There are too many amazing places in Italy to choose from when planning a trip. So to help give you a few ideas, here are my picks for 5 towns in Italy you should visit on your next vacation.
The beauty and draw of Italy is no secret, which is why it’s consistently in the top 10 most visited countries in the world.
The country of Italy has 20 regions with vastly different characteristics. For that reason, I’ve given you a good variety of coastal towns, mountain views, and rolling hills to choose from.
Of course, this is by no means an exhaustive list, but rather a way to inspire your wanderlust and help you begin planning your next trip to Italy.
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If you’re hoping to visit Italy on a budget, all of these towns can be budget friendly if you know how to do it!
1. Florence
First up is Florence, in the region of Tuscany. Known for being the home of many Renaissance artists, Florence is filled with beautiful art, rich history, and amazing architecture.
While in Florence, you can see some big name art pieces, like Michelangelo’s ‘David’ and Brunelleschi’s Dome in the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (also often referred to as The Duomo).
While in Florence be sure to also have some Tuscan dishes and wine like tagliatelle e tartufo (truffle tagliatelle), Lampredotto, and a nice Chianti from a Tuscan winery.
Check out our 24 Hours in Florence YouTube video and my 22 Things To Do In Florence, Italy While On Holiday post to help you plan your trip.
2. Ortisei
Into the mountains we go! Ortisei is a small mountain town in Val Gardena, a valley in the Italian Dolomites. Spend some time exploring the three towns in Val Gardena: Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva Val Gardena.
The mountains here are quite breathtaking with sharp, rocky cliff faces and bright green pastures.
This area of Italy is so close to Austria, and in fact was Austrian at one time, that most locals speak both German and Italian. This also means that everything has two names, the German name and the Italian name.
Ortisei is an amazing town for adventurous travelers, skiers, and nature lovers.
While in Ortisei, you MUST take the cable car to Seceda, a dramatic mountain face with amazing views of the surrounding mountains.
If you have time, take the cable car on the other side of the valley to Alp di Siusi, also known as Seiser Alm. This is the largest high alpine meadow in Europe, and the views up there are just gorgeous.
3. Cinque Terre
So, mentioning Cinque Terre is sort of cheating on this list by adding 5 additional towns.
In Italian, Cinque Terre means ‘five lands’, referring to the 5 small towns that make Cinque Terre.
The towns are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare, all situated right on the Ligurian Sea. The way these small fishing villages are built right on the rocky coast is quite amazing and gives you truly postcard views.
You can visit all five of the towns that make Cinque Terre by train or on foot. It’s also possible to stay in each of the towns, so you have options for accommodations.
There is an easy and fast train, as well as a hiking trail with amazing views that connects each of the five towns.
All five towns could be visited in one day, but I recommend seeing them all and then picking your favorite to spend more time in.
Budget tip: I personally chose to visit Cinque Terre instead of Amalfi because it tends to be less expensive and less crowded but gives a similar vibe.
READ ALSO: How to Get Around The Five Villages of Cinque Terre
4. Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is a beautiful, white washed town built on cliffs looking out over the bright blue Adriatic Sea. The town is just a 40 minute train ride from Bari, the capital of Italy’s Puglia region.
You’ll get total Greek island vibes in Polignano a Mare.
Don’t miss Pietra Piatta, a postcard perfect beach in town with bright blue water. This town is truly a beauty!
5. Matera
The oldest city in Italy and in Europe? Interest piqued? It should be!
Because of it’s claim to fame, Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a wonderful place to visit if you’re in southern Italy.
The most recognizable feature of Matera is it’s rocky, and practically monochrome, building style. The entire city is basically beige!
You might also recognize Matera from the 2021 James Bond Film, ‘No Time To Die’.
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Honorable Mention – Rome
Now, you might be thinking, “well DUH.”
It might seem obvious to mention Rome, but I think it needs to be said that there is a reason it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Opinions vary on Rome, some people love it and some people could do without it. But I believe it’s a must visit when in Italy.
In Rome, you’re greeted by stunning and awe inspiring architecture everywhere you look, delicious Italian pasta (try the carbonara in Rome!), and mind-boggling history around every corner.
Of course, visit the Colosseum because it is worth braving the crowds for! Also be sure to see the Trevi Fountain and even visit another country by heading to Vatican City.
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