21 Prettiest Towns in Italy + Villages (2023)

Italy. Home to amazing wine, outstanding food and the most refreshing gelato. In Italy you will also find charming villages dotted around the country side and towns with the most delightful cobblestoned streets.

Locals and tourists mill around the piazza and life feels a little slower and laidback. The prettiest towns in Italy will make you feel also though have stepped back in time as you walk around the medieval streets that look as though they could be taken straight from a fairy tale.

The beaches and the gelato makes Italy one of the best summer destinations but the twinkling lights of the Christmas markets makes the winters feel so romantic (and perhaps not as cold as some of its other European counterparts).

Pinterest Graphic for the prettiest towns in Italy

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The Prettiest Towns and Villages in Italy

Alberobello

Ingrid, Ingrid Zen Moments

A street lined with white houses and plants in Alberobello, Italy

While Alberobello literally translates to “beautiful tree”, it is not for the trees that most people include this small village on their Puglia itinerary.

Tourists flock to Alberobello and the surrounding region for the iconic white stone houses called “trulli”. These buildings were essentially rural-style houses from the Apulia region of Italy, and they are hard to miss, with their stone walls painted in white and their conical roofs.

Nowadays, Alberobello has two whole areas (Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola) filled with trullis that have been turned into anything from guesthouses and hotels, to restaurants, souvenir shops, and even wine shops where you can taste some locally produced white wines.

A view over the town of Alberobello in Italy

Even though Alberobello is beginning to get on many people’s radars as one of the prettiest villages in Italy, it is still mostly frequented by Italian tourists and it is a place where you can still feel the authentic Italian way of life.

Alberobello is located only 70 kilometers away from Bari airport and can be easily reached by car, even though one must pay extra attention when driving on the roads of Southern Italy. Getting there by public transportation can prove to be a bit challenging, but it is not impossible. 

Alghero

Alina, World of Lina

Another one of the prettiest but still lesser-known towns in Italy is Alghero. It’s located on the northwest side of the island Sardinia.

Although it’s ‘only’ the fifth largest town, Alghero is the island’s main harbor town and even home of an airport. So undoubtedly the best way to reach Alghero is by plane, however, it’s also possible to plan a day trip from almost every part of the island.

One of the first things you probably recognize once there is the sea wall built around Alghero’s entire old part. It’s one of the last remains from the 16th century when Sardinia was part of the Kingdom of Aragon. It’s possible to walk along the wall and enjoy stunning sea views thanks to a pedestrianized path. Especially in the evening, it’s the perfect place to have a drink in one of the many bars along the walkway and watch the sun disappear behind the horizon.

The historic center of the town is full of amazing restaurants serving traditional Italian cuisine. Most of them can be found along the main tourist streets, but the most authentic, local and also cheaper ones are hidden in the maze of narrow streets off the beaten track. Some great examples are Al Vecchio Mulino, Trattoria da Mirko and Al Refettorio.

For a relaxing break, check out some of the many beautiful beaches in and around Alghero such as Le Bombarde, Mugoni Beach and Maria Pia Beach.

Amalfi

Lori, Travlinmad

Coloured village on the side of a cliff in the prettiest towns in Italy - Amalfi

The Amalfi Coast has some of the prettiest towns in Italy. Positano is always on traveler’s to-do list, but there is another town that for some is even more beautiful and interesting.

The coastal town of Amalfi, for which the coastline is named, lies just 40 minutes from Positano. There are several options for getting to Amalfi. You can take a tour bus and view the incredible scenery along SS163, considered to be one of the most scenic drives in Italy and that’s saying something.

Another option is to take the ferry boat from Positano. Viewing the coast from the sea is a very special experience. Seeing Amalfi for the first time is impressive with its white houses that cling to very steep cliffs with alleys and stairways between them. You’ll arrive at the main piazza which is fairly level.

The 13th century Cathedral of St. Andrew with its huge staircase dominates the piazza and should be visited. The Cathedral complex includes the Arab-Norman styled bell tower, the Cloister of Paradise, and the Chapel of the Crucifix. 

The Paper Museum, located in a medieval paper-mill, and the Ancient Arsenals of the Amalfi Republic are both interesting and should be included in your itinerary.

There are many dining options in Amalfi from street vendors to finer cafes and restaurants, and the food here is amazing. Just about every meal will be accompanied by Amalfi’s most famous drink, limoncello, made from lemons the size of grapefruits. It’s served everywhere and an important part of the local culture.

Asolo

Inguribile Viaggiatore

The main square in Asolo

Asolo is located on some of the most beautiful hills in Italy, near Treviso, in a favourable position between the Piave and Brenta rivers.

Asolo is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy: a pearl set among the Asolo hills, an authentic village made up of cobbled streets, secret gardens, coloured windows.

The delightful climate of Asono does not know the mists, and for this reason, I was dying has represented for centuries an ideal retreat for the needs of the body and soul.

You must visit Asolo calmly, walking with your eyes upwards and your nose ready for the smells of the typical local products, counted among the excellences of Italy.

The main square is the fulcrum of the village: the fountain in the centre and the Cathedral make up this meeting place.

A birds eye view over the prettiest town in Italy of Asolo

You can also discover Asolo by throwing your gaze from time to time in the small craft shops or the typical restaurants you encounter while walking under the arcades.

Asolo bewitched numerous Italian and foreign artists, poets and writers, like Browning and Carducci, Eleonora Duse and Igor Strawinsky, or even the famous travelling writer Freya Stark.

Asolo is a small cameo set among the hills. Asylum, its ancient name, already says it all: asylum, refuge, escape, a place to rest, be in peace, free your mind.

Whether it’s for a day, a weekend, a week or a month, Asolo is the perfect place when trying to disconnect from the world.

Borgo Parrini

Zoe, Together In Transit

A bright yellow building in Borgo Parrini

One pretty village that must be on your to do list while exploring Sicily is Borgo Parrini. This small village located on the west side of Sicily and is a neighbourhood of the main town of Partinico. The easiest way to get there is by car, with only a 50-minute drive from the capital Palermo.

Borgo Parrini is a beautifully decorated village that was designed and renovated by the locals n the 1970’s when there were many abandoned houses. They had chosen to decorate their houses in the style of Gaudi from Barcelona to attract new visitors and home owners. By using colourful paint and mosaic patterns, the village is a dreamy experience to visit in person.

Enjoy a little tour from the museum or walk in the village yourself to experience this pretty picturesque place. For a bite to eat, stop at the little local bakery, the coffee bar or pizza restaurant for some authentic Sicilian treats. 

For photography tips, head here either early morning when there are only locals around or towards the end of the day around sunset. These are the best times to capture the gorgeous colours of the decorations with the local plants and mosaic designs. 

Bressanone

Michela, She Goes The Distance

Streets of Bressanone in Italy

While Italy’s unique position of being surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea is one of its major draws, there is another side to Italy you should consider including in your itinerary.


Escape to a climate on the opposite end of the Mediterranean heat and head north to the alpine town of your dreams, Bressanone. Bressanone appears as if it was built from the reference of a storybook, from the elegantly spired churches to the cottage-like wooden shutters and potted flowers outside each window. 

The wild green landscape and jagged stone peaks of the Dolomites in the region of Trentino-Alto Adige gives this part of Italy its unique edge. Bressanone is situated in the middle of this idyllic forested paradise. 

Bressanone also has an interesting cultural dynamic. The region of Trentino-Alto Adige borders Austria to the north and for that reason, the architecture, language, food, and just about everything else is a blend of both Germanic and Italian traditions. While you’re navigating the roads or train stops to get here, you’ll realize both the Italian and German name for the town (Brixen) is on every sign!

Isarco river in Bressanone, Italy

This pretty Italian village is a perfect afternoon stop along your Dolomites itinerary or stay a little longer in winter to enjoy skiing on Mount Plose and the seasonal Christmas Market with local products like traditional cured meat, speck, in abundance.

Other things to do in Bressanone are the Hofburg Palace and Diocesan Museum for art history lovers. And for those looking to take a pretty photo, look no further than the ice blue Isarco River or the romantic Hofgarten, a flower garden on the opposite side of the Hofburg Palace. 

You can reach Bressanone easily by car, from the A22 highway, and by train, the station being only a ten-minute walk from the town center.

Burano

Kate, Our Escape Clause

The colourful houses on the canals of Burano

Famous for its stupendously colorful houses, intricate lace, and beautiful views, the charming village of Burano is one of the most beautiful towns in Italy.

Located just outside of Venice (taking a Burano day trip from Venice is by far the most popular way to visit), the town of Burano is situated on a series of very small islands interlaced with canals.

While in Burano, be sure to admire the view from the Three Bridges, seek out the beautiful Bepi’s House, taste traditional bussola cookies, and seek out the leaning tower of Burano.

Foodies will love sitting down for a meal of fresh seafood and exploring the small fish market (which also features stunning sunset views).

A canal in Burano lined with boats and bright coloured buildings

Burano’s centuries-old tradition of lace is also worth learning about while on the island: while true handwoven pieces are rare and incredibly expensive, souvenirs made partially by machine are still beautiful. If you’d like to learn about the local history of the craft, there’s also a small lace museum on the island.

Of course, the most popular thing to do in Burano is to simply admire its many colors! 

No one knows exactly why the houses of Burano are so vibrantly painted–one legend says that they were painted to help intoxicated sailors find their way home at night–but whatever the reason, they’re an iconic feature of Burano today.

Calasetta

Claudia, Strictly Sardinia

A street in Calasetta with plants lining the buildings

Located on Sant’Antioco island, in the Sulcis Archipelago of southwestern Sardinia, Calasetta is one of the most charming villages in Italy.

The village was founded in 1769, when several families of Genoese origins left Tabarka, another small island off the coast of Tunisia, in search of better opportunities for trade. They brought with them their unique language – now known as Tabarkine, a dialect that quite resembles Genoese more than Sardinian! 

The village is a series of whitewashed buildings, where the whiteness is interrupted by the beautiful colorful doors, and the incredible turquoise waters of the local beaches – the most popular is by far Sotto Torre beach, as it is easily accessible from the center of the village. 

If you are planning on visiting during your trip to Sardinia, make sure to go to the local winery for a wine tasting experience. Calasetta Museum of Contemporary Art (MACC) is one of the best in Sardinia too. Another unmissable sight is the Torre Sabauda, a defensive tower built between March 1756 and June 1757, during the Savoy rule, and from where you can enjoy great views of the beach below.

The best way to enjoy the village, however, is on a simple walk to take in the lovely quaint atmosphere.

Calasetta can be easily reached from Cagliari by car. You will have to drive along the SS130 all the way to Carbonia, from where you will need to take SS126. You will have to drive through Sant’Antioco, the main village on the island and another lovely place to visit.

Caldaro

Lori, Italy Foodies

A view over the town of Caldaro

Located 12km (7.5 miles) southwest of Bolzano in the South Tyrol (Trentino-Alto Adige) region of northern Italy is the very pretty wine village of Caldaro. Over 90% of the population here speak German so the village is also known as Kaltern.

At an elevation of 400 meters (1312 feet) and with the nearby Dolomites it can get a bit chilly in the evening, but moderate during the day.

A main attraction for visitors to this beautifully scenic region is Kalterer See (Lake Caldaro). With four public beaches, it’s the warmest lake in the Alps and beloved by beach goers, paddlers, windsurfers, and sailors.

Hiking is very popular, and the surrounding vistas with castles high in the mountains are popular with photographers.

Lago di Caldaro DOC is the premier red wine of the region. The vineyards surround the lake on the gentle slopes of the surrounding mountains. This is a light medium bodied wine that pairs well with the Austrian influenced regional food of South Tyrol – smoked meats and cheeses, sausages, speck, and sauerkraut and dumplings.

The architecture of Caldaro is an interesting blend of Italian Renaissance and German Gothic with its high narrow windows and peaked arches. For a great example of this fusion of styles, visit the church of Santa Caterina in the main piazza.

Erice

Caroline, Veggie Wayfarer

A drone photo of clouds floating over the town of Erice

The medieval village of Erice is perches up on a hill, overlooking both mainland Sicily and the Aeolian Islands. Well, to be more precise, the medieval part of Erice is perched on top of the hill while to modern day part of the village also known as Casa Santa is nestled against the foot of Mount Erice. Both parts of the village are joined by a scenic cable car.

The symbol of Erice is the Venus castle built under the Normans. It carries the name of Venice as the stones used to build this castle came from a temple dedicated to Venus. The castle itself can be visited during certain times of the year and offers the best panoramic vistas. On a clear day you can see all the way to the salt flats of Trapani.

Aside from the Venus castle, Erice has a number of beautiful churches worth a visit. It is said that back in the day this little town housed up to 100 churches.  If time is of the essence, head straight for the oldest church in Erice aptly named “mother church”. The church venerates Santa Maria Assunta

Before leaving, try some of the local sweets Erice is known for: genovesi ericine, Mustaccioli and marzipan fruits. You will find these and many more at one of the little bakeries dotted around town.

The easiest way to get to Erice is by car. Drive up to the Porta Trapani and park the car just outside of the old town (no cars allowed inside old town). Alternatively you could drop the car of at Casa Santa and take the cable car up which will drop you off at Porta Trapani, from where you can easily explore the town.

Like most of the villages in Sicily, Erice is very small and can easily be visited in a few hours.

Lipari

Emily, Wander-Lush

The town of Lipari in Italy

The town of Lipari is located on the island of the same name, part of the Aeolian Archipelago off Sicily’s north-west coast. With a population of just over 12,000 people, Lipari has a classic small-town Sicilian feel.

Like the other Aeolian islands, Lipari was formed over millennia by volcanic activity. The island and town gained importance during the Neolithic period as a trading post for obsidian, black volcanic glass. A long succession of invasions shaped Lipari into a culturally rich community, a legacy it still embraces today.

The prettiest part of Lipari is the area around the main port, Centro Storico di Lipari or the Historic Centre. Several piazzas face onto the Tyrrhenian Sea, each fringed with cute cafes and pizza parlours. From here, the streets turn skyward and you must climb uphill to access the surrounding neighbourhoods. Every cobbled alleyway is lined with pastel and earth-coloured houses, all framed by flower pots and strung with laundry lines when the sun is shining.

East of the historical centre the Castello di Lipari (Lipari Castle) overlooks the old city. There are a number of important landmarks to discover within the castle’s protective walls, including the 16th century Co-Cathedral of Saint Bartholomew, a gorgeous basilica covered head to toe with frescoes. Every August the church hosts the Feast Day of St. Bartholomew. The Archaeology Museum, also within the castle, is another must-visit. Don’t leave without visiting the garden at the back of the museum for a sweeping view of the square and harbour below.

Explore Lipari by foot, visiting the many ceramic studios, painters’ galleries and tiny bakeries selling cannoli, granitas, and other Sicilian food specialties.

Lipari is easy to reach by hydrofoil from any of the other Aeolian islands or from Milazzo or Messina on the Sicilian mainland. Summer peak season is by far the busiest time of year on the island; a pleasant alternative is late spring (around May) when the weather is still warm but the crowds are less pronounced.

Locorotondo

Toti & Ale, Italian Trip Abroad

White washed main square of Locorotondo in Italy

From the hilltop of Locorotondo, you can oversee the incredible Valle D’Itria. The spectacular white town becomes even more incredible at sunset, when the lights go behind the circle of the houses, giving that orange colour to the walls and roofs.

You might have seen photos of Locorotondo around, with the beautiful balcony with flowers, the whitewashed houses and the picturesque narrow streets. Locorotondo is unique and incredible, nestled on the hilltop is at the middle way between the other two gems of Puglia, Alberobello and Martina Franca, at a short distance from Bari.

A visitor can definitely get lost walking through the cobblestoned streets of Locorotondo. Some of the most important sightseeings are the beautiful frescos in the San Nicola di Myra Church, the Romanesque style church Madonna della Greca, the oldest in town.

Some of the best experiences instead, are for sure to visit a trullo, a typical stone house with a cone-shaped roof, or just go wine tasting. This part of Italy, in the heel of the boot, is particularly known for the fine production of olive oil and wine. A visitor to Locorotondo cannot get bored, even for a short stay in town, enjoying a drink in the main square, with the proper Italian touch.

Lucca

Linn, Brainy Backpackers

The main square in Lucca surrounded by colourful buildings and two bikes leaning against a restaurant

Whether you’re on a road trip in Tuscany or just looking for day trips from Pisa or Florence, Lucca is a must for your itinerary. The quaint old town boasts historical buildings and a Medieval charm like few other places in Italy.

The Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is the one place you have to go for a pizza or a drink if you don’t have time for more. The oval rounded pastel houses surrounding the square are built on top of the old amphitheater that is now buried under the ground.

Like so many other Tuscan towns, Lucca still has a couple of ancient towers to show for the once wealthy families that lived there. You can climb both the Guinigi Tower and the Torre Delle Ore for a bird’s eye view over Lucca old town and beautiful pictures.

If you need a break from historic sites, take a stroll on top of the city walls to soak in some greenery before you head to the Cathedral where you can admire the unique columns of the structure. Legend says that the city held a competition to decide which artist should design the columns. When the people of Lucca couldn’t decide between the finalists, they used all the columns, thus all of them are different.

It is easy to get to Lucca by car, bus, and train from the nearby Italian cities like Pisa and Florence.

Marina di Corricella

Helen, Helen on Her Holidays

Marina di Corricella on the tiny Italian island of Procida is one of the most beautiful villages in the world, let alone Italy. It’s a small fishing village that still feels like a fishing village, despite its postcard-perfect looks and being in one of Italy’s most popular areas for visitors.

Procida is in the bay of Naples, around an hour from the city by ferry. It’s much less visited than its neighbours Capri and Ischia, and has an air of being apart from the rest of the world. The ferries arrive in Marina Grande but Procida is so small that pretty much everywhere on the island is within walking distance of the port. From Marina Grande, walk up and across the island (about a 10 minute walk, if you don’t stop to admire the pretty streets too much on the way) and you’ll arrive in Marina di Corricella.

Marina di Corricella’s defining feature is its pretty, pastel-coloured sugar cube fishermens’ houses, topped with a lemon yellow church. The story goes that the fishermen painted their houses in bright colours so they could tell which one was home when they were out at sea. The walk down to the harbour takes you through narrow, flower-filled lanes and down easy-to-miss staircases. It’s so gorgeous, it’s not surprising that scenes from The Talented Mr Ripley were filmed here.

On the shoreline, there are a few fish restaurants, but it’s all very peaceful, and although there are a few pleasure boats, it’s still a working harbour, with brightly-coloured boats bobbing on the water.

For the best views of Marina di Corricella, you’ll need to head back up the hill towards the yellow church and turn right to carry on up the cliff towards Procida’s historic citadel. Try not to sneak a peek too early, and save your first sight of the view for the top of the hill. It’s truly jaw-dropping – and there’s a good chance you’ll have it to yourself.

Orvieto

Denise, Chef Denise

A short 90 minute train ride from Rome, tucked away in southwest, Umbria lies one of Italy’s hidden Gems, Orvieto. If you take the rail, skip the new town at the bottom and take the funicular up to the old hilltop town perched high above the valley. 

In the center of the Piazza del Duomo stands the jewel of Orvieto— its Gothic/Romanesque cathedral is one of the most striking in all of Italy. The facade combines mosaics, stained glass, and sculptures to depict the life of the Virgin Mary. Inside you’ll find famous frescos and a marble Mary with Child. 

Underground, literally below the town, lies a network of Etruscan tunnels and caves. You can still see and old olive oil press and even pigeon cages used to raise pigeons to eat. You can still find traditional Italian dishes with pigeon in this area, however, the town is better know for its wine than its food. 

This region has been producing wine since the Middle Ages! Wine has become less sweet since then, and two local white wines made from the varietals Grechetto and Trebbiano dominate this region: Orvieto and Orvieto Classico. Take the time to sit at an outside table and enjoy a glass.

Like most of Italy, the best way to explore this town is by walking. Glimpses of the surrounding countryside and rolling vineyards can be seen by strolling the narrow charming streets of Orvieto and visiting the Albornoz Fortress just outside the city. 

Ponte di Legno

Isabella, Boundless Roads

A river running through the town of Ponte di Legno in Italy

Ponte di Legno means wood bridge in Italian. And in fact, this pretty town, nestled in the Italian alps, is named after a wood bridge that crosses over the two rivers Frigidolfo and Narganello right when they join their streams into one in the middle of town.

The pretty natural stream making its way through wooden houses with flowery balconies and pine trees creates a charming scenery that makes Ponte di Lego indeed one of the prettiest towns in Italy. 

It is renowned as an upscale posh town in Brescia province, where tourists are flocking from everywhere to spend a fancy weekend or an entire week to enjoy the spectacular sceneries, great shopping, delicious food, and world-class ski slopes for every skills level. Ponte di Legno is a destination for all and for every season.

In fact in the summer, besides being able to sky up on the glacier, over 2000 mt, you can enjoy long walks around many trails available on the mountains around the valley, or for the more adventurous, mountain biking has recently become a hit as well.

At the same time, the winter is not only for the outdoorsy to enjoy the spectacular long white slopes but also for those who appreciate the romantic mountain atmosphere.

This pretty town is in fact suitable for any kind of travelers, from families with kids to grown-ups for couples on a romantic escape or friends gatherings. Ponte di Legno really caters all and it has gained reputable fame among the international market despite being just a small village. And despite its recent growth and development it still conserves its charm. 

Positano

Shannon, Traveling Teacher Girl

Blue umbrealls and orange beach loungers on a beach below a hill filled with houses in  Positano, Italy

Positano is one of the most beautiful villages on the Amalfi Coast. It is well known for its iconic coastline dotted with colorful houses along its steep cliffs. You might recognize its charming coastline from the movie “Under The Tuscan Sun”. 

Positano is one of the most popular villages on the Amalfi Coast, and it is also one of the most expensive. It is a popular destination for day trips from other towns on the Amalfi Coast, and it is the most crowded between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. You can travel to Positano via ferry, bus, or car. The roads are very steep and winding- it is only recommended to drive here if you are a very confident driver. 

The village of Positano is filled with cute shops, restaurants, and art galleries. While Positano’s steep cliffs bring beautiful views- they also bring steep inclines in its town- so expect to walk many flights of stairs while exploring the village. For a great meal be sure to visit Ristorante Max which has delicious Italian dishes and a lovely garden seating area. 

There are many beautiful photo spots in Positano, including Positano Spiaggia, which is Positano’s main beach, and higher up in the cliffs near “Le Sirenuse”, a popular upscale hotel.

Ravello

Isabelle, Cultured Voyages

A view over the coast at Ravello

The town of Ravello along Italy’s Amalfi Coast stands out amongst the rest of the towns in this region for a couple of reasons. First, is that while it is possibly the most beautiful town along this heavenly stretch of the Tyrrhenian Sea, it’s not actually located on the coast itself, but is set high on a set of cliffs a little further back, but still close enough to see how the sparkling waters of the ocean merge hazily with the horizon.

Second, is that the town is positively dripping in class and culture. Home to not one, but two world famous gardens – the gardens at the Villa Cimbrone and the Villa Rufolo – Ravello plays host to the Ravello Music Festival each year, which attracts music aficionados from all over the world, who flock to town to hear world-class musicians take to the stage in this utterly unique venue. 

If your mode of transport along the Amalfi Coast is by boat, then the best way to reach Ravello is to dock at Minori and take the steps up the hill to Ravello on foot, which takes around an hour but is relatively strenuous.

Your next choice is to hop off the ferry at the town of Amalfi and take a SITA bus ride to Ravello. Otherwise, you can either take a (rather expensive) taxi, or take to the hairpin bends that run alongside the coastline if you’re feeling brave!

Top photography trip for those seeking to capture some memorable photos is to head to the gardens of the Villa Cimbrone for sunset and wait as the sun begins to drop on the horizon along the Terrace of Infinity – it’s a moment you’ll never forget.

Sorrento

Kerry, VeggTravel

An independent store selling all kinds of vegetables in Sorrento

Sorrento, a charming coastal town on the Italian South Coast, is located along the Bay of Naples. Because of its prominent location between several desirable towns, Sorrento is a popular base to explore Italy. While you’re there, you can visit the nearby Amalfi Coast, Mount Vesuvius Volcano, Pompeii, Herculaneum and Capri island.  


Sorrento is set against the stunning backdrop of lush cliffs and offers spectacular views of the marina, and the wider coastline. You can find beautiful cafes, restaurants, and bars in the Piazza Tasso, the square’s central square. You will find many narrow alleyways that lead to vibrant shopping streets filled with the smells and colors of Italy. Sorrento truly is one of the prettiest towns in Italy. 

If you want to try the most authentic things to do in Sorrento, then take a tour of the lemon and olive fields. Campania’s lemons are world-famous and much sweeter than those you would normally find at home. Make sure you also try the world-famous Limoncello shot and maybe even take a bottle home.

The city is lit up in soft lighting at night and the lively streets glow with an Italian charm. For dinner, head to the harbour front and enjoy the stunning views as the sun sets. You must make Sorrento your next Italian adventure.

Taormina

Veronika, Travel Geekery

Taormina Piazza in Italy

Taormina in Sicily is just the most picture-perfect town. It rests on the shore in the East of Sicily and is picturesquely built into a hill.

The historical center of Taormina is marked by two gates – Porta Catania and Porta Messina. If you turn left when entering Taormina from the Messina side, you’ll be taken to the no. 1 tourist spot in the town – the ancient Greek Theater. An amazingly preserved amphitheater offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities not just for history buffs. But then, it’s all about the views of the Ionian Sea below and Mount Etna in the distance. It’s too pretty for words.

The whole city center, which stretches between the two city gates, is dotted with typical Italian houses with colorful shutters and an occasional old church. Make sure to stop At Piazza IX Aprile – the spacious square features a Baroque church with the best background – a steep hillside on one side and a lovely view of Taormina’s shore on the other.

To get to the beach, you can ride a scenic cable car down. Right by the cable car station, you’ll find Mazzaro Beach – it’s pretty but quite small and usually crowded. A short walk away lies the much larger Isola Bella Beach. The shore stretches out into a small islet of the same name. You can cross the beach to reach it – during low tide, you’ll soak your feet only. There’s a small fee to enter the island but it’s well worth it. You can explore the jungle-like setting and also an old abandoned house of a family that used to live there.

You can reach Taormina easily from the capital of Sicily, Catania. There are frequent train and bus connections and a highway too, of course. If driving, you’ll need to leave your car outside the town in a parking lot – a shuttle bus will then take you to one of Taormina’s gates.

Valeggio Sul Mincio

Miriam, Miry Giramondo

Colourful houses on the banks of the river in Valeggio Sul Mincio

Valeggio sul Mincio is a village located in Veneto on the riverside of the river Mincio, about 30 km away from Verona. The peculiarity is to be formed by two villages reunited Valeggio and Borghetto that is part of the most beautiful villages in Italy. 

They are both of Longobard origin although the most important buildings date back to the Middle Ages. The two villages are easily reachable on foot or by train (ticket costs of 2 € per route).

Among the things not to be missed is definitely the Scaligero Castle that is located on top of a hill that dominates the entire Mincio Valley. Built from the tenth century by the Scaligeri, in spring and summer you can climb on one of the towers where you see the “Round Tower” on the top. 

Not far from the Castle is the Sigurta Garden Park, in addition to the beautiful flowers and trees that populate the park is worth a visit the Labyrinth, houses 1500 specimens of yew and the path winds between plants more than two meters high, in the center stands a tower. A real challenge to get there. The park has won several awards, including “Parco Più Bello d’Italia 2013”, “Secondo Parco Più Bello d’Europa 2015”, “World Tulip Award 2019” and “Best Attraction in the World 2020”. 

Continuing towards Borghetto there is the Ponte Visconteo, a fortified bridge-dam, built to defend the city of Verona and built at the end of 1300 by Gian Galeazzo Visconti. The work consists of three large masonry towers with imposing walls that cross them. 

Once in Borghetto, the village where time seems to have stopped and crossed by the river Mincio in the past there were water mills and today you can see some wheels in operation.

Also from Borghetto you can walk a stretch of the Mincio cycle path and get to Peschiera del Garda, with beautiful views of the river. The return route is about 25 km.

To conclude the visit of the villages the best solution is at the table with a local specialty such as the tortellini of Valeggio in one of the typical restaurants, I recommend pastificio Remelli. They are handmade one by one with a thin sheet of pasta and a delicate filling of meat. 

Do you think there is a town missing from the list of prettiest towns in Italy? Let me know in the comments below!!

Fiona xoxo

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