10 Must-Visit Italian Towns That Aren’t Rome or Venice
When people think of Italy, Rome’s Colosseum and Venice’s canals often steal the spotlight. But beyond these iconic cities lies a treasure trove of charming towns, each offering its own slice of Italian beauty, history, and local flavor—without the overwhelming crowds. If you're ready to explore the lesser-known side of la bella Italia, here are ten must-visit towns you shouldn't overlook.
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1. Orvieto, Umbria
Perched high atop a volcanic tuff cliff in the heart of Umbria, Orvieto is one of Italy’s most breath-taking hill towns, seamlessly blending medieval charm with ancient history. The city’s skyline is dominated by the stunning Duomo di Orvieto, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture adorned with intricate mosaics and sculptures. Beneath its cobblestone streets lies a labyrinth of underground tunnels and Etruscan ruins, whispering secrets from centuries past. Orvieto’s slower pace of life, panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside, and rich culinary traditions, especially its renowned white wine and hearty local dishes, make it a captivating escape from the bustle of more tourist-heavy cities. Whether wandering through artisan shops or watching the sunset from its dramatic cliffs, Orvieto enchants at every turn.
2. Matera, Basilicata
Matera, nestled in the rugged hills of Basilicata, is a city like no other, an ancient wonder carved into stone that feels suspended in time. Famous for its “Sassi,” cave dwellings inhabited since the Palaeolithic era, Matera offers a hauntingly beautiful landscape of stone homes, winding alleys, and rock-hewn churches that seem to grow out of the earth itself. The city’s transformation from a forgotten relic to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 2019 European Capital of Culture is a testament to its resilience and cultural depth. As twilight falls and golden light bathes the limestone facades, Matera becomes almost otherworldly, a living museum that pulses with history, authenticity, and quiet magic. With its deep roots, cinematic views, and soulful atmosphere, Matera is truly one of Italy’s most extraordinary and unforgettable places.
3. Cefalù, Sicily
Cefalù, nestled between the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea and the dramatic cliffs of northern Sicily, is a coastal gem that effortlessly captures the essence of Mediterranean beauty. This charming seaside town is crowned by its majestic Norman cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Byzantine mosaics that seem to glow in the sunlight. Strolling through Cefalù’s narrow medieval streets reveals a mix of lively piazzas, artisan shops, and rustic trattorias serving up the freshest Sicilian cuisine. Just steps from the historic center lies a golden crescent beach where locals and visitors alike bask in the sun and swim in crystal-clear waters. Whether you're climbing La Rocca for panoramic views, savoring seafood at sunset, or simply soaking in the laid-back island vibe, Cefalù offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and seaside bliss.
4. Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Bologna, tucked beneath the rolling hills of northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is a vibrant city where rich history and culinary excellence come together in perfect harmony. Often called “La Dotta, La Grassa, La Rossa”, the learned, the fat, the red, Bologna is home to Europe’s oldest university, a world-renowned food scene, and terracotta-hued rooftops that glow at sunset. Wandering beneath its endless medieval porticoes, you’ll discover lively markets, elegant piazzas, and hidden trattorias serving up velvety tagliatelle al ragù and regional wines. Towering above the city center, the iconic Due Torri offer a glimpse into Bologna’s storied past, while the vibrant student culture infuses the streets with energy and creativity. Whether you're sipping espresso in a sun-drenched square, exploring ancient libraries, or indulging in the flavours of Emilia-Romagna, Bologna invites you to slow down, savour, and stay awhile.
5. Lecce, Puglia
Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South,” is a radiant jewel in the heart of Puglia, where golden baroque architecture meets sun-drenched Mediterranean charm. This enchanting city is renowned for its elaborate sandstone facades, with ornate churches and palaces that seem to dance in the warm Apulian light. At its heart lies Piazza del Duomo, a serene square that glows at dusk, while nearby the bustling Piazza Sant'Oronzo hums with life and local flavour. As you wander Lecce’s maze of narrow lanes, you’ll find artisan workshops, hidden courtyards, and family-run cafes serving orecchiette pasta and robust local wines. The city’s deep-rooted history, paired with its artistic soul and laid-back southern vibe, creates a timeless atmosphere. Whether you’re admiring the intricate details of Basilica di Santa Croce, exploring ancient Roman ruins, or simply enjoying the slow pace of la dolce vita, Lecce is a place that captivates and lingers long after you leave.
6. Lucca, Tuscany
Lucca, cradled in the rolling hills of northern Tuscany, is a beautifully preserved Renaissance city that exudes quiet elegance and old-world charm. Encircled by towering 16th-century walls, now transformed into a leafy promenade perfect for biking or strolling, Lucca invites visitors to slow down and savour its timeless atmosphere. Inside the walls, cobbled streets wind past Romanesque churches, hidden gardens, and sun-dappled piazzas where locals sip espresso beneath the shade of ancient towers. The city’s crown jewel, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, curves gracefully on the footprint of a Roman arena, now lined with cafes and boutiques. Music drifts through the air in honour of native son Giacomo Puccini, whose operas still echo in local theatres. Whether you're climbing the tree-topped Torre Guinigi, sampling Tuscan delicacies at the local markets, or simply watching life unfold from a quiet corner café, Lucca offers a peaceful, poetic escape into the heart of Tuscany.
7. Alberobello, Puglia
Alberobello, nestled among the sun-kissed landscapes of Puglia’s Itria Valley, is a fairy tale town unlike any other, famed for its iconic trulli, whitewashed stone huts topped with whimsical conical roofs. Wandering through the cobbled lanes of Rione Monti feels like stepping into another world, where each trullo seems to tell its own story beneath the brilliant southern Italian sky. The scent of blooming jasmine and freshly baked focaccia drifts from tiny shops and family-run cafés tucked into the curves of these historic dwellings. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Alberobello charms visitors with its unique blend of folklore, tradition, and architectural wonder. Whether you're exploring a centuries-old trullo interior, sampling local wines on a rooftop terrace, or capturing the magic of golden hour over limestone rooftops, Alberobello offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Puglia’s most enchanting heritage.
8. Bellagio, Lake Como
Bellagio, gracefully poised at the meeting point of Lake Como’s three shimmering branches, is a jewel of the Italian lakes that radiates timeless elegance and natural beauty. Often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” this idyllic village enchants with its pastel-coloured villas, manicured gardens, and winding stone staircases that climb from the lakefront to panoramic hilltop views. The waterfront promenade is lined with cypress trees and café terraces, where the gentle lapping of the water sets a soothing rhythm to daily life. Just steps away, boutiques and gelaterias nestle in narrow lanes that reveal glimpses of snow-capped Alps in the distance. Grand estates like Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni offer tranquil escapes amid lush greenery and neoclassical charm. Whether you're gliding across the lake by ferry, sipping espresso with a view, or wandering through romantic gardens in the golden afternoon light, Bellagio captures the essence of Italian lakeside luxury and la dolce vita.
9. Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio
Civita di Bagnoregio, perched atop a crumbling hilltop in the heart of Lazio, is a hauntingly beautiful village suspended between earth and sky. Often called “the dying city” due to its ever-eroding cliffs, Civita feels like a place frozen in time—accessible only by a pedestrian bridge that adds to its ethereal allure. Once inside its ancient stone gates, you'll find a peaceful world of weathered alleyways, ivy-draped facades, and quiet piazzas where cats nap in the sun and time seems to slow. Founded by the Etruscans over 2,500 years ago, Civita wears its history in every stone, from the graceful arches to the rustic homes carved from volcanic rock. The views from its edges stretch across a dramatic valley of clay ridges and rolling hills, especially magical at sunset when golden light bathes the entire landscape. Whether you're exploring hidden chapels, savouring local fare in a tiny trattoria, or simply soaking in the silence, Civita di Bagnoregio offers a rare, poetic escape into Italy’s forgotten past.
10. San Gimignano, Tuscany
San Gimignano, rising from the golden hills of Tuscany like a medieval mirage, is a walled hilltop town famed for its dramatic skyline of ancient stone towers. Often called the “Medieval Manhattan,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site captures the essence of old-world Italy with its perfectly preserved architecture, winding cobblestone lanes, and sweeping views over vineyards and olive groves. As you stroll through the heart of the town, Piazza della Cisterna welcomes you with its timeless charm, surrounded by Romanesque buildings and artisan gelaterias serving some of Italy’s most celebrated scoops. Each turn reveals gothic arches, quiet courtyards, and sun-dappled alleys where history feels alive in every detail. The air is rich with the scent of local saffron and Vernaccia wine, made from grapes grown on the surrounding hills. Whether you're climbing Torre Grossa for breath-taking views, admiring frescoes in ancient churches, or simply enjoying a glass of wine as the sun sets over the Tuscan countryside, San Gimignano is a magical blend of history, art, and rural beauty.
Final Thoughts
Italy’s beauty lies not just in its famous cities, but in its small towns, the places where life moves slower, food tastes richer, and the scenery is just as breath-taking. So skip the crowds and venture into Italy’s quieter corners. You may find your favourite Italian memory where you least expect it.
