Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it’s no wonder. It is a country renowned for its rich history, art, and culture and is also home to many beautiful villages that have emerged from the pages of a fairy tale. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs and Sicily’s rustic charm, Italy’s villages offer a captivating blend of history, scenery, and tradition.
In this blog, we will look at some of the most beautiful villages in Italy and under-the-radar places in Italy to book your next vacation.
When we think of Italy, hundreds of the best towns to visit in Italy come to mind: Rome, Venice, Milan, and Florence. However, the peninsula is home to many other wonders, far from these big cities known to all. If you want to bet on authenticity and avoid the hordes of tourists, leave the gondolas in Venice and, then, discover these 10 best Italian villages to live in; you won’t regret it!
Are you looking for an original destination in Italy? We recommend you consult our top ten surprising destinations to discover during a trip to Italy! Hence, here is the list of villages in Italy to visit in 2023.
Our journey begins in the northern region of Liguria, where the charming village of Portofino awaits. While this seaside gem is renowned for its colourful buildings, luxurious yachts, and stunning coastal views. Portofino has long been a favourite destination for artists, writers, and celebrities, drawn by its serene beauty and tranquil ambiance. Then, take a stroll along the harbor, indulge in fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants, or hike through the nearby Portofino Regional Park for breath-taking vistas of the Italian Riviera.
Location: Genoa, Italy
Continuing our exploration of Liguria, we arrive at Manarola, one of the five villages of the iconic Cinque Terre. Perched on cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea, for this reason Manarola is a postcard-perfect destination known for its colorful houses, narrow alleyways, and world-class wines. The village’s charm lies in its simplicity, as it remains relatively unspoiled by modernity. Hike the famous Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane) or savor local specialties like pesto and seafood while sipping Sciacchetrà wine.
Location: Riomaggiore, La Spezia, Liguria, Italy
Descending the Italian boot to the Amalfi Coast, we encounter the enchanting village of Positano. Known for its steep, pastel-colored houses clinging to the cliffs, Positano, thus offers a vertical paradise with breathtaking sea views at every turn. Stroll along the narrow, winding streets, visit the Spiaggia Grande (Big Beach), and embrace the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Remember to savor fresh lemon-based delicacies, such as limoncello and lemon-infused pasta, which are local specialties.
Location: Salerno, Amalfi Coast, Italy
Our journey now takes us to the heart of southern Italy, specifically to Matera, a village unlike any other. Carved into the rock, Matera is also known for its unique cave dwellings, “Sassi,” which have earned it a UNESCO World Heritage status. The ancient town’s winding alleyways and stone-carved architecture glimpse Italy’s distant past. Further, explore the cave churches, taste local bread, and stay in a boutique cave hotel for an unforgettable experience.
Location: Basilicata, Italy
Staying in the region of Basilicata, we venture to the charming village of Castelmezzano. Nestled amidst the rugged Dolomiti Lucane mountain range, this village offers a serene escape into nature. Adventurous travelers can enjoy thrilling activities such as zip-lining through the valleys or hiking to the highest peaks for panoramic views. The quaint stone houses and medieval atmosphere add to Castelmezzano’s allure, making it a hidden gem in the Italian countryside.
Location: Potenza, Italy
Our journey continues eastward to Puglia, where we encounter the whimsical village of Alberobello. What sets Alberobello however, apart are its unique trulli houses cylindrical stone structures with conical roofs. Therefore, these UNESCO-listed buildings create a fairytale-like ambiance, and the village’s historic center is a maze of winding streets and picturesque alleyways. Afterwards, explore the Trulli, visit the Trullo Sovrano, a two-story trullo, and immerse yourself in the local traditions of this charming village.
Location: Comune in Italy
Heading back to the Amalfi Coast, we arrive at the cultural haven of Ravello. Although, perched high above the sea, this village is famous for its historic villas, lush gardens, and annual Ravello Festival, which celebrates music and arts. The Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone offer stunning garden vistas, while the medieval Duomo di Ravello showcases architectural beauty. Ravello’s peaceful ambiance and artistic heritage make it a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts.
Location: Provinceof Salerno
Venturing inland to Umbria, we discover the hilltop village of Orvieto. While, famous for its magnificent Duomo, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, Orvieto boasts an intriguing underground world of caves and tunnels. Hence, Explore the Etruscan tombs and enjoy the region’s renowned Orvieto Classico wine. With its panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside, Orvieto offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Location: Terni, Umbria, Italy
Returning to Campania, we visit the medieval village of Sant’Agata de’ Goti. Perched on a hilltop, while, this charming settlement is a well-preserved example of medieval architecture. Wander through its ancient streets, admire the Gothic cathedral, and above all, enjoy traditional Campanian cuisine in the village’s trattorias. Sant’Agata de’ Goti offers a glimpse into Italy’s medieval past and provides a peaceful retreat from bustling cities.
Location:Province of Benevento, Italy
Our final destination takes us to the beautiful island of Sicily, where we encounter Taormina, the jewel of the Ionian Sea. Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea and crowned by the ancient Greek Theater, Taormina for this reason, offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the historic center, take in the breathtaking views from the theater, and relax on the beautiful beaches of Isola Bella. Taormina’s timeless charm and Mediterranean allure make it a must-visit village in Sicily.
Location: Comune in Sicily, Italy
Italy’s beautiful villages are thus, a testament to the country’s diverse and enchanting landscapes. From the rugged cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the historic treasures of Matera and the fairytale-like trulli of Alberobello, each village as a result offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Italy’s villages have something to offer every traveler. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the enchanting charm of Italy’s beautiful towns, where time seems to stand still, and every corner is a work of art.
If you are interested in visiting the best places in Italy, you must obtain an Italian Schengen visa from the UK, depending onyour nationality.So, what are you waiting for? Book an Italy visa appointmenttoday and obtain your Schengen visa to Italy to visit beautiful villages in Italy in 2023.
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Yes, you will require a visa to travel to Italy, a member of the European Union (EU) and Schengen area- meaning you will need an Italy Schengen Visa from the UK.
To apply for an Italy visa UK, you need to follow these steps:
Undernormal circumstances, the processing time for Italy Visa UK takes 12-15 calendar days after the documentation and bio-metrics at the visa center.
An Italian Schengen visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days in 180 days. You must apply for a long-term visa if you want to stay longer.
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