By all means, Italy is one of the most incredible countries in Europe, if not in the whole world. So, that’s no surprise why this country in southern Europe is often among the top travel destinations. Truly indeed, it is a country of immense natural beauty.
Amazing landmarks, architectural masterpieces, rolling hills, majestic jagged peaks, crystal clear lakes, world-class museums, beautiful beaches, rugged coastlines, and of course delicious local food – you can have it all in Italy. But it’s also true that some of the most beautiful places in Italy are its villages. So, the good news? Whichever you choose to visit first, surely it will be a hit in this country.
Scroll down in order to explore the best villages in Italy. Also, feel free to share your travel experiences with us!
#1 Ravello, Amalfi Coast
Ravello is a charming, little village located approximately 350 meters above the sea. One travel blogger once noted that Ravello actually “represents nature’s music.” It features impressive monuments, lovely landscapes, and spectacular views that have reportedly inspired many a European artist who found themselves in this spot.
#2 Castelmezzano, Basilicata
You’ll find the memorable village of Castelmezzano perched high on a cliffside amidst the well-known Lucanian Dolomites. This getaway reportedly has pretty much everything for a genuine Italian experience. The village also features the popular Volo dell’Angelo (in English “Flight of the Angel”.) This walking path across the bluffs is one of the best hikes in the entire country.
#3 Matera, Basilicata
This village in southern Italy is “Città dei Sassi”, or “city of stones”. Some travel mavens say this place in Italy is one of the most ancient and beautiful places on the planet. It owes a lot of its fame to the memorable sassi, ancient cave-residences that carve right into the surrounding hills’ rock.
#4 Cefalu, Sicily
This small, idyllic village is surprisingly popular, especially with Italian sun-worshippers. Here you will discover not only narrow medieval streets and beautiful beaches, but also a surprisingly hip night scene, and noteworthy Sicilian restaurants. You can find it between the coastline and the mountains on one of the most scenic islands in the world.
#5 Manarola, Cinque Terre
Manarola , as considered by many travel mavens is the most beautiful of all five villages in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre. This quaint community highlights all the brightly-colored buildings perched on the rugged slopes between the Mediterranean and the rolling hills. Much like Italy’s other coastal towns, Manarola offers tempting regional cuisine and an intimate beach accessible via one little road.
#6 Bellagio, Lake Como
Bellagio is located halfway between the two southernmost branches of the lake, and is famous worldwide for its beautiful villas overlooking the water. Lake Como is one of the gorgeous places in Italy to visit, especially when in the north of the country. It is filled with centuries-old towns, gorgeous views and a shoreline. The tiny streets of Bellagio are so pretty that a simple walk is worth the visit.
#7 Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio
Civita di Bagnoregio is situated high on a tuff hill half-way between Lake Bolsena and Orvieto. It’s accessible only by walking across a significantly narrow footbridge. This surreal spot is also known as “città che muore” or “the dying city.” Some travel bloggers believe it to be one of Italy’s most characteristic and beautiful villages.
#8 Positano, Amalfi Coast
The village of Positano is an hour south of Naples. It’s situated on the scenic Amalfi Coast. Yes, the village includes a nice beach and nice restaurants. What makes it unique though is because it appears to cling to the local mountains. Additionally, it appears to have multiple layers of Moorish-style homes built in an uphill sprawl. If you’re planning a visit and looking for accommodations, veteran visitors suggest Casa Angelina, Le Sirenuse, or Villa Franca.
#9 San Gimignano, Tuscany
Many travel experts say Tuscany is arguably one of the country’s “most iconic” areas. San Gimignano is surely Tuscany’s most beautiful village. Nestled in the very heart of wine country, this little village includes 13 ancient towers, charming squares, and narrow streets. Here you can savor some homemade pasta, a glass of the local Tuscan red wine. Then, take in the sight of the sun as it sets over the farmland.
#10 Alberobello, Puglia
Situated in the region of Puglia, Italy, not too far from the town of Bari. Alberobello is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming village is well-known for its 1,500 trulli. For those not in the know, a trullo is a cone-shaped roof structure constructed without mortar. Also known as “the White Town,” this medieval walled city consists of buildings built atop of each other. Archways were added to support the structures and compensate for the poor foundations. There’s a 15th-century cathedral too.