The 10 Most Picturesque Towns in Italy You Need to See
As a travel guide who lived in Italy for almost 2 years, I explored so many picture-perfect towns across the country. From cliffside fishing villages to medieval hilltop hamlets, Italy has no shortage of stunning destinations. I absolutely loved immersing myself in each unique local culture. Here are my picks for the top 10 most beautiful towns in Italy that you must add to your itinerary!
Positano
Positano is the most beautiful and charming town on the Amalfi Coast. Its pastel colored houses cascade down to the blue sea, with rugged cliffs and gorgeous views around every turn. Walk the steep stone lanes and staircases to explore the shops selling handmade clothes and ceramics, cozy cafes, and luxury cliffside hotels with big terraces overlooking the sea. Don’t miss the walk to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta to see its decorative tiled dome shining above the red roof tops.
Insider Tip: For the best photo spots of Positano snaking down to the shore, head to the Belvedere di Fornillo lookout point!
Venice
There’s really no place quite like Venice, with its magical canal boats and ornate marble palaces rising from the water. Get lost wandering through the maze of narrow alleys as you discover historic arched bridges, vibrant public plazas, and small hidden restaurants. A must-see is the grand St. Mark’s Square and the impressive gold Byzantine-style St. Mark’s Basilica overlooking it all.
Insider Tip: Escape the crowds of tourists and head northeast to the quiet Castello neighborhood to experience Venice like a local!
Cinque Terre
The five villages of Cinque Terre drape along the rugged cliffs beside the Mediterranean Sea. Hike between the pastel towns on cliffside trails with nonstop gorgeous views of the coastline. Don’t miss the 13th century Church of San Giovanni Battista in Corniglia, reached by climbing a long steep staircase.
Insider Tip: For amazing coastal views, walk from Riomaggiore to Manarola on the famous Via dell’Amore path.
Florence
Florence showcases art and architecture at its finest. Wander narrow lanes lined with palaces and galleries to find iconic sights like the magnificent Duomo cathedral, the iconic red-roofed Ponte Vecchio bridge, and Piazza della Signoria framed by statues. Grab a table at an outdoor cafe on Piazza della Repubblica to people watch.
Insider Tip: Climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome for a bird’s eye panorama over historic Florence.
Procida
Pastel houses and colorful fishing boats adorn Procida, the Bay of Naples’ most charming island. Explore the tiny port and Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo, dating back to the 700s. The best views are from Terra Murata, Procida's highest point.
Insider Tip: Relax at one of Procida’s hidden beach coves like Chiaia Beach or Pozzo Vecchio Beach.
Pienza
This medieval Tuscan hill town was transformed into an “ideal Renaissance city” full of palaces and churches. Pienza’s focal point is its magnificent Cathedral, with ornate stone carvings on the facade. Wander the pedestrian-only center and look out over the iconic rolling hills of Val d’Orcia.
Insider Tip: Make sure to sample Pienza's famous pecorino cheese at local shops!
Burano
Burano charms with its colorful fishermen’s cottages lining the canals. It’s hard to miss the bright orange, fuschia, yellow, and blue houses that the town is famous for. Stop at a cafe near the water for the view or shop for lace, a local specialty.
Insider Tip: Get the best photos by capturing reflections in the still canal waters.
Portofino
This posh Italian Riviera village caters to the rich and famous with its harbor full of yachts and upscale shops. This town make look familiar to some as it is the inspiration of the location Portorosso in the movie Luca. Dine at a waterside restaurant as you look out at the pastel buildings nestled into the cliffs above the Mediterranean. Don’t miss the historic lighthouse at Castello Brown.
Insider Tip: Take the hiking trail above Portofino for spectacular cliffside views over the village.
Capri
Glitzy Capri sits off the Amalfi Coast bathed in sunshine and natural beauty. From the famous Faraglioni rock formations to the stunning Villa Jovis, ancient Roman ruins dot the island. Make sure to explore the Gardens of Augustus, full of exotic flora.
Insider Tip: Escape the crowds by heading to the peaceful town of Anacapri with its family-run trattorias.
Taormina
This hillside town on Sicily’s east coast has postcard-worthy views of Mt. Etna and the sea. Relax at an outdoor cafe on Piazza IX Aprile and take in scenes of the volcano and medieval churches. Visit the ancient Greek theatre for more sweeping coastal vistas.
Insider Tip: Make reservations to catch the sunset with dinner on Taormina's panoramic terraces, like Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo.
Plan Your Visit to Bella Italia
Italy is filled with breathtakingly beautiful towns, each with their own charming character. From pastel fishing villages to cliffside resorts, the options for jaw-dropping scenery are endless. With its cascading rainbow houses, Positano tops my list of most picturesque towns. But classics like Venice, Florence and Cinque Terre also belong on any Italy itinerary. Whether you seek ancient history, seaside relaxation, or stunning panoramas, you really can’t go wrong when planning a trip in Italy. Use my insider tips to experience the beauty of these towns like a local and discover your own favorites across this magical country.
