Do you know that villages are known for maintaining their traditions and customs much more than city areas? It doesn’t matter if you are visiting local festivals or artisan shops, you’ll always get to know more about the authentic side of that place. The people you will meet there are often warm and eager to share their culture that will make you feel like a part of the community. Visiting a small beautiful village feels like going back in time. Here are a few of the most beautiful villages to visit:
1. Cinque Terre (Liguria)
The Cinque Terre offers a natural heritage of great variety. The village together with PortoVenere and the islands of Tino, Palmaria, and Tinetto is a perfect place to visit. Cinque Terre is particularly famous for its trails, and there are many of them in the area. One of the most popular trails among them is the Sentiero Azzurro, or also known as the Blue Path. It is a collection of five colorful villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore that are perched on the cliffs along the Ligurian coast.
Why to Visit?
You can hike between them, enjoy the stunning sea views, and taste delicious seafood.
2. Positano (Amalfi Coast)
We are pretty sure that you might have heard or probably seen Positano without even knowing it! The place is all across social media and travel ads. Italian town is a cluster of beaches, boutique shops, hiking trails, and colourful villas. It is famous for its cliffside houses painted in shades of pastel pink, yellow, and purple, Positano is one of the most photographed villages in Italy.
Why to Visit?
Stroll along its narrow streets, visit the beach, and enjoy breathtaking views.
3. Ravello (Amalfi Coast)
Perched high above the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is known for its stunning villas It is a home to beautiful natural landscapes, legendary history, and stunning architecture, including some of the original places of the Medieval nobility such as Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, which offer sweeping views of the coastline. Ravello is a perfect destination to visit if you want to explore a quieter and more romantic experience.
Why to Visit?
The village has a serene, artistic atmosphere.
4. San Gimignano (Tuscany)
San Gimignano is famous for its medieval towers and well-preserved historic center. It offers many fun activities for visitors. You can walk through the charming streets covered with artisanal shops and traditional restaurants where you can taste authentic and original Tuscan cuisine . You can also go for wine tasting from the famous Vernaccia di San Gimignano. The village is also known as the “Medieval Manhattan,”
Why to Visit?
It’s perfect for wandering around its narrow streets and tasting local wines, like Vernaccia di San Gimignano.
5. Matera (Basilicata)
Matera is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the city of stones and rock churches. Matera is the oldest yet inhabited city in the world. It is a magical place and it preserves the evidence of human settlements since the Palaeolithic period . There are so many historical stories in its natural caves carved into the rock. Matera is famous for its “Sassi” district—ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock.
Why to Visit?
- The village’s dramatic landscape and unique architecture make it one of the most fascinating places in Italy.
6. Civita di Bagnoregio (Lazio)
Often called “the dying city,” Civita di Bagnoregio is perched atop a hill and accessible only by a footbridge. It is an outlying village of the community of Bagnoregio in the Province of Viterbo in central Italy. It lies 1 kilometre from the east of the town of Bagnoregio and about 120 kilometres from north of Rome.
Why to Visit?
Its dramatic setting, ancient charm, and isolation make it an enchanting place to visit.
7. Valldemossa (Sardinia)
Nestled in the mountains of Sardinia, Valldemossa is a place of mesmerizing beauty. It is largely the result of the affection of cultural writers and distinguished travellers. The Austrian Archduke Ludwig Salvator. Do you know that Valldemossa is the birthplace of Mallorca’s patron saint- Catalina Thomas? It is also home to the Carthusian Monastery, where composer Chopin lived for a time.
Why to Visit?
- Valldemossa is known for its cobblestone streets, beautiful stone houses, and lush greenery.
8. Anacapri (Capri Island)
If you want to escape from reality where you can spend your day lying at the beach and visiting the locals then Anacapri is the perfect place for you. Anacapri is an Ancient Greek prefix ana- meaning “up” or “above”. If you are staying for two or more nights then staying overnight in Anacapri is a good idea. Located on the quieter side of Capri, Anacapri is less touristy but equally as stunning.
Why to Visit?
Visit the Villa San Michele for panoramic views and take a chairlift up to Monte Solaro for breathtaking vistas of the island.
9. Orvieto (Umbria)
Orvieto is one of the most memorable, striking, and enjoyable hill towns in central Italy. About One and half an hour from Rome, the place sits majestically high above the valley floor atop a big chunk of tufo volcanic stone (tuff), overlooking cypress-dotted Umbrian plains. Sitting atop a volcanic plateau, Orvieto is known for its striking cathedral and charming medieval streets.
Why to Visit?
- The underground caves and tunnels offer an intriguing glimpse into the city’s history.
10. Castelluccio di Norcia (Umbria)
It is a small mountain village located in the Sibillini Mountains. It’s a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty. A trip to Umbria is a true adventure discovering artistic beauties, panoramic jewels, historical wonders, and genuine flavors. It is a package of experiences and emotions that’s one of a kind. Witnessing the landscape masterpiece is a unique emotion that attracts many curious people and photography enthusiasts.
Why to Visit?
Castelluccio is famous for its beautiful fields of lentils that bloom into a spectacular array of colors in late spring.
So If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of big cities, then you should visit villages as they offer a quieter, and slower pace. Villages tend to be less crowded, which means fewer lines, less noise, and more intimate experiences. You can take your time, wander the streets without the crowds, and enjoy the little moments