8 Of The Most Adorable Small Towns In Italy
Italy is full of famous destinations that draw millions of visitors annually, but some of its most memorable places are the small towns on Lake Garda, or set against the rugged peaks of the Ligurian Alps and the colourful coastlines of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Bellagio is famed for its flower-filled lanes and sweeping views of Lake Como. Peschiera del Garda boasts a UNESCO-listed Venetian Fortress and picturesque canals. Portofino charms visitors with its colourful harbour and dramatic coastal scenery. As you plan an Italian getaway or seek out travel inspiration, these eight adorable towns showcase a side of Italy that feels straight out of a storybook.
Bellagio
If there were a competition for Italy's most adorable lakeside town, Bellagio would be a serious contender. Perched at the point where Lake Como splits into three branches, this charming destination almost feels designed for leisurely strolls and postcard-worthy photos. Flower-filled lanes wind between painted buildings, while sweeping lake views appear around nearly every corner.
One of the best ways to experience Bellagio is by wandering through the town’s historic center, where narrow streets are lined with boutiques, cafés, and inviting piazzas. The waterfront promenade is another must-see, offering beautiful lake views and the mountains that rise beyond it. Visitors should also make time for Villa Melzi, a historic estate known for its elegant gardens. For even more scenery, board a ferry and admire Bellagio from the water while exploring the neighbouring villages around Lake Como.
Portofino
Portofino may be small, but it packs an enormous amount of charm into its colourful harbour. Brightly-painted buildings curve around the waterfront, fishing boats bob gently in the marina, and green hills rise steeply behind town. It has something of a magical feel. Ultimately, despite its glamorous reputation, Portofino retains the feel of a traditional fishing village (though it is no longer one in practice) and is easy to explore on foot.
A stroll around the harbour is practically mandatory, as this offers endless opportunities to admire the scenery. Visitors can hike to Castello Brown, a historic fortress perched above town that provides breathtaking coastal views. The Church of San Giorgio is another worthwhile stop, combining history with a spectacular vantage point overlooking the Ligurian Sea. For those who enjoy being on the water, boat excursions and scenic cruises depart from the harbour to reveal hidden coves and dramatic stretches of coastline nearby. 1Portofino is a popular option for luxury charters and private tours.
Civita di Bagnoregio
Few places in Italy feel as enchanting as Civita di Bagnoregio. Perched atop a rocky plateau and connected to the outside world by a long pedestrian bridge, the village looks like something lifted from a fairy tale. Simply walking across the bridge is one of the most memorable experiences you will have visiting Civita di Bagnoregio, as dramatic views unfold in every direction. Just note that you do need to pay a small entrance fee and purchase a ticket to do this. Once inside the village, visitors can wander through medieval stone streets, admire flower-filled courtyards, and explore the charming main square. The Church of San Donato serves as the town’s focal point, and there are numerous viewpoints along the town’s outer limits that provide stunning panoramas of the surrounding valley. Small cafés and artisan shops add even more character to the experience.
Varenna
Varenna feels like the quieter, more romantic sibling of the larger towns around Lake Como. With its waterfront homes, steep stone staircases, and flower-draped alleyways, nearly every corner offers something to explore. One of the town's highlights is the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, a scenic lakeside walkway that hugs the shoreline and offers spectacular views. Visitors can also explore Villa Monastero, a former monastery turned museum surrounded by gorgeous botanical gardens. History lovers will want to head uphill to Castello di Vezio, a medieval fortress that overlooks the lake and provides panoramic views. Between sightseeing stops, spending time in the small harbour area is a wonderful way to soak in Varenna's relaxed atmosphere with an espresso or gelato in hand.
Maratea
The Italian town of Maratea combines mountain scenery, historic charm, and beautiful coastline into one remarkably picturesque package. Located along the Tyrrhenian Sea in southern Italy, it offers enough diverse attractions to keep visitors exploring from morning until sunset. One of the town's most famous landmarks is the towering Christ the Redeemer statue, which sits high above the coast and provides breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding mountains.
The historic town center is equally appealing, featuring elegant churches and inviting piazzas. Visitors can also discover hidden beaches and coves scattered along the coastline, including the striking Spiaggia Nera, a small beach known for its dark volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. For those who enjoy active adventures, the scenic hike up Monte San Biagio rewards travellers with panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, rugged cliffs, and the surrounding countryside.
Malcesine
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Malcesine’s medieval roots and mountain-backed views offer one of the most picturesque destinations in northern Italy. The centerpiece of this adorable town is Castello Scaligero, a historic fortress that rises above the lake and offers incredible views from its towers. Another unforgettable experience is riding the cable car to Monte Baldo, where hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints reveal some spectacular scenery. Back in town, visitors can wander through narrow streets filled with stone buildings, cafés, and small shops before enjoying a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade. Boat excursions on Lake Garda provide yet another perspective of the can't-miss landscape around Malcesine.
Peschiera del Garda
Peschiera del Garda manages to be both historic and irresistibly charming. An hour south of Malcesine on Lake Garda, the town is renowned for its impressive Venetian Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose star-shaped walls and canals encircle the historic center. Visitors often begin at Porta Verona and stroll along the ramparts before wandering through the colourful streets of the old town. Walking beside the canals along Via Venezia and Piazza Ferdinando di Savoia is a favorite pastime, with waterfront cafés and gelaterias offering inviting places to pause. Boat excursions depart from the harbor and provide easy access to scenic destinations such as Sirmione, known for its medieval Scaliger Castle and Roman ruins at the Grotte di Catullo. Closer to town, the lakeside promenade stretching toward Lungolago Garibaldi offers beautiful views across the water, especially at sunset. Visitors can also rent bicycles and follow the popular Peschiera del Garda-Mantua Cycle Path, which traces the Mincio River through vineyards and countryside villages.
Apricale
Tucked in the hills of Liguria, the medieval town of Apricale is a maze of stone passageways and centuries-old buildings. One of the best ways to experience Apricale is simply by getting lost in its caruggi (narrow medieval lanes). The village is crowned by Castello della Lucertola, a 10th-century castle that now houses exhibitions and offers sweeping views across the olive-covered hills and surrounding countryside. At the heart of town, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele serves as a lively gathering place, while colourful murals and outdoor art installations reflect Apricale's long-standing reputation as an artists' village. Visitors can also walk to the nearby Church of the Purificazione di Maria Vergine, known for its Baroque interior and historic artwork. For those seeking outdoor adventure, trails leading toward Monte Bignone and neighboring villages such as Perinaldo reward hikers with panoramic views stretching from the Ligurian Alps to the Mediterranean Sea.
Italy's Small Towns Are Worth The Detour
The next time you are planning a trip to Italy, skip the biggest cities and look to these adorable small towns instead. Some of the country's most unforgettable experiences and standout sights are found in these more distant destinations, far from the usual crowds. You can make time to watch the sunlight dance across Lake Como in Bellagio, wander the medieval lanes of Apricale, or take in the mountain scenery surrounding Castelluccio di Norcia. As a whole, these smaller Italian communities are every bit as memorable as other famous landmarks.
