trip italian coast

17 Cutest Italian Coastal Towns for a Road Trip!

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I’ve been traveling up and down the Italy coastline for the past couple of years while living in Europe , and while there are a million and one hidden gems when it comes to Italian coastal towns, here are a few I think are the most beautiful, both on the west coast of Italy and the east, as well as dipping into the island of Sicily.

On my list are 9 towns north of Rome and 10 towns south of Rome. I’ve included why they are great, little travel tips from me to you, and a few fun facts and history blurbs I learned along the way.

MY TOP FAVORITE ITALY BEACH TOWNS: ➡️ Portofino (Ritzy) – Stay at the Hotel Piccolo ➡️ Procida (Culture Forward, Local) – Stay at the San Michele B&B ➡️ Tropea (Holy Shit, Wow!) – Stay at Villa Paola ➡️ Taormina (Gem of Sicily) – Stay at Cohen House overlooking Isola Bella

I absolutely recommend road-tripping a few of these as part of your Italy adventure , especially if you can snag a sporty little Fiat as a rental! One of my favorite memories is driving the windy coastal roads in south Italy blasting old-school Toto Cutugno and squeezing my chunky rental through the impossibly small streets of some of these towns – again, highly recommend renting a Fiat ( or the smallest car they have ). 🚗

Alora! Let’s get into it…

Table of Contents

Best Italian Coastal Towns on a Map

Here is an interactive Google Map of all Italy Coastal Towns I recommend.

Italian Coastal Towns in North Italy

If you’re itching for a North Italy road trip , add a few of these coastal towns to it.

1. Vernazza: The Heart of Cinque Terre

Recommended by Jillian from Adventure Dragon

Located on Italy’s Ligurian coast, Vernazza is one of five villages making up the beloved Cinque Terre . Its dramatic cliffs and pastel-colored houses have helped it earn a reputation as one of the most gorgeous Italian coastal towns. Few other places in Italy compare to the fairytale-like vibe that you get when wandering around this tiny town. It’s small, but it’s full of so much color and charm.

For the best experience in Vernazza, head down to the harbor. This is the central activity hub of the town. It’s where you’ll find all the best things to do and the tastiest things to eat. Fishing is a lucrative business in Vernazza, so many of the restaurants specialize in serving cuisine cooked with locally caught seafood. 

At one of the  best restaurants in Cinque Terre , you can even dine inside an 11th-century castle by the sea. Castle Doria rises from Vernazza harbor, and its tower was once used as a fortress to protect the village from pirates. Today it serves as a popular tourist attraction, as well as the site of the beloved seaside eatery Ristorante Belforte. 

In the center of Vernazza harbor, there’s also a small beach that faces the castle. It’s the perfect spot to sit and watch the boats come to shore. For even better views of the coast, hop on the Blue Trail in Vernazza. This coastal path connects all the villages of Cinque Terre, and the segment located in Vernazza provides some of the best views of its rugged shoreline. 

2. Riomaggiore: The Nightlife of Cinque Terre

Recommended by Elena at The Carry-On Chronicles

Riomaggiore is the southernmost town of Italy’s spectacular Cinque Terre region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The  best Cinque Terre town  for scenic harbor views, Riomaggiore is beloved by photographers and those seeking nightlife. While in town, you can’t miss a stroll along the Instagram-famous harbor. This postcard-perfect area easily earns Riomaggiore a spot atop the list of gorgeous coastal Italian towns.

If fresh seafood is of interest, get yourself a tasty fish cone at one of the local vendors like Tutti Fritti. These takeaway treats resemble french fry cones but are filled with everything from fresh fried calamari to shellfish. Grab yourself a cone for a mouthwatering sample of the region and enjoy it as you stroll through Riomaggiore’s colorful town.

Beyond the beautiful harbor and the tasty eats, Riomaggiore is also a great starting point for one of the many hikes available throughout the five villages. Since Riomaggiore is the farthest south of the five towns, ambitious hikers may wish to follow the Blue Path and make the five-hour journey from Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare, the northernmost village.

Alternatively, if a shorter, more manageable hike is of interest, consider the “Lover’s Lane” trail. This enjoyable little hike runs from Riomaggiore to Manarola, the next town over, and takes only about 30 minutes. After a rejuvenating excursion, treat yourself to a fun boat tour for a magnificent perspective of the towns from the water.

PRO TIP: While cars aren’t allowed in the Cinque Terre towns, a train runs through each of them and is the most convenient way of hopping about.

3. Portofino: Haven for the Rich & Famous

Recommended by James from Travel Connecting

Portofino is one of the most famous playgrounds of the rich and famous for a very good reason. The town is a picture postcard perfect vision with colored houses scattered around the edge of a tiny blue bay filled with boats of all sizes – from tiny fishing boats to huge yachts. The houses around the marina, are stunning any time of the day but are their most beautiful in the Golden Hour before sunset. Just off the bay is the main square, the Piazza Martiri Dell’Olivetta. This is the perfect spot for people watching over a cappuccino, a glass of wine, or an Aperol Spritz.   

Surrounding the town are steep wooded hills. Climb up into the hills to visit sites such as the Castello Brown. See previous visitors in their photograph collection and admire the stunning views of Portofino below and the Mediterranean Sea beyond.  For more views of this gorgeous town, head to La Cervara. This former abbey has the only preserved Italian Renaissance-style garden on the Italian Riviera. But it is the views from the gardens that are truly sensational.  

If you’re feeling energetic, take  a two-hour hike  up over the hills through Portofino Regional Park to San Fruttuoso. On the way, look back to see Portofino a tiny speck around the bay sparkling like a gem in the sun. San Fruttuoso is home to a tenth-century former abbey and can only be reached on foot or by boat. Here, spend a day relaxing in this Italy beach town, then take a ferry back to Portofino for cocktail hour.  

FUN FACT: “ I Fell in Love in Portofino ” should be on any Italian Coastal Town remix – will really put you in the mood!

4. Porto Venere: Like Cinque Terre with Half the Tourists

Recommended by Linn from Brainy Backpackers

One of the most stupefying Italian coastal towns is Porto Venere, right below the world-famous Cinque Terre . Recognized by the Palazzata and the colorful tall houses coating the cliff in front of the marina, there are a lot of wonderful  things to do in Porto Venere .

One of the best recommendations is to visit the picturesque church of St. Peter, sitting on a tiny peninsula surrounded by turquoise water. Its strategic placement, built on top of an earlier church, made it an important defense structure all the way back to its erection in the mid-1200s. Today, it is used as an idyllic place for weddings and ceremonial events.

Another iconic church worth seeing is the San Lorenzo Church, dating back to the first half of the 1100s. Overlooking the glittering sea and surrounding beaches, it is known for the painting of Madonna Bianca. Legend says that the painting was washed ashore in Porto Venere on the 17 th  of August in the year 1204. To this day, it is one of the most important days of religious celebrations in Porto Venere, as the villagers carry the Madonna Bianca around the narrow streets.

Porto Venere is also the perfect place to go on boat trips to see the Cinque Terre or the surrounding islands of Palmaria, Trino, and Trinetto. You should also visit Byron’s Grotto, named after the British poet Lord Byron. Legend says he spent a lot of his life meditating in this grotto for inspiration.

PRO TIP : There is a coastal walk from Porto Venere that takes you to the closest Cinque Terre town, Riomaggiore, which is situated only 13.5 kilometers away.

While the Ligurian coast is very touristy (because the towns of Cinque Terre are so popular), you can enjoy Porto Venere with fewer tourists and it is just as picturesque as Cinque Terre – if not more.

5. Lerici: A Classic Italian Coastal Town

Recommended by Barbora from Often Out of Office

Recommended by bloggers  Often Out of Office , Lerici is the perfect Italian coastal town for anyone looking for a much more quiet and relaxed location to spend time by the water whilst still being close to nearby tourist hot spots.

It is a classic, small, Italian coastal town on the west side of the country. Unlike other more Instagram-famous cliff-side towns nearby ( such as the Cinque Terre region ), the town of Lerici is much closer to the water, making it a perfect boat docking destination for locals and tourists alike. Grabbing a pizza and sitting on the large beach rocks that line the water to watch the boats come in during sunset is one of the best ways to spend the evening here. 

If you’re not up for boating, there is a wonderful turquoise water beach to swim in during the day. After a day in the water, Lerici town itself is lined with classic colorful Italian-style buildings and even has a grand castle to admire whilst you sit in the piazza and eat your gelato.

Lerici’s location and proximity to other attractions along the west coast are what make it stand out. To the north, you can find La Spezia and the popular towns of the Cinque Terre. These locations can be easily reached in about 1 hour using local public transport or boat tour. For an even more off-the-beaten-path experience, venture south of Lerici for the day to explore the peninsula & town of Montemarcello.

PRO TIP: The vibe on the tree-lined Strada that runs along the water fills with sophistication as vacationing locals head out for evening strolls, making this town perfect for a romantic Italian summer!

6. Viareggio: The Sandy Beach Gem of Tuscany

Recommended by Martina from PlacesofJuma

One of the most gorgeous Italian coastal towns and of course amazing places for a summer vacation is definitely  Viareggio in Italy . It is situated in the western part of Tuscany, approximately 25 km from Pisa, where you can also find an international airport. Viareggio is one of the most stunning coastal towns in Tuscany, famous for its Art Nouveau style and of course for its many beautiful beaches. One of the highlights of this Italy beach town is that it’s actually one of the longest sandy beaches in Italy! The historic bagnos, the so-called beach resorts, line the coast and conjure up a very special ambiance with their many colorful umbrellas. 

The most beautiful attraction of Viareggio is the picturesque promenade from 1917, where you can admire numerous interesting buildings and stunning villas in Art Nouveau style. The colorful houses with their turrets and oriels, with their lovely decorations, ceramic tiles, and glass windows create an unmistakable flair on the promenade. In addition, you can enjoy a wide selection of boutiques, souvenir shops, cafés, and restaurants, perfect for shopping, dining out, or just taking a nice walk.

7. Bolgheri: Undiscovered Gem

Recommended by Michelle at Intentional Travelers

Tuscany’s Etruscan Coast boasts the beautiful rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages that you probably associate with Tuscany. However, the sunny, sandy beaches and ocean vistas make it even more spectacular.  Though long stretches of beach are just 12 minutes away, the village of Bolgheri is relatively undiscovered and uncrowded , making it on my list of best coastal towns in Italy.

Accessible by train or car within a couple of hours of  Florence , Pisa, or Rome, Bolgheri is at the heart of this region’s “ Oil and Wine Road ” (La Strada del Vino). Home to world-class wineries like Sassicaia, this road leading out of town is lined with cypress trees and has been declared a national monument.

Whether you prefer easy bike rides to the beach or hopping from town to town, walking to the village gelato shop, or tasting wines and olive oils, there’s something special about this beautiful Italian village of Bolgheri.

8. Rimini: Party & Sandy Beaches

Recommended by Raluca at Travel with a Spin

A mild coastal climate, all-night parties, and a 15km long sandy beach practically define Rimini, the most popular resort in Emilia-Romagna. But this is not all. This charming Italian coastal town is home to important historic sites more than 2000 years old. It can be said that Rimini has a little bit of everything, as history, culture, and gastronomy join the water and sun in creating a fascinating city.

The symbol of Rimini is the Bridge of Tiberius, one of the oldest and most beautiful Roman bridges in the world. Other artifacts from the Roman period are The Arch of Augustus, The Roman Amphitheatre, The surgeon’s house, and Piazza Tre Martiri. The golden medieval era also left its traces around the city. Some medieval  must-see sights in Rimini  are Castle Sismondo, The Malatesta Temple, and Piazza Cavour, technically the heart of the city.

A place many people miss is the picturesque district, Borgo San Giuliano, located just outside the old city’s walls. Its cobbled alleys are fenced by colorful houses, many adorned with murals featuring scenes from Federico Fellini’s most famous movies. This is a tribute to the famed director born in the city.

As part of the Emilia-Romagna region, Rimini inherits a rich culinary tradition. But adds to it its own character, marked by the flavors of the sea. Some of the most popular dishes are handmade pasta with white truffles, porchetta rabbit, and, of course, a fresh seafood grill. One of the best places to taste them is Osteria de Borg. 

PRO TIP: You can easily get to Rimini by plane. Federico Fellini International Airport is located just 5.2 kilometers away. The city also has good train and bus connections with Bologna and San Marino. 

9. Venice: For the Romantics!

Recommended by Laura of Travelers Universe

Venice, the enchanting lagoon city, is considered the ultimate romantic travel destination, and for good reason. Here you can immerse yourself in the maze of narrow streets and canals , see magnificent sights such as the Basilica di San Marco and enjoy Cicchetti, tasty Venetian bites, in the wine bars. 

FUN HISTORY FACT: Between the 8th and 18th centuries, the Republic of Venice rose to become a powerful sea and trading power as its doge dynasties ruled the Adriatic and founded numerous colonies around the Mediterranean. The wealth of these bygone times is revealed in the charming palaces along the Canal Grande, the almost 4 km long main waterway that runs through the city.

At St. Mark’s Square, take the lift up the Campanile di San Marco bell tower, where you’ll have a breathtaking view of the labyrinth of gables, canals, and bridges. In the immediate vicinity, you can then visit the greatest sights of Venice:

• The impressive Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
• The former seat of government of the Serenissima Republica
• The magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica with its 24-karat gold-covered domes. ( This architectural masterpiece took almost 800 years to build! )

Among the best  things to do in Venice  is to get on one of the municipal water buses ( vaporetti ) at Plaza Roma and cruising past the cinematic scenery. With the ticket, you can hop on and off at any of the numerous stops on your Venice city trip.

While it’s not a beach town, I count this as one of the best Italian coastal cities.

Italian Coastal Towns in South Italy

10. positano: the gem of the amalfi coast.

Recommended by Dan from Urban Abroad

When it comes to coastal cities in Italy, Positano is one of the most iconic on the Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast is a long coastal stretch located on the Sorrentine Peninsula, south of Naples and not too far from Salerno, in the Campania region. When comparing  north and south Italy , what makes a destination such as Positano such a gorgeous place to visit is its unique geographical position.

PRO TIP: If you like the idea of hiking and being in contact with nature, head to the Path of Gods as it’s a place where you can admire stunning views of the Amalfi Coast

In Positano, the narrow streets, houses, and churches are literally clambering up the rocky Lattari Mountain cliffs. The surrounding mountains are dotted by citrus groves facing the crystalline blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Positano is easy to reach from Naples and Sorrento which means that it makes the perfect day to plan if you’re already in this region.

There are many beaches in and around Positano to visit: Marina Grande, the popular town beach, lido La Marinella, Laurito, Arienzo and Fornillo beaches. Even though it’s quite small, it has an incredibly vast offering of both restaurants and accommodation that you can choose from. Seafood and fish are almost omnipresent in many traditional dishes.

FUN FACT: Don’t miss the chance to try some of the best Limoncello in the world in what is called ‘the land of lemons’!

It is also worth mentioning that Positano is renowned for the production of handmade ceramics, so if you’re looking for a souvenir to bring home with you, you should definitely get a ceramic piece while here.

11. Capri: Jaw-Dropping Views & A Bougie Lifestyle!

Recommended by Lori from Italy Foodies

Just off the coast of Naples lies the enchanting island of Capri. Once known as an exclusive destination for jet setters, tourists now flock to the island on day trips from Naples and the Amalfi Coast. The coastal town of Capri sits high up on the cliff making for the most jaw-dropping views from just about everywhere on the island!

PRO TIP : Going on a day trip to Capri is one of the best ways to experience Italian coastal towns. Here are my recommendations on Day Trips from Rome including “how-to/logistics” – and my favorite one is Capri!

Shoppers will appreciate the range of high-end boutique shops that line the narrow streets. There are beautiful beaches where you can swim in the warm azure water, boat tours to the Faraglioni rock formations (you see them in almost every picture of Capri), and the amazing Blue Grotto to visit.

Local restaurants all serve variations on  classic Neapolitan dishes  and Caprese foods like Insalata Caprese, a simple combination of sliced Campania tomatoes, fresh bufala mozzarella, and aromatic basil drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. The combo is eaten as a salad or, even better, served in a crusty bread roll.

Winters on Capri are cold and foggy, and most shops, restaurants, and hotels are closed. Summers are hot and heavily touristy. So, Spring and Fall are typically the best times to go when temperatures are still moderate.

12. Procida: The Italian Capital of Culture

Recommended by Lori from Travlinmad

The small, colorful Italian coastal town of  Procida is an island situated in the Gulf of Naples between Naples and the beautiful island of Ischia.

At one time Procida was a small quiet fishing village, but was recently named the “Italian Capital of Culture”. So there’s no question that tourists will be heading for the island in much larger numbers than in the past.


A day trip to Procida is perfect if you don’t have enough time to explore Capri. The island town is smaller than Capri and can easily be explored on foot in a few hours. Ferries run daily from Naples and are relatively inexpensive.

A trip to this enchanting town is for slow traveling and relaxing in the culture without feeling pressured to see major sites because there aren’t any. What there is, is a slow pace and the great food of Campania for a leisurely lunch after you’ve explored a bit. Overnight in this laid-back town is a great way to decompress during your travels.

PRO TIP: There’s a slice of history at the top of the island. Walk up to the Terra Murata for incredible views and to explore the former monastery and fortress. Afterward, stroll the colorful Marina di Corricella with its equally colorful boats on your way to aperitivo!

13. Tropea: The Coast of Gods

Recommended by Mariana from Road Trip EuroGuide (that’s me!)

If you’re looking for a breathtaking Italian coastal town, Tropea should definitely be at the top of your list. This vibrant town is situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, deep in the Calabria region of Italy . With its sweeping views and fascinating history, it’s no wonder that Tropea has been a popular destination for centuries.

FUN FACT: According to ancient lore, Tropea was founded by the Greek hero Hercules!

The town is home to winding streets lined with colorful houses, as well as a number of historical landmarks. And of course, the food in Tropea is absolutely impeccable – you’ll find everything from fresh seafood to homemade pasta on the menu. One of the lesser-known gems of Italy’s coastline, Tropea impressed the hell out of me.

14. Bari: Cutest Coastal Town in Italy’s Boot!

Recommended by Terri from Female Solo Trek

Located in the Puglia region,  Bari is a port city located on the Adriatic Sea, and a beautiful Italian coastal town in Italy’s “heel” or “boot”. Bari’s Porto Vecchio harbor embraces this historic town nestled so close to Italy’s best beaches. Cobalt blue and red boats bob in the old harbor and Lungomare. Sniff the fishy air. Fishermen sell the day’s catch directly from their boats.

Then promenade down the main streets to see the homes. The city’s long avenues run parallel to the Adriatic Sea. Old Town Bari (Bari Vecchia) features skinny slab streets that wind past locals’ shops and cafés. The mazelike path is a mystery with darkened alleys, one-way streets, and nonsensical dead ends. Tall four-story homes are decorated with black wrought balconies festooned with lush green plants. Laundry hangs off poles. The Old Town nestles between two harbors.

Exit to walk along the beach and Lido San Francesco. Look out for the mermaid statue. There are two historic churches in Bari. The Cathedral of St. Sabinus in the Old Town is home to the remains of the real-life Greek Saint Nicholas (who is believed to be the inspiration for Santa Claus). Tickets must be purchased to tour the crypt in the basement. The Basilica di San Nicola is believed to be the oldest example of Norman architecture in southern Italy.

15. Taormina: Where Italians go on Vacation

Recommended by Anwar from Beyond My Door

Located in Eastern Sicily, Taormina is one of the most beautiful Italian coastal towns to visit on the island. The town is most famous for its beautiful Roman theater and ancient streets, and its rocky coastline that drops suddenly into the stunning blue waters. 

The theater, built in the 2nd century during the reign of Caesar Augustus Octavian still hosts functions and concerts and has one of the most dramatic locations with stunning views of the area surrounding it. 

You could easily spend a day or more wandering the streets of the town. And if you do, be sure to spend time on Corso Umberto I, the lovely pedestrian-only street with its quaint restaurants and boutiques and one of the oldest areas of the city. While in the old part of the city, visits to the ancient Cathedral Of Taormina and the nearby fountain of Piazza Duomo are picturesque and worth visiting in their own right. 

You can also check out the Corvaja Palace, a fortress that does a great job of showcasing the various cultures that came through Sicily, including Byzantine, Arab, and Norman. The main part of the tower was built by Arabs who ruled over Taormina for over 100 years beginning in 902 AD.

PRO TIP: Taormina is reachable from other nearby cities via taxi, bus, or train. Located about 90 minutes from Catania, Siracusa, or an hour from Messina.

16. Siracusa: And the Magical Island of Ortigia

Recommended by Annabel from Smudged Postcards

The Italian coastal town of Syracuse is found on the east coast of Sicily and is about 3.5 hours from the capital city of Palermo, and a 45-minute drive from Catania airport. 

Although the Sicilian town of Taormina to the north attracts more visitors, Syracuse should, without a doubt, be on everyone’s list of top destinations on this beguiling Italian island. The most appealing part of Syracuse is the tiny island of Ortigia which juts out into the Ionian Sea, connected to the mainland by two bridges.

At Ortigia’s heart is the charming Piazza Duomo, lined with dazzlingly white palazzos with the city’s cathedral domineering the square. This is the perfect place to pause for a coffee or a refreshing granita (a Sicilian take on sorbet). The piazza is stunning and encapsulates the history of Sicily perfectly. The cathedral combines a mix of styles including Ancient Greek, Norman, and Baroque. Of all the  things to do in Syracuse Sicily , spending time in this stunning piazza should be top of the list.

Away from Piazza Duomo, narrow lanes wind their way out towards the sea. Along these streets are inviting cafes and restaurants waiting to be discovered. There’s a popular promenade along the seafront, popular in the evenings with locals and tourists alike. Visitors with an interest in ancient history or mythology will enjoy exploring the Ancient Greek Temple of Apollo or perhaps the Fountain of Aretusa.

FUN FACT: Although Ortigia is surrounded by the sea – and the sparkling Ionian certainly looks inviting – there are no sandy beaches as the island is rocky. That said, the locals still find a way into the water, even despite the rocks!

17. Cefalu: Traditional Sicilian Charm

Recommended by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

Cefalu on the northern coast of Sicily is a sleepy fisherman village that has nailed the quintessential Sicilian charm. With a picture-perfect historical center crisscrossed by little winding alleys lined with artisan shops and little traditional bars and restaurants, the town is truly one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Italy. In recent years it has become a very popular place for Palermitans escaping the city as well as tourists.

FUN HISTORIC FACT : The UNESCO-classified 12th-century Arab-Norman Cathedral looms over the tiny historical center and can be seen from far outside of the town. The typical austere exterior that categorizes the historical Arab-Norman architecture stands in stark contrast to the strikingly opulent interior made up of millions of tiny golden glass Byzantine tiles covering the roof and naïve, depicting various biblical scenes. 

The little Italian coastal town of Cefalu is perched right by the sea, ensuring day trippers can combine a bit of culture with some time at the beach. Be aware that during high season the beaches of Cefalu do tend to fill up quickly so make sure to come early to save your spot. I recommend lazy strolls around the extensive  lungomare  and a cold Aperol Spritz for your aperitivo .  

If you have a car while visiting Sicily, Cefalu is the perfect  day trip from Catania . The two-hour drive is one of the most scenic the island has to offer and is thus well worth braving the audacious Sicilian driving on the island. Park your car at the far end of the  lungomare  in one of the well-indicated public parking lots ( ps. parking is paid solely in cash ).

PRO TIP: Fly into the Catania Airport, Rent a Car and go on an Italian coastal town road trip through Sicily – Taormina, Cefalu, Siracusa, Palermo, oh my!

⭐️ BONUS: South Italy Coastal Road Trip

Hell yes! So many people travel predictably these days, hitting up the major tourist sites and cities. I’ve found the best way to tap into that sense of exploration and rest is via road trip . There are pros and cons to any road trip of course, but Italy provides the best environment to get on the road and let your free spirit fly!

A 2 Week Road Trip in South Italy

From Napoli to Sicily, I explored quite a few of the Italian coastal towns listed above and a few magical places in between – check it out!

PRO TIP: Driving in Italy as an American can be a bit stressful at times, so I’ve put together what you need to have to hit the road, including driving rules and documentation you’ll need to rent a car.

FAQ: Italian Coastal Towns

While you’re planning a trip, here are a few things you should know.

What is the most beautiful coastal town in Italy?

If I had to pick one from northern Itlay, I would pick any one of the Cinque Terre towns because they are exactly what the pictures portray, and more! If I had to pick any from South Italy, I would pick Taormina on the Island of Sicily, because it’s not quite as popular as the Amalfi Coast and still has a feel of an undiscovered gem ( maybe not for the Italians, but definitely for everyone else in the world! )

Which is Better, the Amalfi Coast or Sicily?

Having traveled to both extensively, here are my lessons learned and observations regarding views, vibe, and budget for both of these stunning places!

What is the most famous coastal town in Italy?

Without a doubt, the Amalfi Coast and Positano may be the most famous of the Italian coastal towns, but quite a few on the list above may give the iconic, Instagram-able town a run for it’s money soon enough!

Which coast is better in Italy?

First of all, “better” in what sense? If you’re looking for the most iconic views of the Mediterranean, the most famous islands of Italy, the pictures that you see on Google and Instagram, then I would say the West Coast.

If you were looking for a more calm, authentic, off-the-beaten-path, local to Italian life, then I would say the East Coast of Italy.

What are some underrated places in Italy?

From the list of Italian coastal towns we’ve shared above, and from my travels, some of the more underrated places, and therefore more hidden gems in Italy include:

• Cefalu, Sicily
• The whole Island of Sardinia
• The Island of Procida off the coast of Napoli
• Bolgheri, Tuscany

Is the Amalfi Coast worth it?

Short answer, YES, at least once in your life. The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and as such, it is an epic stretch of coastline. If you’re into brilliantly blue waters, picturesque multicolored villages tucked into seaside cliffs, gardens full of flowers, lemon trees, and fresh air… then start planning a trip!

What is the best time to visit these Italian coastal towns?

Summertime is full of tourists and super hot. In the winter, most of these little towns (especially on the islands) sort of shut down. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall seasons. My favorite month to go down to the Italian coast is September.

Wrap-Up: Italian Coastal Towns & Beyond…

The list above contains my and fellow travel blogger’s recommendations on the cutest Italian coastal towns, some popular, some undiscovered. But if you’re not sold on a road trip through Italy just yet, here is one other destination close to the heart to inspire that wandering spirit:

Croatia Road Trip Like a Local – 2 Weeks from Pula to Dubrovnik!

Right next to Italy sits the beautiful country of Croatia, equally as stunning in its coastline and quite a bit cheaper to traverse! This is my 2-week itinerary along the Dalmatian coastline for all those Game of Thrones lovers!

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

20 Breathtaking Italy Coastal Towns That Will Blow Your Mind!

March 18, 2024

Paula Martinelli

Italy is one of the dreamiest destinations on the planet. So, if you have been dreaming about Italy, get a cup of coffee (or an Italian cappuccino ) and sit back. You are about to see the 20 Most Beautiful Coastal Towns in Italy that will just blow your mind and make you want to jump on the first plane to Italy!

The Coastal Towns of Italy provide an ideal mix of stunning Mediterranean scenery, rugged cliff formations, vineyards on terraced hillsides, unspoiled beaches, mouth-watering seafood, and beautifully preserved architecture.

In this guide, you’ll not only learn about the best things to do in each Italian coastal town. You’ll also get  helpful insider tips on things to look out for during your visit, how to get there, and the best places to stay. In the end, you will find a FAQ with everything you need to know!  So without any further ado, let’s discover the Italian Coastal Towns!

You may also be interested in ❤️ :

• 30 Most Amazing Landmarks in Italy
• 17 Most beautiful Towns & Villages in Tuscany
• Best Places to Stay in Tuscany: from Villas to Castles

20. CESENATICO: A laid-back coastal town in Italy between Ravenna and Rimini

How can i travel between italian coastal towns.

Italy Coastal Towns Orientation

Italy is surrounded by water on the 3 sides and it holds sovereignty over one of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean sea that is Sicily.

With so much water around the country, the Italian coastline adds up to 4,700 miles (7600 km) which means apart from the historic towns and cities and the rich Roman history. Whether it’s admiring breathtaking views from a boat or exploring the countless attractions of Cinque Terre and everything in between, there is no shortage of amazing experiences.

Italy is located in Southern Europe. Four different seas surround the Italian Peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea from three sides. The Adriatic Sea in the east, the Ionian Sea in the south, and the Ligurian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea in the west, offering the best Italian coastal towns.

📍 NORTH:  Italy borders France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia and is roughly delimited by the Alpine watershed, enclosing the Po Valley and the Venetian Plain.

📍 SOUTH: It consists of the entirety of the Italian Peninsula and the two Mediterranean islands of Sicily and Sardinia (the two biggest islands of the Mediterranean), in addition to many smaller islands.

20 Most Beautiful Italian Coastal Towns

1. positano: the local’s most popular italian coastal town.

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Positano is an easy day trip from Naples and Sorrento. Most visitors leave the driving to the experts and you can hire a private driver that can pick you up from your hotel — You can also take a bus, public transportation is safe and very reliable.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Positano

The city sits perched on the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, a cluster of pastel-colored houses, hotels, and churches — it’s hard to imagine where people or cars could possibly squeeze in. Whether you approach the city by sea or after the long, and somewhat harrowing drive down the Amalfi Coastline, it’s hard to deny this is a special place and one of the best landmarks in Italy . When it comes to exploring, there are so many things to do in Positano , from lounging on the beach, strolling the picturesque narrow streets, and shopping until you drop. 

For the more adventurous, rent a Vespa and head for the hills where you’ll find amazing restaurants with sea views and hiking trails that meander through small towns and olive groves in equal measure. Plan on 4-5 days to relax and really enjoy.

When it comes to beautiful Italian coastal towns, it’s hard to beat Positano , a favorite among travelers and many Italians.

2. CAPRI: A magical beautiful Italian coastal town in the Bay of Naples

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Capri can be visited from Naples or Sorrento through the regular ferries that depart from their respective water stations. The journey from Sorrento is for about 30 minutes while from Naples it may take up to an hour. You can also take an easy day trip to Capri  from any of these ports

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Capri

This is one of the most popular, and also stunning Italian coastal towns. Situated in the Bay of Naples , along a huge coastline is the charming town of Capri. Its stunning scenery is filled with turquoise blue waters, sea caves, gorgeous gardens, soft sandy beaches, picturesque buildings, and iconic rock formations, which make Capri an ideal destination for a memorable holiday in Italy.

The magical beauty of this Italian coastal town is such that it has served as a refuge to famous literary writers and poets Axel Munthe and Edwin Cerio.

A boat trip to the iconic Grotta Azzura takes you through a sea cave illuminated in blue light. This otherworldly illumination is a result of the reflection of the sunlight.

Go for a hike to Anacapri, take a chairlift to Mount Solaro, and admire the Augustus Gardens that overlook those iconic Faraglioni formations over the sea. Also, enjoy the world-famous drink Limoncello with torta Caprese – a flourless choco-almond cake at any of the cafes in the town.

3. NAPLES: The third-largest city in Italy facing the Tyrrhenian Sea

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Naples is a 2-hour long train journey from Rome , so it’s an ideal destination even for a day trip if Naples is not the base for the Italian holidays

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Naples

Naples is the capital of South Italy. This Italian coastal town and its surroundings have so much to offer one wonders how to fit them all in.

The diversity of the attractions in Naples and its region means that there is something for everyone.

One of the best things to do in Naples is to visit the Centro Storico is the place to start ; this is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is Naples’s, spiritual heart. There are a lot of churches and palaces to visit here for history lovers.

Via Toledo is another must-see, this is the modern hub of Naples, a 1.2km long shopping street between Piazza Dante and Piazza Trieste e Trento, near Piazza Plebiscito. A short walk away from Piazza Plebiscito there is a cluster of portside sights; the Palazzo Reale, Teatro di San Carlo, and Castel Nuovo.

If there is only time for a weekend, Naples is a great place to spend a city break which allows enough time to discover the main attractions . When there is a longer period at disposal it’s also a fantastic holiday destination with island hopping and conquering the dramatic scenes of Sorrento and Amalfi coast. It’s also a great place to stay if you’re looking for Pompeii tours !

4. GENOA: One of the most beautiful coastal towns on the Ligurian Sea

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Genoa is easily reached by direct train from major cities such as Milan, Turin, Rome, Pisa, and Nice. It takes about an hour and forty minutes from Milan , so technically it is possible to visit Genoa as a day trip

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Genoa

Genoa is one of the most beautiful coastal towns on the Ligurian Sea in northwest Italy.

Genoa has a long history of human settlement, which is also why you will find many beautiful buildings dating back to as far as the beginning of the Holy Roman Empire.

This is also why admiring Roman architecture is also one of the best things to do in Genoa. Some places you should definitely see include the harbor, Porta Soprana, Via Garibaldi, the San Lorenzo Cathedral, and the Forte Begato.

Besides the buildings, there are two squares that also deserve a visit, the Piazza Matteotti and the Piazza De Ferrari with its enormous and majestic fountain and stunning building surrounding the square. Genoa is also home to some great museums such as the Museo d’Arte Orientale, the Maritime Museum, and the aquarium.

A minimum of two days (preferably more) is advised to get a real feel of the city and admire the Roman beauty that it still breathes. 

5. VIAREGGIO: A lovely town located on the coast of Tuscany

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Viareggio is on the line between Genova and Rome and can be reached by local trains from Pisa (15 minutes) and from La Spezia (1 hour). From Viareggio, there is also a very slow line to Lucca (15 minutes), Montecatini (45 minutes), Pistoia (1 hour), Prato (75 minutes), and Florence (90 minutes)

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Viareggio

A wonderful coastal town in Italy is  Viareggio . This lovely place is located on the coast of Tuscany and amazes you in many different ways. For one thing, you will find here one of the longest sandy beaches in Italy .

Bagnos is also beautiful, the so-called beach resort, which lines the coast, and creates a very extraordinary ambiance with its many colorful umbrellas. 

The long promenade in Viareggio is also uniquely picturesque, with countless colorful buildings and villas in art nouveau style.

These are still top-preserved and give the resort a unique flair. Here you will also find a great selection of stores, boutiques, and restaurants, and also so many locals come here also on weekends for shopping, eating, or just for a lovely walk. 

Another top highlight in Viareggio is the Carnival , which is held every year in February and is the 2nd largest (after Venice ) in Italy.

6. PALERMO: Capital of the beautiful Italian island of Sicily

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Fly into Palermo Airport (PMO) by connecting through Rome or another major European hub. If you are traveling in Italy by train, the Palermo Centrale is the city’s main railway station. It lies just south of the center. It has direct trains from Rome, Naples, Genoa, and Milan. Palermo offers an excellent choice of ferries with regular departures to Sardinia, North Africa, and the Italian mainland ports of Genoa, Civitavecchia, Naples, and Salerno.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Palermo

Palermo is the capital of the beautiful island of Sicily , off the coast of Italy.

The city is walkable and easily visited in one day, though if you have a few days make slow down and enjoy everything the city has to offer. Make sure to keep enough time to try out the amazing street food the city has to offer.

Italy is known for its food – it is rare to find someone who does not like a delectable plate of pasta. In Palermo, you can find all the traditional Italian dishes , but they have one thing the rest of Italy does not – A very vibrant street food scene.

Stop by the  Antica Focacceria San Francesco   and get your hands on a traditional Arancini (fried rice balls containing ragu or if you are a vegetarian a la norma ). If you are a little more adventurous perhaps you can try the focaccia Marietta, a typical sandwich filled with veal spleen, fresh ricotta, and a dash of caciocavallo cheese.

To digest the street food, take yourself on a walk through the old town and visit some of the most beautiful churches you will ever see. 

If architecture is your thing, be sure to visit the Norman Palace which is the most well-known Arab-Norman architecture located in Palermo . Even if architecture is entirely your favorite pastime, you might not want to leave Palermo without sneaking a peek at this ancient building.

7. VENICE: One of the most beautiful Italian towns

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily get to Venice from Verona, Florence, and even Milan. Going by train is the most convenient, fastest, and cheaper way to get to Venice.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Venice

Venice is one of the most beautiful Italian coastal towns . It is located in the Veneto region on many islands in the Adriatic Sea.

Venice has a rich history. It used to be the capital of the Venetian Republic that existed from the 7th century until the 18th century. Nowadays, it is a unique place to visit and it is one of the most popular places in Italy .

Everywhere you go there are canals and bridges. This makes for a city that is very fun to walk through.  Furthermore, there are gondolas that are amazing to ride. The gondolas provide you with a truly Venetian experience.

Also, the city looks incredible and there are many beautiful  photo spots in Venice . It is a great city for a day trip or for the 2-day itinerary Venice is a perfect time to enjoy this incredible coastal town.

8. ALGHERO: Located on the Northwest coast of the Italian island of Sardinia

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Alghero is easily reached by car from other areas of the island, but there is also a small airport just outside the city center. You can also take a ferry to the island from mainland Italy

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Alghero

Alghero is one of the most charming Italian coastal towns, located on the Northwest coast of the Italian island of Sardinia.

Golden sea walls surround the medieval historic center and feature a walking path offering spectacular views of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea, including Capo Caccia’s dramatic cliff faces and sea caves .

Housed within the city center is a bevy of café-lined piazzas where you can spend hours sipping spectacular Sardinian wine and tasting exquisite Italian cuisine while you people-watch.

After your meal, wander the winding cobblestoned streets where you can discover cute little boutiques slinging locally made goods and typical souvenir shops. 

Alghero’s bustling city atmosphere makes it an ideal base for exploring some of the gorgeous nearby beaches and the Riviera del Corallo. For a splurge-worthy stay, consider Villas Las Tronas, which is a stunning castle-like hotel step from the city center.

You could easily spend a week exploring Alghero and its surrounding areas, but it also makes a fantastic weekend destination. 

9. CAMOGLI: A vivid coastal town in Italy between Genoa and Portofino

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Camogli is around 4.5-5 hours by train from Rome and 2.5-3 hours from Milan; typically a quick change at a nearby station is necessary. The Camogli-San Fruttuoso train station is a short walk from most areas of the town.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Camogli

Ever heard of Camogli? It’s a vivid beach town between Genoa and Portofino on the famous Riviera di Levante . You know, one of these picturesque villages consists of tall, colorful Genoese houses.

Really, they have a good reason to nickname it Golfo Paradiso. However, it’s rather frequented by Italians than international visitors which gives it a very authentic charm. Paradisic Camogli, surrounded by the enchanting natural setting of the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino, has welcomed visitors for decades.

There is this vibe of relaxation, the sea, and incredible food . In brief: La dolce vita!There is a scenic little harbor and, of course, a town beach where you can just stretch out on your towel. 

Or you choose to splurge and rent a beach chair and a sun umbrella for the day. Just off the beach, you can then enjoy a classic Italian Aperitivo – hence, a long drink with some nibbles. But most importantly, you have to sample some focaccia at Revello on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi which is claimed to be the best in all of Italy.  

10. SYRACUSE: A fascinating Italian coastal town located in Eastern Sicily

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: It is possible to reach Syracuse by train from Taormina and Catania but hiring a car will allow more flexibility to explore the wider region.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Syracuse

Syracuse is located in eastern Sicily, under an hour from Catania . The old part of Syracuse – Ortigia – is almost completely surrounded by the sea, reached from the newer part of the city via two bridges.

Ortigia is a warren of medieval lanes filled with interesting shops, bars, and restaurants. At the heart of the city is the beautiful Piazza del Duomo with its cathedral reflecting the island’s fascinating history – its structure is a blend of Ancient Greek, Norman, and Baroque elements.

If you are visiting  Sicily with kids , ensure you visit the puppet theatre where children get front-row seats – expect knights, monsters, and lots of bloodshed – it’s brilliant fun for the whole family!

There are boat trips around the coastline of Ortigia taking in Castello Maniace at the furthest tip of the city and sea caves along the mainland coast.

Ensure you stay a couple of nights to get a full flavor of Syracuse – it’s a vibrant city with a lively student population. There’s a fun food market to explore and plenty of great bars to enjoy in the evenings.

11. POLIGNAMO A MARE: A stunning Italian coast town in Puglia

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: You can rent a car and drive the 32km south of Bari, but the easiest and most convenient way to travel is by train. The ride takes about 30 minutes, and a regional train costs 2.50 Euro to Polignano a mare. From the train station, it’s an easy walk to the center of Polignano a mare.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Polignano A Mare

Polignano a Mare is a stunning coastal town in Puglia and an easy day trip from Bari. Most of Polignano a mare is built on limestone cliffs by the Adriatic Sea . The town has a long history, and one piece of evidence is the remaining Roman bridge, part of the ancient Via Traiana.  Close to the bridge is an incredible beach, hidden between the cliffs, Lama Monachile.

Spend your  day in Polignano a mare  exploring the old town with its white, quaint houses and beautiful details. Taste the fresh seafood and the amazing gelato, and get your share of gorgeous photos, as Polignano a mare is one of the most ‘instagrammable’ places in Italy .

Also, bring your swimming suit and snorkeling equipment on a summer day to explore the caves under the town.

12. TAORMINA: One of the most beautiful Italian Coastal Towns in Sicily

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: It’s easy to visit Taormina on a day trip from Catania. The trip takes an hour and you can use all the available means of transport: car, train or bus.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Taormina

Taormina belongs to the most beautiful Italian coastal towns in Sicily . Apart from the stunning seaside location, it offers an array of noteworthy archeology finds and historical structures. Plus, you can enjoy views of the nearby Mount Etna.

The main sight in Taormina is the Ancient Greek Theater, built in the 3 rd  century BC by the Greeks and later modified by the Romans. It’s well preserved and the views of the Ionian Sea from there are absolutely fascinating.

A cable car takes beachgoers down to sea level, where a few beaches can be enjoyed. The closer but smaller Mazzaro Beach is easily trumped by the larger and more picturesque Isola Bella Beach with an island just off the beach that one can walk to.

Spend at least a day in Taormina, but if you are keen, there are plenty of wonderful  Taormina villas and apartments to rent on Airbnb .

13. FURORE: A quiet Italian Coastal Town overlooking the Amalfi Coast

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: The Fiordo di Furore is located about 4 miles southwest of Amalfi. The best way to get there is by car and the only place to park is along the highway. Travelers can also take the Positano – Amalfi line on the Sita bus to   get here

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Furore

An hour away from the touristic city of Positano lies Furore , a quiet Italian coastal town perched on the mountain overlooking the Amalfi Coast.

It’s the perfect place to add to your  Italy itinerary  to escape the crowds and take in peaceful views of the rugged shoreline. The small town has a population of 800 and is known by locals as the “hidden beauty of Neverland” , with its houses scattered along the steep ridge.

Furore is also a budget-friendly spot compared to other popular towns along the Amalfi Coast. Unwind at Hotel Fico d’India, a family-owned hotel nestled on the mountainside that features rooms with stunning sea views. It’s an incredible value, with sea-view rooms starting at around $115 USD. The restaurant at the hotel is delicious and offers traditional local cuisine.

One of the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast is to explore it by water. Rent a boat with Amalfi Boats and cruise down the sea to Positano for incredible sights during golden hour.

The boat launch is located a 15-minute drive away from Furore. Amalfi Boats has reasonable prices and includes a captain who will take you to the best spots.

14. SORRENTO: One of the most romantic Coast Towns in Italy

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Travelers can get to this popular seaside destination in a variety of ways: by ferry, plane, or land. The closest airport to Sorrento is the Naples International Airport, located roughly 30 miles from the city center. If you’re traveling to Sorrento by land, there is a daily bus service that runs directly from the Naples airport to Sorrento; the rate is just 10 euros. Or you can take a ferry to Sorrento from the port in Naples

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Sorrento

Sorrento is without a doubt one of the most romantic Italian coastal towns . One of the greatest Italian love songs, “Caruso”, sets the location of its heart-breaking story in Sorrento, where “the sea reflects the moonshine and the wind blows strong, in an old terrace above the gulf of Sorrento”. Sorrento makes a great day trip from Napoli, but it is recommended to spend the night here, to experience the romance by night .

Sorrento is a town built on top of the cliffs, with many fantastic viewpoints which offer panoramic vistas over the golf, Capri Island, and Vesuvius volcano. Sunsets here are particularly spectacular. Whilst there are a few  beaches in Sorrento , the city is known for its charm rather than sunbathing.

If you get away from the main Corso and start exploring the side streets of Sorrento, you will find hidden gems such as small limoncello producers and artisanal lemon tree growers who sell the most delicious Sorrento lemon gelato. Near the Sorrento, elevator lays one of the hidden treasures of the town: Chiostro di San Francesco, a 14th-century monastery with a gorgeous inner garden. 

If you travel to Sorrento with your loved one, grab a seat at La Villa just before sunset, for a glass of wine. This cheap bar has the best location in town, overlooking the gulf. Quite often, nearby, there will be street performers playing Caruso. 

15. RIMINI: A great destination for a relaxing beach vacation on the Adriatic Coast

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: The best way to get to Rimini is via train or hire car. At just an hour southeast of Bologna by train, it’s an easy trip

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Rimini

Rimini is a beautiful beach town on the east coast of Italy , on the beautiful Adriatic Coast.

It’s a popular destination for families looking for either a relaxing Italy beach vacation, with lots of things to do with kids, or for just about anyone looking for an escape. Overlooking the beach from one of the many beachfront hotels reveals a sea of different colored umbrellas, numbering in the thousands.

While this may sound a little overcrowded at first, the beach is both wide and long, so there’s enough space for everyone. Rimini’s rich history dates back to the Etruscans until the arrival of the Celts in the 6 th  Century BC.

With ancient ruins, an intriguing historical city center, and modern conveniences , it’s the perfect beach vacation destination, which is best experienced between June to mid-September. To truly relax, allow a week or two, but even if you only have a day or two, it’s well worth the trip.

Be sure to include the Arch of Augustus, constructed in 27 BC and named in honor of Caesar Augustus to your must-see list, as well as the Tiberio Bridge, constructed in 20 BC and still in perfect working condition to this day.

16. GAETA: A quiet Italian Coastal Town located in the Lazio region of Italy

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: the main stations of Rome and Naples are connected with Gaeta by trains every hour seven days a week. Trains stop in Formia, from which you can get a bus to reach Gaeta. You could also ask the hotel to provide a shuttle bus service to take you to/from the train station

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Gaeta

Gaeta is one of the most beautiful Italian coastal towns , located in the southern city of the Lazio region of Italy. 

Gaeta is a non – international tourist area mainly because it does not have a train station nearby. Renting a car is one of the best ways to get to this area. It is located about two hours from Rome and about two hours from Naples. So a weekend trip is the perfect amount of time to enjoy the Gaeta Italy Beach Vacation .   

There are seven public beaches in Gaeta.   These are the beaches the locals hit (especially in August). If you are up for an adventure, grab a rowboat and head to 40 Remi Beach.  The name indicates how many oar strokes it takes to get to this beach.  There are also magnificent grottoes to explore at most of the beaches along the coast.   Many of the beaches have cliffs, which provide spectacular views.  

It is also a great place to scuba dive and snorkel. There are boat rentals, hiking trails, and bike rentals also available in this area.  Beautiful resorts are located all along the coast.  These resorts have incredible service and many offer private beaches.  Gaeta is a coastal city worth visiting!

17. PORTO VENERE: One of the most underrated coastal towns on the Ligurian Coast

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: The closest airport is Pisa, otherwise, it’s well-commuted with La Spezia by local bus. Please note that there is no train to Porto Venere. The closest train connections are La Spezia Centrale and four of the Cinque Terre towns (not Corniglia). At La Spezia, the transfer is by bus, taxi, or ferry boat. From the Cinque Terre, the transfer is by ferry boat so weather, budget, & baggage are considerations

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Porto Venere

Porto Venere might be one of the most underrated Italian coastal towns on the Ligurian coast.

Living in the shadow of Cinque Terre, it’s slowly gaining more popularity as boat trips have started to include this colorful corner of Cinque Terre National Park. Despite this, there are plenty of  things to do in Porto Venere  and you could gladly spend more than a couple of days there.

The popular attractions are the Palazzata; colorful narrow houses on the port, the iconic Church of Saint Peter sitting on a tiny rocky peninsula, and the Doria Castle which was of military importance for centuries.

But you can also go on boat trips, go scuba diving in mesmerizing underwater caves or go hiking along the Ligurian coast to Riomaggiore , the first of the Cinque Terre. 

18. MANAROLA: One of the smallest five towns in Cinque Terre

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Based in Northern Italy, Manarola can be reached from many of Italy’s most famous cities. You can make it to the town in less than 3 hours from Florence, Milan, Genoa, and Bologna. The only public transport is by train. You take a fast train from Rome to La Spezia and change there to a local train. Time is 4 to 4.5 hours. 

Manarola is one of the smallest of the five town s that make up Cinque Terre in the northwest of Italy. The colorful houses on the rocks at the water’s edge make it one of the most beautiful of Italy’s coastal towns. However, there is more to the town than just its good looks. Manarola is famous for its sweet Sciacchetrà wine. It’s also home to many medieval relics backing up its claim to be the oldest of the 5 towns of Cinque Terre. Some of the sights of Manarola you’ll want to check out include the harbor and the Church of San Lorenzo .

Whatever you do in Manarola, though, make sure you leave time to visit The Bastion. Built on the coast in the 13th century to protect from Saracen raids, parts are still well preserved and are partially incorporated into the modern building that clings to the coast.

19. MONTEROSSO AL MARE: The largest of the coastal villages of Cinque Terre

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: The easiest way to get to the Cinque Terre is by train. From Genoa (Genova), take the local train towards La Spezia and get off at your destination. From La Spezia, take the local train, Cinque Terre Express, in the direction of Levanto. This train stops in all the five villages

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Monterosso al Mare

Monterosso al Mare is my personal favorite Italian coastal town. It is the last and the largest of the five villages along the Cinque Terre strip . It is the most visited of the five villages, part of it is because it has the only sizable sand beach and the biggest hotels. 

The village is located on hills cultivated with lemons, vines, and olives, with amazing beaches, beautiful reefs, and the ocean’s crystal clear water making this small village one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Italy.

It can be very busy to visit during the high season, especially during the summer months, but Monterosso is still delightful. 

Make sure you visit the old town area with the ruins of a medieval castle and characterized by typical narrow medieval streets with multi-colored terraced houses. Visit the San Francesco church, which houses an important Van Dyck painting of the crucifixion, and the Church of San Giovanni Battista, constructed in the 1200s, in the Gothic-Genovese style.

Monterosso offers a wide range of excellent family-run 3 or 4 stars hotels near the sea and some charming guest houses situated in the old part of the town. 

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Trains depart from Bologna Centrale train station and it takes approximately one hour and 20 minutes one way.  Trains and buses also run from Rimini and you can catch a train from Ravenna.  These are the two closest major towns to Cesenatico.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Cesenatico

Last, but not least on this amazing list of the best Italian coastal towns is the coastal town of Cesenatico

Located an hour and twenty minutes by train from Bologna, this is perfect for a day by the beach or for a long weekend getaway. Situated on the Adriatic coast between Ravenna and Rimini , it is laid back and chilled.

Cesenatico was founded in 1302 and the port and canal, designed by Leonardo da Vinci , were built in the 1500s. The canal is lined by pastel-painted houses, restaurants, and bars.

The Museo Della Marineria charts the history of the town’s long association with the sea. The museum has an indoor exhibition with two full-sized ships and outdoors, eleven historic fishing boats float in the canal.

The long, deep, golden sandy beach fringes the town and there is a choice of restaurants along the promenade. For those who want to keep fit, there are volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts . Just outside the town, there are two water parks and amusement parks to enjoy.

Italy Coastal Towns FAQs

What are the most beautiful coastal towns in italy.

Some of the most stunning coastal towns in Italy include the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, the colorful and vibrant Positano on the Amalfi Coast, the charming and romantic Amalfi town, the luxurious and exclusive Portofino in Liguria, and the scenic coastal gem of Sorrento

Which Italian coastal towns have the best beaches?

When it comes to beautiful beaches, Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda with its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, Calabria’s Tropea known for its stunning cliffside beach, and Puglia’s Polignano a Mare with its dramatic rocky coastline are among the top choices for beach lovers in Italy.

What is the best time to visit Italian coastal towns?

Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) are generally considered the best times to visit Italian coastal towns. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are less overwhelming compared to the peak summer season.

Are there any hidden coastal towns in Italy worth visiting?

Absolutely! While Italy’s popular coastal towns are well-known, some lesser-known gems include Vernazza in Cinque Terre, a charming and less crowded village, Atrani on the Amalfi Coast, known for its authentic Italian atmosphere, and Manarola in Liguria, a picturesque fishing village with stunning views.

Traveling between Italian coastal towns is quite convenient. You can use the efficient regional train network that connects many coastal destinations, opt for ferries or boats to enjoy scenic sea journeys, or rent a car to explore the coastal regions at your own pace. I always use and recommend renting a car with this reliable source. 🚗

Each town has its own transportation options, so it’s advisable to research the specific region you plan to visit and choose the most suitable means of travel for your itinerary.

Italy Coastal Towns Conclusion

I hope this list of the most epic Italy Coastal Towns gave you some inspiration to start planning your next trip to Italy.

The coastal town in Italy is something everyone needs to visit in a lifetime. The beauty is unparalleled to anything, and the lifestyle helps you to just slow down, appreciate the views of the Mediterranean Ocean, and feel the breeze, while you enjoy a refreshing “spritz” to help to cool you down.

If you have any questions, just leave me a comment below. Ciao!

Here is some further information I think you might need to check

• Complete Guide to the Best Hikes in Italy
• A perfect Lake Como Itinerary
• Best-Rated Tuscany Wine Tours
• Best-Rated Agriturismo in Tuscany, Italy
• Top-Rated Florence to Cinque Terre Tours
• Top-Rated Vespa Tours in Tuscany
• How to travel from Milan to Lake Como by Day Trips, Train & Car
• How to Travel From Rome to Tuscany by Day Trip, Car, Bus & Train!

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14 thoughts on “20 breathtaking italy coastal towns that will blow your mind”.

Italy has some gorgeous coastal scenery! I’d love to visit Positano & the Amalfi Coast & Porto Venere also looks very appealing! Thanks for sharing!

I so love the idea of spending time in these beautiful coastal towns. The experience in such places can just never go wrong.

A great deal of those Italian coastal towns appeal to me. That water! Can I pack my bags now?

I haven’t seen much of the Italian coastline yet, apart from the Cilento Coast which was stunning. Your post has made me want to book another trip to Italy!

Oh wow I want to visit them all!! They’re so gorgeous!

Blue waters, sea caves, and sandy beaches immediately put Capri at the top of this list for me! Though I would be thrilled to visit any of these!

Beautiful! Alghero is one my favorite cities, all of Sardinia is amazing. A beachlover’s paradise.

Paula I have visited and wrote about several of these gorgeous Italian towns. I absolutely loved my vacations in Cinque Terre, Portovenere, Positano, Genoa and southern Italy. Now I have new places to research. Ciao!

Ahh, I’m in love with all of these towns! Can’t wait to get to Italy to check some of these out. Thanks for the inspiration!

Italy is such a beautiful country! For some reason I’ve never visited the coast! I think I need to fix that! All these coastal towns look so pretty! Positano has been on my list for a while now, I think it is finally time to book a trip! Thanks for the great guide!

Hi Terri – this is such a magical part of Italy. I have visited a couple of times, and I always find new things and places to explore.

They are, right? I absolutely love Italy and I believe anyone who visit the coast just fall in love.

You are absolutely right! The coast of Italy just makes a perfect destination – either if you just want to relax, or go on an active vacation. It offers it all!

Thanks for reading Linda – Oh Porto Vernere is absolutely amazing! One of my favorite places on the Italian Coast. They are all incredible!

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• Italy S 10 Beautiful Coastal...

The Most Beautiful Italian Coastal Towns and Cities

Italy has a wealth of postcard-perfect coastal towns, each with an individual panorama of breathtaking ocean views. With rows of coloured houses blanketing dramatic cliff faces, these spots are easy on the eye from the sea, too. We list 10 of the most gorgeous Italian coastal communes guaranteed to spark romance in your soul.

Keen to visit Italy but not sure where to go? Take your pick from Culture Trip’s specially curated 10-day Northern Italy trip or our action-packed 10-day Sicily adventure .

1. Manarola, for a colourful cliffside village

Architectural Landmark

Part of the Cinque Terre National Park (comprised of five villages) in Liguria, Manarola has been called the most colourful city in the world. The vibrant buildings are jostling for space, making the town resemble an artist’s palette. Every year, visitors flock here to hike between seaside villages, with numbers soaring in peak season. Don’t miss the Church of San Lorenzo, beautiful both inside and out thanks to some sweeping views of Manarola and neighbouring towns. You can visit Manarola as part of a spectacular guided hike along the Cinque Terra coast on Culture Trip’s 10-day small-group Northern Italy adventure .

2. Positano, for a picture-perfect view

Thanks to some rustic charm and wisteria-draped hotels, Positano is widely regarded as the most photogenic town in Italy. As the most sophisticated resort on the central Amalfi Coast, it’s also the most expensive. The enviable location allows visitors to travel by boat to nearby Capri , Ischia and the Grotta dello Smeraldo. You can also choose to spend a day on Fornillo beach, a smaller alternative to the popular Spiaggia Grande.

4. Portofino, for the rich and famous

Portofino and the distinctive half-moon harbour are located on the coast of Liguria, in the province of Genoa on the Italian Riviera. Having become increasingly upmarket in recent years, it’s popular with the rich and famous – you’ll notice plenty of luxurious superyachts adorning the horizon here. Hike up to Castello Brown, the 15th-century castle, for some spectacular views.

5. Polignano a Mare, for diving in Puglia

In the province of Bari, Polignano a Mare is perched upon limestone cliffs overlooking the azure sea. The historic old town features a maze of houses and narrow alleyways, as well as panoramic terraces offering views of the Adriatic Sea. Along with the rich history, Polignano is known for world-class cliff-diving opportunities, having previously hosted the Red Bull diving competition. Visit Polignano a Mare on our epic 10-day adventure through Southern Italy .

6. Riomaggiore, for hiking in the Cinque Terre

Part of the Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is the largest and most easterly of the five villages. Sitting upon the unspoilt blue waters of the Gulf of Genoa, the spot is famed for the sweet wine Sciacchetrà, made from Bosco, Vermentino and Albarola grapes. The multi-coloured ravine of pastel buildings here is where the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path) begins. You can embark on the first section between Riomaggiore and Manarola, which is also known as Via Dell’Amore (Lovers’ Path). It’s one of the most beautiful places in Northern Italy .

7. Amalfi, for a stunning Duomo

Amalfi lies at the mouth of a deep ravine at the foot of Monte Cerreto. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and coastal scenery, it’s modestly sized: visitors can walk from one edge of town to the other in 20 minutes. Amalfi boasts sun-filled piazzas and small beaches; its many squares are connected by pedestrian streets flanked with souvenir shops, perfect for stocking up on cameo brooches and limoncello. Also, don’t miss a visit to the Duomo di Amalfi, a 9th-century Roman Catholic structure. Ascend the steps, then admire the beautiful mosaics and magnificent ceiling detail. Check into one of the best hotels in town .

8. Atrani, for a small town atmosphere

Just two minutes away from the town, Atrani is the wealthy residence for the most powerful Amalfi families. Traditional houses climb up the valley from the beach, broken up by lemon terraces and colourful gardens. As the smallest town in Southern Italy, the ancient medieval structure remains incredibly intact.

9. Santa Cesarea Terme, for exploring the Salento coast

Santa Cesarea Terme sits atop a rugged plateau overlooking the sea in Puglia, on the ‘heel’ of Southern Italy. The town is characterised by architecture typical of the early 20th century, while the coast is punctuated with thermal springs, situated within four natural caves. A pathway through the woods leads to the higher part of the town, which boasts beautiful views of the Salento coast, all the way up to the headland of Santa Maria di Leuca. Santa Cesarea Terme isn’t as popular with international tourists as it is with with Italians themselves, making it all the more authentic.

10. Cagliari, for a taste of Sardinia

To get the best view of its golden-hued palazzi and domes dominating the horizon, make sure you arrive in Cagliari by sea. This location boasts the best of both worlds: a rich history (the town is peppered with Roman ruins) and a youthful atmosphere, as found on the stylish Poetto beach.There’s also a fantastic range of places to stay.

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Cinque Terre: a first-timer’s guide

Apr 8, 2024 • 13 min read

The Cinque Terre villages are unforgettable – here's how to build a perfect first trip © melis82 / Getty Images

So pretty that it inspired a Disney movie ( Luca ),  Cinque Terre ("five lands") consists of five startlingly photogenic fishing villages on  Italy's northwest coast, their candy-colored houses stacked down the sides of ravines and on top of cliffs. With sea, great food and wine, jaw-dropping views and photo opportunities at every turn, this is everything people love about Italy.

Today, however, that beauty is also its curse – it's one of the most overtouristed parts of the Bel Paese, with thousands of daytrippers crowding into the narrow streets, eager to take a couple of quick shots for the 'Gram and then leave. Is Cinque Terre overcrowded? Absolutely. Does that limit your enjoyment? Not if you take your time. Most people day-trip around the five villages, but stay longer – even three or four days – and you'll get a real appreciation of this extraordinary landscape.

One of the most remote parts of Italy – the single road arrived in the 1960s, and the railway a century earlier – Cinque Terre has always been a place of visceral beauty. Look up beyond those colored houses: for over 1,000 years, the residents have terraced the cliff sides and cultivated olives and wine that were once the toast of Europe's top tables.

Today, the entire area is a national park that celebrates human ingenuity as well as Mother Nature, with around 120km (75mi) of footpaths allowing you to explore it in the raw. But as well as a place to walk, this is also a place to relax. Watch the waves beat against the rocks from one of the medieval castles scattered along the coast – a hallmark of  Liguria , the wider region. Drink a glass of wine cultivated on those very cliffs. Watch the sunset set the sea aflame. And rejoice that you chose more than a day trip. 

This guide to Cinque Terre shows you how to make the best of your trip to this bucket-list Italian destination.

Want more Italian seaside fun? Head to these beautiful beaches

Introducing Cinque Terre's five villages

Riomaggiore.

Vibes: The southernmost village packs fine-dining restaurants and good bars into its teeny terraces. If you're wondering where to start in Cinque Terre, this is your best bet.

See: Castello di Riomaggiore, the clifftop castle overlooking the village

Eat: In the mornings or for lunch on the run, grab a pastry or piece of focaccia at  Panificio Rosi . The best views in town are from  A Pié de Ma , a superb wine bar and restaurant on the cliffs that has an unbeatable selection of local wines by the glass. Run by Sicilian brothers,  La Lampara is a superb seafood restaurant.

Stay:  Locanda Ca da Iride has simple, comfortable rooms (but no breakfast) in the higher part of the village.

Vibes: Arguably the prettiest part of Cinque Terre, cutesy Manarola has cottages stacked up and over the cliffs, as well as the area's loveliest main street, which spirals down a canyon to the water's edge.

See: Take the footpath forking upwards from the north side of the village to find yourself immersed in cliffside vineyards with spectacular sea views.

Eat: From breakfast to late lunches,  Cappun Magru is the place for exceptional sandwiches, pastries and cakes, all washed down with local wine. You can't beat  Nessun Dorma for an aperitivo with a view – it's jammed onto the cliffside and delivers sunset views.  Da Aristide is a lovely family-run restaurant in the heart of the village. Try the muscoli ripieni – mussels stuffed with mortadella, parmesan and egg by nonna Grazia.

Stay:  Posidonia is a sweet guesthouse with wonderful owners in the quiet, higher part of the village.

Vibes: Tiny Corniglia , perched high above the seas, is the only clifftop village in the region. From up here, you can see all of Cinque Terre.

See: Take in the views as you climb (or, easier, descend) the 383 steps between the sea-level train station and the village.

Eat:  Dai Luca offers panini, foccacia and street food for snacks or meals on the run, while the wine bar  Terra Rossa has a lovely selection of local dishes and drinks overlooking a pretty garden.  A Cantina de Mananan is a lovely osteria (cafe) in the village serving the best Cinque Terre ingredients.

Stay:  Il Carugio di Corniglia has rooms and apartments overlooking the sea. 

Vibes: The busiest village, Vernazza was the most important in the past – though it's crowded, head up the steep staircases to quiet medieval alleyways – as twisty and atmospheric as the caruggi of regional capital Genoa.

See: Wander round the small  harbor and step into the atmospheric 13th-century church of  Santa Margherita d'Antiochia .

Eat: Top breakfast spot Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre has Sicilian granita and pastries in the morning, as well as excellent lunch and dinner. Grab a snack or pasta box at  Pippo a Vernazza and wash it down with a wine tasting at nearby  Cantina Cheo .  Ristorante La Torre has spectacular views of the sea (though it's a hike to get there).

Stay: Restaurant  Gianni Franzi also has rooms scattered throughout the village, most of which have spectacular sea views.

Monterosso al Mare

Vibes: With its long, sandy beach, this – usually known as plain " Monterosso " – is the largest village and the one that most resembles a regular beach resort.

See: Wander through the warren of the old town and head up to the humbug-striped  Convento dei Cappuccini to see a Crucifixion by Van Dyck.

Eat: Start the day with pastries from  Pasticceria Laura ; to go all out, try the torta monterossina , stuffed with jam and chocolate. You could spend a whole day at  Buranco – an agriturismo, vineyard and restaurant just outside the center. Take a bottle for a wander round the vineyard, then settle down to a superb home-cooked lunch. Local legend  Miky Ristorante has been a must-visit since 1980.

Stay: Friendly  Hotel Marina is near Buranco, just outside the historic center of the village.

When should I go to Cinque Terre?

Like the rest of Liguria, Cinque Terre enjoys beautiful, not-too-hot summers. Unlike nearby resorts along the Italian Riviera, however, this isn't really somewhere to flop on a beach – not least because Monterosso has the only real beach, with sand and small pebbles. The other villages either have rocky coves, boulders doubling as diving boards or harbors to swim in. Since most visitors come for an active trip with plenty of hiking, spring and fall are a better bet. Crowded throughout the year – unbearably so in summer – the area is quieter in winter, though it's not always possible to hike due to the weather. Cross-reference your dates with Italian public holidays, as the villages can be impossibly busy with daytrippers.

Italian locals share their favorite places to avoid the crowds on vacation

How much time should I spend in Cinque Terre?

The vast majority of visitors come here for a day trip, and while it's possible to visit all five villages in a day, to do so is to completely miss the beauty of the area. Rather like Venice, Cinque Terre is so popular, and so crowded, that if you just have a quick glimpse, you're likely to end up disappointed.

Instead, you probably need at least three or four full days in Cinque Terre to get a true taste. That gives you time to see the villages, walk some of the Sentiero Azzurro paths, sit back with some of the local wine as you take in the views, and even visit some of the villages further up the cliff sides. Spend a week, and you can add lesser-known hikes and visit some of Italy's most spectacular vineyards. Even longer is better – I spent two weeks on my first trip and enjoyed every minute.

Is it easy to get into and around Cinque Terre?

This is a relatively tough-to-reach location, which makes it even more important to spend as long as you can here. The closest airports are Genoa and Pisa – both are around 1-2 hours by train from Cinque Terre, depending on connections.

One extremely important point: driving here is absolutely to be avoided. Parking is extremely limited, expensive, and usually a long, steep climb outside the villages (only residents are allowed to park inside). The narrow, clifftop roads can also be frightening for newcomers to the area – the Amalfi Coast has nothing on these lanes, and even as a seasoned Italian cliffside driver, one time in Cinque Terre was one time too many for me. Even if you already have a car on your trip, it's best parking outside Cinque Terre (try La Spezia or Levanto) and coming in on the train. You have my word on this.

The best way to travel between the villages is definitely by rail. Trains run around every 15-20 minutes throughout the day, stopping at each of the five villages – the journey time between each stop is only a couple of minutes. Tickets cost €5-10 per journey (even if you're just doing a two-minute hop) depending on the season, and it's often better value to buy a timed  Cinque Terre Card , which allows unlimited train travel between Levanto and La Spezia (the cities north and south of the area). The card also includes hiking fees, as well as bus travel to the more remote villages. Proceeds go to the national park.

You can also get around by boat.  Navigazione Golfo dei Poeti runs between La Spezia and Levanto, calling at all the villages.  Golfo Paradiso has a line from Genoa. Services can be suspended in bad weather, however, and boarding with a lot of luggage can be tricky. 

In the villages themselves, the only real option is walking – and they are steep. Those with mobility issues will certainly find it difficult. The centers of Corniglia and Vernazza are largely flat, as is the beach area of Monterosso. Manarola and Riomaggiore are trickier for anyone with mobility issues.

Top things to do in Cinque Terre

Hike (some of) the sentiero azzurro.

The most famous of Cinque Terre's paths is the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), which links all five villages across the cliff sides (it's marked as SVA on maps). In recent years, it's been rare that you'll find it fully open – winter storm damage means that some long stretches are closed. The easiest stretch – which is actually more of a moderate level – is Corniglia to Vernazza (2.5 miles, with a steep downhill section at the end). To get updates on closures, check the national park website before you head out.

See the coastline from the sea

Take a boat with Navigazione Golfo dei Poeti to see Cinque Terre's extraordinary landscape from the sea. It gives you an idea of the remoteness of the place – there wasn't a road here until the 1960s – and of how the locals have sculpted terraces from the sheer cliffs, making an uninhabitable landscape productive. Docking at the villages' tiny harbors is a memorable experience, and you can go onwards to La Spezia or (my pick) Levanto.

Walk the Via dell'Amore

Cinque Terre's most famous walk has always been the Via dell'Amore – the flat, accessible, 1km (half-mile) path between Riomaggiore and Manarola. Closed since 2012 due to landslide damage, it's due to reopen in July 2024 for guided tours only. I got a  sneak peek last year and was impressed – the tours explain the rich history of the area and make you look beyond those color-popping houses.

Taste the local wine

For centuries, Cinque Terre has been known for its wine: sea-flecked salty whites grown along the cliffs. Try it by the glass at bars like  A Pié de Ma in Riomaggiore or  Cappun Magru in Manarola – both of these offer wine flights and tastings.

My favorite thing to do in Cinque Terre

Time for more wine: for me, nothing tells you more about Cinque Terre than perching high up in the hills, hearing how the locals have produced bottles that, in the Renaissance period, were so famous that they graced the tables of kings and popes. Tilling those cliffsides is backbreaking manual work, and while the vineyards are a fraction of what they were, they're important for stabilizing the increasingly fragile landscape and warding off the effects of climate change. 

The best – and most fun – way to understand this is with a vineyard tour. You'll catch me high up on the hills above Vernazza on a tour from  Cheo – from the vineyards, there are jaw-dropper views of the village, castle and sea below. Don't forget to try the heavenly sweet sciacchetrà wine that Cinque Terre is famous for – that sea-salt breeze adds an incredible tang.

How much money do I need for Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre is expensive by Italian standards – visit in the high season or on a weekend, and you can expect to see prices double. Accommodation is particularly expensive in relation to the quality of what's on offer – there are very few hotels here, and usually your best bet is an affittacamere – room rental without breakfast. Accommodation in La Spezia or Levanto is usually cheaper and less problematic in terms of homeowners turfing out local renters to create Airbnbs, a major issue in the villages. Having said that, Cinque Terre's magic is especially strong at night.

You won't find any bargain restaurants or trattorias – prices are up there with high-end joints in major cities – but on the plus side, Liguria is the home of Italian street food, and there are plenty of small bakeries offering tasty snacks like focaccia that are good for lunch. 

Average daily cost for:

• Hostel room €20-40 (dorm spot)
• Basic room for two €130-250
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb) €150-250
• Public transport ticket €5-10
• Coffee €1-4
• Sandwich €6-12
• Dinner for two €60-150
• Glass of Cinque Terre wine €6-15

Bring layers, no matter the season 

Weather changes fast on the Liguria coast, and even in the hottest summer months, you'll probably need a jacket or sweater at night – as well as if you go out on a boat during the day.

Be prepared to walk… a lot 

Don't underestimate how challenging the villages can be for those with mobility problems. Even if you're not planning to hike, Manarola and Riomaggiore are extremely steep. Be aware of that when you book your accommodation, too – there are limited porter services, and you should be prepared to cart your luggage up the cliffside.

Buy a Cinque Terre card

Village hop without counting the cost. The card includes access to all the hiking trails and allows you onto the bus routes to villages higher up on the cliffs. The proceeds go to the national park.

If availability is limited in the villages, stay in Levanto or La Spezia 

Levanto and La Spezia bookend Cinque Terre and are included in Cinque Terre train tickets, so if you're booking last minute and the villages are sold out, try here (I prefer Levanto – La Spezia is a bigger city).

Support local businesses

Like all overtouristed areas, Cinque Terre's future depends on how tourists treat it. Shop at local artisan shops for souvenirs and eat at restaurants that utilize local products like marinated anchovies and regional wine. The latter is an important one – young locals replanting vineyards are helping to stabilize the fragile cliff terraces.

Take care on the trails

Cinque Terre's footpaths are so famous that you can often feel cushioned against nature, but these are vertiginous, cliffside trails that at times are lethally narrow. Always stop to take a photo, rather than walking with your camera, to avoid missteps. Wear decent shoes (flip flops are banned and there are checks at the trailheads) and bring plenty of water, as there's very little shade. Always stick to the designated path – this is an exceptionally fragile environment. And, of course, don't litter.

This article was first published Mar 1, 2018 and updated Apr 8, 2024.

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The 6 Best Italian Road Trips

By Kris Fordham

Amalfi Coast

Known for its dramatic bluffs, pastel-hued villages, and cliff-hugging roads, the Amalfi Coast is arguably Italy’s most scenic stretch of coastline. From Salerno, drive west to the charming village of Vietri sul Mare, the starting point of the 30-mile coastal road proper (the SS163 Amalfitana). You’ll take this all the way to Sorrento, but be careful: The roads become increasingly narrow—and the views increasingly distracting—the closer you get to Amalfi.

Where to stop: Positano , for its surreal, steep geography and show-stopping views; Ravello, for the romantic gardens at Villas Cimbrone and Rufolo; and Amalfi, for its touristy-but-charming seaside village, home to the spectacular Duomo di Sant'Andrea.

Where to eat: A’ Paranza in Atrani for fresh seafood and Cumpà Cosimo in Ravello for Mama Netta’s reliably delicious homemade pasta.

Where to stay: The iconic Le Sirenuse ; the glamorous, celebrity-studded Belmond Hotel Caruso ; or the blissfully secluded, 20-room Monastero Santa Rosa —one of the world’s most beautiful clifftop hotels .

Tuscan Wine Country

Tuscany’s bucolic, vineyard-dotted landscape makes for the quintessential Italian road trip. Start in Florence and cruise south on the SS22 for 30 minutes until you reach the heart of the Chianti wine region. Take your time winding through Strada and Greve towards Siena, stopping at cantine along the way (we recommend these ones ). Depending on how much time you have, spend the night in Panzano before circling back up to Florence the next day, or head further south to Montalcino, Montepulciano, and the spectacular Val d’Orcia—arguably the most beautiful stretch of countryside in Tuscany.

Where to stop: Ruffino’s sprawling Poggio Casciano estate for truffle hunting and tasting ; Antinori nel Chianti Classico for its Instagram-worthy glass-and-steel winery and equally show-stopping wine; Tenuta Il Greppo , where the first Brunello di Montalcino was bottled in 1888.

Where to eat: Officina della Bistecca in Panzano-in-Chianti for the best steak in all of Tuscany; Re di Macchia in Montalcino for its classic, hearty Tuscan cuisine like white bean soup and wild boar pasta.

Where to stay: In castles, always. We like the intimate, art-filled Castello di Ama in Gaiole in Chianti and the lavish, hilltop Castello Banfi il Borgo in Montalcino, which has an infinity pool overlooking the vineyards.

The Northern Lakes

Want to mix road tripping with a little romance? Head to Italy’s postcard-perfect Lake District and spend a week cruising leisurely from east to west, stopping to explore a new lake each day: Garda first, then Iseo, Como , Lugano, and Maggiore (each is spectacular in their own way). Short on time? Como’s 31-mile shoreline—strung with beautiful villages, lavish Renaissance palazzi and ancient ruins—is worthy of a road trip all on its own.

Where to stop: Villa Melzi in Bellagio on Lake Como for its dreamy, azalea-filled gardens; the 17th-century Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo for its sculptures and equally Instagram-worthy gardens; Castello Scaligero in Sirmione for its sweeping views over Lake Garda; Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore for its Baroque Palace and lovely fishing village.

Where to eat: Market Place in Como serves up great seasonal cuisine that’s simple yet sophisticated (the current dinner menu includes squid-ink spaghetti and cod with anchovies and artichokes). Silvio, a Bellagio mainstay since 1919, is known for its terrific seafood, caught fresh from the lake daily.

Where to stay: The sleek and newly- Hot Listed Il Sereno ; the iconic and palatial Grand Hotel Tremezzo ; or the lovely, low-key RivaLago on the quieter (and significantly more cost-effective) Lake Iseo .

The Dolomites

Just south of the Alps, the Dolomite mountain range makes for one of the world’s most breathtaking alpine drives. The 86-mile Grande Strada delle Dolomiti, or the Great Dolomites Road, starts at Cortina d’Ampezzo (two hours’ drive north of Venice), climbs up to Falzarego Pass and eventually ends in Bolzano in Trentino-Alto Adige. Though you can do the entire drive in under four hours, we recommend taking at least two days to allow for hikes, detours and an overnight stop in the beautiful alpine villages of Canazei or Castelrotto.

Where to stop: Falzarego Pass for a ride on the Lagazuoi Cable Car (it takes you to the top of Mount Lagazuoi, where you can enjoy the best views over the Dolomites’ craggy, sawtooth peaks).

Where to eat: Aga in San Vito di Cadore, near Cortina, for its extraordinary “zero-kilometer” cuisine (nearly all ingredients are grown or foraged within miles of the kitchen); El Pael in Canazei for its traditional Trentino dishes like venison stew with polenta and salted beef with beans.

Where to stay: The ADLER Mountain Lodge , with its heated outdoor infinity pool, luxurious chalets, and magnificent alpine spa, is the swankiest hotel in Castelrotto. In Bolzano, the Vigilius Resort and Spa has a similarly sleek, modern-alpine design and roomy suites with mountain-facing terraces.

Shannon McMahon

Mark Ellwood

Chris Schalkx

Emily Saladino

Sicilian Coast

With its dramatic and diverse coastline—powdery white sands to the north and pebbly, windswept shores to the south—the island of Sicily makes for the perfect road trip for beach lovers. Start in Palermo and drive west to the Zingaro Nature Reserve, where you’ll find a collection of Italy’s most beautiful beaches. Stay the night in the nearby seaside village of San Vito Lo Capo, then head south towards Trapani the next morning, before cutting an eastbound trail along the coast until you reach Noto . Though you can knock the trip out in three days or less, take at least a week to enjoy the journey.

Where to stop: Cala Tonnarella in the Zingaro Nature Reserve for its bone-white sand and Bermuda-blue water; the walled medieval town of Erice, for its sweeping birds-eye panoramas over the island; Scala dei Turchi , for its chalk-white cliffs and fiery bronze sands; and Noto , for its breezy seaside charm and Sicilian Baroque architecture.

Where to eat: The 125-year-old Caffè Sicilia in Noto for its magnificent gelato and almond-milk granita ; Ristorante La Madia in Licata for its Michelin-starred traditional Sicilian cuisine (it’s widely regarded as the best restaurant on the island).

Where to stay: Rocco Forte’s sprawling, fruit-tree-flanked Verdura Resort houses the best spa in Italy and its own private beach; the charming and intimate 7 Rooms Villadorata has the luxury of a five-star hotel with the charm of a bed-and-breakfast.

Umbrian Countryside

They don’t call Umbria the “green heart of Italy” for nothing: its countryside—peppered with sleepy hamlets, Romanesque churches and Renaissance castles—is wild, lush, and feels magically undiscovered. Start at the scenic hilltop town of Spoleto (it’s a two-hour drive from Rome and the perfect introduction to the region) then cruise east towards the pretty walled town of Norcia. After fuelling up on Norcia’s famous black truffles and salumi , drive west to the wine region of Montefalco , where you’ll spend the night. The next few days, soak in some culture and history in Assisi and Perugia, and end your trip in Orvieto.

Where to stop: The Valnerina, an astonishingly verdant wooded valley dotted with craggy peaks; the immense, fresco-filled Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi; the 16th-century Rocca Paolina and Palazzo dei Priori in Perugia.

Where to eat: Umbria is something of a gastronomic playground and you’re guaranteed to find delicious homemade cuisine in every village you stop in (ask for the local pasta, stringozzi , often topped with fresh-shaved local truffles). Our favorites for traditional Umbrian cuisine are Il Tempio del Gusto in Spoleto, Locanda del Teatro in Montefalco and La Taverna in Perugia. On your way to Orvieto, make sure to stop in Todi for some gelato at Bar Pianegiani .

Where to stay: The elegant and historic Palazzo Seneca in Norcia, a Relais & Chateaux property built in a 16th-century palace; and the luxurious, art-filled Palazzo Bontadosi boutique hotel in Montefalco for its sweeping views and rather sexy, crystal-adorned underground hammam.

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Driving Italy’s Adriatic Coast: a two week itinerary

Jo Williams

• Adriatic Coast road trip

While many Italian road trip itineraries focus on the cultural north of the country, there is plenty to do in the southern regions too. The archaeological sites of Sicily , the pizza in Naples, and the stunning Abbey of Monte Cassino, to name but a few.

But to truly get off the beaten path, travel to the east coast of Italy where forgotten towns, idyllic nature reserves, and an entirely separate country-within-a-country are waiting to be discovered.

From the border with Slovenia in Friuli-Venezia Giulia all the way down to Italy’s ‘heel’ in Puglia, Italy’s Adriatic coast mirrors Croatia’s celebrated coastline just a few hundred kilometres across the water.

Wide open beaches attract Italian holidaymakers in northern towns like Rimini and Ancona, but a little further south, the countryside opens up with vast mountain ranges, wildlife-rich peninsulas, and a warm and authentic hospitality that often involves some of the most authentic food you will ever come across.

Take a trip along the Italian Adriatic coast and you will discover a whole new side to this top European destination.

Why visit Italy's east coast?

With names eponymous to Italy like Cinque Terre , Pisa, Rome , Naples, Sorrento, Pompeii and the Amalfi, the western shore often gets a lot of the tourism limelight. But the eastern coast of Italy has some impressive sights hidden up its sleeve too - like Venice .

Then there’s the mosaic city of Ravenna , the independent country of San Marino , the ancient cave houses of Matera, and the sun-bathed region of Puglia. South of Venice, the traffic jams (and horns) disappear, the tedious queues for historical attractions are noticeably absent, and the food seems to get better and better. 

The itinerary

Our suggested two-week itinerary of Italy’s Adriatic Coast includes plenty of options for places to visit depending on the season . You can hit the beaches in the summer, visit historic cities in Autumn, or head up to the mountains in the winter.

This Adriatic Coast itinerary focuses mainly on history, nature, and the landscapes of Italy’s east coast whilst aiming to avoid crowds. Of course, if you have never visited Venice or Bologna you should absolutely add them to your list!

Bari’s beaches & Alberobello: 1 night

Start your trip in the southeastern region of Puglia in the port of Bari, one of the biggest cities on the east coast of Italy. It's an art and cultural hub for the south and a major transport hub for ferries to Greece and beyond.

From here, the sun-lounger-laden beaches of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare are a great place to start in the summer months. Further south, the whitewashed old town of Ostuni and the unique Trulli houses of Alberobello make for fascinating day trips with a history dating back to the Palaeolithic times.

If you want to stay longer, you can also visit the Grotte di Castellana , an impressive subterranean cave system not far from the city.

The city of Lecce is another option in winter; it’s an up-and-coming tourist destination and a growing hub for digital nomads. With a young crowd and a heady nightlife scene, the baroque buildings are increasingly becoming home to trendy cafes and art exhibitions.

Recommendations:

Stay at Il Pumo in the city centre. Note you will have to pay for parking.

Visit Polignano a Mare (you can also do a boat tour )

Book a day trip to Alberobello and the Apulian towns

Matera: 2 nights

While the mountainous region of Basilicata is not strictly on the east coast of Italy, you can’t miss a visit to Matera when you are this close! Visiting the Sassi District, with its tufa limestone cave dwellings, is like exploring a living film set.

The compelling history of Matera has also earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, and it’s a fascinating place to learn about. Spend at least two nights here to really get a feel for the place and to sample some of Basilicata’s best local dishes.

Stay at Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita a historic cave hotel in the old town or try Antica Mateola for more parking options.

Visit the Sassi District.

Book a guided tour of Parco Murgia to see Matera's famous underground churches.

Gargano National Park & Tremiti Islands: 2 nights

For nature lovers, head north to the Gargano Peninsula. Gargano's Umbra Forest is a protected nature reserve crisscrossed with hiking and mountain biking trails.

A short boat ride away, the Tremiti Archipelago is a good place to try diving or snorkelling as it lies within a marine protected area.

Back on the mainland, the small neighbouring region of Molise sees very few visitors compared to Puglia. Termoli, a fishing town on the Adriatic coast of Italy, is probably the best-known spot in the region.

Further inland, experience unspoiled nature in the Molisano Apennines, with peaks over 2,000 metres - the area is perfect for skiing and winter sports in the winter months.

Stay at Dimora Marinucci or suebi rooms in Termoli.

Visit Gargano National Park

Book a snorkelling trip to the Tremiti Islands

Sulmona & Campo Imperatore: 2 nights

In neighbouring Abruzzo, stunning mountain drives on empty winding roads make for some of the best driving in Italy . Head up to Campo Imperatore, a highland plain in the shadow of the Apennines' highest peak - the 2912-metre-high Corno Grande.

Nearby the medieval hill town of Santo Stefano di Sessanio is the perfect lunch stop - but pick your timings wisely as the village gives the word 'sleepy' a whole new meaning as much of it is uninhabited.

For a guaranteed meal, choose to stay further south in Sulmona, known for their local delicacy of sugar-coated almonds or ‘ confetti’

Stay at B&B Il Marchese Del Grillo a few steps from the main square in Sulmona

Visit Campo Imperatore

Conero Regional Park: 1 night

The next region you will encounter on your journey north is Marche. Unspoiled by resorts or international tourist crowds, hilltop towns scatter Marche’s rural landscapes. Small working villages look a lot like those in Tuscany , but you won’t find leather shops or expensive restaurants here.

Instead, visit endless fields of sunflowers in the summer months (Marche is Italy’s supplier of sunflower oil), and experience the array of wildlife and vast panoramas in Conero Regional Park -  just south of Ancona.

Stay at Seebay Hotel , situated in a beautiful spot between the ocean and the forest.

Visit Conero National Park

Book a boat tour along the Conero Riviera

San Marino: 2 nights

An absolute must-visit on the east coast of Italy, San Marino is the third smallest country in Europe. One of just three enclave countries in the entire world, San Marino is entirely surrounded by Italy but has retained its independence since it was founded in 301 AD.

As if that wasn’t enough of a reason to visit, it's also the world’s oldest republic but the democratic country isn’t stuck in the past. In 2022 San Marino voted in the world’s first openly gay head of state ; Paolo Rondelli is an LGBT activist and one of two captains regent - the elected leaders of the country.

Make sure to visit the fairytale-like three towers of Mount Titano, a symbol of the country that appears on the national flag.

Stay at Hotel Rosa with views of the Mount Titano

Visit Mount Titano and the tree towers of San Marino

Ravenna: 2 nights

The alluring Emilia-Romagna region is the birthplace of some of the best food in Italy. This includes prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (I learned the hard way not to call it ‘Parmesan’ in Italy), balsamic vinegar of Modena, and tagliatelle alla Bolognese (spaghetti bolognaise).

Another highlight is ‘Motor Valley’ where supercar companies Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati are based.

There’s plenty of culture, too with Bologna, home to the oldest university in Europe, the Renaissance palaces and theatres of Parma, and the former Western Roman Empire capital known as ‘The Mosaic City’ of Ravenna .

Stay at Casa Masoli in a 17th-century building near the centre of town.

Visit Bologna and do a food experience tour (arrange a meeting point in advance if not staying in Bologna)

Book a guided tour of Ravenna's mosaics

Chioggia: 1 night

Of course, Venice needs little introduction, but other lesser-known spots in the Veneto region include the twitchers paradise of Parco del Delta del Po, the colourful Burano, the fishing town of Caorle, and the ‘undiscovered’ Venice - Chioggia.

With fewer crowds, winding canals, gelato on tap, and colourful crumbling houses, Chioggia is the perfect place to spend the night.

Stay at Casa San Cristoforo , a pretty guesthouse in the city centre.

Book a sunset boat tour on the Venetian Lagoon.

Padua: 1 night

A little further inland from the coast there’s also Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet”, Lake Garda, and the often overlooked ‘City of the Saint’ - Padua.

You might be surprised to learn that Padua is 430 years older than Rome, with sights like the Scrovegni Chapel, Palazzo Bo and Galileo Galilei’s podium, and the daily markets of Piazza dei Signori.

Stay at the Le Camp Hotel and Spa in the historic centre of town.

Visit the Scrovegni Chapel and the Padua Cathedral.

Book a tour of the Prosecco Hills

How to do it

Travelling by car in italy.

The easiest way to see the best of Italy’s east coast beaches and the meandering Adriatic Coast is by hiring a car . There are tolls to pay on most major roads in Italy, and traffic is limited in many historical centres and tourist-heavy cities.

Be prepared to pay for parking and walk from your car to the hotel if you're staying in historic centres.

You can work out the costs in advance using the Michelin Route Planner , and avoid fines by checking the relevant ZTL website before visiting (you can also search ‘non ZTL car parks’ on Google Maps).

Unfortunately, because ZTL regulations are determined individually by each city there is no standardised approach, but it is generally easy to spot the areas by a sign with a red circle and the words “Zona Traffico Limitato” in the old city centres. 

Explore the Adriatic Coast by train

If driving in Italy sends a shiver down your spine, or perhaps you want to travel more sustainably, many of Italy’s Adriatic coastal towns are easily accessible by train. The country has a great network of reliable and affordable trains run by Trenitalia and Italo Treno.

The Frecciabianca Adriatic coastal train from Rimini to Lecce takes in some spectacular scenery with stops at Ancona, Pescara, Foggia, and Bari. Tickets for the entire six-hour journey cost less than 60 Euro.

If you have more time

Of course, if you have more time, you can always linger for longer in any of the above destinations: there's enough to explore. Otherwise, bordering Austria, Slovenia, and the Adriatic Sea, the northeastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia is best known for the jagged Dolomite Mountains. But its small coastline has some interesting spots to visit too.

The seaside town of Grado on the edges of the Marano Lagoon doesn’t have the sandy beaches of nearby Lignano Sabbiadoro. Still, the cycle paths and walkways make it a relaxing place to explore - even during the crowded summer months.

Trieste is the capital city of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region and is close to Italy’s border with Slovenia. From here, you can easily hop over to what was once declared the ‘ World's Most Sustainable Country ’ to visit the Venetian coastal town of Piran, the Skocjan Caves , and the rock castle of Predjama.

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Author - Jo Williams

Jo Williams is a freelance writer with 10 years' experience working in travel and tourism. A Brit who got fed up with the 9 to 5 corporate life, she sold everything to become a full-time wanderer.

Jo has travelled to over 70 countries and worked throughout Europe for a major tour operator. She hopes to inspire you to work less and travel more.

Last Updated 21 January 2024

18-step Italy Adriatic Coast Road Trip Itinerary

This Italy Adriatic coast road trip itinerary was created to invite avid travelers to discover many Italian destinations that are still off the tourist radar.

The East Coast of Italy has always been there, yet you have always overlooked it, dazzled by snapshots of the West Coast. 

Nevertheless, the Italian Adriatic Coast is extraordinary and will also allow you to travel in Italy while saving a lot of money.

In this itinerary, I propose the 18 most interesting places on Italy’s Adriatic Coast that will make you explore Eastern Italy off the beaten path.

You will discover the east coast from north to south, starting from the city of Trieste and ending at the southern tip of Italy’s heel in Puglia.

I’ve included seaside towns, cities, and of course incredible beaches in Puglia and the other regions you’ll pass through: Marche , Abruzzo , Emilia Romagna , and Veneto .

If you’d rather travel the Adriatic Coast of Italy by train, know that most of the towns and cities I’ve listed are well connected by public transportation.

18-step Italy Adriatic Coast road trip itinerary

The city of Trieste is located almost at the extreme eastern edge of the Italian Adriatic Coast, very close to the border with Slovenia.

This border location, so close also to Austria and Eastern Europe, makes Trieste a unique city in Italy . 

Summer is the best time to visit Trieste. In winter, is always threatened by the dreaded “Bora” wind, which picked as its favorite destination this part of the eastern coast of Italy.

Instead, in the warmer months, many Italians choose to vacation in Trieste to enjoy the pleasant evening breeze, while in other Italian cities, one hardly leaves home because of the heat.

The city, which overlooks the Gulf of Trieste, is people-friendly and… pet-friendly ! You will be surprised to find so many walk-only areas in the historic center, so you will be comfortable walking around even with small children.

Four-legged friends are welcome in most supermarkets, restaurants, and public transportation, which is also quite rare in Italy!

Another attraction of Trieste is the historic cafes , which were born in the period of great cultural ferment between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

These include Antico Caffè San Marco and Caffè Tommaseo . These venues are large and have historic furnishings, and are far from typical Italian cafes and more like Austrian and Central European ones.

Trieste is the birthplace of Umberto Saba, one of the greatest Italian poets that there founded the bookshop Libreria Antiquaria Umberto Saba .

If you are looking for nice beaches near Trieste , just very close there are none. To take a dip and cool off in the summer months, travel along the coast for about 5 km and go to the area known as Pineta di Barcola .

There is no real beach, but it is here that locals go for a swim.

2 Lignano Sabbiadoro

Driving along Eastern Italy’s coast from Trieste in the direction of Venice, you will come across a beach that is very popular among locals, namely Lignano Sabbiadoro Beach.

It is named for the golden color of the sand ( sabbiadoro means golden sand ).

This well-maintained 7-km-long beach is a favorite place for locals to spend a weekend or the entire summer.

Beach clubs, children’s playgrounds ( Pirates Island ), places to have a drink, and seafood restaurants abound along the beach.

3 Lido di Jesolo

Moving slightly further south we enter the Veneto Region and reach the beaches of Venice : Lido di Jesolo and Cavallino.

If you wonder which are the most beautiful beaches near Venice, you can find them here. 

The sea is not as clean as in southern Italy, but still, it is safe for swimming.

This beach is long, sandy, and spacious, as well as equipped with all facilities.

If you travel with a dog you will surely know how to enjoy these 24 km of beach at the gates of Venice.

Lignano Sabbiadoro is also a pleasant place to use as a base for visiting nearby Venice , avoiding crowded hotels and the dizzying prices of the city on the water.

One of the most famous cities in the world you can visit just by taking a road trip on the Italian east coast.

If you are traveling in Eastern Italy with little money and a private car, it is best to stay outside Venice.

If you don’t want to stay in one of the small towns along the beaches near Venice we just mentioned, then consider the village of Mira .

Mira is located 20 km west of Venice and runs along the Naviglio del Brenta River, which then flows into the Venice Lagoon.

Near Mira, there are airbnbs, hotels, and a campground. From here you can reach Venice by bus in about 40 minutes.

You can then visit all the architectural wonders of Venice, such as Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo, and back to the small off-the-tourist-track village.

The city of Padua stands 40 km from the Adriatic coast, and it would be a shame not to visit during your trip in search of Eastern Italy’s hidden gems .

From Padua, you can easily reach Venice by train in half an hour, and vice versa.

This small city in northern Italy has a historic center that you can get around on foot within 3-4 hours.

What will win you over about Padua is its architecture and youthful atmosphere (in fact, one of Europe’s first universities was founded here, in the Palazzo Bo building).

Along the alleys and small streets of Padua, you will see porticoes , which add charm to the houses and protect passersby from the rain, as in the better-known city of Bologna.

Padua is famous in Italy for its medieval frescoes , especially those by Giotto in the Scrovegni Chapel , but it also has other noteworthy historical landmarks, such as:

• Ragione Palace
• Piazza delle Erbe
• Basilica of San’Antonio
• Jewish Ghetto
• Prato della Valle Square
• Padua is also noted for its many pretty cafes and the monumental historic café “ Caffè Pedrocchi .”

Chioggia is a municipality in the metropolitan city of Venice, located about 30 km south of Venice.

It is also called “Little Venice ” precisely because of its characteristic and picturesque canals.

The historic center of Chioggia stands on a group of small islands connected by bridges.

The major points of interest in Chioggia are:

• The 17th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
• The Clock Tower or Tower of Sant’ Andrea, a 14-century bell tower 30 meters high that houses one of the oldest clocks in the world.
• Piazzetta Vigo, is the social heart of the city, with many bars and restaurants.
• The fish market, where 30 exhibitors display their catch under the shelter of a red marquee.

If you visit Chioggia in the summer, you should also drop by the Island of Sottomarina , where a large equipped beach will be the perfect place to spend a relaxing day, always far away from tourists.

The east coast of Italy is home to a city with an incredible historical heritage; it is Ravenna, one of northern Italy’s most stunning cities .

Ravenna, throughout its history, has been the capital of 3 empires:

• Western Roman Empire,
• Empire of the Goths
• Byzantine Empire

Eight of the city’s monuments are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site:

• Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
• Neonian Baptistery
• Baptistery of the Arians
• Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo
• Archiepiscopal Chapel of St. Andrew
• Mausoleum of Theodoric
• Basilica of San Vitale
• Basilica of Sant Apollinare in Classe

The mosaics of Ravenna represent the richest heritage of mosaics in the world , dating from the 5th and 6th centuries.

Ravenna is therefore a highly recommended stop for all art lovers who are reading this itinerary for a road trip to the Adriatic coast in Italy.

If you are on a diet, it may be best to avoid visiting Ravenna. In fact, the cuisine of Romagna is irresistible.

You may have heard of the flatbread piadina , to be filled with cold cuts and cheese. You can try it at “La Piadina del Melarancio.” And then there are cappelletti and tagliatelle with meat sauce. You can try them at the Ca de Ven restaurant.

If you are traveling with children, you have the opportunity to make them happy by taking them to Mirabilandia amusement park , located about 15 km south of Ravenna.

8 Lido di Dante

The most beautiful beach near Ravenna is named after Dante, the famous poet who is buried in the city.

You get to this beach by driving along a dusty road bordered by fields.

Then you are faced first with a pine forest and then with a quiet free beach.

This beach is frequented by the locals, those who like peace and quiet and do not need beach clubs. An off-the-beaten-path beach. 

Take water, a sun umbrella, and something to eat with you, and you will feel in paradise for a day.

If you say the name of this city in front of an Italian friend, what he will immediately think of is wide beaches, the sea, and nightclubs.

It is for the summer recreation and vacation offerings that this city has made its name over the past 60 years.

But Rimini is much more than that. Rimini is home to some of the most interesting historical landmarks in Italy . Here are some of them:

• Surgeon’s Domus – An archaeological site that includes a villa where a surgeon probably lived, as suggested by the many instruments found and the theme of a beautiful mosaic that has been restored and can be admired.
• Tiberius Bridge – Emperor Augustus commissioned the bridge’s construction, beginning in 14 B.C. Emperor Tiberius completed it. The beautiful and functional Istrian stone bridge can be admired from the Piazza on the water at the foot of the arches, where there is also a trail telling the history of the bridge.
• 15th-century Rimini Cathedral -the facade is inspired by the Roman triumphal arch. The interior preserves masterpieces such as a crucifix by Giotto and a fresco by Piero della Francesca.
• Arch of Augustus – the oldest arch in northern Italy dates back to 27 BC. This is where those arriving in Rimini from the Flaminian Consular Way used to arrive.

Another jewel of Rimini is the Borgo San Giuliano district , which runs from one end of the Tiberius Bridge toward the sea. This area, an ancient fishing village, was chosen by the great director Federico Fellini for some of his films, such as Amarcord.

Here you will find murals inspired by Fellini’s films . The neighborhood is also a destination for fans of quiet aperitifs and candlelight dinners in restaurants with few tables.

The most buzzing nightlife in fact happens on the other side of town.

10 San Marino 

If you pass through Rimini, you can’t help but make a detour and visit the famous San Marino , the oldest republic in the world and also one of the smallest, with just over 30,000 inhabitants. 

Once you arrive, enter through the only gateway to the country , defended by guards in blue and orange uniforms, and you will feel like you have gone back in time.

Legend has it that San Marino was founded in 301 AD by Marino, a stone cutter escaping Christian persecution in Dalmatia. 

Marino gathered a small Christian community on Mount Titan, the highest of the 7 hills that make up San Marino.

The republic has maintained its independence ever since. Since 1992 it has been part of the United Nations.

San Marino is a picturesque destination with winding alleys filled with artisan workshops where you can buy beautiful souvenirs .

The heart of San Marino is Piazza della Libertà , where (if you pass through in the summer) you can watch the evocative changing of the guard that takes place every 30 minutes.

A must-do in San Marino is to walk along the “ witches’ pass .” This scenic route starts from the Castle at the highest point of the town and connects the three medieval towers (the ones featured on the republic’s coat of arms).

How to get to San Marino

The most fun part of the trip to San Marino begins after you park your car. In fact, there are two ways to get to San Marino by public transportation.

• The cable car , which leaves from Borgo Maggiore, will take your gaze over 200 kilometers of Adriatic Coast.
• There is also an electric train that connects Rimini and San Marino.

11 Cattolica 

Bet you’ve never heard of Cattolica, a beloved beach destination in Italy.

Beaches on Italy’s Adriatic coast stand out for the services offered to families with children, and Cattolica is at the top of the list.

This Italian coastal town repopulates from May to September when hotels and beach clubs begin to welcome back many local travelers in search of relaxation and vacation.

The food market is one of the liveliest spots in town, and here you will find local produce useful if you want to try to imitate the excellent cuisine of Romagna.

You could also head to Cattolica’s port in the early morning hours and buy fish directly from the fishermen.

Instead, if you prefer to eat out, sit down at the Osteria del Murè on Via Lungo Tavollo 2, near the port, it specializes in freshly caught fish dishes.

Children, in addition to the beach, will love visiting the Cattolica Aquarium and watching the spectacle of the fountains that are colored with different lights starting at sunset.

The hinterland also deserves attention. Five kilometers southwest of Cattolica is Gradara , one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Italy .

The village spreads within the perfectly preserved walls of the fortified castle, also known as Rocca Malatestiana.

Noble and powerful Italian families such as the Malatesta, Sforza, and Della Rovere families lived here.

The castle is accessed via a drawbridge that will take you back to the Middle Ages.

Of the castle you can visit rooms steeped in history:

• Torture Room
• Passion Room
• Lucrezia Borgia Room.

The absolute protagonists of this village’s past are Paolo and Francesca, whose tragic love story is recounted in Dante’s Inferno .

The city of Ancona, the capital of the Marche Region, is much underrated. One should pass through here if only because it overlooks the sea. 

And the sea is also clean despite the fact that it hosts a port from which ferries also depart for Croatia.

The city also features masterpieces of art and architecture, including contemporary ones. Mark these places:

• Cathedral of St. Cyriac – In the 4th century B.C., the Doric Greeks chose the top of a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea to build a temple to Venus Euplea, protector of sailors. Centuries later the temple became an early Christian basilica and, in the 14th century, was transformed into a beautiful cathedral that combines Romanesque and Byzantine styles.
• Mole Vanvitelliana – In the first half of the 18th century, architect Vanvitelli (creator of the Reggia di Caserta), built at the behest of the Pope an artificial island with a pentagonal structure. This fortified structure functioned as a cargo warehouse and quarantine for those landing at the port. Today it hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and the Omero Tactile Museum , the only example of its kind in Italy.
• Piazza del Plebiscito – Also known as Piazza del Papa, it is the social heart of Ancona. The square is overlooked by the Government Palace, the Clock Tower, cafes, and restaurants.
• Street art neighborhood – the Capodimonte neighborhood in Ancona has become famous for its murals. You can find them in the underpass that connects Via Cialdini to Via Astagno.

13 Conero Coast – better than the Amalfi Coast

From beautiful Ancona, driving south, you will come to a point where the coast has a promontory-it is the Conero Regional Park . This stop just cannot miss on your Adriatic Coast itinerary.

Conero is one of the most beautiful places to see in Le Marche. The main attraction of this region is the beaches surrounded by woods and washed by the turquoise sea .

Pin the most beautiful beaches in Le Marche from which to enjoy a spectacular sunrise:

• Mezzavalle Beach
• Due Sorelle Beach
• Urbani Beach
• Spiaggia del Frate

These are just some of the gems of the Conero region, but you will see that they are also among the most beautiful beaches on the Italian Adriatic Coast!

In addition to the beaches, it is worth visiting the small villages that have extraordinary sea views, such as Sirolo and Numana .

14 Trabocchi Coast Abruzzo 

The beauties of the east coast of Italy continue and multiply by heading even further south and entering the Abruzzo Region . 

We are officially in southern Italy.

Abruzzo is famous for genuine, flavorful food . Certainly, this quality combines well with relaxation on one of the region’s many blue-flag beaches . 

In fact, the Costa dei Trabocchi , which stretches 60 km from the town of Ortona to Vasto, boasts 100 percent blue flag beaches.

Here are my favorite ones:

• San Vito Chietino beach
• Fossacesia Marina beach
• Punta Aderci Beach (Nature Reserve).

Most of these are pebble beaches, and the sea is crystal clear.

The Costa dei Trabocchi is named for the presence of old wooden pilings on the sea from which fishermen lowered nets into the water. 

Today the trabocchi house mouthwatering seafood restaurants , such as Trabocco Punta Fornace.

The town of Ortona is also worth a visit, especially during a summer evening. Stroll along Corso Garibaldi, which has a beautiful view of the sea, and enjoy the best gelato in town , that of Giogoloso.

15 Gargano: best Beaches on the Italian Adriatic Coast

Now we have arrived in Puglia, world-famous for its beaches and picturesque villages built with white stone .

It is the white color of the cliffs overlooking the sea that will attract your attention as you travel along the Adriatic coast of Italy.

The Gargano is a promontory that is home to a national park . The greatest treasure here is the beaches, among the most beautiful in southern Italy.

I recommend that you first stop in Vieste , a picturesque coastal town, and explore the beaches to the north and south of the town. Your eyes will be filled with white and blue.

The most beautiful Gargano beaches are:

• Spiaggia del Castello in Vieste, home to the so-called Pizzomunno, a distinctive 25-meter-high limestone monolith
• Crovatico beach
• Baia dei colombi (Pigeon Bay)
• Baia delle Zagare
• Beach of the Arch of San Felice
• Baia della Pergola

The towns that line the Apulian coast are built on flat limestone boulders that plunge into the clear blue sea. Consider visiting, in addition to Vieste:

• Manfredonia

For lovers of nature walks, the Umbra Forest , a natural wonder home to monumental trees, would be worth adding to the itinerary. 

This forest is included in the UNESCO heritage site “Primordial beech forests of the Carpathians and other regions of Europe.”

The forest, which is rich in animal and plant biodiversity, is the perfect place to shelter from the scorching sun in July and August.

16 Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is the most famous coastal town in Puglia . 

Like those you have just passed through on your road trip itinerary on Italy’s Adriatic coast, it spreads out on a limestone rock that dominates the coast.

This rock hides fascinating caves bathed by the sea that becomes increasingly crystal clear as we travel south.

Polignano is known in Italy as the “ town of poems .” In fact, in every nook and cranny of the houses in the historic center, a guy named “Guido il Flaneur” has transcribed original poetic verses or those of great authors, in agreement with the owners of the houses (and therefore the walls eh!)

The town is not very small. The part towards the hinterland has been inhabited since the 18th century.

The oldest part, the part founded by the Greeks, overlooks the sea, a maze of narrow streets to explore.

Historical landmarks to see in Polignano include:

• Aldo Moro Square, the social hub of the town
• 13th-century Church of Santa Maria Assunta (Polignano Cathedral)
• Clock Tower
• 19th-century Bourbon Bridge (from which to admire the narrow, long beach “Lama di Polignano,” a symbol of the town
• 10th-century Benedictine Abbey of San Vito.

Polignano is also a foodie destination. Try the special “ tiella barese ” with rice potatoes and mussels and the special coffee with cream, amaretto, and lemon zest.

Besides being the gateway to the most beautiful part of the Apulian coast, Lecce is in every way the most beautiful city in Puglia .

In Italy, Lecce is characterized as the “ capital of Baroque ,” as this style and period of Italian art, produced unique and unparalleled masterpieces here. 

So if you love architecture and open-air museums, this city is for you.

Enter through Porta Napoli , a 16th-century portal, and head to Via Umberto 1, where you will find two of the city’s iconic Baroque buildings:

• Palazzo Adorno
• Basilica di Santa Croce
• Other monuments you will enjoy photographing include:
• The Roman amphitheater and theater
• Castle of Charles 5
• Cathedral of Lecce

The typical food of Lecce is very tempting and very spiced with herbs.

• Rustici leccesi are small puff pastry buns filled with tomato, mozzarella cheese, and béchamel.
• Puccia is a typical soft bread to be filled with toppings as desired.
• Desserts include pasticciotto leccese , to be eaten hot, filled with lemon cream, ricotta, or chocolate.

The town is full of places to enjoy great food, such as Osteria da Angiulino for meat dishes and Osteria 203 for fish dishes.

The Salento Coast is said to have the most enchanting beaches in peninsular Italy, and it probably does.

This part of the East coast of Italy begins at Lecce and continues south to the point where the Adriatic Sea merges with the Ionian Sea.

Salento is taken by storm during the summer months, particularly by young people in their 20s and 30s, eager for the sea and sun and to dance to taranta and reggae music, which are widespread in this region.

It is believed that the hospitality of the locals is due to the fact that Salento has been a crossroads of different cultures. So, if you wish to learn about the character and culture of southern Italians , this is a very welcoming place to do so.

This is certainly reflected in the architecture of the villages and towns . They are well worth a visit:

• Marina di Castro

As for the sea in Salento, it is crystal clear. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy can be found in Salento. 

Some stretches of the coast are rocky and host striking caves .

Swimming and snorkeling here will be a blast. Remember to visit:

• Torre Specchia Beach
• Bay of the Turks
• Torre dell’ Orso
• Caves of Terrarico
• Cipolliane Caves

For this Adriatic Coast Italy road trip itinerary, I have chosen 18 of the stops that I feel are a must to get passionate about this wonderful part of the Mediterranean.

There are other towns and villages worth visiting, but I wanted to make a selection, partly because it will be difficult to see everything in one trip to the Italian east coast.

The best time to travel is between May and October .

In July and August you will meet many more local travelers, but never as many as the crowds that flock to the west coast and islands (except around Rimini and Salento).

During this road trip, you will make a true immersion in local Italian culture , amplified because, in many of these destinations, you don’t see as many foreign travelers, for example in Le Marche and Abruzzo. 

Always remember to explore the hinterland as well, for an even more off-the-beaten-path experience of the east side of Italy.

Let me know which destinations you have chosen to add to your itinerary on the Italian Adriatic coast Italy.

Related Articles from the Blog

If you liked this ItalyEast Coast road trip, I suggest you read some of my other travel articles.

• Top places to visit in Italy in the summer
• Best natural wonders in Italy
• A guide to visiting the Trabocchi Coast in Abruzzo
• The top undiscovered Italian beach town
• 22 Best Weekend Trips from Rome Italy in 2023

I’m Lisa, an Italian from Rome who one day discovered she finds incredible joy in traveling to new places. With this blog, I help you discover Italy (especially Rome and its surroundings) as a local would. Find out more about me here .

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Explore Italy's Adriatic Coast

 Peter Unger / Getty Images

Italy's east coast runs along the Adriatic Sea from the border of Slovenia to the heel of the boot, the Salento Peninsula. A rail line runs along the coast from the city of Trieste in the north to Lecce in the south, although it's necessary to change trains at least once to make the entire trip. A highway also runs along the coast, so it's possible to drive the whole route.

Our Adriatic Coast itinerary starts in the northeast region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia .​ ​Grado and Lignano are top seaside resort towns in this area. The Lagoons of Marano and Grado are dotted with small islands and are full of birds so it's a great area for boat excursions. There's a small airport at Trieste.

Of course, the most visited place on Italy's east coast is the city of Venice , one of Italy's top cities and most romantic places. Venice is a city of canals and its main square, Piazza San Marco, is the top place to go in the city. Venice's architecture is a unique blend of eastern and western styles, and sights include the unusual Saint Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and stunning churches and mansions.

Since Venice is a car-free city, it's best visited on a train itinerary and for those who wish to start or end in Venice, there's an airport with flights to other parts of Italy and Europe.

Another city of canals on the east coast is the fishing port of Chioggia , sometimes called Little Venice , although it lacks the magnificent monuments. There's a beach in Chioggia and during summer a tourist ferry runs between Chioggia and Venice, making it a good alternative to staying in Venice.

Rimini and the Adriatic Coast of Emilia Romagna

If you're traveling by car, the next stop along would be the Po Delta , one of Europe's largest wetland areas with over 300 species of birds. Comacchio is a pretty fishing village and gateway to the southern lagoon, a protected area where you can take a boat ride or walk or bike along the pathways.

Farther south, Cesenatico is a pretty seaside town with a canal through its center.​

The seaside resort town of Rimini is known for its miles of sandy beaches and its nightlife. The town has an interesting historic center and Roman remains and was the birthplace of film director Federico Fellini. To the north and south of Rimini are smaller seaside resort towns with good beaches, offering a more laid-back beach vacation. 

From the Spur to the Heel of the Boot: The Puglia Coast of Southern Italy

Puglia is a long, thin region that starts at the Gargano Promontory , the spur of the boot , and continues to the Salento Peninsula , the toe of the boot . Much of the Puglia region is coastline , and Puglia is well known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and charming coastal towns.

Trani is one of the prettiest towns in this part of the Adriatic coast. Trani's cathedral, in a beautiful setting on the harbor near the castle, is one of the best examples of a Romanesque church in Puglia, with fantastic carvings on the exterior and beautiful floor mosaics in the crypt.

The town of Giovinazzo , just north of Bari, is a small fishing town that makes a good place to relax and take in the local life. 

Bari , about halfway down the coast, is Puglia's biggest seaside city. It has an interesting medieval center, a seaside promenade, and a port. Travelers often take the ferry to Greece from either Bari or Brindisi, another coastal city further south.

Continuing past Bari, the sandy beach at Polignano a Mare is in a small bay sheltered by the towering limestone cliffs on which the picturesque town is perched. The beach is one of the beaches in Puglia that's earned the blue flag award for cleanliness and environmental friendliness. 

Though it's not on the sea, we recommend a visit to Lecce , a beautiful baroque city referred to as the Florence of the South. It's one of the larger cities of the Salento Peninsula, but its historic center is compact and walkable.

Just about everywhere on the coast of the Salento Peninsula, you'll find great beaches, clear down to Santa Maria di Leuca , on the very tip. Here the climate is very mild, giving a long season to the popular beaches. The whitewashed town itself is pretty and has a good seaside promenade with trendy nightclubs.

Another top Salento town to visit is Otranto , whose cathedral has an unusual chapel of bones. Its old town, running along the sea from the castle, has a Greek feel and there's a beach within walking distance of the town. Also along this part of the coast, there are good beaches at Porto Badisco , known for its sea urchins, and Santa Cesarea Terme , known for its thermal springs.

The Top 23 Things to Do in Italy

Salento, Italy: Planning Your Trip

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Going to the Beach in Italy

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A Guide to Italy's Wine Regions

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Italy Coastal Tours & Vacations

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The cultural wealth at the heart of the Italian peninsula is irrefutable; however, along its entire coast lies shining gems of local culture and inspiring vistas of the sea. Enjoy a range of local cuisines and experiences as you venture from Amalfi to Puglia and encounter the country in a whole new light with a coastal Italy tour from Zicasso.

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Kings and queens, emperors and aristocracy once roamed the cobblestone-framed loggias and marbled hallways of preserved villas and opulent palaces across Italy. Follow in the footsteps of Bourbon royalty and witness the lavish collections of nobility in the Genoese Republic. Bask in the sunlight on private boats for views of the coastline and delight in the culture of secluded towns carved into the sloping maritime mountains. Your custom tailored tour immerses you in the luxuries of the faded aristocracy, indulging in the grandeurs of castles and the antique rooms of remarkable palaces overlooking Italy’s shimmering shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea.

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The Adriatic Sea shimmers with clear, turquoise waters and the whitewashed walls of the medieval towns will glimmer in the sunlight during your custom-tailored tour of Italy’s classic coastline. Fascinating grottoes take shape inside soaring limestone cliffs, and private beaches wind around hidden coves. History dates back to ancient Greek settlements, and medieval lanes create photogenic images worthy of a postcard. Embrace the immersive ambiance of Puglia along the southeastern tip of Italy’s famous boot where golden sunshine, long stretches of cozy beach, and lush olive groves create a dynamic combination accentuated by vibrant artistic piazzas and welcoming rustic cuisine.

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Idyllic seaside villages, incredible traditional heritage, and opulent palaces highlight the mixture of luxury and style that stretches from Puglia to the Amalfi Coast during your personalized tour of Southern Italy. Gargoyles and cherubs adorn the lavish Baroque façade of Lecce’s unforgettable basilica while circular homes with conical rooftops overtake Alberobello’s hills and resemble a storybook village. Turquoise waters splash against white, gold, and black sand beaches found beneath the colorful antique homes. Taste the citrus of homemade limoncello, delight in the perfect texture of olive oil and bask in the wonders of the seaside while you explore labyrinthine streets and revel in luxuries.  To best plan your ideal vacation and tour Italy, consider browsing our other Italian itineraries.

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Embark on this 10-day luxury tour of the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Positano, and Rome that combines modern comforts with historic Italian delights. A picturesque canvas of seaside towns inhabited with warm indigenous hospitality and vibrant beach culture, the Amalfi is Italy’s meridian of relaxation and beauty. Sip champagne and dine on seafood at one of the many gourmet restaurants along the crystal blue seashore and find yourself enjoying gelato at “The Terrace of Infinity” in Ravello, perched upon the jagged cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean. Travel back through ancient civilization and visit the marvels that define Rome, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast.

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The sea charms you with layers of indigo and azure colors brushing against the small stretch of beach. Mountains encircle the enchanting and secluded coastal town. You can sit on the balcony and watch fishing boats roll into the marina, hold your partner’s hand, and indulge in the scenery with a glass of wine. Your Italy tour to Rome, Naples, and Sorrento is handmade to offer the romance of antiquity and amorousness of the coastline, ensuring that you can relax in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Italy with the one you love.

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10 day italy west coast road trip full itinerary – part 1 . ..

So here is PART ONE of our full itinerary for our Italy West Coast Road Trip! Here you’ll find a day by day breakdown of our journey from Genoa to Naples and all we got up to along the way. If you’re just after ideas for your potential road trip, to make it easier, we have done a round up of this trip, outlining the route, transport, accommodation and budget which can be found here . Otherwise, please stick around for our full plan below and as it really is impossible to put the beauty of Italy into words, please check out our travel video for this post here!

Of course, much of our itinerary is better spread across more days, (Cinque Terre would be great across even 2 days in order to be able to explore more!) however if you’re strapped for time like we were and eager to see the highlights of the west Coast, this is definitely the itinerary for you!

Our first day, was a travel day so we haven’t counted it below! We flew in to Genoa from Manchester with Easyjet and collected our hire car from the airport. Our first night’s stay was in a little town called Bracco, half way between Genoa and La Spezia, along the coast but up in the hills. An hours drive away, the Airbnb had incredible views of the sun setting over the valleys and the coast line in the distance, as seen in the photo above!

DAY 1 – CINQUE TERRE

The next day, we headed straight to La Spezia, where we parked for free at a car park 2 minutes walk away from the train station. We purchased a Cinque Terre day pass which was around €7.50 each. It was peak season in July, which meant for an abundance of other tourists doing the same so we would recommend sparing time to consider this. First, we got the train to Monterosso Al Mare, the furthest of the towns taking around 30 minutes and worked our way back over the course of the day.

Monterosso Al Mare is less compact compared to the other towns, and spreads across the coast with a long stretch of beaches, but the main town is a short walk from the station. Vernazza was the second town along, and the station is in the centre, with a nice walk through the market filled streets to the bay and the town square. There is a great view of the church above the sea here, along with plenty of restaurants and bars. Corniglia is the next town, and one we felt seemed the smallest. This town isn’t for the faint hearted and requires a long walk up a lot of stairs to reveal the beautiful town at the top.

Manarola is the next stop. This was by far our favourite town and a definite must see in Italy. This beautiful town is the token of Cinque Terre, the famous postcard image and it looks exactly how it does on the fantastic photos! We spent the most amount of time here, and you could easily spend hours wandering through the markets and exploring the bay. Our only regret from this visit, was that we didn’t bring any change of clothes to go paddling in the crystal clear waters in the dock as many other people were! This town also marked our very first (of many) gelatos of the trip. Iconic moment indeed!

We then stopped off at Riomaggiore, which again, we could have spent hours exploring. As with the others, the winding streets were filled with market stalls and we would definitely recommend taking a stroll along ‘Via dell’ Amore’ for stunning panoramic views of the coast. Also a great spot to stop for a refreshing drink with a view! That night, we stayed in a lovely B&B, called B&B Bellavista in the hills of La Spezia which we recommend for the views alone! The hosts were fantastic and gave us a truly Italian experience. The only issue we had in the suburbs of the cities, is that hardly anyone understands a word of English, but that was our bad, for not learning more Italian! After much poor pronunciation on our part, we enjoyed our first taste of delicious food with a view at a nearby restaurant that night and that marked the end of a very eventful but plentiful day one!

DAY 2 – PISA & FLORENCE

After enjoying breakfast with a view and some (extremely) strong coffee made by our host, we set off for another jam-packed day! From La Spezia, we made our way to Pisa, taking around 1h30 and through one of many toll roads, mentioned in our round up post . We parked in the city centre in a car park opposite to the Porta Santa Maria, Pisa – the entrance to the Tower and Duomo grounds. There are so many beautiful buildings surrounding the tower and, if we had the time, we would have loved to explore these more. Seeing the tower itself is surreal, as with many famous landmarks, it is something so legendary and to be stood in front of it is crazy. That topped with surrounded by people doing the obligatory pose, and many others going for a more adventurous ‘feet lean’, – such an amusing place to people watch! And of course, we couldn’t leave without trying (and failing) the pose ourselves, it would have been rude not to!

From Pisa, we headed to Florence for the afternoon, which was only 1h20 away. Florence was a bit trickier with parking, and you have to be wary of the permit only zones, as with most larger Italian cities. There are many car parks where you are required to leave your keys, however in a hire car, we thought best not to do this. We parked over the other side of the river as this was cheaper and there were more parking options. This also meant for a nice stroll over the bridges and through the narrow streets, and of course an excuse for another much needed gelato for all that walking!

Florence was our favourite out of the cities we visited on our trip. It just had everything you needed to really spend hours getting lost exploring and even shopping. It has so many beautiful buildings and landmarks for days, and the views from the famous Ponte Vecchio are stunning. Our favourite was the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore and we literally stood staring for so long at all the individual designs in the architecture. Definitely a must see! That night, we stayed about half an hour south of Florence in another hotel in the hills with yet another beautiful view of the countryside.

DAY 3 – SIENA/TUSCANY

By our third day, we had caught a glimpse of the Tuscan countryside, but were eager to see what Tuscany really had to offer! We drove down to Siena for an hour drive, and the scenery was a dream compared to the highways and toll roads we had seen plenty of by this point! We parked just outside the town and took an escalator straight up onto the streets. This town really was a maze to us, and we did get lost, but that’s definitely all part of the fun, I guess! Again, like Florence, there are many beautiful landmarks to visit here, we especially liked the Piazza Del Campo and the Cathedral, these are definite must see’s and similar in style to those in Florence.

After a long day exploring around the cobbled Siena streets, we made our way to our B&B for the night – one which we were very much excited about. It was tucked away in the middle of the countryside in Tuscany, 25 minutes from Siena. Our room was in a little chalet with views for miles out of patio doors, and probably our favourite part about our stay were the private hot tubs with those same beautiful views. This really was the life! Although, something we never managed to fit in on our trip, was to visit a vineyard – this would have been our perfect opportunity. The on site restaurant however, had a large wine cellar filled with local wines and terrace dining. All which made our night in Tuscany, one to remember. This is somewhere we would definitely love to visit again, as on our trip we only managed to see a snippet of Tuscany and we would love to visit for a more thorough experience here.

DAY 4 – Montalcino & Saturnia

On day 4, we headed to Saturnia, somewhere we had been very eager to see on our trip and made several stops along the way to admire the views. One of our stops was in Montalcino, a picturesque little town an hour south from Siena. We stopped at several places along the way, but this town was so quiet and endearing, we stayed for another strong coffee! The journey from Siena to Saturnia in total was about 2hrs but the short stopovers made it feel like no time at all. The scenery as we got closer to Saturnia just got better and better.

Saturnia Hot Springs or Terme Di Saturnia (not to be confused with the Thermal Parks which is an entirely different thing and 5 mins drive away!) is a collection of natural hot spring pools descended into the hills of the countryside. It is a sight to see and something pulled straight out of a glamourous travel brochure! There is lots of free parking on site and the site is free to use for as long as you wish (unbelievable I know!) and there are banks of clay/mud which everyone was rubbing into their skin, so of course we joined in! (Hence the photos – no we don’t usually go out like that!). There are also several waterfalls in the top pool which are great fun, although very hot up there. We spent hours just soaking up the Italian sun and floating in the hot pools, covered in mud. Again, this is a definite must do experience, although I can imagine this would be difficult to get to without a car, so bear that in mind!

We then ascended up a very winding road up into Sorano, dominated by a huge castle in it’s skyline – and we just happened to be spending the night in there! Hotel Della Fortezza was our favourite night’s stay across our trip, I mean it would be difficult to top staying in a castle after-all! The owner, Giovanni was a fantastic host, and we got a room with a view and a half! We had the restaurant to ourselves that night, and the chef cooked up a specialty menu of locally sourced food and wine and filled us in on where they came from and how it was made. And, as we previously mentioned, we were disappointed we didn’t manage to have a vineyard experience, but this experience and learning about true Italian cuisine was fantastic! We would definitely recommend a stay here, and it was reasonably cheap too!

And there’s really no better way to round off Part 1 of our Italian adventure Itinerary than sleeping in a castle! The first half of our trip was definitely eventful and always on the move, covering 400km, but we wouldn’t have it any other way. The two nights we stayed in Tuscany were real highlights of our trip, and if we ever got the chance to return for longer, we would in a heartbeat! Part 2 will be along soon, but in the mean time, make sure to check out the video for this post and also if you haven’t already, check out our Italy Round Up blog post!

As always, keep updated with us on our Instagram Page! – We have big things coming!

Sarah & mark

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The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como and the culture, art and beauty of Florence and Rome, to the epic views along the Amalfi Coast and traditional Italian towns of Puglia, this Italy road trip has it all!

Road tripping past vineyards, dramatic coastlines and historic cities sounds like a pretty perfect holiday doesn’t it? When it comes to European holidays, Italy is always one of my top recommendations. I love the views, the buzz, the people. And don’t get me started on the food – I mean, delicious Italian cuisine for brekky, lunch and dinner? That’s enough of a reason to visit in itself! 

Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, history, food or fashion, a trip to Italy will no doubt appeal. Spend leisurely days floating beneath the Rialto Bridge in Venice on a gondola, window shopping in Milan’s boutiques, standing where gladiators once fought in the Roman Colosseum or staying in a traditional Trulli house in Puglia.

And the best part about an Italy road trip? The freedom! You don’t have to stick to the obvious routes. While I’ve created an Italy itinerary on the maps below, I’d encourage veering off course from time to time. That’s when you’ll find the hidden gems, the towns the tourists don’t know about, and no doubt some delicious Italian food too.

It’s also worth remembering that some of the interior parts of the country are as pretty as the coasts, with vineyards, sunflower fields and gorgeous hilltop towns. Going on a road trip means you’re pretty much guaranteed to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy too.

So, rather than create one epic Italian road trip, I’ve divided it into a northern Italy road trip and a southern Italy road trip. That way you can just pick one and break the country up into manageable chunks. Got a while? Join the two up and continue down the coast from Rome to Milan.

Click through to take a look at each itinerary, and figure out which one is right for you…

The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itinerary

From driving along the Amalfi Coast and enjoying traditional pasta in Puglia, to enjoying lake views in northern Italy and the incredible canals of Venice, it's time to plan the ultimate Italy road trip! 

The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como, dramatic coastlines of Cinque Terre and the canals of Venice, to the culture, art and beauty of Milan, Florence and Rome, it’s time to plan the ultimate northern Italy road trip!

The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, to the traditional Italian towns of Puglia and Sicily’s beaches, volcanoes and cuisine, it’s time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Italy?

Italy has a Mediterranean climate and is a lovely destination to visit all year round.

Temperatures vary by region, but as a quick example, you can expect average temperatures of around 0°C in around Cortina (a ski resort in the mountains) in January, and as high as 37°C in July in cities such as Milan and Venice. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations like Puglia and Sicily great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Italy, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or in September or October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months, but isn’t too hot. Plus, as you’re missing peak season, you should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list.

I hope you’ve enjoyed checking out my Italy road trip itineraries! Let me know where you decide to go and what your highlights are…

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later… 

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More”

I am obsessed with Italy! I really want to visit Milan and Lake Como so I think that will be my next trip! xoxo Jess

Hey Jess – that’s a great route to take and super easy! I’ve just got back from Trentino which is also stunning!

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18 Day Mediterranean Coast Road Trip Itinerary

3 adults, 2 kids, 2 walkie-talkies , and 2 cars. Our Mediterranean coast road trip lasted 18 days across 4 countries: Italy, France, Monaco, and Spain. If you’ve ever thought about taking a road trip around the Mediterranean coast of Europe, here’s the ultimate itinerary to get you started.

When my parents asked whether I’d consider driving the Mediterranean coast with them. It was not a difficult decision. The kids and I flew to Italy, cruised the eastern Mediterranean with them, and then decided to drive the western Mediterranean in one epic 18 day Mediterranean Coast road trip itinerary.

Can you drive around the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean Sea region is surrounded by 21 countries, which together share a coastline of 46,000 km. They are Albania, Algeria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia , Cyprus, Egypt, France , Greece , Israel , Italy , Lebanon, Libya, Malta , Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Slovenia, Spain , Syria, Tunisia, and Turkey . And you can drive around, through, and between them all.

What is the Mediterranean coast road called?

No one road takes you from coast to coast as you pass through multiple countries, but here is a rough map of our Mediterranean Coast Road Trip itinerary.

What is the best way to see the Mediterranean?

Having cruised the Mediterranean and road-tripped, both offer pros and cons. But for freedom to stop, change the itinerary, stay longer, leave sooner than nothing beats a road trip Mediterranean coast.

How long does it take to travel across the Mediterranean?

Well, that’s an open-ended question depending on how many of the 21 countries you’d like to visit along the Mediterranean sea. We traveled from the Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy through the French Riviera and Monaco, ending in Spain at a leisurely 18 days.

Top 3 tips for a Mediterranean coast road trip

Tip #1: Each day below contains links to my supporting articles which cover each of these best places in more detail.

Tip #2: We had two cars and communicated by walkie-talkies. This saved on purchasing different SIM cards for each country we visited with different numbers.

Tip #3: You need to read more about car leasing Europe here . If you decide to go longer than 17 days, it will save you money more than a regular car rental. If you are planning a trip under 17 days then consider using RentalCars.com. They have the best car rental prices – Guaranteed.

Our perfect 18 Day Mediterranean coast road trip itinerary

Note: Tolls & fuel have been converted from EUR to AUD.

Day 1 – Italy: Rome to Praiano

Tolls: $22.90 | fuel: $73, accommodation: hotel margherita, praiano ( check prices ).

Picked up my car lease from Citroen and had a beautiful drive to coastal town, Praiano. Check here for prices on how to get to Praiano from Rome.

We found an insanely scenic place to stay, high up on the hill, and settled in for a few days. We finished this evening with a stunning view at dinner overlooking the sandy beach at a cliff-side restaurant that sported a small kid’s playground, and the glorious sound of Church bells.

Day 2 – Italy: Praiano

Accommodation: hotel margherita, praiano ( check prices).

We didn’t use the car today as we decided to miss the infamous curves of the Amalfi coast and take the bus to Positano . As predicted it was quite the hairy adventure.

After our magnificent day in Positano, we got some laundry done next door for €15 and spent the afternoon swimming in the hotel pool.

Day 3 – Italy: Praiano

Accommodation: tramonto d’oro, praiano ( check price here ).

We were going to attempt a drive to Amalfi today but ended up taking the bus again for our day trip. Our plans to visit Capri were spoiled by bad sea weather. It’s a must if you haven’t been before. The evening ended with a sunset from the rooftop.

Day 4 – Italy: Praiano to Pompeii to Matera

Tolls: $2.80, accommodation: hotel sassi, matera ( check prices in this area ).

We were back on the road today leaving Praiano for Matera. We made a quick stop at the famous Pompeii ruins, an Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site, but didn’t feel like it lived up to its reputation.

Our arrival in Matera was a huge surprise. This city is stunning and used in many ancient movies, including Mel Gibson’s famous one.

Day 5 – Italy: Matera to Termoli

Tolls: $17 | fuel: $86, accommodation: hotel mistral, termoli ( check prices ).

My dad captured the most beautiful photos on a sunrise photography tour around Matera before we ate some breakfast and headed down the coast to the ancient city of Alberobello. This little town is so mysterious and a must-see in Italy. The little houses look like something out of a fairytale for gnomes.

From Alberobello, we visited the Molfetta Outlet before heading to Termoli. We arrived late and simply bought ham and bread for sandwiches that night before hitting the sack.

Day 6 – Italy: Termoli to Perugia

Tolls: $21| fuel: $121, accommodation: albergo nyers, perugia ( check prices ).

The breakfast at our hotel was worth a mention! We didn’t stick around in Termoli, opting to head straight to Perugia instead. The kids and I were supposed to meet my mum and dad for lunch, but we headed straight to Perugia as we couldn’t find them.

Perugia was just as surprising as Matera, a beautiful part of Italy that should be visited. We enjoyed a walk around the city and dinner in town.

Day 7 – Italy: Perugia to Florence

Accommodation: villa san michele, fiesole firenze ( check the price here ).

Funny story today as our GPS directed us down some dangerously narrow roads to the wrong location. Felt truly Italian. When we arrived at our hotel I was gobsmacked, it was incredible, and I didn’t want to leave. Thank God we had booked 2 nights.

Leaving the car at the Villa we decided to take a taxi to Florence and enjoyed an evening walk around town visiting the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and letting the kids ride the carousel. We returned to Villa San Michele for dinner and enjoyed one of the best meals I ate in Italy.

Day 8 – Italy: Florence

Accommodation: villa san michele, fiesole firenze ( check price ).

Following another incredible breakfast, the kids and I went for a swim in the pool. After our swim, the kids wanted to stay at the kids club so I enjoyed a leisurely lunch by the pool, caught up on some writing, and even booked some flights.

Once the kids returned I organized a babysitter and headed back to Florence via the hotel shuttle for an evening with my parents. My Dad attempted a 1kg steak before we walked around Florence with our Italian gelato.

Day 9 – Italy: Florence to Pisa to Monaco to Nice, France

Accommodation: little palace, nice ( check prices ).

A sad farewell to Villa San Michele, but I wanted to start early because I could not leave Italy without letting the kids see popular Italian icon , Leaning Tower of Pisa. I found a great parking spot, took a few happy snaps and we were back in our car on the way to Monte Carlo, Monaco.

We stopped in Monaco very briefly for a quick look at the super impressive cars and gold star hotels before continuing onto Nice in Southern France.

Phew! 3 countries in one day.

In Nice, we had a walk along a beautiful beach in the French Rivera, stopped for a terrible dinner with arrogant waiters, and checked into our tiny out-of-the-way hotel. Not a great start for the French part of our journey.

Day 10 – France: Nice to Arles

Tolls: $30.20 | fuel: $91, accommodation: airbnb apartment, arles ( check prices in this area ).

Our crepes for breakfast were better. And we checked out of Nice and headed to Cannes. Took some photos by the beach and then drove to Aix.

We had a delightful time walking around Aix, before driving onto Arles. We had an ultra-cute French-loft Airbnb apartment for the evening so we cooked our meal and had a night in.

Day 11 – France: Arles

After meeting up with my parents we took a walk around the old city , visiting the amphitheater, taking another ride on another carousel, and made it back home for an afternoon nap.

Day 12 – France: Arles to Creissels

Tolls: $7.80, accommodation: hericlea hotel sport, millau ( check price ).

Today we drove to Saint-Guithem-le-Desert. An adorable medieval-style town, easy to walk around and enjoy. Decided to have dessert for lunch and it didn’t disappoint with mouth-water crème Brulee and profiteroles. I have to admit at least the French know how to do dessert.

Back on the road we made it to Millau and checked into our log cabin, while my parents chose a castle.

Day 13 – France: Creissels to Toulouse

Tolls: $2 | fuel: $105, accommodation: airbnb apartment, toulouse ( check prices in the area ).

Today we decided on an impromptu visit to the French countryside to see a French cave, Aven Armand . I’m so glad we did. The countryside was gorgeous and the caves were fascinating.

After the caves, we headed to Toulouse, checked into our apartment, and bought some kebabs for delivery as the kids were already fast asleep.

Day 14 – France: Toulouse

We took a walk around Toulouse today, found a playground, and rode yet another carousel. Had an afternoon nap before heading for dinner at the Hippopotamus, which was pretty good.

Day 15 – Spain: Toulouse to Pamplona, Spain

Tolls: $39.30 | impound: $140, accommodation: hotel avenida, pamplona ( check price ).

An early start this morning didn’t happen. As the kids and I walked out of our apartment towards the car, there was no car. Instead, there was a market. The French police stole my car. Finally, after several hours we were back on the road and made a mad dash out of France to our Spain road trip. After a quick highway road stop for lunch. We made it to our hotel in Northern Spain late afternoon.

Never to miss any opportunity to see an old town we decided to take a walk around Pamplona and stumbled, by chance, upon a family “running of the bulls”. What fun! And such a relief to just have fun after our stressful morning in France.

Day 16 – Spain: Pamplona to Barcelona

Accommodation: mercer hotel, barcelona ( check price ).

Zaragoza was on our list of stops today and we had a fun lunch at Tommy Mel’s Diner before continuing our trip to Barcelona . Having decided not to visit Southern Spain, we all decided Barcelona was not made for cars and hit up Citroen to return our car. It happened to be the same depot as my parent’s Renault so we all squished in a taxi back to our hotel. The taxi driver actually had no idea what he was doing and dropped us some distance. I was bummed we weren’t going ot make it to Costa Brava, but after walking miles to our hotel, I was more then happy. The Mercer Hotel was incredible.

Day 17 – Spain: Barcelona

As part of our Spain itinerary today we explored Barcelona. We walked the main drag and took the bus to Guell Park . Later that evening we walked to the harbor and stopped for some Spanish food. Dinner at El Ray De La Gamba was a disappointment.

Day 18 – Ireland: Barcelona flight to Ireland

Accommodation: ballsbridge hotel, dublin ( check price ).

It was a sad start as our Spanish road trip came to an end. My my parents came to our hotel to say goodbye and I was emotional mess, but determined that the travel must go on. The kids and I grabbed a taxi to the airport and took a flight to Dublin, Ireland. We settled in at the Ballsbridge hotel for the next 6 nights for TBEX.

What is the Mediterranean coast road trip final tally?

And there you have all my travel tips for an 18-day Mediterranean coast road trip through Italy, Monaco, France, and Spain.

Italy by far was my favorite, followed by Spain. Unfortunately, this being my third trip to France, I’m still not a fan, jaded as it was by the missing car incident, rude restaurant staff, and disappointing food choices. I also blame my English blood.

In all seriousness, seeing the Mediterranean Coast by road is a great way to go. There are so many little towns that are the epitome of history and have such a unique flavor. I wish we could see them all. Maybe next time.

Total Days: 18 Total Distance: 3,507 km (2,179.15 miles) Total Fuel: AUD $476 Total Tolls: AUD $252

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Un viaggio lungo la costa italiana

In this episode, Manu tells about a trip he took as a teenager with his family along the Italian coast.

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The Best Base Destination In Italy's Amalfi Coast For Tourists Who Hate Stairs

I taly's Amalfi Coast is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations in the world — where the sea and mountains merge with colorful buildings and Mediterranean charm, earning it the nickname "The Divine Coast." However, with this great landscape comes an even greater number of stairs — a challenge for those with mobility issues, injuries, baby strollers, or the general preference for easier walking. But don't let that deter you from visiting! Maiori may be just what you're looking for as  a little hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast , offering beauty and accessibility in equal measure.

Unlike its steeper neighbors, Maiori has a uniquely flat layout on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. It's part of the province of Salerno, in the Campania region situated along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Travelers can expect the town's main streets to be less physically demanding, as the inclines are more gradual with fewer steps — a big difference compared to other places on the Amalfi Coast like Positano, where just your hotel could have more than a hundred stairs!

For beach lovers, Maiori has the longest unbroken stretch of beachfront on the Amalfi Coast (about two-thirds of a mile), which makes it easier to navigate and offers ample opportunity for strolls along the sea without the need to climb steep inclines or navigate cumbersome staircases. Not every trip to a beautiful Italian coast has to be physically demanding, and Maiori proves that. Its ease of access goes beyond its famous large-grain sand beach and well into town.

Read more: Amazing Bridges Around The World

Maiori: Historical Charms Without The Climbs

Maiori is steeped in history, dating back as far as the Etruscans and the Roman Empire until formally built into a town by the ninth century. Unfortunately, much of this ancient charm was lost to disaster in 1954 when a storm hit, causing the Reginna Maior River to flood, resulting in the complete destruction of the historic city center. Still standing, however, is the oddly shaped 9th-century Castle of San Nicola de Thoro-Plano, but it'll cost you over 700 steps.

The 19th-century Mezzacapo (Miramare) Castle, however, is an exception. This fairytale-like castle is an architectural delight , with its cone-shaped spires set against a mountainous seaside landscape. It's remarkable to think that it was inspired by a castle depicted on a matchbox after a nobleman visited the banks of the Loire in France. You can enjoy the Palazzo Mezzacapo Gardens, a beautiful courtyard-like space with pools of blue-green water and stunning rock formations, both wheelchair accessible and great for families with strollers. You can even say overnight if you'd like — the castle is both an attraction and a hotel. 

Additionally, the Church of Santa Maria a Mare is another notable landmark. Situated on a small hill, it is one of the few places where some climbing is inevitable. However, the steps are manageable compared to the more strenuous climbs found elsewhere on the coast. The church, adorned with a huge dome featuring bright yellow and green majolica tiles, offers breathtaking views of the town and sea.

Contemporary Delights And Further Exploration Of The Amalfi Coast

Maiori carries a contemporary feel, especially with its old city restored into a new one. However, even in the 1940s, '50s, and '60s, it was considered beautiful and eventually became a favorite location for film directors like Roberto Rossellini. He filmed many movies there, including "Paisà" (1946), "Viaggio in Italia" (1954), and "La Macchina Ammazzacattivi" (1952). Just walking through the town allows you to immerse yourself in its cinematic history, especially along Casale dei Cicerali, one of Maiori's oldest streets.

Dining in Maiori is all about enjoying fresh-caught seafood at restaurants along the coast and main promenade. Additionally, sampling the local limoncello, a traditional Italian lemon liqueur, is a must. The lemons in this region are celebrated for their distinctive flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, you might also explore "The Path of Lemons," a scenic pedestrian route through lemon groves that links to the nearby town of Minori.

For those looking to explore more of the Amalfi Coast (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) beyond Maiori, the town serves as an excellent base. One reason is there are plenty of local transportation options! The Maiori ferries provide extensive connections with Salerno, Amalfi, Minori, Cetara, Vietri sul Mare, Positano, and Capri through more than 50 daily crossings. Otherwise, buses like SITA and taxis are easy to find. So go ahead and explore Maiori without stairs; you now have no excuses! For more tips, check out our guide on how to unlock accessible travel .

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Culture, cuisine, coasts: amazing Italy road trips

Italy’s natural geography makes it ideal road trip territory. Long and thin, it extends some 736 miles northwest to southeast, its top and bottom like two different countries. Drive down it on any route and you’ll never be far from the coast and a dip in one of its three seas, the Adriatic, Ionian or Tyrhennian. Along the way you’ll encounter some of the world’s greatest cities, arguably the world’s most celebrated cuisine, and more culture than you could ever explore. An Italy road trip is a sensory assault of the very best kind.

In this post

How do I get to Italy from the US?

What sort of vehicle should i rent for a road trip in italy, when is the best time to take an italy road trip, how much does a road trip in italy cost, explore the north: an italy road trip in 7 days, north to south: the ultimate 2 week road trip in italy.

Italy’s layout makes your airport choice crucial depending on where you’re road tripping from and to. In the north, Milan is undoubtedly the best city to fly into from the US; modern Milan Malpensa airport is the second biggest in the country. The capital, Rome , sits almost equidistant between north and south and is served by Italy’s biggest airport, Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino . Direct flights depart regularly from major US cities to both Milan and Rome and these are likely the two most convenient entry points.

If you’re heading far south, you can also fly direct to and from Naples , most convenient for the legendary Amalfi Coast . And don’t forget Sicily – the island being kicked by Italy’s boot. Both Palermo and Catania airports are a quick flight from Milan and Rome and there are regular car ferries connecting it to the mainland in around 20 minutes. Plus, it’s gorgeous.

As with most of Europe, Italy’s roads and freeways are largely well maintained and demand no special vehicle consideration. You may find some rougher roads off the beaten track (especially in Tuscany and the far south), but nothing of too much consequence. Choose your rental based on your budget and who you’re traveling with .

Italy’s climate changes dramatically from north to south and season to season so it’s important to plan your road trip itinerary and dates carefully.

In the north, Italy borders Austria, Switzerland and France (among others), fenced in by the Alp and Dolomite mountain ranges. It’s where you’ll find the famous lakes of Como and Garda, many of the major cities including Milan and Venice and Bologna . Its season ranges from hot and sunny to freezing and snowy, so late spring to early fall is the best period for a northern Italy road trip . KAYAK’s flight data reflects as much, with Milan at its busiest in May, April and June.

Heading south into the central regions we pass Florence and the rolling hills of Tuscany down to Rome and Naples. The weather is generally more temperate here , with average Rome temperatures above 60°F from May to October, peaking at 74° in July and August (data from weatherbase.com ). Rain isn’t really a concern, averaging less than an inch a month over the summer. Like Milan, Rome is busiest in May, April and June. Notably August ranks lower down the flight data list, tourists perhaps aiming to avoid the hottest summer days.

The foot of the boot leads to lovely Bari into the Puglia and Calabria regions and on to the tip of its toe and Sicily. Close to Africa, it’s warm year round but can get unbearably hot in the height of summer.

June is my month of choice for a road trip through Italy. It finds the right balance between warmth and good weather, crowds and convenience. Some places are of course busy year round, but in June you can dip in and out of the tourist hotspots as you please.

Before you start booking, it’s handy to get an idea of how much a road trip in Italy will cost you. Here are some data for guidance, calculated by comparing hundreds of travel providers.

• Average price for a round trip flight from New York to Rome: $989
• Average price for one night in a double hotel room in Rome: 176 euros
• Average price for one night in a hostel in Rome: 108 euros
• Average daily rate for a rental car in Rome: 64 euros
• Cost of 1 gallon of gas in Italy: 6,84 euros (in April 2024, source numbeo.com )

The global cost for a seven-day road trip in Italy would be about 1,900 euros (around $2,040) for two travelers (950 euros or $1,020 per person). You could reduce the cost by staying in hostels, which could save you approximately 476 euros (around $544) from the total cost for two. The more people you travel with, the more costs you’ll be able to share.

Italy’s most diverse and dynamic region is road trip nirvana. From the mountains to the lakes to the cities, you could drive its scenic northern roads for months and never get bored. Here’s the best way to do it in seven days.

Day 1: Milan

Fashion, food and finance are the lifeblood of modern Milan. Drink it all in before heading east. If you see one thing, make it from old Milan with a viewing of Da Vinci’s The Last Supper in the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent.

Where to stay in Milan: Hotel Magna Pars is an oasis of five-star calm in the heart of the fashion district – and it has parking

Day 2: Lake Como

Distance from Milan: 52 miles

Lake Como is a postcard. Drive its perimeter through picturesque lakefront villages populated by neoclassical villas and Hollywood A-listers. Stop off in Bellagio, Varenna or Como for a long lunch that as often as not will merge into a long evening. Take one of the local ferries onto the lake for a serene perspective over the surrounding mountains.

Where to stay around Lake Como: Everywhere is eye-wateringly expensive, which is why B&B Villa Rosalinda is such an extraordinary bargain

Day 3: Verona

Distance from Lake Como: 111 miles

If you’re on a romantic road trip, there’s nowhere better to visit than Verona . The setting for Shakespeare’s tragic love story, Romeo and Juliet, you can even visit the iconic Casa di Giulietta , Juliet’s House.

Where to stay in Verona: For romance and an unbeatable location, Relais Balcone di Giulietta

Day 4: Venice

Distance from Venice: 75 miles

If ever a city needs no introduction, it’s Italy’s floating city. Stroll historic palaces and stunning piazzas, float down magical canals on a gondola, take in the Basilica, Bridge of Sighs and a million other magnificent attractions . Get lost in it all and let the history and culture overwhelm you.

Where to stay in Venice: Loved for its service and location, La Veneziana Boutique Rooms are a budget priced treat

Day 5: Cortina d'Ampezzo

Distance from Venice: 99 miles

Two hours north of Venice sees you in the UNESCO World Heritage territory of the Dolomite Mountains. Italy’s most spectacular natural playground is home to hiking, climbing, biking and skiing, depending on the season. It also has some of the best mountain passes you’ll ever drive through.

Where to stay near Cortina d’Ampezzo: Hotel Villa Alpina is a wooden mountain retreat

Day 6: Lake Garda

Distance from Cortina d’Ampezzo: 201 miles

Italy’s largest lake is a lovely mix of culture and adventure. Drive by its charming lakefront towns at Sirmione, Garda and Malcesine. Take to the lake to sail and windsurf or adopt a more leisurely approach with a scenic tour.

Where to stay in Lake Garda: For lake views and its stunning terrace, Hotel La Dolce Vita

Day 7: Lake Orta

Distance from Lake Garda: 132 miles

If you don’t want to spend another night in Milan, consider bypassing it for lovely Lake Orta, my favorite of the Italian lakes. Quiet, refined, less glam but no less beautiful, it’s a lovely place to end an epic road trip.

Where to stay in Lake Orta: Casa Fantini is a family run oasis that epitomizes 'Lake Time'

If you’ve got the time and are willing to put in the miles, a road trip through Italy is an experience like no other. An ever evolving landscape and culture painted against the backdrop of mouthwatering cuisine and unrivaled historical attractions. This is an end to end road trip, starting and finishing in different cities.

As with my seven-day itinerary above, Milan is the most convenient starting point to your tour. Fly in direct from the US and make sure to spend at least a day discovering its many treasures.

Day 2: Portofino

Distance from Milan: 122 miles

Head south to the picture perfect fishing village of Portofino tucked away in a gorgeous cove on the Ligurian Sea. Take a dip and dry off with a stroll past its authentic pastel-painted houses and trendy harbor-front restaurants.

Where to stay in Portofino: Historic Hotel Piccolo Portofino for its private beach and balcony views

Day 3: Cinque Terre

Distance from Portofino: 45 miles

Cinque Terre national park isn’t car friendly, but it is so worth the effort to visit. Its five coastal villages are precipitous and extraordinary, linked by the Sentiero Azzurro cliff trail. You can stay outside the park at La Spezia and take the train in, or drive into Monterosso al Mare, the largest town.

Where to stay around Cinque Terre: Simple, satisfactory La Rosa Dei Venti is meters from the beach and a total bargain

Day 4: Pisa

Distance from Cinque Terre: 75 miles

You have one day; there’s only one thing you have to do. Make for the Campo dei Miracoli, field of miracles, and prepare your best leaning tower pose.

Where to stay in Pisa: Lungarno Buozzi 7 Apartments are central, extravagant and have on-site parking

Days 5 & 6: Florence

Distance from Pisa: 53 miles

The Renaissance City demands at least two days of your time, although any art and culture lover could spend weeks here. You’ll have time to tick off the big hitters – Palazzo Vecchio, the Duomo, Pitti Palace and the superb Uffizi Gallery . Compact and walkable, en route you’ll get to soak up centuries of history writ large like few other cities in the world.

Where to stay in Florence: Corte Calzaiuoli Elegant Suites are as central as you can stay and the highest rated on KAYAK

Day 7: Siena

Distance from Florence: 50 miles

Tuscany is a glorious place to drive through – warm pastel landscapes, medieval hilltop castles, curated columns of cypress trees that define the entire region. Siena is perhaps the prettiest of all its towns. Don’t miss the Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s most impressive medieval squares.

Expert tip: The Val d’Orcia region south of Siena is my pick for Italy’s most scenic drive. Stop an extra night to soak it in at the wonderful Locanda in Tuscany , a former farmstead turned boutique bolthole.

Day 8: Montepulciano

Distance from Siena: 40 miles

Famed for its excellent wine, Montepulciano is rustic, authentic and a great place to taste the best produce Tuscany has to offer. If you have time, escape to the nearby hot springs at Bagni San Filippo to soak away some of the miles.

Where to stay in Montepulciano: Quiet, welcoming Hotel I Due Cigni is an absolute bargain and offers discounts to the nearby thermal baths

Day 9: Assisi

Distance from Montepulciano: 55 miles

A slight detour on the road to Rome, Assisi is worth the extra miles. Birth and resting place of St Francis, it’s charm personified; geranium-scented, cobbled streets climbing erratically to impressive viewpoints from the hilltop basilica. Keep an eye out for it on your drive in – it towers over the landscape – and expect plenty of tourists and pilgrims.

Where to stay in Assisi: Brunelli B&B for its show stopping courtyard, the perfect place for breakfast

Days 10 & 11: Rome

Distance from Assisi: 109 miles

The splendor and opulence of Italy’s capital defies description. Known as the Eternal City for good reason, it is a vast interactive museum; testimony to the creativity, culture and tenacity of humankind over thousands of years. Walk its streets, visit its most unfathomable attractions, and let yourself be overwhelmed.

Where to stay in Rome: The Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá is a sea of five-star calm steps from Vatican City

Days 12 & 13: Amalfi Coast

Distance from Rome: 173 miles

The Amalfi Coast may be only 34 miles long but is a road trip in its own right (and one of my favorites, albeit in low season). Winding roads cling to the cliffs connecting impossibly glamorous towns and villages where rich Europeans linger over endless lunches under cloudless skies. Positano is the big draw, but I prefer quieter, more refined Praiano and Conca dei Marini.

Where to stay along the Amalfi Coast: Hotel Le Terrazze for its jaw-dropping sea views on the outskirts of Conca dei Marini

Day 14: Napoli

Distance from Amalfi Coast: 39 miles

The birthplace of pizza and your final stop (unless you’re planning a month-long round trip!), Naples is one of Italy’s more rough and ready cities. On your way back from Amalfi, stop by Pompeii to explore the world’s best preserved Roman ruins thanks to Mount Vesuvius. And then there’s nothing for it but to gorge on the city’s trademark meal – you’ve earned it.

Where to stay in Napoli: The best of the new, upscale B&Bs is The Dante House

The hotel recommendations included in this article are based on customer ratings and the author's personal choices, so please feel free to use our hotel search tool to find the accommodation best suited to your needs.

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Travel to italy like an insider with the best local experts.

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A trip to Italy is too special to get wrong. Here's how to do it right. (San Gimignano, Tuscany)

I absolutely love Italy, for many different reasons. But I hate the way in which many Americans go about planning trips there. Survey after survey shows it is the number one dream destination for U.S. leisure travelers, but the way those travelers get their information and advice gives me nightmares.

Throughout the years I’ve heard people say over and over that “I was told to do this in Italy,” or “I was told not to do this in Italy.” By who? “A friend.” I have close friends who recently planned their entire 12-day trip on the basis of another couple they knew who gave them advice—after their first visit. I’ve heard of many people who skipped Rome because “we heard it was too busy, just another big city.” Or passed on Venice, one of the world’s most magical destinations, because, “I heard it was touristy.”

There are American tourists who say you should skip Venice. They are wrong.

It goes on and on, but suffice to say, I have been to Italy in the neighborhood of two dozen times, summer and winter, for food, wine, skiing, golf, hiking, cycling and more food, from north to south and east to west and islands too, and I know a lot about Italian cuisine, but I still ask real experts for advice every time I go. I specifically ask for advice on where to eat, what to see, and who to choose as guides. And by experts, I mean people how live in Italy, specialize in particular areas of travel, and know their subject matter.

“We get multiple guests a year who want to wing it,” says Cherrye Moore, owner of My Bella Vita travel. Moore moved to Calabria two decades ago after falling in love with the region on a visit, and opened a bed and breakfast, learning about what her visitors were looking for. Her company now specializes in planning trips—especially foodie and ancestry trips—to the area in Southern Italy where many Italian Americans trace their heritage. “They say, ‘My neighbor just showed up in their family’s hometown and it went great for them,’ or, ‘Our friends went to Italy last year and said we don't need a driver.’ It’s true that you can rent a car and drive to your family’s hometown, but that experience is vastly different from having a dedicated driver and a heritage specialist who has done research on your family’s history, who has already identified the home your grandfather was born in, and who has arranged meetings with locals upon your arrival.”

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Anyone can tour the Vatican, but only the right guides can get you a private visit.

I just got back from an exploration of Turin followed by a weeklong hiking trip in surrounding Piemonte, Italy’s most prestigious wine region, which included multiple winery visits. For restaurants and guides and sightseeing in Turin I used an Italian-based travel specialist that is the choice of many of the best luxury travel agents/advisors in this country (the best travel agents are savvy enough to know what they do not know and regularly rely on local experts). For the hiking trip, I used an Italy-based active travel specialist that does nothing else, and does it with a food-centric spin. It was another fantastic Italy trip, one amazing day after another, featuring many meals, wineries and experiences I never would have found by myself, especially by asking random friends or watching You Tube influencer videos by people with far less Italy experience than myself.

“We don’t focus on stars or diamonds, we focus on really special one-of-a-kind experiences and lodging that lets you discover our Italy,” said Heather Dowd, who lives in Turin and along with her Italian husband Beppe Salerno. They run Tourissimo , the active travel company we used. We had several friends hiking with us who were on either their very first or second trip to Italy, and when we reviewed our experiences at the end for the trip, one place we stayed, an 18 th century castle turned boutique hotel, was the overwhelming favorite. It did not have whirlpool tubs or Frette linens, it did not have a concierge or room service, but it had excellent food and beautiful gardens in which we had an epic dinner. It had cooking classes, a great location, a fun aperitivo evening cocktail session, and most of all, incredible charm..

Everyone wants the perfect meal in Italy, but not everyone knows where the locals go to find it.

It was exactly what my first timers dreamed Italy would be like, and it was a place we never would have found online. It was perfect, and even in Italy not every place is, but the reality is that Heather and Beppe and their guides spend a lot of time behind the scenes visiting small hotels and vetting them, way more time than the people who rate their stays on booking websites. One of my friends was so impressed he is already planning an extended family hiking trip to Sicily with Tourissimo next year.

If you want to have an insider experience in Italy, and see the places locals go, you need a local insider to help you out.

“Our goal is for guests to experience Calabria like we do, so we’ve built experiences that aren’t available online,” said My Bella Vita’s Moore. “Nowhere else can you find a multi-course lunch hosted at Zia Pina’s or a picnic prepared and delivered by Signora Francesca. Lunch in the home of our friend, Chef Massimo, isn’t available on Google. When creating or reviewing experiences I always think of my sister in Texas. If she were visiting, would I take her here? If that answer is yes, I know we have a winner.” That is exactly the standard by which I’d like my Italy travels to be judged.

A trip to Italy is a beautiful, special, and almost sacred experience, so don’t screw it up by taking bad advice. I do not know every local specialist—and I hope to keep finding more—but I know several experts I would recommend for different kinds of travel. Or use a good travel advisor, something I recommend for all travel (Read my article Why You Need A Travel Agent More Than Ever here at Forbes ), and communicate with them to ensure they are on the same page in terms of sourcing these kinds of local experts. If they are good, they will already be familiar with several of these companies.

Active Travel

All of Tourissimo's cycling and hiking trips in Italy emphasize food and wine, which is how it ... [+] should be.

Italy has long been the dream destination of cyclists, with Tuscany atop the Bucket List for global road riding destinations. But for the past few years the fastest growing sector of cycling has been “gravel grinding,” and with hundreds of miles of its stunning unpaved “white roads,” Tuscany has also emerged as the world’s top travel spot for gravel lovers. There are also plenty of other amazing places to ride in Italy, including Piemonte, Sardinia, Puglia, the Lakes region, and many other areas. World class hiking abounds, especially the stunning Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage Site of beauty unmatched by most other mountain regions on earth. Beyond this there are the Alps in the east, the Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and many other great options.

Italy is so well known for cycling and hiking that every major active travel company in the world runs trips there. But for my last two active trips, one hiking and one biking, I chose a tour operator that is actually based there, founded by an Italian with a passion for cycling and food. Tourissimo may be Italian, but they cater to the American market, and founder Beppe Salerno worked for am American cycling company as a guide before realizing he could do the real Italy better himself—to me, the perfect startup rationale. Over the years since, Tourissimo has grown its library of offerings, with both with an array of scheduled group trips and private custom options. While they do mostly road riding, they are notably one of the only tour operators scheduling gravel trips, and can also arrange custom mountain biking itineraries, with years of expertise in cycling and hiking.

Superstar Chef Mary Sue Milliken has led about galf a dozen Chef's Cycling Tours in Italy for ... [+] Tourissimo.

In addition, Tourissimo has also been a pioneer in “Active Culinary Travel,” a hot new category I have written about here at Forbes (and for other magazines and newspapers). They offer an annual series of six group rides (and a hike) each hosted by an acclaimed chef like Mary Sue Milliken, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author (five!) and co-host of the popular PBS cooking show Two Hot Tamales . She is also an avid cyclist and has led the Tourissimo Chef Bike Tours for several years, along with other big names. These trips are a unique option for serious foodies who also ride, while the other trips cater to just about anyone. Otherwise they offer several styles of trips, from Bici Basics for new riders to Ambitious Tours for the more hard core.

Tourissimo puts a focus on local, choosing small and often historic hotels that they have curated and vetted (like the castle I just stayed at in Piemonte), places that you would never be able to distinguish from hundreds of other non-chain options online. Same for restaurants, wineries, and all the other ways they take you behind the scenes and into their real Italy. Their Mission Statement? “We don't want to be the biggest adventure travel company. We want to design and run the best tours in Italy. We strive to be the most authentic and the most beneficial to local communities.” Fantastico!

Bellagio on Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in Italy — and the perfect place for a ... [+] food-centric bike tour!

Bike It! Bellagio offers another insider biking experience on a much different scale, providing a great one-day experience for visitors to Italy’s most famous lake town. This bike shop on Lake Como is run by a former pro racer and his wife. They rent bikes (road, mountain and e-bikes) out, but also offer one-day guided tours with multiple food and drink stops. Given that the owner grew up here and knows everyone, it’s not surprising that the food and drink spots are insider picks. The shop sits near the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb, the most famous in the Giro di Lombardia, a race more than a century old, and several days a week the shop offers guided group rides with a climb of the pass, on road or e-bikes—Bianchi bikes of course!

There are scheduled tours Monday through Saturday, as well as wide range of customizable private tours. These are often taken by families with mixed ages, but for more aggressive riders they offer longer road tours, mountain biking and gravel riding, along with a wide range of less demanding e-bike tours, including some even more focused on food and wine. They also offer a handful of multi-day tours and can put these together as custom on demand, usually for groups, including an iconic coast to coast traverse of Italy. If you are a guest of one of the many stunning (and pricey) ultra-luxury hotels around Bellagio, and ask the concierge to arrange a bike tour, they are likely going to call this shop anyway (and mark it up) so just do it yourself.

Luxury Travel in Italy

From planning your entire itinerary with flights, hotels, and transfers to just booking the best tours, guides and VIP access (often to non-public highlights), it pays to use a top local specialist.

Last year I attended the annual Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, which has been called “the Oscars of the travel industry.” Virtuoso is the leading global luxury travel consortium, and many of the best travel advisors on earth belong, So does just about every top hotel, resort, safari lodge, cruise line, and luxury tour operator. Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch was explaining the many advantages of using a travel advisor (I wholeheartedly agree) and something he said really stuck with me. He explained that with all of the new online tour booking companies, it was easier than ever to book a tour or guide in just about any destination on earth, but harder than ever to judge the quality. The caveat was that, “you can book a guide, but you can’t book my guide.”

One of Italy's greatest hidden gems, Turin was the nation's first capital and a Winter Olympic host. ... [+] It's worth getting a good guide if you visit.

The Vatican is the Vatican and the Colosseum is the Colosseum, so when you opt for a guided tour, what really matters and makes it a good, bad or great experience is the guide—and their special access, like a tour of the Vatican when no one else is there.

For my recent trip to Turin, I called Imago Artis Travel , an Italy-based luxury travel specialist. They are what is known in the travel industry as a destination management company or DMC, the same companies luxury travel agents call to arrange local details for their clients. There are great DMCs all over the world, and local knowledge is valuable everywhere, but many of them do not deal directly with travelers, while in Italy the best ones do.

I wanted a private day tour of Turin and its surrounding attractions for my wife and I, most importantly the Reggia di Venaria Reale, aka the “Italian Versailles” (one of two places in Italy with this lofty but accurate nickname). The guide they got for me was a licensed guide, and lifelong resident of Turin, and spoke excellent English, which was all good, but she was also an architect, which was great in a city where so much is driven by architecture. That’s not so easy to find on global tour aggregator website. Imago Artis also gave me a list of their favorite restaurant recommendations, which were spot on, then made my reservations for me. At a minimum this eliminates the language barrier of calling or the technology barrier of booking through often tricky (or non-functional) Italian restaurant reservation websites, but in many cases it also gets you a better table and instant VIP treatment—which definitely does not happen when I book myself.

Italy is rich in world-class crafts, and companies like Imago Artis can take you behind the scenes ... [+] to meet the makers.

Imago Artis Travel is a Virtuoso member, which means when you book through them, if you book your luxury hotel, you get extras like room upgrades, late checkout, spa credits etc., one of the big advantages of working with Virtuoso travel advisors. If you have a bigger budget than I do, they can handle all sorts of luxury transport, private jets, helicopters, boat charters, and also offer VIP Meet and Greet services at just about every airport in Italy. They can even arrange private security details. On a more accessible luxury level, they specialize in exclusive experiences, unlocking historic buildings and art collections not open to the public, and taking you behind the scenes with many artisans of Italy, from custom shoemakers to sculptors to jewelry designers. They know food, they know the guides, and I especially like their mission statement, “Our mission is simple: Getting You to the Heart of Italy.” That’s what it is all about.

Another top luxury DMC that is also a member of Virtuoso that I have used in the past with great success is IC Bellagio . They offer a similar array of luxury services and are very well connected, but they also specialize in Villa rentals as well as 5-Star hotels. Differentiating villas in Italy may be the single biggest challenge, more so than restaurants, with so many options and so few valid reviews. IC Bellagio has also boldly acknowledged the overtourism problems some of the most popular parts of Italy face, and are pushing “Slow Season Travel,” which varies in each of the country’s 20 regions but is something they are expert in. Last winter I went to Venice in the off-season, and it was spectacular, and I just traveled in a slow season to Piemonte. It was much, much better than fighting the crowds.

Skiing in Italy is awesome, and it's the best place in the world to stay in mountain rifugios — but ... [+] you need help for the perfect trip.

Skiing in Italy remains a bit under the radar for Europe, especially compared to France and Switzerland. Well, let the crowds go to other countries, because Italy has two different major ski regions, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, and the Games are returning to Milan and Cortina in 2026. The interconnected Dolomiti SuperSki lift and trail network in the Dolomites is arguably the largest “ski resort” in the world, and inarguably one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the planet. The towns are charming, the food is great, there are spectacular hotels from non-chain independent hidden gems to world-class luxury (Aman, Mandarin Oriental, Relais & Chateaux, etc.) and it’s cheaper than much of the rest of Europe. Did I mention the food?

I first went to the Dolomites to go hiking, and was so wowed I thought, “I have to come back and ski here.” I came back the next winter and skied, and the following year I got a group of friends together and went back. I have skied all over the U.S., and all over the world and never had the same compulsion to return to the same place immediately. That’s how good skiing in Italy is ( read much more in my Italy skiing piece here at Forbes ).

I’ve only used one company for ski travel in Italy and see no reason to switch gears, especially since the local logistics (a great guide/instructor, transfers, the best on-mountain meals and staying a couple of nights in the region’s unique on-mountain rifugios) is very hard to organize on your own. The company is Dolomite Mountains , a specialist in both resort ski vacations and backcountry touring trips (using skins and alpine touring or AT gear). They too are a U.S. facing company with mainly American clientele.

Like many active travel companies, they offer both group trip scheduled departure options and private custom trips to fit whatever you want. The group option is called the Dolomites Ski Safari and is a 7-day trip mixing stays in amazing rifugios with in-town hotels (4 and 5-stars on the Italian system) and includes all breakfasts and dinners, a full-time guide, ski pass, luggage transfers and more. Custom options include the same kind of trip for your own group, or anything you want, and while its name suggests local expertise—quite true—Dolomite Mountains also handles ski trips in the rest of Italy, like Courmayeur, and connected border regions of France, Switzerland and Austria, as many lift systems here know no national boundaries (ski with your passport!). They are also a Virtuoso member.

Calabria & Southern Italy

Many Italian Americans trace their ancestry to Southern Italy's Calabria, and if you want to visit, ... [+] make sure you do it right.

My Bella Vita travel focuses on this area, including both small group trips and custom privates. Their specialties include “Heritage Tours” for those interested in their ancestry, and a food focus for the rest of us. For instance, Taste of the South is a 12-day gastronomic journey through Calabria, Basilicata and Naples—the birthplace of pizza! Food & Wine of Calabria is an 11-daty trip and just what it sounds like.

These are some of the scheduled small group tours offered, but the rest of their business is private trip planning and custom options.

“Italy is deceivingly large, and travelers think two weeks is enough time to see everything. It isn’t,” insists Moore. “You can’t even experience all of Calabria in two weeks. Our team collectively spends about six months a year scouting new hotels, restaurants, and experiences in Calabria and we are constantly re-evaluating and tweaking our recommendations.”

There are some other Italy specialists I have not personally experienced, but that come highly recommended by some of my other experts:

My Bella Vita’s Cherrye Moore says, “ In Sicily, I recommend Lucia Davies of Sicily Tour , one of a trio of British expats who have lived in Siracusa, Sicily for decades.” A family-owned tour-guiding company based in Siracusa, they have nearly 40 years of experience on the island and create trips fostering cultural exchange between Italy and English-speaking visitors, specializing in small group and custom tours.

Food & Wine

Life is too short to go to Italy and not eat well.

Beppe and Heather Dowd of Tourissimo recommend Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures , a company that has also earned kudos from other travel industry folks I know. Owner Francesca Montillo grew up in Southern Italy where her father was greengrocer. An Italian-American cookbook author, she launched the company a decade ago, and she personally leads the tours. She does numerous scheduled tours to different regions each year, and also offers custom private itineraries.

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30+ common Italian phrases for your trip to Italy

There's no better way to level up your trip to Italy than by practicing your Italian! Learning a few key phrases will help you feel more confident ordering in an Italian gelateria (gelato shop) and chatting with locals over an espresso and colazione (breakfast). 

Here are the most important phrases you'll need in Italy!

Italian 101

You don't have to be fluent to have fun with Italian.  You're on vacation, so don't stress! Enjoy using the Italian you know and see what else you learn along the way. (And you might be pleasantly surprised that even beginners can have real conversations !)

It's the effort that counts.  Using some Italian shows locals that you're interested in their culture and community .

Study smart, not hard.  Focus on the most useful Italian words and phrases , and worry less about getting every grammar detail right. A few key words go a long way!

Asking for help

Getting around town, ordering food.

Local language

Buon giorno! It's considered polite to greet people with "good morning" or "good afternoon" when you enter stores, cafés, or souvenir shops.

Soften those "k" sounds. In Tuscany, many "k" sounds are pronounced like "h"—so order a Coca Cola by asking for a Hoha Hola!

The beginning of your journey with Italian 🇮🇹

These basics will get you far in Italy, but there's a lot more Italian where that came from. To make real connections during your trip, let Duolingo be your guide! Our bite-sized lessons make it easy to fit study time into your busy schedule, and our entire Italian course is free—so you can save your euros for souvenirs.

Related Posts All Posts

16 common english acronyms every learner should know, how math can turn every meal into a masterpiece.

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11 Italian Cocktails That Taste Like a Vacation

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Can't make it to the Amalfi coast? These recipes are the next best thing to booking a flight.

Frederick Hardy II / Food Styling by Emily Nabors Hall / Prop Styling by PRISSY LEE MONTIEL

Best-case scenario, your summer plans include a trip to Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast. If an idyllic getaway isn't in the cards, however, you can and should still partake in one of the best parts of Italian hospitality — aperitivo hour .

Some of our favorite Italian cocktails call for ingredients you likely already have at home and are incredibly simple to make, like a classic Negroni . Others get a bit more creative, like the Espresso Corretto Martini, which leans on tequila and grappa for a soothing, buzz-inducing nightcap, or the slushy, summer-friendly Sgroppino , which calls for vodka, lemon juice, and Prosecco . And then, of course, some spritzes use familiar Italian aperitivos like Aperol and Campari, as well as lesser-known (but absolutely delightful) bottles like Contratto, Sirene, and Cappelletti.

Whether you're hosting an Italian-inspired dinner party or preparing for a trip abroad, we've got your aperitivo hour sorted with balanced, refreshing cocktails that channel the best of Italian drinking culture.

Martini & Rossi

While the drink's exact origins remain fairly uncertain,  Negroni history  says that its first recorded appearance dates back to 1919. Cocktail lore has it that Count Camillo Negroni, (yes, a real Count named Negroni), frequented a Florentine cafe where he often ordered an Americano. One afternoon, he asked the bartender to strengthen his Americano with  gin  in lieu of  soda water , and thus, the Negroni came to be.

Get the Recipe

Aperol Spritz

Matt Taylor-Gross / Food styling by Lucy Simon

The past century has been a busy one for Aperol , the iconic orange aperitif. First created in 1919 by two brothers, Silvio and Luigi Barbieri, who wanted to make an aperitif unique to their hometown of Padua, Italy, Aperol’s pleasantly bitter, herbaceous flavor profile quickly became beloved throughout the country.

Today, people all over the world are most accustomed to seeing the Barbieri brothers’ creation in an Aperol Spritz, which calls for  prosecco , soda water, and, of course, Aperol.

Matt Taylor-Gross / Food Styling by Lucy Simon

According to the Cipriani group, Guiseppi Cipriani  invented the Bellini in 1948 to be served at his Venice-based restaurant, Harry’s Bar. Cipriani had a penchant for white peaches and paired the peach puree with prosecco, the iconic sparkling wine made from the Glera grape in the local Veneto region of Italy.

Cipriani aptly named the cocktail after Giovanni Bellini, a Venetian painter. Since then, the cocktail has become a mainstay on the menu at Harry’s Bar and other restaurants around the world.

Cappelletti Spritz

Cappelletti  takes center stage in this fragrant, bright spritz. The wine-based aperitif has a lovely red color with herbaceous aromas and lemon, orange, and grapefruit on the palate — think of it like Campari’s even more drinkable cousin.

Seltz Limone e Sale (Seltzer with Lemon and Sea Salt)

A popular drink at many chioscos in Sicily, this simple Italian spritz is used to hydrate on hot days. If you can’t find Sicilian sea salt, regular fine sea salt or kosher salt may also be used. Just know that you might miss out on some of the prized briny flavor.

Matt Taylor-Gross / Food Styling by Oset Babür-Winter

First served in the 1860s at Gaspare Campari ’s bar in Milan, Italy, the Americano combines Campari and sweet vermouth in equal parts and is topped with sparkling water and is believed to be the precursor to the  Negroni .

This bittersweet highball has warming aromatics from the sweet vermouth and refreshing effervescence from the bubbly water. Not to be confused with the Caffé Americano or  Americano coffee , a drink that elongates espresso with water to mimic an American-style drip coffee, the Americano cocktail is a spritz-y beverage that comes together with just a few ingredients. It’s believed that the name actually comes from its popularity among American tourists.

Negroni Sbagliato

Like an  Americano  composed of Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water, a Sbagliato leans on effervescent prosecco for bubbles and a bit of added dryness. The Italian sparkling wine is known for its fruit-forward flavor which balances the bitter Campari and helps brighten the earthier flavors found in sweet vermouth. The use of Prosecco in place of gin makes the Sbagliato a lower-ABV alternative to a classic Negroni.

Sirene Spritz

Sirene is a  red aperitif  (similar to Campari and Cappelletti) and is made using 23 botanicals, many of which are grown near Lake Garda and Verona. The  liqueur  is made with a base of Garganega and Trebbiano di Soave grapes with notes of orange, rhubarb, ginger, and gentian detectable with every sip.

Elderflower liqueur and prosecco round out this floral summertime sipper that is simply built directly into the glass.

Espresso Corretto Martini

Matt Taylor-Gross / Food Styling by Liberty Fennell

A traditional Italian Cafe Corretto features espresso with grappa or another liqueur. To make this cocktail, start with a rich reposado tequila (instead of the usual vodka found in an Espresso Martini ,) add coffee liqueur, room temperature espresso, and grappa. To round out this rich, and buzzy coffee drink, add a generous amount of mole bitters for extra depth of flavor.

If Americans have frosé, the Italians have one-upped us with Sgroppino. Simply made with lemon sorbet, and vodka and topped with prosecco, this zesty sparkler is at once a sweet treat and a summertime refresher. Be warned: this slushy drink is boozier than you might expect, with half an ounce of vodka and an ounce of the Italian bubbly.

Contratto Spritz

Sweeter than Campari and brimming with rhubarb, tangerine, and herbal notes, Contratto makes for one of our favorite summer spritzes.

This slightly bitter and refreshing spritz from  The Elysian Bar  in New Orleans is an ideal aperitif, with fruit, sage, and mild licorice flavors. This drink is garnished with a dehydrated lemon slice — brushing it with simple syrup helps it keep its crispy, sweet texture.

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Read the original article on Food & Wine .

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

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ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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