance of beauty, activity, and serenity keeps people coming back.

FAQs 

What is the best way to travel between Italy’s villages?

The best way to travel is by car, especially in rural areas or hilltop regions with limited public transportation. Renting a car gives you flexibility and access to smaller, less-connected villages.

Are these villages open year-round?

Most villages are open year-round, but some shops and restaurants may close during winter, especially in mountain areas. Always check local hours before visiting off-season.

Do I need to speak Italian to visit these places?

No, but knowing basic Italian phrases helps, especially in remote villages. Many locals in tourist areas understand English, but smaller towns may rely more on Italian or regional dialects.

Can I find accommodations in these villages?

Yes. Most villages offer small hotels, guesthouses, or B&Bs. Some also have vacation rentals or agriturismo stays. In places like Alberobello, you can even sleep in traditional homes like trulli.

Are these villages suitable for families with children?

In older villages, be prepared for uneven paths, stairs, and limited stroller access. Some places offer easy walking routes and local activities that children may enjoy.

Is it better to visit on weekdays or weekends?

Weekdays are usually quieter. Many villages attract weekend visitors from nearby cities, so plan for fewer crowds and easier parking midweek.

Can I visit several villages in one day?

It depends on the location. Some villages, like those in Cinque Terre or along Lake Garda, are close enough for same-day visits. Others may require extended travel, so plan your route carefully and don’t rush the experience.

Do these villages have good food options?

Absolutely. Most villages are proud of their local cuisine. Family-run trattorias, wine bars, and bakeries offer traditional dishes made with regional ingredients.

What should I pack for a village-hopping trip?

Comfortable shoes, a daypack, a reusable water bottle, sun protection, and layers for changing weather. Don’t forget a power bank and space for souvenirs—you’ll find many handcrafted items along the way.

How can I make the most of my village visits?

Slow down. Talk to locals. Try the local food. Visit a lesser-known museum. Stay overnight when you can. The beauty of Italy’s villages is in the details—and those can’t be rushed.