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How to Plan a Trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast — Best Seaside Towns, Top Luxury Hotels, and Tastiest Restaurants Included

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is sprinkled with colorful seaside towns, and this guide will help you navigate them like an expert.

Rocky Casale is a freelance journalist with more than a decade of experience covering travel. His work has appeared in The New York Times , Vogue , The Wall Street Journal , Travel + Leisure , Condé Nast Traveler , Fodor's Travel , Afar , and more.

Getting to the Amalfi Coast

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The allure of the Amalfi Coast has drawn people to the region that is now Italy for centuries. Its dramatic landscapes and idyllic weather enticed ancient Roman nobles to build their villas there, and the high-end real estate trend never faded. Today, the mountains and cliffs remain dotted with breathtaking historic houses perched above the crystalline waters, making the coastline one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Its fragile cultural landscape — churches, gardens, vineyards, and towns — is divided into 16 municipalities and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site . Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi are the area's top destinations, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Here's how you can be one of them.

There are multiple ways to get to (and around) the Amalfi Coast. Whatever means of transportation you choose, be sure to book it well in advance of your trip.

The cities of Italy are connected by an extensive high-speed rail network. Make your way to Salerno from Rome (2.5 hours), Naples (one hour), or another region. From Salerno, there's a local train to Vietri sul Mare, the first town on the Amalfi Coast. The second leg takes only about 10 minutes.

Ferries run along the coast between Amalfi and Salerno (30 minutes), Vietri sul Mare (45 minutes), and Sorrento (one hour). Travelmar operates between Salerno and Positano, stopping at all the main towns. From Sorrento, options include the Navigazione Libera del Golfo (NLG) and Alilauro Gruson . Alternatively, Alilauro runs a ferry service directly from Naples to Positano and Amalfi.

If you don't fancy ferries, you can also charter a boat. In most towns, travelers get their pick of companies offering private trips. If you want to book ahead, try Positano Boats or Lucibello .

The Amalfi Coast is one of the world's most famous road trip routes, and driving along its switchbacks, high up on the cliffside, is truly spectacular. Both Salerno and Sorrento have all the major car rental companies, though local companies often offer better value. Salernorental is one known to be reliable.

Because traffic can be so excessive, the company that manages Italy's motorways rolled out an alternating license plate system for rental cars traveling the stretch between Positano and Vietri sul Mare. Since 2022, rental cars with odd-numbered plates have been banned from that section on odd-numbered days, and the same goes for cars with even-numbered plates on even-numbered days. The rule is enforced throughout much of the tourist season, between April and September, with some exceptions. Check the exact dates before you hit the road so you don't get fined for driving on the wrong day.

Another word of warning: If you're driving, be aware that the road is narrow in parts and full of sharp switchbacks, some of them requiring a bit of back-and-forth to get around. Note that traveling by road takes much longer than by sea — at least an hour from Positano to Amalfi, for example, compared to 25 minutes by ferry.

Sita Sud buses run the length of the Amalfi Coast and provide some of the cheapest transportation. Those traveling from Rome or Naples can opt for one of the economic shuttle sharing systems, like Positano Shuttle . It'll scoop you up straight from the airport in Rome or Naples and deliver you to your accommodations in Positano.

If you've seen the Amalfi Coast on Instagram, chances are you've seen Positano. With its brightly colored houses spilling over the cliffs around a bay, and dramatic mountains rearing up in the background, the village is picture-perfect.

Travelers can find shops selling locally made linen clothes and tailored vintage styles. Positano is particularly known for handcrafted sandals — try Nanà , where the Ruocco family has been making them to measure for generations.

When in Italy, learn how to cook as the Italians do. Buca di Bacco is a hotel that offers cooking classes to visitors. During these classes, offered daily, trainees help chefs prepare regional appetizers and first and second courses.

For history enthusiasts: Mar , the Roman Archeological Museum, is a stunning Roman villa beneath the town's bell tower. The relic has undergone excavation for a decade and only opened to the public in 2018. Restoration work continues, but the colorful frescoes are primed for admiration and worth the visit alone.

Positano is also the endpoint for one of Italy's most stunning hiking trails. Hemmed into the mountains above the coast, the Path of the Gods is a gentle four-hour hike that snakes high above the sea. It starts outside the village of Bomerano and runs west of Amalfi, to Nocelle, then to Positano.

Where to Stay in Positano

Book a room at the four-star Hotel Poseidon to immerse yourself in Positano's bohemian flair. Family-owned since it opened in the 1950s, this property is laid-back and friendly. Vintage-style rooms are large, and all but one overlook the town and sea from private balconies. Perched above the center of Positano, it's removed enough to avoid the tourist crowds but still a quick walk down to the action.

If you prefer to stay right in the center of it all, the charming Hotel Palazzo Murat is located in the pedestrian zone by the waterfront. While it lacks the knockout views of higher-up hotels, its sizable private courtyard planted with palms and fragrant flowering vines is a lovely place for a candlelit aperitif.

Le Sirenuse is another Positano institution, terraced into the cliffs on the opposite side (and a bit lower down) from the Poseidon. It's a feast for the eyes, surrounded by exquisite tile work, lemon trees, and plentiful art.

Where to Eat and Drink in Positano

At Michelin-starred restaurant Zass in Positano, chef Alois Vanlangenaeker builds artful culinary creations from fruits and vegetables grown on the property, local meats, and seafood caught fresh each day. Hotel Poseidon's Il Tridente may not have a Michelin star (the owners deliberately avoid making this a hot spot to keep the familial atmosphere), but it's also exceptional. You'll eat local dishes, like the sublime shrimp carpaccio, off crockery hand-painted in Vietri sul Mare.

Another place to try is Da Vincenzo . Since 1958, the family-owned restaurant has served regional seafood and pasta dishes, like rigatoni alla genovese and cod cooked in oil and Amalfi lemon peel. Le Tre Sorelle , a more affordable dining option located on the beach, is consistently good and has served traditional Amalfitano dishes since 1953.

Amalfi is the largest town on its namesake coast. It serves as a major intersection for nearly all the buses, boats, and ferries shuttling tourists between the islands and towns, which means the crowds there can be overwhelming. Many would argue that the town's ninth-century Duomo di Amalfi makes the swarms of tourists worth braving, though. The church is treasured for its collision of various architectural styles and materials — it draws on Arab-Norman, Romanesque, Byzantine, and Rococo designs.

Amalfi used to vie with Venice and Genoa as one of the three maritime republics of the Italian Peninsula, and if you look past the shops selling lemon soaps, limoncello, and Amalfi tea towels, you'll see some fascinating remnants of history. The Museo della Carta — dedicated to Amalfi's handmade paper industry — is one of them. Take a tour of the still-operational 13th-century mill to see exactly how the paper is produced. For more antique oddities, La Scuderia del Duca sells art and stationery on the famous Amalfi paper, plus the odd antique.

Of course, Amalfi lemons are everywhere, but the best way to see them is through the Amalfi Lemon Experience . The Aceto family has been growing lemons less than a mile from the coast for six generations. The farm is open to the public for limited tours of the lemon groves, picnics, and cooking classes with the family. Not only is a visit lovely, but you'll get an idea of the backbreaking labor involved with growing lemons on mountain terraces and working the land by hand.

Where to Stay in Amalfi

The Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel , a converted 13th-century monastery, sits high up on the cliffs like a white palace. It's an eight-minute walk from Amalfi and has two restaurants, a pool area, a gym, and a spa. Those who drive to Amalfi will appreciate the hotel's on-site valet parking.

A bit further west, Hotel Santa Caterina provides an excellent buffer from the hectic summer crowds. The property has a beach club with a pool and a sun deck with views of the town. The rooms and suites, most with small terraces and sea views, are few, which makes this place more intimate.

Borgo Santandrea , which opened in 2021 two miles west of town, features a fresh, modern take on Amalfi style. One of its major highlights is the elevator that rides down the cliff to a private beach complete with a restaurant.

Where to Eat and Drink in Amalfi

Amalfi locals have been eating at Trattoria da Gemma since 1872. You could spend an entire afternoon grazing through its tasting menu, enjoying locally sourced dishes like tuna carpaccio and homemade pasta.

For a more casual dining experience, go for pizza or a plate of seafood in the homey dining room of Trattoria da Maria . The pies here are simple and traditional, topped with combinations like buffalo mozzarella and ham or sausage and broccoli.

Make sure to try some local pastries, too. Pasticceria Pansa has been an Amalfi institution since 1830. Try the delizia di limone : lemon cream in a sponge case, drizzled with lemon sauce.

If you visit Ravello — the town high in the hills above Amalfi — and don't spend an hour or two roaming through Villa Cimbrone's gardens, you're essentially missing the point. From Ravello's central piazza, signs will lead you to the storied gardens, which are part of a palatial, centuries-old compound perched on the coast. Some, such as the well-traveled late American writer Gore Vidal, have proclaimed the spot the most beautiful they've ever visited.

Within the historic center of Ravello is the Villa Rufolo , a stunning example of regional 13th-century architecture with beautiful Italianate gardens overlooking the blue water below. During the summer months, the villa and gardens host spectacular outdoor concerts.

Where to Stay in Ravello

Most accommodations in Ravello come with gorgeous views of valleys, mountains, oceans, and ancient towns. Still, there are a few five-star standouts. Caruso, a Belmond Hotel , has 50 rooms and suites, with details such as vaulted ceilings and 18th-century frescoes, and beautiful grounds overlooking the coast.

There's also the jaw-dropping Hotel Villa Cimbrone , a 12th-century building perched on the sea cliffs and enclosed by stunning gardens.

The over-the-top rooms and suites at Palazzo Avino feature antique furniture and rugs, giving it a more classic, regal feel. The hotel's clubhouse is spectacular and built right into the cliffs, with a poolside restaurant and bar.

Where to Eat and Drink in Ravello

Tourists from all over the Amalfi Coast queue up for a table at Il Flauto di Pan in Hotel Villa Cimbrone. Chef Lorenzo Montoro is at the helm of this Michelin-starred establishment, drawing on the surrounding countryside to create his menu. It's costly, but the superb food and sea views from the garden terrace are worth the expense.

Piazza Vescovado, Ravello's square, is a beautiful place to refuel or relax in the shade of the cathedral. Visitors spill out onto the piazza for drinks, gelato, or granita at a handful of cute, simple bars ringing the square.

Vietri sul Mare

Those brightly colored, hand-painted plates and bowls sold all along the coast? They're likely from Vietri. There's even a museum dedicated to the tradition — the Museo della Ceramica — just outside town.

Walk around the streets, and you'll see tiles everywhere: donkey-shaped designs for every house number, portraits of saints painted over strips of tiles on walls, and tiles that have been adorned with the same patterns for centuries. Solimene is the primary producer, housed in a gigantic warehouse store above the town, clad in tiles like a Gaudi building in Barcelona.

Then, there's Mirkò: a superb modern artist who has taken the Vietri tradition to new heights. His artworks, which can cost thousands, are sold around the world, but he also makes smaller, much more affordable tiles for his shop in his hometown.

Where to Stay in Vietri sul Mare

Deluxe rooms and suites at the five-star Hotel Raito open up to terraces overlooking Vietri and the coastline. The decor is crisp, elegant, and, of course, includes locally made ceramics. Relax by the pool in the sun before cleaning up for an upscale dining experience on the terrace of on-site Il Golfo, where views abound.

Where to Eat and Drink in Vietri sul Mare

Take in the essence of Vietri from an outdoor table at Ristorante Sud Est , a laid-back pizzeria serving fluffy Neapolitan-style pizza, seafood, and pasta dishes. Or take a break from the typical pizza-and-pasta fare and try the Mediterranean tapas at Passariello Cantina Mediterranea , a casual wine bar also known for its cocktails.

When the time calls for a more polished environment, Il Principe e la Civetta is a great option. Menu standouts include ricotta and lemon ravioli with pumpkin and shrimp, spaghetti with pesto and anchovies, and the fresh catch of the day.

The weather on the Amalfi Coast is best in May, when it's warm yet fresh enough to walk the vertiginous towns. You can also see wildflowers blooming along the roadside during this time. September and June are also beautiful, as is October, when the sea is still warm enough for swimming. July and August tend to be very hot and humid, which is made even more uncomfortable by the throngs of tourists jamming into the towns.

The Amalfi Coast isn't so much a destination for the winter months since most activities revolve around the water. Outside of the busy season, April to October, you might struggle to find accommodations, and many shops and restaurants are closed. So, instead of going for a winter bargain, try April, early May, or late September to October. Prices tend to rise from June until mid-September.

Winter is the least busy time, but also perhaps the least appealing to those who want to experience the best of the Amalfi Coast. Instead, go midweek during the cheaper months — May, April, and September — and you'll find it quiet, particularly in the evenings when the day-trippers have gone home, but still accommodating to tourists.

15 beautiful Italian coastal towns to visit

I just adore Italy and, in my opinion, the various Italian coastal towns are without doubt among some of the planet’s most picturesque locations.

Add into the mix the golden sands and pretty ports found at many of these beautiful beach towns in Italy and that might sound like enough of a reason to visit. 

Yet I love that the best coastal towns in Italy have so much more to offer besides. Destinations range from smart, upmarket and more famous beach cities in Italy, such as glittering Portofino, elegant Ravello and citrus-scented Sorrento, to smaller villages with heaps of charm.

I have spent a lot of time travelling around Italy, seeking out the prettiest spots along the Italian coast.

Here I have compiled my own personal experiences with recommendations from fellow travellers to compile the ultimate guide to the best Italian coastal towns.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

The post contains affiliate links.

Map of my favourite coastal towns in Italy

Use my map below to see where all the best Italian coastal towns are located. I’d recommend trying to combine a few different seaside towns into one stay, to make the most of your time.

15 of the most beautiful Italian coastal towns

1. positano.

Best for: Postcard-perfect town

Nearest airport: Naples

Where to stay: Il San Pietro di Positano

Top activity to book:  From Positano: Sorrento Coast & Capri Full-Day Trip by Boat

While numerous Italian coastal towns vie for the title of the country’s prettiest town, I believe Positano is a serious contender. This picturesque spot can be found at the heart of the Amalfi Coast.

I first visited Positano when I was a teenager and I’ve returned numerous times over the years. Despite the fact that its appearance borders on the rustic in places, Positano is one of the most refined resorts in Italy.

It is also one of the most costly, but offers visitors easy access by boat to Capri, the Grotta dello Smeraldo, and Ischia. 

Positano has a couple of attractive beaches. Fornillo is smaller and lesser known than Spiaggia Grande. I think both are incredibly pleasant places to spend the day, with the former being busier and the latter more peaceful. 

Insider travel tip: I’d recommend visiting between April and June if you can, for warm weather and lower prices. Plus, witnessing the sight of the colourful cliffside buildings during wisteria season makes for an unforgettable – and extremely photogenic – experience. 

Best for: Dramatic scenery

Where to stay: Palazzo Avino

Top activity to book:  Amalfi Coast: Boat and Snorkeling Tour with a Captain

Appealingly compact in size, Amalfi is situated in a ravine at the base of Monte Cerreto. I love that it’s possible to walk across town in around 20 minutes. Although I’d definitely recommend allowing time for a coffee stop in a sunny square or to laze on one of the little beaches.

The 9th century Duomo di Amalfi is a superb example of a Roman Catholic structure, boasting a breathtaking ceiling and some colourful, intricate mosaics.

I’ve found that browsing Amalfi’s stores can also be rather diverting, as you try to choose between the cameo brooches that the town is famous for.

Limoncello is another of the Amalfi Coast’s most famous products – I love that you often get a free tipple of Limoncello with the bill when eating out.

3. Manarola

Best for: Wine tasting

Nearest airport: Pisa

Where to stay: La Torretta Lodge

Top activity to book:  Manarola: Authentic Pesto Making Class in Cinque Terre

Manarola is one of five Ligurian villages that make up the Cinque Terre National Park.

This picturesque village is packed with vibrant, painted buildings, which is why it’s often referred to as the world’s most colourful town. And I can see why!

Manarola’s setting is also particularly stunning, with vineyards that were first established centuries ago dotted across the clifftops.

This makes wine tasting a popular pastime (it would be rude not to!), and the area’s white wines are of particularly high quality.

Another feature of Manarola that I love is the steep, slender lanes that lead down to the sea, known locally as carrugi.

I’d also recommend observing the sunset from this charming village, which makes for a most memorable experience.

Insider travel tip: San Lorenzo church is not to be missed, for the stunning views across the surrounding coastal landscape as well as its beautiful rose window.

4. Riomaggiore

Best for: Beautiful walking routes

Where to stay: The Sunset Line

Top activity to book:  Riomaggiore: Cinque Terre Wine & Liqueur Tasting Experience

Riomaggiore is the furthest south of the five villages forming the Cinque Terre National Park. It is also the most easterly, and lies fairly close to the Tuscan border on the Gulf of Genoa. 

Like nearby Manarola, Riomaggiore is famed for its cliffside cluster of colourful buildings. Trust me when I say that this place is a photographer’s dream!

Some of the homes lining the narrow, cobbled lanes are ‘tower houses’, and the village boasts 14th century churches and a medieval castle. 

Vineyards also surround Riomaggiore, and this Cinque Terre village is famed for Sciacchetrà, a sweet white wine made from Vermentino, Bosco and Albarola grapes. 

Popular walking routes begin in Riomaggiore: the first part of the Lovers’ Path ( Via Dell’Amore ) between Riomaggiore and Manarola is also known as the Blue Path ( Sentiero Azzurro ).

Insider travel tip: I’d recommend climbing the village’s steep, rocky staircase for magnificent views over the coastline. 

5. Portofino

Best for: Luxury

Nearest airport: Genoa

Where to stay: Splendido, A Belmond Hotel

Top activity to book:  1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino

Well-heeled Portofino can be found within the Genoa province on the Ligurian coast. It’s known for its singular semi-circular harbour, as well as its popularity with the uber rich. 

Portofino is famed as a hangout for the wealthy, who are drawn to this smart town by its undeniable beauty.

Awash with gleaming white yachts and stylish designer shops, I think this is the Italian Riviera’s most fashionable spot.

While the local museum, Castello Brown, has a rather ordinary moniker, this 15th century castle is an absorbing place to visit.

Not least for the spectacular views over Portofino’s famous harbour from the elevated site. I’d also recommend Museo del Parco – the sculpture park – for the artsy types among you.

If you enjoy luxury, romance, beauty and sheer indulgence, I really don’t think you can miss Portofino off your Italian itinerary.

6. Sorrento

Best for: Lively town

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria

Top activity to book:  Sorrento: Exclusive Capri Boat Tour and Optional Blue Grotto

The province of Naples is home to Sorrento, another of Italy’s best located towns, set among a surrounding landscape rich in lush valleys and fragrant citrus groves.

The beautiful and locally produced ceramics and lace have also firmly placed Sorrento on the map. I think this Neapolitan town is a fabulous place to spend time, sipping coffee or a glass of wine in Piazza Tasso.

All while admiring the glamour and soaking up the atmosphere – as well as the sun!

Positioned where the coastline meets the peaks, Sorrento’s location can barely be bettered. I don’t find the town itself to be as authentic as others on this list, but it’s such a wonderful base for exploring the area.

Insider travel tip: Those seeking beach life would be best off heading to the neighbouring island of Capri, or north towards the other towns of the Amalfi Coast. 

7. Cagliari

Best for: Quintessential Italian charm

Nearest airport: Cagliari

Where to stay: Casa Clat

Top activity to book:  Cagliari: Boat Tour with 4 Swim Stops at Devil’s Saddle

As the capital of the island of Sardinia, Cagliari has lots to offer visitors. I’d recommend approaching by boat if you can, so you see the best of the town’s beaches and golden domes before even setting foot on Sardinian soil – or sand.

Smart Poetto beach is a must, where young families enjoy al fresco meals while flamingoes wander round the surrounding marshland.

Roman remains are dotted around the town too, as are plenty of appealing cafes, stores and restaurants. 

The best sights and views in Casteddu (as Cagliari is locally known), however, are accessed by trekking up to the old town.

Once you’ve reached the hilltop, you can wander cobbled alleys, take in the views from Piazza Indipendenza and discover Bastione San Remy , the local landmark with a limestone arch and Italiate pillars. 

Trust me, it’s well worth the walk!

8. Sperlonga 

Best for: A day trip from Rome or Naples

Nearest airport: Rome

Where to stay: Hotel Grotta Di Tiberio

Top activity to book:  Sperlonga: Boat Tour to Gaeta with Pizza and Drinks

Sperlonga makes a great day trip from Rome or Naples, as it is positioned around midway between the two Italian cities .

It also has a pretty, pristine beach and a history centering on Emperor Tiberius, its most famous former resident. 

Tiberus’s villa now houses a range of sculptures that were found in the grounds, detailing the accomplishments of Odysseus – aka Ulysses, the fabled Greek icon. Dating from Roman times, these were uncovered in the 1950s.

Discover more of the best beaches near Rome in my guide.

9. Portoferraio 

Best for: Breathtaking views

Nearest airport: Elba Island

Where to stay: Hotel Hermitage

Top activity to book:  Elba Island: Portoferraio Walking Tour

Located off the western coast of Italy is the island of Elba, and Portoferraio can be found at the centre of the harbour. 

As it’s surrounded by the sea on three sides, I adore the sublime views from the hills of the town. From the Italian mainland, Elba can be reached by ferry, and the approach makes a memorable vista. 

The name Portoferraio literally translates to ‘Iron Port’, and the old iron mills caused rapid growth here during the Napoleonic era.

At the Civic Archaeological Museum, visitors can also delve deeper into island history.

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Best for: Historic charm

Nearest airport: Palermo

Where to stay: Le Calette N.5

Top activity to book:  Cefalù: Agrigento Temples and Scala dei Turchi Day Tour

On Sicliy’s Tyrrhenian coast is Cefalù, a coastal spot known for its 12th century Norman cathedral. This pretty, historic town is one of the island’s most popular resorts and I can see why.

The fortress is a magnificent sight, with monolithic twin towers that loom over the town. Impressive Byzantine mosaics can be seen here too.

Perched on a huge crag known as Rocca , the Temple of Diana’s ruins dominate the area.

Cefalù’s Mandralisca Museum is also popular, containing an original Antonello da Messina portrait, plus a range of archaeological artefacts.

11. Polignano a Mare 

Best for: Exceptional sea views

Nearest airport: Bari

Where to stay: Donnamaria – Dimora Vista Mare

Top activity to book:  Polignano a Mare: Boat Cruise to Scenic Caves with Aperitif

With a dramatic cliff top location, Polignano a Mare is in the Italian province of Bari.

As well as superlative sea views from the terraces, the town is known worldwide as a superb cliff diving spot, and has played host to competitions in the past. I’m not sure you’ll find me jumping from the cliffs, but it’s an option for the daredevils among you!

Polignano a Mare boasts a charming old town, packed with narrow streets lined with historic homes and buildings.

Here the facades tend to lean towards the honey-hued rather than the pastel-painted, allowing the turquoise waters to take centre stage. 

At the heart of the town is a clean sweep of golden sand, where I’d recommend spending the day sunbathing and swimming.

Or simply take a rest break with a gelato between sightseeing and capturing the appealing scenes on camera. 

Best for: A hidden gem

Where to stay: Hotel La Bussola

Top activity to book:  Amalfi & Atrani: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour

Immediately east of the larger settlement of Amalfi on Italy’s southern coast is Atrani, the smallest town in the region.

It was once the chosen residence of the region’s most influential families and I love to imagine all the stories of times gone by!

Atrani is characterised by the traditional homes, lemon groves, medieval buildings and pretty gardens that lead upwards from the sands.

All along the coastline there is a series of curving support arches, a marvellous sight that can be seen by those who pass along the coast by boat.

13. Levanzo

Best for: An authentic Italian town

Where to stay: Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort by KlabHouse

Top activity to book:  From Trapani: Mini Cruise to Favignana and Levanzo

Off Sicily’s western coast are the three Egadi Islands, and Levanzo is the smallest of the trio. Of all the best beach towns in Italy, this one is the most basic but I also adore its authenticity.

The lightly toned stone of the buildings truly stands out against the brilliant blue of the sea here, making this one of the prettiest ports on earth.

It’s a fairly rustic sort of place, with simple dwellings, dry stone walls, and dusty tracks.

Levanzo’s sole attraction is the Grotta del Genovese containing well-preserved examples of prehistoric art. As it’s popular, booking in advance is essential.

Otherwise, the key attractions here are the warm waters and serene landscapes.  

14. Ravello

Best for: Spectacular views

Where to stay: Caruso, A Belmond Hotel

Top activity to book:  Ravello: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour

Perched above the Bay of Salerno, Ravello was once described as being nearer to the sky than the sea.

In addition to its stately position, the town is famous for the villas of Cimbrone and Rufolo and their lush, colourful gardens.  

Trust me when I say that the views from these outdoor oases of beauty and calm are nothing short of spectacular. It’s why many artists are said to have been inspired by the setting and surroundings of Ravello. 

As for the villas themselves, each is justifiably famous in its own right. Villa Rufolo dates from the 13th-century, and is a superb example of a Moorish style structure.

Regular concerts and events are held both indoors and out throughout the year. This includes the Ravello Festival that takes place in summer. 

Medieval Villa Cimbrone is positioned on a rocky outcrop, and is renowned for its beautiful garden.

15. Castelsardo

Best for: An ancient castle

Nearest airport: Alghero

Where to stay: Bajaloglia Resort

Top activity to book:  Castelsardo: Basket-Making Workshop and Museum Guided Tour

On Sardinia’s northern coast, Castelsardo is a pretty town with an ancient castle and an abundance of cafes and souvenir stores. 

Castello dei Doria is Castlesardo’s main draw, and there is also a museum on site devoted to the handicraft of basket weaving, an important tradition in the area. Lots of woven items are displayed around the castle.

Insider travel tip: I’d really recommend exploring the maze of alleyways leading down from the medieval fortress, and you can also explore ancient churches and the rocky shoreline.  

It’s been tough narrowing down the most beautiful coastal towns in Italy, but hopefully you’re suitably inspired for your next Italian getaway. Now, pass me the Limoncello!

Have you got any favourites or recommendations? Do let me know in the comments or get in touch on social media .

Looking for more European travel inspiration? Check out more of my Italy guides:

• 12 best cities in Italy to visit
• 12 best beaches in the South of France
• Rome travel guide
• 15 best European cities to travel solo

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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17 Cutest Italian Coastal Towns for a Road Trip!

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I’ve been traveling up and down the Italy coastline for the past couple of years while living in Europe , and while there are a million and one hidden gems when it comes to Italian coastal towns, here are a few I think are the most beautiful, both on the west coast of Italy and the east, as well as dipping into the island of Sicily.

On my list are 9 towns north of Rome and 10 towns south of Rome. I’ve included why they are great, little travel tips from me to you, and a few fun facts and history blurbs I learned along the way.

MY TOP FAVORITE ITALY BEACH TOWNS: ➡️ Portofino (Ritzy) – Stay at the Hotel Piccolo ➡️ Procida (Culture Forward, Local) – Stay at the San Michele B&B ➡️ Tropea (Holy Shit, Wow!) – Stay at Villa Paola ➡️ Taormina (Gem of Sicily) – Stay at Cohen House overlooking Isola Bella

I absolutely recommend road-tripping a few of these as part of your Italy adventure , especially if you can snag a sporty little Fiat as a rental! One of my favorite memories is driving the windy coastal roads in south Italy blasting old-school Toto Cutugno and squeezing my chunky rental through the impossibly small streets of some of these towns – again, highly recommend renting a Fiat ( or the smallest car they have ). 🚗

Alora! Let’s get into it…

Table of Contents

Best Italian Coastal Towns on a Map

Here is an interactive Google Map of all Italy Coastal Towns I recommend.

Italian Coastal Towns in North Italy

If you’re itching for a North Italy road trip , add a few of these coastal towns to it.

1. Vernazza: The Heart of Cinque Terre

Recommended by Jillian from Adventure Dragon

Located on Italy’s Ligurian coast, Vernazza is one of five villages making up the beloved Cinque Terre . Its dramatic cliffs and pastel-colored houses have helped it earn a reputation as one of the most gorgeous Italian coastal towns. Few other places in Italy compare to the fairytale-like vibe that you get when wandering around this tiny town. It’s small, but it’s full of so much color and charm.

For the best experience in Vernazza, head down to the harbor. This is the central activity hub of the town. It’s where you’ll find all the best things to do and the tastiest things to eat. Fishing is a lucrative business in Vernazza, so many of the restaurants specialize in serving cuisine cooked with locally caught seafood. 

At one of the  best restaurants in Cinque Terre , you can even dine inside an 11th-century castle by the sea. Castle Doria rises from Vernazza harbor, and its tower was once used as a fortress to protect the village from pirates. Today it serves as a popular tourist attraction, as well as the site of the beloved seaside eatery Ristorante Belforte. 

In the center of Vernazza harbor, there’s also a small beach that faces the castle. It’s the perfect spot to sit and watch the boats come to shore. For even better views of the coast, hop on the Blue Trail in Vernazza. This coastal path connects all the villages of Cinque Terre, and the segment located in Vernazza provides some of the best views of its rugged shoreline. 

2. Riomaggiore: The Nightlife of Cinque Terre

Recommended by Elena at The Carry-On Chronicles

Riomaggiore is the southernmost town of Italy’s spectacular Cinque Terre region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The  best Cinque Terre town  for scenic harbor views, Riomaggiore is beloved by photographers and those seeking nightlife. While in town, you can’t miss a stroll along the Instagram-famous harbor. This postcard-perfect area easily earns Riomaggiore a spot atop the list of gorgeous coastal Italian towns.

If fresh seafood is of interest, get yourself a tasty fish cone at one of the local vendors like Tutti Fritti. These takeaway treats resemble french fry cones but are filled with everything from fresh fried calamari to shellfish. Grab yourself a cone for a mouthwatering sample of the region and enjoy it as you stroll through Riomaggiore’s colorful town.

Beyond the beautiful harbor and the tasty eats, Riomaggiore is also a great starting point for one of the many hikes available throughout the five villages. Since Riomaggiore is the farthest south of the five towns, ambitious hikers may wish to follow the Blue Path and make the five-hour journey from Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare, the northernmost village.

Alternatively, if a shorter, more manageable hike is of interest, consider the “Lover’s Lane” trail. This enjoyable little hike runs from Riomaggiore to Manarola, the next town over, and takes only about 30 minutes. After a rejuvenating excursion, treat yourself to a fun boat tour for a magnificent perspective of the towns from the water.

PRO TIP: While cars aren’t allowed in the Cinque Terre towns, a train runs through each of them and is the most convenient way of hopping about.

3. Portofino: Haven for the Rich & Famous

Recommended by James from Travel Connecting

Portofino is one of the most famous playgrounds of the rich and famous for a very good reason. The town is a picture postcard perfect vision with colored houses scattered around the edge of a tiny blue bay filled with boats of all sizes – from tiny fishing boats to huge yachts. The houses around the marina, are stunning any time of the day but are their most beautiful in the Golden Hour before sunset. Just off the bay is the main square, the Piazza Martiri Dell’Olivetta. This is the perfect spot for people watching over a cappuccino, a glass of wine, or an Aperol Spritz.   

Surrounding the town are steep wooded hills. Climb up into the hills to visit sites such as the Castello Brown. See previous visitors in their photograph collection and admire the stunning views of Portofino below and the Mediterranean Sea beyond.  For more views of this gorgeous town, head to La Cervara. This former abbey has the only preserved Italian Renaissance-style garden on the Italian Riviera. But it is the views from the gardens that are truly sensational.  

If you’re feeling energetic, take  a two-hour hike  up over the hills through Portofino Regional Park to San Fruttuoso. On the way, look back to see Portofino a tiny speck around the bay sparkling like a gem in the sun. San Fruttuoso is home to a tenth-century former abbey and can only be reached on foot or by boat. Here, spend a day relaxing in this Italy beach town, then take a ferry back to Portofino for cocktail hour.  

FUN FACT: “ I Fell in Love in Portofino ” should be on any Italian Coastal Town remix – will really put you in the mood!

4. Porto Venere: Like Cinque Terre with Half the Tourists

Recommended by Linn from Brainy Backpackers

One of the most stupefying Italian coastal towns is Porto Venere, right below the world-famous Cinque Terre . Recognized by the Palazzata and the colorful tall houses coating the cliff in front of the marina, there are a lot of wonderful  things to do in Porto Venere .

One of the best recommendations is to visit the picturesque church of St. Peter, sitting on a tiny peninsula surrounded by turquoise water. Its strategic placement, built on top of an earlier church, made it an important defense structure all the way back to its erection in the mid-1200s. Today, it is used as an idyllic place for weddings and ceremonial events.

Another iconic church worth seeing is the San Lorenzo Church, dating back to the first half of the 1100s. Overlooking the glittering sea and surrounding beaches, it is known for the painting of Madonna Bianca. Legend says that the painting was washed ashore in Porto Venere on the 17 th  of August in the year 1204. To this day, it is one of the most important days of religious celebrations in Porto Venere, as the villagers carry the Madonna Bianca around the narrow streets.

Porto Venere is also the perfect place to go on boat trips to see the Cinque Terre or the surrounding islands of Palmaria, Trino, and Trinetto. You should also visit Byron’s Grotto, named after the British poet Lord Byron. Legend says he spent a lot of his life meditating in this grotto for inspiration.

PRO TIP : There is a coastal walk from Porto Venere that takes you to the closest Cinque Terre town, Riomaggiore, which is situated only 13.5 kilometers away.

While the Ligurian coast is very touristy (because the towns of Cinque Terre are so popular), you can enjoy Porto Venere with fewer tourists and it is just as picturesque as Cinque Terre – if not more.

5. Lerici: A Classic Italian Coastal Town

Recommended by Barbora from Often Out of Office

Recommended by bloggers  Often Out of Office , Lerici is the perfect Italian coastal town for anyone looking for a much more quiet and relaxed location to spend time by the water whilst still being close to nearby tourist hot spots.

It is a classic, small, Italian coastal town on the west side of the country. Unlike other more Instagram-famous cliff-side towns nearby ( such as the Cinque Terre region ), the town of Lerici is much closer to the water, making it a perfect boat docking destination for locals and tourists alike. Grabbing a pizza and sitting on the large beach rocks that line the water to watch the boats come in during sunset is one of the best ways to spend the evening here. 

If you’re not up for boating, there is a wonderful turquoise water beach to swim in during the day. After a day in the water, Lerici town itself is lined with classic colorful Italian-style buildings and even has a grand castle to admire whilst you sit in the piazza and eat your gelato.

Lerici’s location and proximity to other attractions along the west coast are what make it stand out. To the north, you can find La Spezia and the popular towns of the Cinque Terre. These locations can be easily reached in about 1 hour using local public transport or boat tour. For an even more off-the-beaten-path experience, venture south of Lerici for the day to explore the peninsula & town of Montemarcello.

PRO TIP: The vibe on the tree-lined Strada that runs along the water fills with sophistication as vacationing locals head out for evening strolls, making this town perfect for a romantic Italian summer!

6. Viareggio: The Sandy Beach Gem of Tuscany

Recommended by Martina from PlacesofJuma

One of the most gorgeous Italian coastal towns and of course amazing places for a summer vacation is definitely  Viareggio in Italy . It is situated in the western part of Tuscany, approximately 25 km from Pisa, where you can also find an international airport. Viareggio is one of the most stunning coastal towns in Tuscany, famous for its Art Nouveau style and of course for its many beautiful beaches. One of the highlights of this Italy beach town is that it’s actually one of the longest sandy beaches in Italy! The historic bagnos, the so-called beach resorts, line the coast and conjure up a very special ambiance with their many colorful umbrellas. 

The most beautiful attraction of Viareggio is the picturesque promenade from 1917, where you can admire numerous interesting buildings and stunning villas in Art Nouveau style. The colorful houses with their turrets and oriels, with their lovely decorations, ceramic tiles, and glass windows create an unmistakable flair on the promenade. In addition, you can enjoy a wide selection of boutiques, souvenir shops, cafés, and restaurants, perfect for shopping, dining out, or just taking a nice walk.

7. Bolgheri: Undiscovered Gem

Recommended by Michelle at Intentional Travelers

Tuscany’s Etruscan Coast boasts the beautiful rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages that you probably associate with Tuscany. However, the sunny, sandy beaches and ocean vistas make it even more spectacular.  Though long stretches of beach are just 12 minutes away, the village of Bolgheri is relatively undiscovered and uncrowded , making it on my list of best coastal towns in Italy.

Accessible by train or car within a couple of hours of  Florence , Pisa, or Rome, Bolgheri is at the heart of this region’s “ Oil and Wine Road ” (La Strada del Vino). Home to world-class wineries like Sassicaia, this road leading out of town is lined with cypress trees and has been declared a national monument.

Whether you prefer easy bike rides to the beach or hopping from town to town, walking to the village gelato shop, or tasting wines and olive oils, there’s something special about this beautiful Italian village of Bolgheri.

8. Rimini: Party & Sandy Beaches

Recommended by Raluca at Travel with a Spin

A mild coastal climate, all-night parties, and a 15km long sandy beach practically define Rimini, the most popular resort in Emilia-Romagna. But this is not all. This charming Italian coastal town is home to important historic sites more than 2000 years old. It can be said that Rimini has a little bit of everything, as history, culture, and gastronomy join the water and sun in creating a fascinating city.

The symbol of Rimini is the Bridge of Tiberius, one of the oldest and most beautiful Roman bridges in the world. Other artifacts from the Roman period are The Arch of Augustus, The Roman Amphitheatre, The surgeon’s house, and Piazza Tre Martiri. The golden medieval era also left its traces around the city. Some medieval  must-see sights in Rimini  are Castle Sismondo, The Malatesta Temple, and Piazza Cavour, technically the heart of the city.

A place many people miss is the picturesque district, Borgo San Giuliano, located just outside the old city’s walls. Its cobbled alleys are fenced by colorful houses, many adorned with murals featuring scenes from Federico Fellini’s most famous movies. This is a tribute to the famed director born in the city.

As part of the Emilia-Romagna region, Rimini inherits a rich culinary tradition. But adds to it its own character, marked by the flavors of the sea. Some of the most popular dishes are handmade pasta with white truffles, porchetta rabbit, and, of course, a fresh seafood grill. One of the best places to taste them is Osteria de Borg. 

PRO TIP: You can easily get to Rimini by plane. Federico Fellini International Airport is located just 5.2 kilometers away. The city also has good train and bus connections with Bologna and San Marino. 

9. Venice: For the Romantics!

Recommended by Laura of Travelers Universe

Venice, the enchanting lagoon city, is considered the ultimate romantic travel destination, and for good reason. Here you can immerse yourself in the maze of narrow streets and canals , see magnificent sights such as the Basilica di San Marco and enjoy Cicchetti, tasty Venetian bites, in the wine bars. 

FUN HISTORY FACT: Between the 8th and 18th centuries, the Republic of Venice rose to become a powerful sea and trading power as its doge dynasties ruled the Adriatic and founded numerous colonies around the Mediterranean. The wealth of these bygone times is revealed in the charming palaces along the Canal Grande, the almost 4 km long main waterway that runs through the city.

At St. Mark’s Square, take the lift up the Campanile di San Marco bell tower, where you’ll have a breathtaking view of the labyrinth of gables, canals, and bridges. In the immediate vicinity, you can then visit the greatest sights of Venice:

• The impressive Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
• The former seat of government of the Serenissima Republica
• The magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica with its 24-karat gold-covered domes. ( This architectural masterpiece took almost 800 years to build! )

Among the best  things to do in Venice  is to get on one of the municipal water buses ( vaporetti ) at Plaza Roma and cruising past the cinematic scenery. With the ticket, you can hop on and off at any of the numerous stops on your Venice city trip.

While it’s not a beach town, I count this as one of the best Italian coastal cities.

Italian Coastal Towns in South Italy

10. positano: the gem of the amalfi coast.

Recommended by Dan from Urban Abroad

When it comes to coastal cities in Italy, Positano is one of the most iconic on the Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast is a long coastal stretch located on the Sorrentine Peninsula, south of Naples and not too far from Salerno, in the Campania region. When comparing  north and south Italy , what makes a destination such as Positano such a gorgeous place to visit is its unique geographical position.

PRO TIP: If you like the idea of hiking and being in contact with nature, head to the Path of Gods as it’s a place where you can admire stunning views of the Amalfi Coast

In Positano, the narrow streets, houses, and churches are literally clambering up the rocky Lattari Mountain cliffs. The surrounding mountains are dotted by citrus groves facing the crystalline blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Positano is easy to reach from Naples and Sorrento which means that it makes the perfect day to plan if you’re already in this region.

There are many beaches in and around Positano to visit: Marina Grande, the popular town beach, lido La Marinella, Laurito, Arienzo and Fornillo beaches. Even though it’s quite small, it has an incredibly vast offering of both restaurants and accommodation that you can choose from. Seafood and fish are almost omnipresent in many traditional dishes.

FUN FACT: Don’t miss the chance to try some of the best Limoncello in the world in what is called ‘the land of lemons’!

It is also worth mentioning that Positano is renowned for the production of handmade ceramics, so if you’re looking for a souvenir to bring home with you, you should definitely get a ceramic piece while here.

11. Capri: Jaw-Dropping Views & A Bougie Lifestyle!

Recommended by Lori from Italy Foodies

Just off the coast of Naples lies the enchanting island of Capri. Once known as an exclusive destination for jet setters, tourists now flock to the island on day trips from Naples and the Amalfi Coast. The coastal town of Capri sits high up on the cliff making for the most jaw-dropping views from just about everywhere on the island!

PRO TIP : Going on a day trip to Capri is one of the best ways to experience Italian coastal towns. Here are my recommendations on Day Trips from Rome including “how-to/logistics” – and my favorite one is Capri!

Shoppers will appreciate the range of high-end boutique shops that line the narrow streets. There are beautiful beaches where you can swim in the warm azure water, boat tours to the Faraglioni rock formations (you see them in almost every picture of Capri), and the amazing Blue Grotto to visit.

Local restaurants all serve variations on  classic Neapolitan dishes  and Caprese foods like Insalata Caprese, a simple combination of sliced Campania tomatoes, fresh bufala mozzarella, and aromatic basil drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. The combo is eaten as a salad or, even better, served in a crusty bread roll.

Winters on Capri are cold and foggy, and most shops, restaurants, and hotels are closed. Summers are hot and heavily touristy. So, Spring and Fall are typically the best times to go when temperatures are still moderate.

12. Procida: The Italian Capital of Culture

Recommended by Lori from Travlinmad

The small, colorful Italian coastal town of  Procida is an island situated in the Gulf of Naples between Naples and the beautiful island of Ischia.

At one time Procida was a small quiet fishing village, but was recently named the “Italian Capital of Culture”. So there’s no question that tourists will be heading for the island in much larger numbers than in the past.


A day trip to Procida is perfect if you don’t have enough time to explore Capri. The island town is smaller than Capri and can easily be explored on foot in a few hours. Ferries run daily from Naples and are relatively inexpensive.

A trip to this enchanting town is for slow traveling and relaxing in the culture without feeling pressured to see major sites because there aren’t any. What there is, is a slow pace and the great food of Campania for a leisurely lunch after you’ve explored a bit. Overnight in this laid-back town is a great way to decompress during your travels.

PRO TIP: There’s a slice of history at the top of the island. Walk up to the Terra Murata for incredible views and to explore the former monastery and fortress. Afterward, stroll the colorful Marina di Corricella with its equally colorful boats on your way to aperitivo!

13. Tropea: The Coast of Gods

Recommended by Mariana from Road Trip EuroGuide (that’s me!)

If you’re looking for a breathtaking Italian coastal town, Tropea should definitely be at the top of your list. This vibrant town is situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, deep in the Calabria region of Italy . With its sweeping views and fascinating history, it’s no wonder that Tropea has been a popular destination for centuries.

FUN FACT: According to ancient lore, Tropea was founded by the Greek hero Hercules!

The town is home to winding streets lined with colorful houses, as well as a number of historical landmarks. And of course, the food in Tropea is absolutely impeccable – you’ll find everything from fresh seafood to homemade pasta on the menu. One of the lesser-known gems of Italy’s coastline, Tropea impressed the hell out of me.

14. Bari: Cutest Coastal Town in Italy’s Boot!

Recommended by Terri from Female Solo Trek

Located in the Puglia region,  Bari is a port city located on the Adriatic Sea, and a beautiful Italian coastal town in Italy’s “heel” or “boot”. Bari’s Porto Vecchio harbor embraces this historic town nestled so close to Italy’s best beaches. Cobalt blue and red boats bob in the old harbor and Lungomare. Sniff the fishy air. Fishermen sell the day’s catch directly from their boats.

Then promenade down the main streets to see the homes. The city’s long avenues run parallel to the Adriatic Sea. Old Town Bari (Bari Vecchia) features skinny slab streets that wind past locals’ shops and cafés. The mazelike path is a mystery with darkened alleys, one-way streets, and nonsensical dead ends. Tall four-story homes are decorated with black wrought balconies festooned with lush green plants. Laundry hangs off poles. The Old Town nestles between two harbors.

Exit to walk along the beach and Lido San Francesco. Look out for the mermaid statue. There are two historic churches in Bari. The Cathedral of St. Sabinus in the Old Town is home to the remains of the real-life Greek Saint Nicholas (who is believed to be the inspiration for Santa Claus). Tickets must be purchased to tour the crypt in the basement. The Basilica di San Nicola is believed to be the oldest example of Norman architecture in southern Italy.

15. Taormina: Where Italians go on Vacation

Recommended by Anwar from Beyond My Door

Located in Eastern Sicily, Taormina is one of the most beautiful Italian coastal towns to visit on the island. The town is most famous for its beautiful Roman theater and ancient streets, and its rocky coastline that drops suddenly into the stunning blue waters. 

The theater, built in the 2nd century during the reign of Caesar Augustus Octavian still hosts functions and concerts and has one of the most dramatic locations with stunning views of the area surrounding it. 

You could easily spend a day or more wandering the streets of the town. And if you do, be sure to spend time on Corso Umberto I, the lovely pedestrian-only street with its quaint restaurants and boutiques and one of the oldest areas of the city. While in the old part of the city, visits to the ancient Cathedral Of Taormina and the nearby fountain of Piazza Duomo are picturesque and worth visiting in their own right. 

You can also check out the Corvaja Palace, a fortress that does a great job of showcasing the various cultures that came through Sicily, including Byzantine, Arab, and Norman. The main part of the tower was built by Arabs who ruled over Taormina for over 100 years beginning in 902 AD.

PRO TIP: Taormina is reachable from other nearby cities via taxi, bus, or train. Located about 90 minutes from Catania, Siracusa, or an hour from Messina.

16. Siracusa: And the Magical Island of Ortigia

Recommended by Annabel from Smudged Postcards

The Italian coastal town of Syracuse is found on the east coast of Sicily and is about 3.5 hours from the capital city of Palermo, and a 45-minute drive from Catania airport. 

Although the Sicilian town of Taormina to the north attracts more visitors, Syracuse should, without a doubt, be on everyone’s list of top destinations on this beguiling Italian island. The most appealing part of Syracuse is the tiny island of Ortigia which juts out into the Ionian Sea, connected to the mainland by two bridges.

At Ortigia’s heart is the charming Piazza Duomo, lined with dazzlingly white palazzos with the city’s cathedral domineering the square. This is the perfect place to pause for a coffee or a refreshing granita (a Sicilian take on sorbet). The piazza is stunning and encapsulates the history of Sicily perfectly. The cathedral combines a mix of styles including Ancient Greek, Norman, and Baroque. Of all the  things to do in Syracuse Sicily , spending time in this stunning piazza should be top of the list.

Away from Piazza Duomo, narrow lanes wind their way out towards the sea. Along these streets are inviting cafes and restaurants waiting to be discovered. There’s a popular promenade along the seafront, popular in the evenings with locals and tourists alike. Visitors with an interest in ancient history or mythology will enjoy exploring the Ancient Greek Temple of Apollo or perhaps the Fountain of Aretusa.

FUN FACT: Although Ortigia is surrounded by the sea – and the sparkling Ionian certainly looks inviting – there are no sandy beaches as the island is rocky. That said, the locals still find a way into the water, even despite the rocks!

17. Cefalu: Traditional Sicilian Charm

Recommended by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

Cefalu on the northern coast of Sicily is a sleepy fisherman village that has nailed the quintessential Sicilian charm. With a picture-perfect historical center crisscrossed by little winding alleys lined with artisan shops and little traditional bars and restaurants, the town is truly one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Italy. In recent years it has become a very popular place for Palermitans escaping the city as well as tourists.

FUN HISTORIC FACT : The UNESCO-classified 12th-century Arab-Norman Cathedral looms over the tiny historical center and can be seen from far outside of the town. The typical austere exterior that categorizes the historical Arab-Norman architecture stands in stark contrast to the strikingly opulent interior made up of millions of tiny golden glass Byzantine tiles covering the roof and naïve, depicting various biblical scenes. 

The little Italian coastal town of Cefalu is perched right by the sea, ensuring day trippers can combine a bit of culture with some time at the beach. Be aware that during high season the beaches of Cefalu do tend to fill up quickly so make sure to come early to save your spot. I recommend lazy strolls around the extensive  lungomare  and a cold Aperol Spritz for your aperitivo .  

If you have a car while visiting Sicily, Cefalu is the perfect  day trip from Catania . The two-hour drive is one of the most scenic the island has to offer and is thus well worth braving the audacious Sicilian driving on the island. Park your car at the far end of the  lungomare  in one of the well-indicated public parking lots ( ps. parking is paid solely in cash ).

PRO TIP: Fly into the Catania Airport, Rent a Car and go on an Italian coastal town road trip through Sicily – Taormina, Cefalu, Siracusa, Palermo, oh my!

⭐️ BONUS: South Italy Coastal Road Trip

Hell yes! So many people travel predictably these days, hitting up the major tourist sites and cities. I’ve found the best way to tap into that sense of exploration and rest is via road trip . There are pros and cons to any road trip of course, but Italy provides the best environment to get on the road and let your free spirit fly!

A 2 Week Road Trip in South Italy

From Napoli to Sicily, I explored quite a few of the Italian coastal towns listed above and a few magical places in between – check it out!

PRO TIP: Driving in Italy as an American can be a bit stressful at times, so I’ve put together what you need to have to hit the road, including driving rules and documentation you’ll need to rent a car.

FAQ: Italian Coastal Towns

While you’re planning a trip, here are a few things you should know.

What is the most beautiful coastal town in Italy?

If I had to pick one from northern Itlay, I would pick any one of the Cinque Terre towns because they are exactly what the pictures portray, and more! If I had to pick any from South Italy, I would pick Taormina on the Island of Sicily, because it’s not quite as popular as the Amalfi Coast and still has a feel of an undiscovered gem ( maybe not for the Italians, but definitely for everyone else in the world! )

Which is Better, the Amalfi Coast or Sicily?

Having traveled to both extensively, here are my lessons learned and observations regarding views, vibe, and budget for both of these stunning places!

What is the most famous coastal town in Italy?

Without a doubt, the Amalfi Coast and Positano may be the most famous of the Italian coastal towns, but quite a few on the list above may give the iconic, Instagram-able town a run for it’s money soon enough!

Which coast is better in Italy?

First of all, “better” in what sense? If you’re looking for the most iconic views of the Mediterranean, the most famous islands of Italy, the pictures that you see on Google and Instagram, then I would say the West Coast.

If you were looking for a more calm, authentic, off-the-beaten-path, local to Italian life, then I would say the East Coast of Italy.

What are some underrated places in Italy?

From the list of Italian coastal towns we’ve shared above, and from my travels, some of the more underrated places, and therefore more hidden gems in Italy include:

• Cefalu, Sicily
• The whole Island of Sardinia
• The Island of Procida off the coast of Napoli
• Bolgheri, Tuscany

Is the Amalfi Coast worth it?

Short answer, YES, at least once in your life. The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and as such, it is an epic stretch of coastline. If you’re into brilliantly blue waters, picturesque multicolored villages tucked into seaside cliffs, gardens full of flowers, lemon trees, and fresh air… then start planning a trip!

What is the best time to visit these Italian coastal towns?

Summertime is full of tourists and super hot. In the winter, most of these little towns (especially on the islands) sort of shut down. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall seasons. My favorite month to go down to the Italian coast is September.

Wrap-Up: Italian Coastal Towns & Beyond…

The list above contains my and fellow travel blogger’s recommendations on the cutest Italian coastal towns, some popular, some undiscovered. But if you’re not sold on a road trip through Italy just yet, here is one other destination close to the heart to inspire that wandering spirit:

Croatia Road Trip Like a Local – 2 Weeks from Pula to Dubrovnik!

Right next to Italy sits the beautiful country of Croatia, equally as stunning in its coastline and quite a bit cheaper to traverse! This is my 2-week itinerary along the Dalmatian coastline for all those Game of Thrones lovers!

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

20 Breathtaking Italy Coastal Towns That Will Blow Your Mind!

March 18, 2024

Paula Martinelli

Italy is one of the dreamiest destinations on the planet. So, if you have been dreaming about Italy, get a cup of coffee (or an Italian cappuccino ) and sit back. You are about to see the 20 Most Beautiful Coastal Towns in Italy that will just blow your mind and make you want to jump on the first plane to Italy!

The Coastal Towns of Italy provide an ideal mix of stunning Mediterranean scenery, rugged cliff formations, vineyards on terraced hillsides, unspoiled beaches, mouth-watering seafood, and beautifully preserved architecture.

In this guide, you’ll not only learn about the best things to do in each Italian coastal town. You’ll also get  helpful insider tips on things to look out for during your visit, how to get there, and the best places to stay. In the end, you will find a FAQ with everything you need to know!  So without any further ado, let’s discover the Italian Coastal Towns!

You may also be interested in ❤️ :

• 30 Most Amazing Landmarks in Italy
• 17 Most beautiful Towns & Villages in Tuscany
• Best Places to Stay in Tuscany: from Villas to Castles

20. CESENATICO: A laid-back coastal town in Italy between Ravenna and Rimini

How can i travel between italian coastal towns.

Italy Coastal Towns Orientation

Italy is surrounded by water on the 3 sides and it holds sovereignty over one of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean sea that is Sicily.

With so much water around the country, the Italian coastline adds up to 4,700 miles (7600 km) which means apart from the historic towns and cities and the rich Roman history. Whether it’s admiring breathtaking views from a boat or exploring the countless attractions of Cinque Terre and everything in between, there is no shortage of amazing experiences.

Italy is located in Southern Europe. Four different seas surround the Italian Peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea from three sides. The Adriatic Sea in the east, the Ionian Sea in the south, and the Ligurian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea in the west, offering the best Italian coastal towns.

📍 NORTH:  Italy borders France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia and is roughly delimited by the Alpine watershed, enclosing the Po Valley and the Venetian Plain.

📍 SOUTH: It consists of the entirety of the Italian Peninsula and the two Mediterranean islands of Sicily and Sardinia (the two biggest islands of the Mediterranean), in addition to many smaller islands.

20 Most Beautiful Italian Coastal Towns

1. positano: the local’s most popular italian coastal town.

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Positano is an easy day trip from Naples and Sorrento. Most visitors leave the driving to the experts and you can hire a private driver that can pick you up from your hotel — You can also take a bus, public transportation is safe and very reliable.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Positano

The city sits perched on the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, a cluster of pastel-colored houses, hotels, and churches — it’s hard to imagine where people or cars could possibly squeeze in. Whether you approach the city by sea or after the long, and somewhat harrowing drive down the Amalfi Coastline, it’s hard to deny this is a special place and one of the best landmarks in Italy . When it comes to exploring, there are so many things to do in Positano , from lounging on the beach, strolling the picturesque narrow streets, and shopping until you drop. 

For the more adventurous, rent a Vespa and head for the hills where you’ll find amazing restaurants with sea views and hiking trails that meander through small towns and olive groves in equal measure. Plan on 4-5 days to relax and really enjoy.

When it comes to beautiful Italian coastal towns, it’s hard to beat Positano , a favorite among travelers and many Italians.

2. CAPRI: A magical beautiful Italian coastal town in the Bay of Naples

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Capri can be visited from Naples or Sorrento through the regular ferries that depart from their respective water stations. The journey from Sorrento is for about 30 minutes while from Naples it may take up to an hour. You can also take an easy day trip to Capri  from any of these ports

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Capri

This is one of the most popular, and also stunning Italian coastal towns. Situated in the Bay of Naples , along a huge coastline is the charming town of Capri. Its stunning scenery is filled with turquoise blue waters, sea caves, gorgeous gardens, soft sandy beaches, picturesque buildings, and iconic rock formations, which make Capri an ideal destination for a memorable holiday in Italy.

The magical beauty of this Italian coastal town is such that it has served as a refuge to famous literary writers and poets Axel Munthe and Edwin Cerio.

A boat trip to the iconic Grotta Azzura takes you through a sea cave illuminated in blue light. This otherworldly illumination is a result of the reflection of the sunlight.

Go for a hike to Anacapri, take a chairlift to Mount Solaro, and admire the Augustus Gardens that overlook those iconic Faraglioni formations over the sea. Also, enjoy the world-famous drink Limoncello with torta Caprese – a flourless choco-almond cake at any of the cafes in the town.

3. NAPLES: The third-largest city in Italy facing the Tyrrhenian Sea

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Naples is a 2-hour long train journey from Rome , so it’s an ideal destination even for a day trip if Naples is not the base for the Italian holidays

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Naples

Naples is the capital of South Italy. This Italian coastal town and its surroundings have so much to offer one wonders how to fit them all in.

The diversity of the attractions in Naples and its region means that there is something for everyone.

One of the best things to do in Naples is to visit the Centro Storico is the place to start ; this is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is Naples’s, spiritual heart. There are a lot of churches and palaces to visit here for history lovers.

Via Toledo is another must-see, this is the modern hub of Naples, a 1.2km long shopping street between Piazza Dante and Piazza Trieste e Trento, near Piazza Plebiscito. A short walk away from Piazza Plebiscito there is a cluster of portside sights; the Palazzo Reale, Teatro di San Carlo, and Castel Nuovo.

If there is only time for a weekend, Naples is a great place to spend a city break which allows enough time to discover the main attractions . When there is a longer period at disposal it’s also a fantastic holiday destination with island hopping and conquering the dramatic scenes of Sorrento and Amalfi coast. It’s also a great place to stay if you’re looking for Pompeii tours !

4. GENOA: One of the most beautiful coastal towns on the Ligurian Sea

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Genoa is easily reached by direct train from major cities such as Milan, Turin, Rome, Pisa, and Nice. It takes about an hour and forty minutes from Milan , so technically it is possible to visit Genoa as a day trip

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Genoa

Genoa is one of the most beautiful coastal towns on the Ligurian Sea in northwest Italy.

Genoa has a long history of human settlement, which is also why you will find many beautiful buildings dating back to as far as the beginning of the Holy Roman Empire.

This is also why admiring Roman architecture is also one of the best things to do in Genoa. Some places you should definitely see include the harbor, Porta Soprana, Via Garibaldi, the San Lorenzo Cathedral, and the Forte Begato.

Besides the buildings, there are two squares that also deserve a visit, the Piazza Matteotti and the Piazza De Ferrari with its enormous and majestic fountain and stunning building surrounding the square. Genoa is also home to some great museums such as the Museo d’Arte Orientale, the Maritime Museum, and the aquarium.

A minimum of two days (preferably more) is advised to get a real feel of the city and admire the Roman beauty that it still breathes. 

5. VIAREGGIO: A lovely town located on the coast of Tuscany

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Viareggio is on the line between Genova and Rome and can be reached by local trains from Pisa (15 minutes) and from La Spezia (1 hour). From Viareggio, there is also a very slow line to Lucca (15 minutes), Montecatini (45 minutes), Pistoia (1 hour), Prato (75 minutes), and Florence (90 minutes)

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Viareggio

A wonderful coastal town in Italy is  Viareggio . This lovely place is located on the coast of Tuscany and amazes you in many different ways. For one thing, you will find here one of the longest sandy beaches in Italy .

Bagnos is also beautiful, the so-called beach resort, which lines the coast, and creates a very extraordinary ambiance with its many colorful umbrellas. 

The long promenade in Viareggio is also uniquely picturesque, with countless colorful buildings and villas in art nouveau style.

These are still top-preserved and give the resort a unique flair. Here you will also find a great selection of stores, boutiques, and restaurants, and also so many locals come here also on weekends for shopping, eating, or just for a lovely walk. 

Another top highlight in Viareggio is the Carnival , which is held every year in February and is the 2nd largest (after Venice ) in Italy.

6. PALERMO: Capital of the beautiful Italian island of Sicily

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Fly into Palermo Airport (PMO) by connecting through Rome or another major European hub. If you are traveling in Italy by train, the Palermo Centrale is the city’s main railway station. It lies just south of the center. It has direct trains from Rome, Naples, Genoa, and Milan. Palermo offers an excellent choice of ferries with regular departures to Sardinia, North Africa, and the Italian mainland ports of Genoa, Civitavecchia, Naples, and Salerno.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Palermo

Palermo is the capital of the beautiful island of Sicily , off the coast of Italy.

The city is walkable and easily visited in one day, though if you have a few days make slow down and enjoy everything the city has to offer. Make sure to keep enough time to try out the amazing street food the city has to offer.

Italy is known for its food – it is rare to find someone who does not like a delectable plate of pasta. In Palermo, you can find all the traditional Italian dishes , but they have one thing the rest of Italy does not – A very vibrant street food scene.

Stop by the  Antica Focacceria San Francesco   and get your hands on a traditional Arancini (fried rice balls containing ragu or if you are a vegetarian a la norma ). If you are a little more adventurous perhaps you can try the focaccia Marietta, a typical sandwich filled with veal spleen, fresh ricotta, and a dash of caciocavallo cheese.

To digest the street food, take yourself on a walk through the old town and visit some of the most beautiful churches you will ever see. 

If architecture is your thing, be sure to visit the Norman Palace which is the most well-known Arab-Norman architecture located in Palermo . Even if architecture is entirely your favorite pastime, you might not want to leave Palermo without sneaking a peek at this ancient building.

7. VENICE: One of the most beautiful Italian towns

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily get to Venice from Verona, Florence, and even Milan. Going by train is the most convenient, fastest, and cheaper way to get to Venice.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Venice

Venice is one of the most beautiful Italian coastal towns . It is located in the Veneto region on many islands in the Adriatic Sea.

Venice has a rich history. It used to be the capital of the Venetian Republic that existed from the 7th century until the 18th century. Nowadays, it is a unique place to visit and it is one of the most popular places in Italy .

Everywhere you go there are canals and bridges. This makes for a city that is very fun to walk through.  Furthermore, there are gondolas that are amazing to ride. The gondolas provide you with a truly Venetian experience.

Also, the city looks incredible and there are many beautiful  photo spots in Venice . It is a great city for a day trip or for the 2-day itinerary Venice is a perfect time to enjoy this incredible coastal town.

8. ALGHERO: Located on the Northwest coast of the Italian island of Sardinia

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Alghero is easily reached by car from other areas of the island, but there is also a small airport just outside the city center. You can also take a ferry to the island from mainland Italy

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Alghero

Alghero is one of the most charming Italian coastal towns, located on the Northwest coast of the Italian island of Sardinia.

Golden sea walls surround the medieval historic center and feature a walking path offering spectacular views of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea, including Capo Caccia’s dramatic cliff faces and sea caves .

Housed within the city center is a bevy of café-lined piazzas where you can spend hours sipping spectacular Sardinian wine and tasting exquisite Italian cuisine while you people-watch.

After your meal, wander the winding cobblestoned streets where you can discover cute little boutiques slinging locally made goods and typical souvenir shops. 

Alghero’s bustling city atmosphere makes it an ideal base for exploring some of the gorgeous nearby beaches and the Riviera del Corallo. For a splurge-worthy stay, consider Villas Las Tronas, which is a stunning castle-like hotel step from the city center.

You could easily spend a week exploring Alghero and its surrounding areas, but it also makes a fantastic weekend destination. 

9. CAMOGLI: A vivid coastal town in Italy between Genoa and Portofino

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Camogli is around 4.5-5 hours by train from Rome and 2.5-3 hours from Milan; typically a quick change at a nearby station is necessary. The Camogli-San Fruttuoso train station is a short walk from most areas of the town.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Camogli

Ever heard of Camogli? It’s a vivid beach town between Genoa and Portofino on the famous Riviera di Levante . You know, one of these picturesque villages consists of tall, colorful Genoese houses.

Really, they have a good reason to nickname it Golfo Paradiso. However, it’s rather frequented by Italians than international visitors which gives it a very authentic charm. Paradisic Camogli, surrounded by the enchanting natural setting of the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino, has welcomed visitors for decades.

There is this vibe of relaxation, the sea, and incredible food . In brief: La dolce vita!There is a scenic little harbor and, of course, a town beach where you can just stretch out on your towel. 

Or you choose to splurge and rent a beach chair and a sun umbrella for the day. Just off the beach, you can then enjoy a classic Italian Aperitivo – hence, a long drink with some nibbles. But most importantly, you have to sample some focaccia at Revello on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi which is claimed to be the best in all of Italy.  

10. SYRACUSE: A fascinating Italian coastal town located in Eastern Sicily

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: It is possible to reach Syracuse by train from Taormina and Catania but hiring a car will allow more flexibility to explore the wider region.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Syracuse

Syracuse is located in eastern Sicily, under an hour from Catania . The old part of Syracuse – Ortigia – is almost completely surrounded by the sea, reached from the newer part of the city via two bridges.

Ortigia is a warren of medieval lanes filled with interesting shops, bars, and restaurants. At the heart of the city is the beautiful Piazza del Duomo with its cathedral reflecting the island’s fascinating history – its structure is a blend of Ancient Greek, Norman, and Baroque elements.

If you are visiting  Sicily with kids , ensure you visit the puppet theatre where children get front-row seats – expect knights, monsters, and lots of bloodshed – it’s brilliant fun for the whole family!

There are boat trips around the coastline of Ortigia taking in Castello Maniace at the furthest tip of the city and sea caves along the mainland coast.

Ensure you stay a couple of nights to get a full flavor of Syracuse – it’s a vibrant city with a lively student population. There’s a fun food market to explore and plenty of great bars to enjoy in the evenings.

11. POLIGNAMO A MARE: A stunning Italian coast town in Puglia

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: You can rent a car and drive the 32km south of Bari, but the easiest and most convenient way to travel is by train. The ride takes about 30 minutes, and a regional train costs 2.50 Euro to Polignano a mare. From the train station, it’s an easy walk to the center of Polignano a mare.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Polignano A Mare

Polignano a Mare is a stunning coastal town in Puglia and an easy day trip from Bari. Most of Polignano a mare is built on limestone cliffs by the Adriatic Sea . The town has a long history, and one piece of evidence is the remaining Roman bridge, part of the ancient Via Traiana.  Close to the bridge is an incredible beach, hidden between the cliffs, Lama Monachile.

Spend your  day in Polignano a mare  exploring the old town with its white, quaint houses and beautiful details. Taste the fresh seafood and the amazing gelato, and get your share of gorgeous photos, as Polignano a mare is one of the most ‘instagrammable’ places in Italy .

Also, bring your swimming suit and snorkeling equipment on a summer day to explore the caves under the town.

12. TAORMINA: One of the most beautiful Italian Coastal Towns in Sicily

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: It’s easy to visit Taormina on a day trip from Catania. The trip takes an hour and you can use all the available means of transport: car, train or bus.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Taormina

Taormina belongs to the most beautiful Italian coastal towns in Sicily . Apart from the stunning seaside location, it offers an array of noteworthy archeology finds and historical structures. Plus, you can enjoy views of the nearby Mount Etna.

The main sight in Taormina is the Ancient Greek Theater, built in the 3 rd  century BC by the Greeks and later modified by the Romans. It’s well preserved and the views of the Ionian Sea from there are absolutely fascinating.

A cable car takes beachgoers down to sea level, where a few beaches can be enjoyed. The closer but smaller Mazzaro Beach is easily trumped by the larger and more picturesque Isola Bella Beach with an island just off the beach that one can walk to.

Spend at least a day in Taormina, but if you are keen, there are plenty of wonderful  Taormina villas and apartments to rent on Airbnb .

13. FURORE: A quiet Italian Coastal Town overlooking the Amalfi Coast

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: The Fiordo di Furore is located about 4 miles southwest of Amalfi. The best way to get there is by car and the only place to park is along the highway. Travelers can also take the Positano – Amalfi line on the Sita bus to   get here

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Furore

An hour away from the touristic city of Positano lies Furore , a quiet Italian coastal town perched on the mountain overlooking the Amalfi Coast.

It’s the perfect place to add to your  Italy itinerary  to escape the crowds and take in peaceful views of the rugged shoreline. The small town has a population of 800 and is known by locals as the “hidden beauty of Neverland” , with its houses scattered along the steep ridge.

Furore is also a budget-friendly spot compared to other popular towns along the Amalfi Coast. Unwind at Hotel Fico d’India, a family-owned hotel nestled on the mountainside that features rooms with stunning sea views. It’s an incredible value, with sea-view rooms starting at around $115 USD. The restaurant at the hotel is delicious and offers traditional local cuisine.

One of the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast is to explore it by water. Rent a boat with Amalfi Boats and cruise down the sea to Positano for incredible sights during golden hour.

The boat launch is located a 15-minute drive away from Furore. Amalfi Boats has reasonable prices and includes a captain who will take you to the best spots.

14. SORRENTO: One of the most romantic Coast Towns in Italy

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Travelers can get to this popular seaside destination in a variety of ways: by ferry, plane, or land. The closest airport to Sorrento is the Naples International Airport, located roughly 30 miles from the city center. If you’re traveling to Sorrento by land, there is a daily bus service that runs directly from the Naples airport to Sorrento; the rate is just 10 euros. Or you can take a ferry to Sorrento from the port in Naples

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Sorrento

Sorrento is without a doubt one of the most romantic Italian coastal towns . One of the greatest Italian love songs, “Caruso”, sets the location of its heart-breaking story in Sorrento, where “the sea reflects the moonshine and the wind blows strong, in an old terrace above the gulf of Sorrento”. Sorrento makes a great day trip from Napoli, but it is recommended to spend the night here, to experience the romance by night .

Sorrento is a town built on top of the cliffs, with many fantastic viewpoints which offer panoramic vistas over the golf, Capri Island, and Vesuvius volcano. Sunsets here are particularly spectacular. Whilst there are a few  beaches in Sorrento , the city is known for its charm rather than sunbathing.

If you get away from the main Corso and start exploring the side streets of Sorrento, you will find hidden gems such as small limoncello producers and artisanal lemon tree growers who sell the most delicious Sorrento lemon gelato. Near the Sorrento, elevator lays one of the hidden treasures of the town: Chiostro di San Francesco, a 14th-century monastery with a gorgeous inner garden. 

If you travel to Sorrento with your loved one, grab a seat at La Villa just before sunset, for a glass of wine. This cheap bar has the best location in town, overlooking the gulf. Quite often, nearby, there will be street performers playing Caruso. 

15. RIMINI: A great destination for a relaxing beach vacation on the Adriatic Coast

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: The best way to get to Rimini is via train or hire car. At just an hour southeast of Bologna by train, it’s an easy trip

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Rimini

Rimini is a beautiful beach town on the east coast of Italy , on the beautiful Adriatic Coast.

It’s a popular destination for families looking for either a relaxing Italy beach vacation, with lots of things to do with kids, or for just about anyone looking for an escape. Overlooking the beach from one of the many beachfront hotels reveals a sea of different colored umbrellas, numbering in the thousands.

While this may sound a little overcrowded at first, the beach is both wide and long, so there’s enough space for everyone. Rimini’s rich history dates back to the Etruscans until the arrival of the Celts in the 6 th  Century BC.

With ancient ruins, an intriguing historical city center, and modern conveniences , it’s the perfect beach vacation destination, which is best experienced between June to mid-September. To truly relax, allow a week or two, but even if you only have a day or two, it’s well worth the trip.

Be sure to include the Arch of Augustus, constructed in 27 BC and named in honor of Caesar Augustus to your must-see list, as well as the Tiberio Bridge, constructed in 20 BC and still in perfect working condition to this day.

16. GAETA: A quiet Italian Coastal Town located in the Lazio region of Italy

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: the main stations of Rome and Naples are connected with Gaeta by trains every hour seven days a week. Trains stop in Formia, from which you can get a bus to reach Gaeta. You could also ask the hotel to provide a shuttle bus service to take you to/from the train station

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Gaeta

Gaeta is one of the most beautiful Italian coastal towns , located in the southern city of the Lazio region of Italy. 

Gaeta is a non – international tourist area mainly because it does not have a train station nearby. Renting a car is one of the best ways to get to this area. It is located about two hours from Rome and about two hours from Naples. So a weekend trip is the perfect amount of time to enjoy the Gaeta Italy Beach Vacation .   

There are seven public beaches in Gaeta.   These are the beaches the locals hit (especially in August). If you are up for an adventure, grab a rowboat and head to 40 Remi Beach.  The name indicates how many oar strokes it takes to get to this beach.  There are also magnificent grottoes to explore at most of the beaches along the coast.   Many of the beaches have cliffs, which provide spectacular views.  

It is also a great place to scuba dive and snorkel. There are boat rentals, hiking trails, and bike rentals also available in this area.  Beautiful resorts are located all along the coast.  These resorts have incredible service and many offer private beaches.  Gaeta is a coastal city worth visiting!

17. PORTO VENERE: One of the most underrated coastal towns on the Ligurian Coast

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: The closest airport is Pisa, otherwise, it’s well-commuted with La Spezia by local bus. Please note that there is no train to Porto Venere. The closest train connections are La Spezia Centrale and four of the Cinque Terre towns (not Corniglia). At La Spezia, the transfer is by bus, taxi, or ferry boat. From the Cinque Terre, the transfer is by ferry boat so weather, budget, & baggage are considerations

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Porto Venere

Porto Venere might be one of the most underrated Italian coastal towns on the Ligurian coast.

Living in the shadow of Cinque Terre, it’s slowly gaining more popularity as boat trips have started to include this colorful corner of Cinque Terre National Park. Despite this, there are plenty of  things to do in Porto Venere  and you could gladly spend more than a couple of days there.

The popular attractions are the Palazzata; colorful narrow houses on the port, the iconic Church of Saint Peter sitting on a tiny rocky peninsula, and the Doria Castle which was of military importance for centuries.

But you can also go on boat trips, go scuba diving in mesmerizing underwater caves or go hiking along the Ligurian coast to Riomaggiore , the first of the Cinque Terre. 

18. MANAROLA: One of the smallest five towns in Cinque Terre

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Based in Northern Italy, Manarola can be reached from many of Italy’s most famous cities. You can make it to the town in less than 3 hours from Florence, Milan, Genoa, and Bologna. The only public transport is by train. You take a fast train from Rome to La Spezia and change there to a local train. Time is 4 to 4.5 hours. 

Manarola is one of the smallest of the five town s that make up Cinque Terre in the northwest of Italy. The colorful houses on the rocks at the water’s edge make it one of the most beautiful of Italy’s coastal towns. However, there is more to the town than just its good looks. Manarola is famous for its sweet Sciacchetrà wine. It’s also home to many medieval relics backing up its claim to be the oldest of the 5 towns of Cinque Terre. Some of the sights of Manarola you’ll want to check out include the harbor and the Church of San Lorenzo .

Whatever you do in Manarola, though, make sure you leave time to visit The Bastion. Built on the coast in the 13th century to protect from Saracen raids, parts are still well preserved and are partially incorporated into the modern building that clings to the coast.

19. MONTEROSSO AL MARE: The largest of the coastal villages of Cinque Terre

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: The easiest way to get to the Cinque Terre is by train. From Genoa (Genova), take the local train towards La Spezia and get off at your destination. From La Spezia, take the local train, Cinque Terre Express, in the direction of Levanto. This train stops in all the five villages

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Monterosso al Mare

Monterosso al Mare is my personal favorite Italian coastal town. It is the last and the largest of the five villages along the Cinque Terre strip . It is the most visited of the five villages, part of it is because it has the only sizable sand beach and the biggest hotels. 

The village is located on hills cultivated with lemons, vines, and olives, with amazing beaches, beautiful reefs, and the ocean’s crystal clear water making this small village one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Italy.

It can be very busy to visit during the high season, especially during the summer months, but Monterosso is still delightful. 

Make sure you visit the old town area with the ruins of a medieval castle and characterized by typical narrow medieval streets with multi-colored terraced houses. Visit the San Francesco church, which houses an important Van Dyck painting of the crucifixion, and the Church of San Giovanni Battista, constructed in the 1200s, in the Gothic-Genovese style.

Monterosso offers a wide range of excellent family-run 3 or 4 stars hotels near the sea and some charming guest houses situated in the old part of the town. 

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE: Trains depart from Bologna Centrale train station and it takes approximately one hour and 20 minutes one way.  Trains and buses also run from Rimini and you can catch a train from Ravenna.  These are the two closest major towns to Cesenatico.

🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Check Hotel Deals in Cesenatico

Last, but not least on this amazing list of the best Italian coastal towns is the coastal town of Cesenatico

Located an hour and twenty minutes by train from Bologna, this is perfect for a day by the beach or for a long weekend getaway. Situated on the Adriatic coast between Ravenna and Rimini , it is laid back and chilled.

Cesenatico was founded in 1302 and the port and canal, designed by Leonardo da Vinci , were built in the 1500s. The canal is lined by pastel-painted houses, restaurants, and bars.

The Museo Della Marineria charts the history of the town’s long association with the sea. The museum has an indoor exhibition with two full-sized ships and outdoors, eleven historic fishing boats float in the canal.

The long, deep, golden sandy beach fringes the town and there is a choice of restaurants along the promenade. For those who want to keep fit, there are volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts . Just outside the town, there are two water parks and amusement parks to enjoy.

Italy Coastal Towns FAQs

What are the most beautiful coastal towns in italy.

Some of the most stunning coastal towns in Italy include the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, the colorful and vibrant Positano on the Amalfi Coast, the charming and romantic Amalfi town, the luxurious and exclusive Portofino in Liguria, and the scenic coastal gem of Sorrento

Which Italian coastal towns have the best beaches?

When it comes to beautiful beaches, Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda with its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, Calabria’s Tropea known for its stunning cliffside beach, and Puglia’s Polignano a Mare with its dramatic rocky coastline are among the top choices for beach lovers in Italy.

What is the best time to visit Italian coastal towns?

Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) are generally considered the best times to visit Italian coastal towns. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are less overwhelming compared to the peak summer season.

Are there any hidden coastal towns in Italy worth visiting?

Absolutely! While Italy’s popular coastal towns are well-known, some lesser-known gems include Vernazza in Cinque Terre, a charming and less crowded village, Atrani on the Amalfi Coast, known for its authentic Italian atmosphere, and Manarola in Liguria, a picturesque fishing village with stunning views.

Traveling between Italian coastal towns is quite convenient. You can use the efficient regional train network that connects many coastal destinations, opt for ferries or boats to enjoy scenic sea journeys, or rent a car to explore the coastal regions at your own pace. I always use and recommend renting a car with this reliable source. 🚗

Each town has its own transportation options, so it’s advisable to research the specific region you plan to visit and choose the most suitable means of travel for your itinerary.

Italy Coastal Towns Conclusion

I hope this list of the most epic Italy Coastal Towns gave you some inspiration to start planning your next trip to Italy.

The coastal town in Italy is something everyone needs to visit in a lifetime. The beauty is unparalleled to anything, and the lifestyle helps you to just slow down, appreciate the views of the Mediterranean Ocean, and feel the breeze, while you enjoy a refreshing “spritz” to help to cool you down.

If you have any questions, just leave me a comment below. Ciao!

Here is some further information I think you might need to check

• Complete Guide to the Best Hikes in Italy
• A perfect Lake Como Itinerary
• Best-Rated Tuscany Wine Tours
• Best-Rated Agriturismo in Tuscany, Italy
• Top-Rated Florence to Cinque Terre Tours
• Top-Rated Vespa Tours in Tuscany
• How to travel from Milan to Lake Como by Day Trips, Train & Car
• How to Travel From Rome to Tuscany by Day Trip, Car, Bus & Train!

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14 thoughts on “20 breathtaking italy coastal towns that will blow your mind”.

Italy has some gorgeous coastal scenery! I’d love to visit Positano & the Amalfi Coast & Porto Venere also looks very appealing! Thanks for sharing!

I so love the idea of spending time in these beautiful coastal towns. The experience in such places can just never go wrong.

A great deal of those Italian coastal towns appeal to me. That water! Can I pack my bags now?

I haven’t seen much of the Italian coastline yet, apart from the Cilento Coast which was stunning. Your post has made me want to book another trip to Italy!

Oh wow I want to visit them all!! They’re so gorgeous!

Blue waters, sea caves, and sandy beaches immediately put Capri at the top of this list for me! Though I would be thrilled to visit any of these!

Beautiful! Alghero is one my favorite cities, all of Sardinia is amazing. A beachlover’s paradise.

Paula I have visited and wrote about several of these gorgeous Italian towns. I absolutely loved my vacations in Cinque Terre, Portovenere, Positano, Genoa and southern Italy. Now I have new places to research. Ciao!

Ahh, I’m in love with all of these towns! Can’t wait to get to Italy to check some of these out. Thanks for the inspiration!

Italy is such a beautiful country! For some reason I’ve never visited the coast! I think I need to fix that! All these coastal towns look so pretty! Positano has been on my list for a while now, I think it is finally time to book a trip! Thanks for the great guide!

Hi Terri – this is such a magical part of Italy. I have visited a couple of times, and I always find new things and places to explore.

They are, right? I absolutely love Italy and I believe anyone who visit the coast just fall in love.

You are absolutely right! The coast of Italy just makes a perfect destination – either if you just want to relax, or go on an active vacation. It offers it all!

Thanks for reading Linda – Oh Porto Vernere is absolutely amazing! One of my favorite places on the Italian Coast. They are all incredible!

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6 beautiful road trips in Italy: drive the country's best routes

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Explore the best of Italy with these scenic road trips © Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

The drive along Italy 's Amalfi Coast, preferably in a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider, is the stuff of travel legend.

And it's just one of dozens of epic road trip routes in this fascinating, richly layered country. Don't be put off by stories of impatient local drivers – the countryside here was made for exploring by road (and stopping every few hundred yards to take another photo).

With an extensive network of well-maintained roads that weave between snow-capped peaks, trace plunging coastlines, and meander through rolling farmland and vineyards to scenic lakes and historic towns, pretty much every journey in Italy is a scenic odyssey, but some road trips stand out as being particularly memorable.

To set the scene, we've chosen six classic road trips ranging from gentle Tuscan jaunts to hair-raising mountain adventures. Some are a little challenging, but they all make for unforgettable experiences! Here are the best road trip routes in Italy.

1. The Amalfi Coast

Best classic Italian coastal road trip Salerno–Sorrento; approx 75km/46 miles, 1 day

Experience Italy's most spectacular coastal scenery on this white-knuckle drive along the Amalfi Coast . From Salerno , the main southern gateway to the coast, strike west to Vietri sul Mare , a small town famous for its ceramics and the start point of the coastal road proper. From here, the driving becomes more challenging as the road narrows, the curves become tighter, and the views become ever more dramatic.

After about 20km (12 miles), you'll arrive in Amalfi , the coast's main hub. Stop here to look around the landmark Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea and then head up to Ravello in the hills above. Pause for lunch here, perhaps at the Ristorante Pizzeria Vittoria , and enjoy heady panoramas from the town's lush gardens.

Next, push on to Positano , a chic, near-vertical town where colorful, steeply-stacked houses cascade down the precipitous hillsides. Beyond Positano, the route leads inland, up and across the hilly interior to Sorrento , a lively tourist hot spot overlooked by the dark, brooding bulk of Mount Vesuvius.

Planning tip:  It's a popular drive, so try to come out of season to avoid the traffic. With another day to spare, you can continue north to Naples via the ruins of Pompeii .

2. The Tuscan tour

Best road trip for art and architecture  Florence–Orvieto; approx 210km/130 miles , 2–3 days

Taking in two of Italy's great medieval cities, the wine treasures of Chianti  and swathes of classic Tuscan scenery, this two-day route leads from Florence to Orvieto in the neighboring region of Umbria . Whet your appetite for the road ahead by feasting on fine art and Renaissance architecture in Florence before striking south to Chianti wine country.

Stop for a tasting at the Enoteca Falorni in Greve and to sample the region's celebrated bistecca (steak) at L'Antica Macelleria Cecchini in Panzano. From here, follow the backroads to Siena , a stunning medieval city centered on an awe-inspiring Duomo and a 12th-century square, the famous Piazza del Campo . Recommended overnight options here include the Pensione Palazzo Ravizza .

In the morning, head to Montalcino to stock up on Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy's most revered red wines. A short drive to the east, the Val d'Orcia provides quintessential Tuscan landscapes with its billowing green hills, cypress trees and hilltop towns. Lunch in Pienza, then continue through Montepulciano to Orvieto, a striking hilltop town famous for its remarkable Gothic Duomo .

Planning tip:  While you could easily do this route in two days, consider adding an extra overnight stop to explore the region in more depth.

3. Southeastern Sicily 

Best road trip for exploring Sicily's charming towns Catania–Ragusa; approx 165km/103 miles , 2 days

Hunt UNESCO-listed baroque treasures on this two-day tour of Sicily 's rugged southeast. Start by investigating Catania's grandiose historic center and brilliant fish market. After a seafood lunch, hit the road and make for Syracuse where you can trawl through ancient Greco-Roman ruins at the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis and stroll elegant baroque streets in the Ortygia district. Overnight at the stylish Hotel Gutkowski .

On day two, continue to Noto , home to what is arguably Sicily's most beautiful street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, which is dotted with churches and charming cafes. Once you've digested this masterpiece of urban design, turn inland to Modica , a bustling town wedged into a deep canyon. Stock up on the town's famous chocolates before pushing on through the rocky hinterland to Ragusa and the handsome historic center known as Ragusa Ibla.

Planning tip:  To round the trip off on a high note, book ahead and treat yourself to dinner at the Ristorante Duomo , one of Sicily's top restaurants with meals prepared by chef Ciccio Sultano.

4. The Great Dolomites Road

Best road trip for stunning mountain vistas Bolzano–Cortina d'Ampezzo; approx 125km/78 miles; 2 days

The Grande Strada della Dolomiti provides some of Italy's most exhilarating driving. Running from Bolzano to Cortina d'Ampezzo, it boasts superb scenery as it snakes past craggy, saw-tooth peaks and over lofty mountain passes in the Dolomites.

From Bolzano , head eastwards toward Ponte Nova, where you'll get your first sight of the Dolomite's mighty granite peaks. Continue to Val di Fassa, a magnificent valley framed by forested slopes and gigantic rock summits, and up to the 2,239m (7,345 ft) Passo Pordoi. The descent from here is slow going, but you'll be rewarded with stunning views as you corkscrew down to La Villa in the spectacularly sited Val Badia.

From here, you could push directly on to Cortina d'Ampezzo , the chic resort that marks the end of the road, but for a more relaxed trip, stop for the night at the Dolomit B&B and take some scenic detours around La Villa on day two.

Planning tip:  This is serious country for outdoor activities with superb winter skiing and wonderful summer hiking .

5. The southern shore of Lake Como 

Best springtime road trip Como–Bergamo; approx 112km/70 miles; 1 day

Surrounded by Alpine peaks and wooded hills, Lake Como (Lago di Como) is the most picturesque of Italy's northern lakes. This leisurely one-day drive takes in elegant art nouveau villas and lush waterfront gardens along the lake's southern shoreline.

The obvious starting point is the town of Como itself. Once you've explored the charming historic center and the nearby Villa Olmo , take the swooping road up to Bellagio . Stop at this charming lakeside village to explore the grounds of neoclassical Villa Melzi d'Eril and have lunch at Terrazza Barchetta .

Suitably refreshed, leave your car and jump on a ferry to Tremezzo, home of the 17th-century Villa Carlotta and its spectacular gardens. Back in Bellagio, pick up your wheels and strike southeast, following the scenic lakeside road down to Lecco and on to historic Bergamo , where you can rest up in style at the Hotel Piazza Vecchia .

Planning tip: Time your visit for April and May when the area is awash with spring color.

6. Highlights of Abruzzo

Best road trip for unspoiled landscapes Rome–Sulmona; approx 240km/150 miles, one day

Just over an hour's drive east of Rome , the little-known region of Abruzzo is a world apart from the big city, with wild, empty valleys and unspoiled mountain landscapes. From the capital take the A24 autostrada to Fonte Cerreto, from where it's a twisting climb up to Campo Imperatore, a highland plain overlooked by the Apennines' highest peak, Corno Grande (2,912m/9,553ft).

Continue on to Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a remote, semi-abandoned village high in the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga. If you're traveling during the weekend you can lunch at the Locanda Sotto gli Archi ; otherwise, pick up picnic supplies in the village.

In the afternoon, push on to Sulmona, a graceful town set in the shadow of the Morrone massif. Famous for its delicacy confetti (sugar-coated almonds), Sulmona makes a good base for exploring the region's rugged southern reaches, offering good accommodation at the Legacy Casa Residencia and filling food at local restaurants such as Il Vecchio Muro .

Planning tip:  We strongly recommend spending a day or more in Sulmona, exploring the surrounding hills by car or on foot away from the tourist crowds.

This article was first published May 2019 and updated November 2023

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The Most Beautiful Italian Coastal Towns and Cities

Italy has a wealth of postcard-perfect coastal towns, each with an individual panorama of breathtaking ocean views. With rows of coloured houses blanketing dramatic cliff faces, these spots are easy on the eye from the sea, too. We list 10 of the most gorgeous Italian coastal communes guaranteed to spark romance in your soul.

Keen to visit Italy but not sure where to go? Take your pick from Culture Trip’s specially curated 10-day Northern Italy trip or our action-packed 10-day Sicily adventure .

1. Manarola, for a colourful cliffside village

Architectural Landmark

Part of the Cinque Terre National Park (comprised of five villages) in Liguria, Manarola has been called the most colourful city in the world. The vibrant buildings are jostling for space, making the town resemble an artist’s palette. Every year, visitors flock here to hike between seaside villages, with numbers soaring in peak season. Don’t miss the Church of San Lorenzo, beautiful both inside and out thanks to some sweeping views of Manarola and neighbouring towns. You can visit Manarola as part of a spectacular guided hike along the Cinque Terra coast on Culture Trip’s 10-day small-group Northern Italy adventure .

2. Positano, for a picture-perfect view

Thanks to some rustic charm and wisteria-draped hotels, Positano is widely regarded as the most photogenic town in Italy. As the most sophisticated resort on the central Amalfi Coast, it’s also the most expensive. The enviable location allows visitors to travel by boat to nearby Capri , Ischia and the Grotta dello Smeraldo. You can also choose to spend a day on Fornillo beach, a smaller alternative to the popular Spiaggia Grande.

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4. Portofino, for the rich and famous

Portofino and the distinctive half-moon harbour are located on the coast of Liguria, in the province of Genoa on the Italian Riviera. Having become increasingly upmarket in recent years, it’s popular with the rich and famous – you’ll notice plenty of luxurious superyachts adorning the horizon here. Hike up to Castello Brown, the 15th-century castle, for some spectacular views.

5. Polignano a Mare, for diving in Puglia

In the province of Bari, Polignano a Mare is perched upon limestone cliffs overlooking the azure sea. The historic old town features a maze of houses and narrow alleyways, as well as panoramic terraces offering views of the Adriatic Sea. Along with the rich history, Polignano is known for world-class cliff-diving opportunities, having previously hosted the Red Bull diving competition. Visit Polignano a Mare on our epic 10-day adventure through Southern Italy .

6. Riomaggiore, for hiking in the Cinque Terre

Part of the Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is the largest and most easterly of the five villages. Sitting upon the unspoilt blue waters of the Gulf of Genoa, the spot is famed for the sweet wine Sciacchetrà, made from Bosco, Vermentino and Albarola grapes. The multi-coloured ravine of pastel buildings here is where the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path) begins. You can embark on the first section between Riomaggiore and Manarola, which is also known as Via Dell’Amore (Lovers’ Path). It’s one of the most beautiful places in Northern Italy .

7. Amalfi, for a stunning Duomo

Amalfi lies at the mouth of a deep ravine at the foot of Monte Cerreto. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and coastal scenery, it’s modestly sized: visitors can walk from one edge of town to the other in 20 minutes. Amalfi boasts sun-filled piazzas and small beaches; its many squares are connected by pedestrian streets flanked with souvenir shops, perfect for stocking up on cameo brooches and limoncello. Also, don’t miss a visit to the Duomo di Amalfi, a 9th-century Roman Catholic structure. Ascend the steps, then admire the beautiful mosaics and magnificent ceiling detail. Check into one of the best hotels in town .

8. Atrani, for a small town atmosphere

Just two minutes away from the town, Atrani is the wealthy residence for the most powerful Amalfi families. Traditional houses climb up the valley from the beach, broken up by lemon terraces and colourful gardens. As the smallest town in Southern Italy, the ancient medieval structure remains incredibly intact.

9. Santa Cesarea Terme, for exploring the Salento coast

Santa Cesarea Terme sits atop a rugged plateau overlooking the sea in Puglia, on the ‘heel’ of Southern Italy. The town is characterised by architecture typical of the early 20th century, while the coast is punctuated with thermal springs, situated within four natural caves. A pathway through the woods leads to the higher part of the town, which boasts beautiful views of the Salento coast, all the way up to the headland of Santa Maria di Leuca. Santa Cesarea Terme isn’t as popular with international tourists as it is with with Italians themselves, making it all the more authentic.

10. Cagliari, for a taste of Sardinia

To get the best view of its golden-hued palazzi and domes dominating the horizon, make sure you arrive in Cagliari by sea. This location boasts the best of both worlds: a rich history (the town is peppered with Roman ruins) and a youthful atmosphere, as found on the stylish Poetto beach.There’s also a fantastic range of places to stay.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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18-step Italy Adriatic Coast Road Trip Itinerary

This Italy Adriatic coast road trip itinerary was created to invite avid travelers to discover many Italian destinations that are still off the tourist radar.

The East Coast of Italy has always been there, yet you have always overlooked it, dazzled by snapshots of the West Coast. 

Nevertheless, the Italian Adriatic Coast is extraordinary and will also allow you to travel in Italy while saving a lot of money.

In this itinerary, I propose the 18 most interesting places on Italy’s Adriatic Coast that will make you explore Eastern Italy off the beaten path.

You will discover the east coast from north to south, starting from the city of Trieste and ending at the southern tip of Italy’s heel in Puglia.

I’ve included seaside towns, cities, and of course incredible beaches in Puglia and the other regions you’ll pass through: Marche , Abruzzo , Emilia Romagna , and Veneto .

If you’d rather travel the Adriatic Coast of Italy by train, know that most of the towns and cities I’ve listed are well connected by public transportation.

18-step Italy Adriatic Coast road trip itinerary

The city of Trieste is located almost at the extreme eastern edge of the Italian Adriatic Coast, very close to the border with Slovenia.

This border location, so close also to Austria and Eastern Europe, makes Trieste a unique city in Italy . 

Summer is the best time to visit Trieste. In winter, is always threatened by the dreaded “Bora” wind, which picked as its favorite destination this part of the eastern coast of Italy.

Instead, in the warmer months, many Italians choose to vacation in Trieste to enjoy the pleasant evening breeze, while in other Italian cities, one hardly leaves home because of the heat.

The city, which overlooks the Gulf of Trieste, is people-friendly and… pet-friendly ! You will be surprised to find so many walk-only areas in the historic center, so you will be comfortable walking around even with small children.

Four-legged friends are welcome in most supermarkets, restaurants, and public transportation, which is also quite rare in Italy!

Another attraction of Trieste is the historic cafes , which were born in the period of great cultural ferment between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

These include Antico Caffè San Marco and Caffè Tommaseo . These venues are large and have historic furnishings, and are far from typical Italian cafes and more like Austrian and Central European ones.

Trieste is the birthplace of Umberto Saba, one of the greatest Italian poets that there founded the bookshop Libreria Antiquaria Umberto Saba .

If you are looking for nice beaches near Trieste , just very close there are none. To take a dip and cool off in the summer months, travel along the coast for about 5 km and go to the area known as Pineta di Barcola .

There is no real beach, but it is here that locals go for a swim.

2 Lignano Sabbiadoro

Driving along Eastern Italy’s coast from Trieste in the direction of Venice, you will come across a beach that is very popular among locals, namely Lignano Sabbiadoro Beach.

It is named for the golden color of the sand ( sabbiadoro means golden sand ).

This well-maintained 7-km-long beach is a favorite place for locals to spend a weekend or the entire summer.

Beach clubs, children’s playgrounds ( Pirates Island ), places to have a drink, and seafood restaurants abound along the beach.

3 Lido di Jesolo

Moving slightly further south we enter the Veneto Region and reach the beaches of Venice : Lido di Jesolo and Cavallino.

If you wonder which are the most beautiful beaches near Venice, you can find them here. 

The sea is not as clean as in southern Italy, but still, it is safe for swimming.

This beach is long, sandy, and spacious, as well as equipped with all facilities.

If you travel with a dog you will surely know how to enjoy these 24 km of beach at the gates of Venice.

Lignano Sabbiadoro is also a pleasant place to use as a base for visiting nearby Venice , avoiding crowded hotels and the dizzying prices of the city on the water.

One of the most famous cities in the world you can visit just by taking a road trip on the Italian east coast.

If you are traveling in Eastern Italy with little money and a private car, it is best to stay outside Venice.

If you don’t want to stay in one of the small towns along the beaches near Venice we just mentioned, then consider the village of Mira .

Mira is located 20 km west of Venice and runs along the Naviglio del Brenta River, which then flows into the Venice Lagoon.

Near Mira, there are airbnbs, hotels, and a campground. From here you can reach Venice by bus in about 40 minutes.

You can then visit all the architectural wonders of Venice, such as Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo, and back to the small off-the-tourist-track village.

The city of Padua stands 40 km from the Adriatic coast, and it would be a shame not to visit during your trip in search of Eastern Italy’s hidden gems .

From Padua, you can easily reach Venice by train in half an hour, and vice versa.

This small city in northern Italy has a historic center that you can get around on foot within 3-4 hours.

What will win you over about Padua is its architecture and youthful atmosphere (in fact, one of Europe’s first universities was founded here, in the Palazzo Bo building).

Along the alleys and small streets of Padua, you will see porticoes , which add charm to the houses and protect passersby from the rain, as in the better-known city of Bologna.

Padua is famous in Italy for its medieval frescoes , especially those by Giotto in the Scrovegni Chapel , but it also has other noteworthy historical landmarks, such as:

• Ragione Palace
• Piazza delle Erbe
• Basilica of San’Antonio
• Jewish Ghetto
• Prato della Valle Square
• Padua is also noted for its many pretty cafes and the monumental historic café “ Caffè Pedrocchi .”

Chioggia is a municipality in the metropolitan city of Venice, located about 30 km south of Venice.

It is also called “Little Venice ” precisely because of its characteristic and picturesque canals.

The historic center of Chioggia stands on a group of small islands connected by bridges.

The major points of interest in Chioggia are:

• The 17th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
• The Clock Tower or Tower of Sant’ Andrea, a 14-century bell tower 30 meters high that houses one of the oldest clocks in the world.
• Piazzetta Vigo, is the social heart of the city, with many bars and restaurants.
• The fish market, where 30 exhibitors display their catch under the shelter of a red marquee.

If you visit Chioggia in the summer, you should also drop by the Island of Sottomarina , where a large equipped beach will be the perfect place to spend a relaxing day, always far away from tourists.

The east coast of Italy is home to a city with an incredible historical heritage; it is Ravenna, one of northern Italy’s most stunning cities .

Ravenna, throughout its history, has been the capital of 3 empires:

• Western Roman Empire,
• Empire of the Goths
• Byzantine Empire

Eight of the city’s monuments are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site:

• Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
• Neonian Baptistery
• Baptistery of the Arians
• Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo
• Archiepiscopal Chapel of St. Andrew
• Mausoleum of Theodoric
• Basilica of San Vitale
• Basilica of Sant Apollinare in Classe

The mosaics of Ravenna represent the richest heritage of mosaics in the world , dating from the 5th and 6th centuries.

Ravenna is therefore a highly recommended stop for all art lovers who are reading this itinerary for a road trip to the Adriatic coast in Italy.

If you are on a diet, it may be best to avoid visiting Ravenna. In fact, the cuisine of Romagna is irresistible.

You may have heard of the flatbread piadina , to be filled with cold cuts and cheese. You can try it at “La Piadina del Melarancio.” And then there are cappelletti and tagliatelle with meat sauce. You can try them at the Ca de Ven restaurant.

If you are traveling with children, you have the opportunity to make them happy by taking them to Mirabilandia amusement park , located about 15 km south of Ravenna.

8 Lido di Dante

The most beautiful beach near Ravenna is named after Dante, the famous poet who is buried in the city.

You get to this beach by driving along a dusty road bordered by fields.

Then you are faced first with a pine forest and then with a quiet free beach.

This beach is frequented by the locals, those who like peace and quiet and do not need beach clubs. An off-the-beaten-path beach. 

Take water, a sun umbrella, and something to eat with you, and you will feel in paradise for a day.

If you say the name of this city in front of an Italian friend, what he will immediately think of is wide beaches, the sea, and nightclubs.

It is for the summer recreation and vacation offerings that this city has made its name over the past 60 years.

But Rimini is much more than that. Rimini is home to some of the most interesting historical landmarks in Italy . Here are some of them:

• Surgeon’s Domus – An archaeological site that includes a villa where a surgeon probably lived, as suggested by the many instruments found and the theme of a beautiful mosaic that has been restored and can be admired.
• Tiberius Bridge – Emperor Augustus commissioned the bridge’s construction, beginning in 14 B.C. Emperor Tiberius completed it. The beautiful and functional Istrian stone bridge can be admired from the Piazza on the water at the foot of the arches, where there is also a trail telling the history of the bridge.
• 15th-century Rimini Cathedral -the facade is inspired by the Roman triumphal arch. The interior preserves masterpieces such as a crucifix by Giotto and a fresco by Piero della Francesca.
• Arch of Augustus – the oldest arch in northern Italy dates back to 27 BC. This is where those arriving in Rimini from the Flaminian Consular Way used to arrive.

Another jewel of Rimini is the Borgo San Giuliano district , which runs from one end of the Tiberius Bridge toward the sea. This area, an ancient fishing village, was chosen by the great director Federico Fellini for some of his films, such as Amarcord.

Here you will find murals inspired by Fellini’s films . The neighborhood is also a destination for fans of quiet aperitifs and candlelight dinners in restaurants with few tables.

The most buzzing nightlife in fact happens on the other side of town.

10 San Marino 

If you pass through Rimini, you can’t help but make a detour and visit the famous San Marino , the oldest republic in the world and also one of the smallest, with just over 30,000 inhabitants. 

Once you arrive, enter through the only gateway to the country , defended by guards in blue and orange uniforms, and you will feel like you have gone back in time.

Legend has it that San Marino was founded in 301 AD by Marino, a stone cutter escaping Christian persecution in Dalmatia. 

Marino gathered a small Christian community on Mount Titan, the highest of the 7 hills that make up San Marino.

The republic has maintained its independence ever since. Since 1992 it has been part of the United Nations.

San Marino is a picturesque destination with winding alleys filled with artisan workshops where you can buy beautiful souvenirs .

The heart of San Marino is Piazza della Libertà , where (if you pass through in the summer) you can watch the evocative changing of the guard that takes place every 30 minutes.

A must-do in San Marino is to walk along the “ witches’ pass .” This scenic route starts from the Castle at the highest point of the town and connects the three medieval towers (the ones featured on the republic’s coat of arms).

How to get to San Marino

The most fun part of the trip to San Marino begins after you park your car. In fact, there are two ways to get to San Marino by public transportation.

• The cable car , which leaves from Borgo Maggiore, will take your gaze over 200 kilometers of Adriatic Coast.
• There is also an electric train that connects Rimini and San Marino.

11 Cattolica 

Bet you’ve never heard of Cattolica, a beloved beach destination in Italy.

Beaches on Italy’s Adriatic coast stand out for the services offered to families with children, and Cattolica is at the top of the list.

This Italian coastal town repopulates from May to September when hotels and beach clubs begin to welcome back many local travelers in search of relaxation and vacation.

The food market is one of the liveliest spots in town, and here you will find local produce useful if you want to try to imitate the excellent cuisine of Romagna.

You could also head to Cattolica’s port in the early morning hours and buy fish directly from the fishermen.

Instead, if you prefer to eat out, sit down at the Osteria del Murè on Via Lungo Tavollo 2, near the port, it specializes in freshly caught fish dishes.

Children, in addition to the beach, will love visiting the Cattolica Aquarium and watching the spectacle of the fountains that are colored with different lights starting at sunset.

The hinterland also deserves attention. Five kilometers southwest of Cattolica is Gradara , one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Italy .

The village spreads within the perfectly preserved walls of the fortified castle, also known as Rocca Malatestiana.

Noble and powerful Italian families such as the Malatesta, Sforza, and Della Rovere families lived here.

The castle is accessed via a drawbridge that will take you back to the Middle Ages.

Of the castle you can visit rooms steeped in history:

• Torture Room
• Passion Room
• Lucrezia Borgia Room.

The absolute protagonists of this village’s past are Paolo and Francesca, whose tragic love story is recounted in Dante’s Inferno .

The city of Ancona, the capital of the Marche Region, is much underrated. One should pass through here if only because it overlooks the sea. 

And the sea is also clean despite the fact that it hosts a port from which ferries also depart for Croatia.

The city also features masterpieces of art and architecture, including contemporary ones. Mark these places:

• Cathedral of St. Cyriac – In the 4th century B.C., the Doric Greeks chose the top of a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea to build a temple to Venus Euplea, protector of sailors. Centuries later the temple became an early Christian basilica and, in the 14th century, was transformed into a beautiful cathedral that combines Romanesque and Byzantine styles.
• Mole Vanvitelliana – In the first half of the 18th century, architect Vanvitelli (creator of the Reggia di Caserta), built at the behest of the Pope an artificial island with a pentagonal structure. This fortified structure functioned as a cargo warehouse and quarantine for those landing at the port. Today it hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and the Omero Tactile Museum , the only example of its kind in Italy.
• Piazza del Plebiscito – Also known as Piazza del Papa, it is the social heart of Ancona. The square is overlooked by the Government Palace, the Clock Tower, cafes, and restaurants.
• Street art neighborhood – the Capodimonte neighborhood in Ancona has become famous for its murals. You can find them in the underpass that connects Via Cialdini to Via Astagno.

13 Conero Coast – better than the Amalfi Coast

From beautiful Ancona, driving south, you will come to a point where the coast has a promontory-it is the Conero Regional Park . This stop just cannot miss on your Adriatic Coast itinerary.

Conero is one of the most beautiful places to see in Le Marche. The main attraction of this region is the beaches surrounded by woods and washed by the turquoise sea .

Pin the most beautiful beaches in Le Marche from which to enjoy a spectacular sunrise:

• Mezzavalle Beach
• Due Sorelle Beach
• Urbani Beach
• Spiaggia del Frate

These are just some of the gems of the Conero region, but you will see that they are also among the most beautiful beaches on the Italian Adriatic Coast!

In addition to the beaches, it is worth visiting the small villages that have extraordinary sea views, such as Sirolo and Numana .

14 Trabocchi Coast Abruzzo 

The beauties of the east coast of Italy continue and multiply by heading even further south and entering the Abruzzo Region . 

We are officially in southern Italy.

Abruzzo is famous for genuine, flavorful food . Certainly, this quality combines well with relaxation on one of the region’s many blue-flag beaches . 

In fact, the Costa dei Trabocchi , which stretches 60 km from the town of Ortona to Vasto, boasts 100 percent blue flag beaches.

Here are my favorite ones:

• San Vito Chietino beach
• Fossacesia Marina beach
• Punta Aderci Beach (Nature Reserve).

Most of these are pebble beaches, and the sea is crystal clear.

The Costa dei Trabocchi is named for the presence of old wooden pilings on the sea from which fishermen lowered nets into the water. 

Today the trabocchi house mouthwatering seafood restaurants , such as Trabocco Punta Fornace.

The town of Ortona is also worth a visit, especially during a summer evening. Stroll along Corso Garibaldi, which has a beautiful view of the sea, and enjoy the best gelato in town , that of Giogoloso.

15 Gargano: best Beaches on the Italian Adriatic Coast

Now we have arrived in Puglia, world-famous for its beaches and picturesque villages built with white stone .

It is the white color of the cliffs overlooking the sea that will attract your attention as you travel along the Adriatic coast of Italy.

The Gargano is a promontory that is home to a national park . The greatest treasure here is the beaches, among the most beautiful in southern Italy.

I recommend that you first stop in Vieste , a picturesque coastal town, and explore the beaches to the north and south of the town. Your eyes will be filled with white and blue.

The most beautiful Gargano beaches are:

• Spiaggia del Castello in Vieste, home to the so-called Pizzomunno, a distinctive 25-meter-high limestone monolith
• Crovatico beach
• Baia dei colombi (Pigeon Bay)
• Baia delle Zagare
• Beach of the Arch of San Felice
• Baia della Pergola

The towns that line the Apulian coast are built on flat limestone boulders that plunge into the clear blue sea. Consider visiting, in addition to Vieste:

• Manfredonia

For lovers of nature walks, the Umbra Forest , a natural wonder home to monumental trees, would be worth adding to the itinerary. 

This forest is included in the UNESCO heritage site “Primordial beech forests of the Carpathians and other regions of Europe.”

The forest, which is rich in animal and plant biodiversity, is the perfect place to shelter from the scorching sun in July and August.

16 Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is the most famous coastal town in Puglia . 

Like those you have just passed through on your road trip itinerary on Italy’s Adriatic coast, it spreads out on a limestone rock that dominates the coast.

This rock hides fascinating caves bathed by the sea that becomes increasingly crystal clear as we travel south.

Polignano is known in Italy as the “ town of poems .” In fact, in every nook and cranny of the houses in the historic center, a guy named “Guido il Flaneur” has transcribed original poetic verses or those of great authors, in agreement with the owners of the houses (and therefore the walls eh!)

The town is not very small. The part towards the hinterland has been inhabited since the 18th century.

The oldest part, the part founded by the Greeks, overlooks the sea, a maze of narrow streets to explore.

Historical landmarks to see in Polignano include:

• Aldo Moro Square, the social hub of the town
• 13th-century Church of Santa Maria Assunta (Polignano Cathedral)
• Clock Tower
• 19th-century Bourbon Bridge (from which to admire the narrow, long beach “Lama di Polignano,” a symbol of the town
• 10th-century Benedictine Abbey of San Vito.

Polignano is also a foodie destination. Try the special “ tiella barese ” with rice potatoes and mussels and the special coffee with cream, amaretto, and lemon zest.

Besides being the gateway to the most beautiful part of the Apulian coast, Lecce is in every way the most beautiful city in Puglia .

In Italy, Lecce is characterized as the “ capital of Baroque ,” as this style and period of Italian art, produced unique and unparalleled masterpieces here. 

So if you love architecture and open-air museums, this city is for you.

Enter through Porta Napoli , a 16th-century portal, and head to Via Umberto 1, where you will find two of the city’s iconic Baroque buildings:

• Palazzo Adorno
• Basilica di Santa Croce
• Other monuments you will enjoy photographing include:
• The Roman amphitheater and theater
• Castle of Charles 5
• Cathedral of Lecce

The typical food of Lecce is very tempting and very spiced with herbs.

• Rustici leccesi are small puff pastry buns filled with tomato, mozzarella cheese, and béchamel.
• Puccia is a typical soft bread to be filled with toppings as desired.
• Desserts include pasticciotto leccese , to be eaten hot, filled with lemon cream, ricotta, or chocolate.

The town is full of places to enjoy great food, such as Osteria da Angiulino for meat dishes and Osteria 203 for fish dishes.

The Salento Coast is said to have the most enchanting beaches in peninsular Italy, and it probably does.

This part of the East coast of Italy begins at Lecce and continues south to the point where the Adriatic Sea merges with the Ionian Sea.

Salento is taken by storm during the summer months, particularly by young people in their 20s and 30s, eager for the sea and sun and to dance to taranta and reggae music, which are widespread in this region.

It is believed that the hospitality of the locals is due to the fact that Salento has been a crossroads of different cultures. So, if you wish to learn about the character and culture of southern Italians , this is a very welcoming place to do so.

This is certainly reflected in the architecture of the villages and towns . They are well worth a visit:

• Marina di Castro

As for the sea in Salento, it is crystal clear. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy can be found in Salento. 

Some stretches of the coast are rocky and host striking caves .

Swimming and snorkeling here will be a blast. Remember to visit:

• Torre Specchia Beach
• Bay of the Turks
• Torre dell’ Orso
• Caves of Terrarico
• Cipolliane Caves

For this Adriatic Coast Italy road trip itinerary, I have chosen 18 of the stops that I feel are a must to get passionate about this wonderful part of the Mediterranean.

There are other towns and villages worth visiting, but I wanted to make a selection, partly because it will be difficult to see everything in one trip to the Italian east coast.

The best time to travel is between May and October .

In July and August you will meet many more local travelers, but never as many as the crowds that flock to the west coast and islands (except around Rimini and Salento).

During this road trip, you will make a true immersion in local Italian culture , amplified because, in many of these destinations, you don’t see as many foreign travelers, for example in Le Marche and Abruzzo. 

Always remember to explore the hinterland as well, for an even more off-the-beaten-path experience of the east side of Italy.

Let me know which destinations you have chosen to add to your itinerary on the Italian Adriatic coast Italy.

Related Articles from the Blog

If you liked this ItalyEast Coast road trip, I suggest you read some of my other travel articles.

• Top places to visit in Italy in the summer
• Best natural wonders in Italy
• A guide to visiting the Trabocchi Coast in Abruzzo
• The top undiscovered Italian beach town
• 22 Best Weekend Trips from Rome Italy in 2023

I’m Lisa, an Italian from Rome who one day discovered she finds incredible joy in traveling to new places. With this blog, I help you discover Italy (especially Rome and its surroundings) as a local would. Find out more about me here .

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• Jan 25, 2022
• 11 min read

The Ultimate Road Trip on the Italian Adriatic Coast: Tips, Places and Great Cuisine

Updated: Jul 17, 2023

The Italian Adriatic Coast is a holiday destination that many people overlook, but it's an area of Italy that has so much to offer. There are beautiful beaches, cities rich in history and culture, and some of the best food you'll ever taste! It's also a great place for a road trip with plenty of interesting places to visit on route. In this article we will discuss what makes the Italian Adriatic coast such an amazing place to visit as well as tips on how to have the ultimate road trip from start to finish.

READ > An Epic Road Trip Around Rome, Italy: The Best Cities and Towns to Visit

Road tripping in the Italian Adriatic Coast: what you need to know

There's no doubt that the Italian Adriatic Coast is an amazing place to visit, but what makes it so special? Well, firstly there are the stunning beaches. The coastline stretches for over a thousand kilometres and offers everything from secluded coves and crystal clear waters to long sandy beaches perfect for soaking up the sun. There are also a number of interesting towns and cities to explore, each with their own unique character and history. From the lively coastal town of Rimini to the charming fishing villages of Pesaro and Cesenatico, there's something for everyone.

Of course, no trip to Italy would be complete without sampling some of the country's amazing food. The Adriatic Coast is no exception and you can expect to find everything from fresh seafood to delicious pasta dishes. Be sure to try some of the local specialties such as fritti di paranza (fried fish) or spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams).

How to road trip like a pro in the Italian Adriatic Coast

Road tripping in the Italian Adriatic Coast can be a great way to see all that the area has to offer. However, there are a few things you need to know before you hit the road. In this article we will discuss some of the best tips for road tripping in Italy's Adriatic Coast.

The best places to visit on the Italian Adriatic Coast

Otranto, italy.

Otranto is a beautiful town located on the eastern coast of the Italian Adriatic Coast near the very tip of the "heel" of Italy. With its charming medieval streets, stunning coastal views and delicious food, it's no wonder that this town is becoming such a popular tourist destination and the perfect place to start this ultimate road trip.

Otranto is well known for its vibrant nightlife, so be sure to enjoy a dinner in one of the town's many restaurants and bars. There are also plenty of things to see and do in Otranto, including a number of churches and historical buildings, as well as a nature reserve located just outside of town.

Related > Road Trip of Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Baia del Mulino D'Acqua

This amazing coastline of crystal clear blue sea and architecturally eroded cliffs and grottos needs to be seen to be believed. It requires a bit of a hike to get there and a swim to make it out to the heavenly grottos. But once there, you’ll find yourself away from the crowds that have rushed to the other more well-known bays and have this slice of paradise all to yourself.

Lecce, Italy

Lecce is a beautiful town located in the southern region of Puglia and is often referred to as "the Florence of the South". This vibrant city is home to some of the best architecture in Italy, with baroque buildings and churches lining the streets. Lecce is also known for its artisanal products, such as leather goods, and is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir.

Be sure to wander through the city's many narrow streets, stop for coffee in one of the quaint piazzas, and enjoy a meal in one of the excellent restaurants. Lecce is also home to some great nightlife, so make sure you save some time to enjoy a few drinks in one of the town's many bars.

READ > 9 Reasons You Should Take a Road Trip Around Venice, Italy

Alberobello

When you Google top places to visit southern Italy, you will invariably see an image of the traditional stone roofed 'trulli' homes of Alberobello. A trullo (plural, trulli) is a traditional Apulian dry stone hut with a conical roof. Trulli were generally constructed as temporary field shelters and storehouses or as permanent dwellings by small proprietors or agricultural labourers. In the town of Alberobello , in the province of Bari, whole districts contain dense concentrations of trulli. READ > Enchanting Stone-Roofed 'Trulli' Homes of Alberobello

Related > Road Tripping in the Deep South of Italy

Monopoli, Italy

Monopoli is a beautiful town located on the Italian Adriatic coast. This charming town is home to a number of interesting historical buildings, including a castle and cathedral, as well as some lovely beaches. It’s impossible to visit Monopoli without admiring its castle in the town’s historical centre. Of great architectural interest it was constructed in the 1500s on a promontory reaching into the sea, the fortress was part of the coastal fortifications decided by Charles V of Spain (followed by Don Pedro of Toledo).

Be sure to take a walk through the narrow streets of the old town, enjoy a coffee in one of the many piazzas, and taste the local cuisine in one of the excellent restaurants.

Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare, perched on a 20-meter-high limestone cliff above the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic, truly does live up to its name and is quite literally ‘beyond sea'! This charming town is home to a number of interesting historical buildings, including a castle and cathedral, as well as some lovely beaches. It’s impossible to visit Polignano without admiring its cliff-hanging old town and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Be sure to take a walk through the narrow streets of the old town, enjoy a coffee in one of the many piazzas, and taste the local cuisine in one of the excellent restaurants. A little cliff jumping will test your daring side. According to legend, the limestone cliffs surrounding Cala Porto Bay are a great place to take a leap of faith because they're not one for the risk-averse!

READ > Complete Road Tripping the Italian Lake District Itinerary

Bari, Italy

Bari is the capital of Puglia and the largest city in southern Italy. This vibrant city is home to some of the best architecture in Italy, with baroque buildings and churches lining the streets. Bari is also known for its artisanal products, such as leather goods, and is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir.

Bari is divided into four urban centers, each of which includes a distinct piece of the city's history. The northern region consists of the ancient city with Basilica di San Nicola (1035–1171), Cathedral di San Sabino (1035–1171) and Swabian Castle built for Frederick II. To the south is the Murat shopping district, which comprises a seaside walkway with views of Bari's harbor.

Bari's main tourist attractions includes; Basilica of Saint Nicholas, Bari Cathedral, Petruzzelli Theatre, Swabian Castle, Pinacoteca Provinciale di Bari, Barivecchia, The Russian Church and many more.

Trani, Italy

Trani, interestingly, is well-known for its Jewish heritage, having historically been inhabited by many Jews. The city was particularly known for its large Jewish communities in Southern Italy during the 12th century and forward.

Trani was home to a number of renowned rabbis, and many people are familiar with their names. Trani has several well-known synagogues. The Scolanova Synagogue is one of them, and it is still in use today.

Known more for its history than anything else, Trani still has gained a reputation for having great figs, almonds, olive oil, and Moscato di Trani.

The ancient city, or Borgo Antico di Termoli, is surrounded by ancient fortifications. Pink-hued homes line narrow streets within these walls. The cathedral of Termoli, with stunning mosaic flooring, is also worth seeing. The 13th-century Castello Svevo stands nearby. The Belvedere Tower in Termoli has views of the harbour. Rio Vivo is one of Termoli's renowned sandy beaches.

It was sacked by the Lombards, the Kingdom of Sicily, the Venetians, Turks and French. What they didn't damage was destroyed by heavy bombing in WWII. What it lacks in charm it makes up for in action - there's no denying that modern Pescara is a lively place.

Pescara, a pretty seaside town located on the Adriatic coast of Abruzzo, is best known for the beach. The city's official website offers more than enough information about what to do in Pescaria. There are plenty of clubs and restaurants along the route to keep things lively during the summer months, especially with 20 kilometers of beaches to the north and south. July's Jazz Festival is held in Pescara, Italy, which is also home to Italy's first annual jazz festival. Throughout the summer, there are frequent performances and events both locally and by visitors.

Urbino - Home of one of Europe's oldest universities

While technically not on the Adriatic Coast, when you're this close, you just shouldn't miss Urbino. Urbino is a walled hill town in the Marche region of Italy. It is famous for its Renaissance architecture and art, as well as for being the birthplace of painter Raphael. The Ducal Palace, one of the most important buildings in Urbino, was home to many ruling dukes over the centuries. Today it houses a museum with works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raffaello Sanzio (Raphael), and Titian.

The city's churches are also worth seeing. The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria della Misericordia has an impressive façade and contains paintings by Lorenzo Lotto and Raffaello Sanzio. The Cathedral of Urbino, designed by Francesco di Giorgio Martini, has a Gothic façade and contains the tombs of many dukes.

Urbino is also home to the University of Urbino. Founded in 1506, the university is one of Europe's oldest universities and still ranks among its most prestigious institutions.

Pesaro, Italy

Located on the central coast of the Italian Adriatic Sea, Pesaro is a great place to stop for a few days during your road trip. This charming town is home to some beautiful Renaissance-era buildings as well as lovely beaches and a number of excellent seafood restaurants.

Pesaro is also the birthplace of Italian composer Gioacchino Rossini, so be sure to visit the Rossini Museum which is dedicated to his life and work. In addition, Pesaro hosts a number of music festivals throughout the year, including the Rossini Opera Festival in September.

San Marino - the smallest republic in the world?

Why not tick off another country on your road trip? It is the smallest independent state in Europe after Vatican City and Monaco and, until the independence of Nauru (1968), the smallest republic in the world.

It keeps much of its historical architecture, and it is one of the world's oldest republics. The capital, also known as San Marino, is located on the slopes of Monte Titano and noted for its medieval walled old town and narrow cobblestone lanes. The Three Towers, castlelike citadels dating from the 11th century, tower over the mountains around Titano.

Rimini, Italy

Rimini is a lively coastal town located in northern Italy on the Adriatic coast. This town is well known for its beaches, nightlife and excellent food. Rimini is the perfect place to spend a few days relaxing on the beach, enjoying a dinner in one of the town's many restaurants, and taking part in some of the town's lively nightlife.

There are also a number of interesting things to see and do in Rimini, including a number of churches and historical buildings. Be sure to take a walk along the beach, enjoy a ride on the town's Ferris wheel, and visit the Aquarium of Rimini.

Cesenatico - A Beautifully Kept Secret

If you're looking for a charming, historical town to spend your holiday in, Cesenatico is the place for you. This picturesque town is home to a number of beautiful churches as well as a delightful fishing port that has been preserved since the 1500s.

Cesenatico was built around a man-made canal, designed by Leonardo da Vinci. The main feature of the town, it serves as an open-air display of life in this fishing town. Brightly coloured boats sit in the canal, some open for viewing. The ancient town of Cesenatico is its most attractive feature, with the Piazza Pisacane as its backbone. Beautiful buildings and boats encircle it, overlooking the canal. It's a pedestrian zone, so taking walks along the canals is a great way to pass the time.

Mirabilandia Amusement Park

Discover the attractions of their 6 thematic areas in the amusement park Emilia Romagna Italy . Soft, moderate, intense... enjoyment for everyone! Breathtaking performances, to amaze even the most demanding of you: from kids to grown-ups!

Ravenna, Italy

Ravenna, the capital of the Western Roman Empire from 402 to 450 AD and one of Italy's most beautiful towns, has a fascinating history – not least because it served as the seat of power for the Western Roman Empire for more than two hundred years. Many remnants of its long past survive today, including some of Europe's most stunning mosaic floors.

The Basilica di San Vitale, the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, and the Mausoleo di Galla Placidia are among the must-sees. After you've finished checking off your site list, there are still plenty of options in Ravenna: tiny boutiques, traditional pizzerias, trattorias, and charming cafés abound.

The town of Comacchio, "the little Venice", is a beautiful lagoon hamlet with the charm of a small village: it's clean and genuine, with a vitality that comes from a deep regard for its own history and the environment around it. The bright clarity of the light reminds us that we are near to the sea, and this light illuminates the town ahead of being amplified by the canal's still surfaces. A little city known as Comacchio, now referred to as the capital of Po Delta Park, is a treasure chest full of particular natural beauty and reminders of its history. It was born and still lives between land and water in Comacchio, better known as the capital of Po Delta Park.

The seven sandy beach areas are ideal for spending a holiday with the family or with friends, as well as for a peaceful weekend unwinding in the sun or dancing until dawn through the vibrant "lido" nights.

Venice, Italy

Venice is a city like no other. Situated on a series of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by bridges, Venice is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. The city is renowned for its art and architecture, including the magnificent Basilica di San Marco, as well as its many canals and gondolas.

A visit to Venice is a must for any traveller interested in art, history or romance. Be sure to allow plenty of time to wander the streets and canals of this fascinating city. You may never want to leave.

My biggest advice is to make sure you stay at least a few days here. Walking around in the evening when all the day trippers and cruise ships are gone is such a special experience. Spend a few days seeing the other Islands such as Murano and Burano.

Lignano Sabbiadoro

Make the most of your stay at this modern beach resort on the Adriatic Sea by utilizing its watersports, amusement parks, and shopping areas.

Lignano Sabbiadoro is a busy family-friendly seaside resort in northern Italy. It occupies an entire peninsula that runs parallel to the Adriatic Sea and Marano Lagoon. In Lignano Sabbiadorum, spend your leisure time on beautiful beaches, attempting water sports, touring theme parks, and playing golf.

Lignano Sabbiadoro is made up of three districts: Lignano Sabbiadoro, the historic center; Lignano Pineta, a forest-backed paradise; and Lignano Riviera, which is laid-back. A 5-mile (8-kilometer) beach runs along the resort's coast, which is bordered by beautiful crystal clear water. For hire are gazebos, loungers, and sun umbrellas as well as changing facilities in both public and private clubs. The public access areas or private clubs offer bars, restaurants, and children's entertainment.

Grado, Italy

Grado is a small town on the Adriatic Sea in northeastern Italy. It's well known for its beaches, which are considered some of the most beautiful in all of Italy. Grado also has a long history, dating back to the Roman Empire. Today, it's a popular tourist destination thanks to its lovely beaches and historic old town.

If you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation in northern Italy, Grado is a great choice. The town is small and charming, with plenty of restaurants and bars along the waterfront. Be sure to visit the Basilica di Sant'Eufemia, one of Grado's most famous landmarks.

Trieste, Italy

The eastern city of Trieste likely isn’t on most people's list of Italian cities to visit. It definitely lacks the kind of recognition you’d find with Florence, Milan or even somewhere like Orvieto. And yet, you surely won’t be disappointed with the various sights to see in Trieste.

It's not in a good location for many Italian trips, wedged between the Slovenian border and the end of the Adriatic Sea from Venice. It's not that it's difficult to get to by any means; simply that it performs best as a pit stop in certain situations. That said, its the perfect place to end your Italian Adriatic road trip. Trieste is a big city with a lot of things to see and do. Whether you delve into the city's history, its passion for coffee, or its Austrian architecture, it's an easy city to like. You'll be delighted that you had the opportunity to discover this notably different Italian metropolis in just one day.

Final thoughts on the ultimate guide to road tripping in the Italian Adriatic Coast

If you're looking for a great Italian road trip destination, be sure to add the Adriatic Coast to your list. This beautiful area offers everything from stunning coastal views to delicious food and lively nightlife. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

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Explore Italy's Adriatic Coast

 Peter Unger / Getty Images

Italy's east coast runs along the Adriatic Sea from the border of Slovenia to the heel of the boot, the Salento Peninsula. A rail line runs along the coast from the city of Trieste in the north to Lecce in the south, although it's necessary to change trains at least once to make the entire trip. A highway also runs along the coast, so it's possible to drive the whole route.

Our Adriatic Coast itinerary starts in the northeast region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia .​ ​Grado and Lignano are top seaside resort towns in this area. The Lagoons of Marano and Grado are dotted with small islands and are full of birds so it's a great area for boat excursions. There's a small airport at Trieste.

Of course, the most visited place on Italy's east coast is the city of Venice , one of Italy's top cities and most romantic places. Venice is a city of canals and its main square, Piazza San Marco, is the top place to go in the city. Venice's architecture is a unique blend of eastern and western styles, and sights include the unusual Saint Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and stunning churches and mansions.

Since Venice is a car-free city, it's best visited on a train itinerary and for those who wish to start or end in Venice, there's an airport with flights to other parts of Italy and Europe.

Another city of canals on the east coast is the fishing port of Chioggia , sometimes called Little Venice , although it lacks the magnificent monuments. There's a beach in Chioggia and during summer a tourist ferry runs between Chioggia and Venice, making it a good alternative to staying in Venice.

Rimini and the Adriatic Coast of Emilia Romagna

If you're traveling by car, the next stop along would be the Po Delta , one of Europe's largest wetland areas with over 300 species of birds. Comacchio is a pretty fishing village and gateway to the southern lagoon, a protected area where you can take a boat ride or walk or bike along the pathways.

Farther south, Cesenatico is a pretty seaside town with a canal through its center.​

The seaside resort town of Rimini is known for its miles of sandy beaches and its nightlife. The town has an interesting historic center and Roman remains and was the birthplace of film director Federico Fellini. To the north and south of Rimini are smaller seaside resort towns with good beaches, offering a more laid-back beach vacation. 

From the Spur to the Heel of the Boot: The Puglia Coast of Southern Italy

Puglia is a long, thin region that starts at the Gargano Promontory , the spur of the boot , and continues to the Salento Peninsula , the toe of the boot . Much of the Puglia region is coastline , and Puglia is well known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and charming coastal towns.

Trani is one of the prettiest towns in this part of the Adriatic coast. Trani's cathedral, in a beautiful setting on the harbor near the castle, is one of the best examples of a Romanesque church in Puglia, with fantastic carvings on the exterior and beautiful floor mosaics in the crypt.

The town of Giovinazzo , just north of Bari, is a small fishing town that makes a good place to relax and take in the local life. 

Bari , about halfway down the coast, is Puglia's biggest seaside city. It has an interesting medieval center, a seaside promenade, and a port. Travelers often take the ferry to Greece from either Bari or Brindisi, another coastal city further south.

Continuing past Bari, the sandy beach at Polignano a Mare is in a small bay sheltered by the towering limestone cliffs on which the picturesque town is perched. The beach is one of the beaches in Puglia that's earned the blue flag award for cleanliness and environmental friendliness. 

Though it's not on the sea, we recommend a visit to Lecce , a beautiful baroque city referred to as the Florence of the South. It's one of the larger cities of the Salento Peninsula, but its historic center is compact and walkable.

Just about everywhere on the coast of the Salento Peninsula, you'll find great beaches, clear down to Santa Maria di Leuca , on the very tip. Here the climate is very mild, giving a long season to the popular beaches. The whitewashed town itself is pretty and has a good seaside promenade with trendy nightclubs.

Another top Salento town to visit is Otranto , whose cathedral has an unusual chapel of bones. Its old town, running along the sea from the castle, has a Greek feel and there's a beach within walking distance of the town. Also along this part of the coast, there are good beaches at Porto Badisco , known for its sea urchins, and Santa Cesarea Terme , known for its thermal springs.

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Italy Coastal Tours & Vacations

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The cultural wealth at the heart of the Italian peninsula is irrefutable; however, along its entire coast lies shining gems of local culture and inspiring vistas of the sea. Enjoy a range of local cuisines and experiences as you venture from Amalfi to Puglia and encounter the country in a whole new light with a coastal Italy tour from Zicasso.

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Kings and queens, emperors and aristocracy once roamed the cobblestone-framed loggias and marbled hallways of preserved villas and opulent palaces across Italy. Follow in the footsteps of Bourbon royalty and witness the lavish collections of nobility in the Genoese Republic. Bask in the sunlight on private boats for views of the coastline and delight in the culture of secluded towns carved into the sloping maritime mountains. Your custom tailored tour immerses you in the luxuries of the faded aristocracy, indulging in the grandeurs of castles and the antique rooms of remarkable palaces overlooking Italy’s shimmering shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea.

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On your eight-day family getaway vacation to Italy, your kids wake up with a view of coastal cliffs and the looming summit of historic Mount Vesuvius in the distance. The ancient city of Pompeii expands before your eyes, and you have never seen your kids so excited to learn about history. Visit the wonderment of coastal towns and breathtaking Renaissance cities during your handcrafted family tour of Italy.

7  Day Custom Tour

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The Adriatic Sea shimmers with clear, turquoise waters and the whitewashed walls of the medieval towns will glimmer in the sunlight during your custom-tailored tour of Italy’s classic coastline. Fascinating grottoes take shape inside soaring limestone cliffs, and private beaches wind around hidden coves. History dates back to ancient Greek settlements, and medieval lanes create photogenic images worthy of a postcard. Embrace the immersive ambiance of Puglia along the southeastern tip of Italy’s famous boot where golden sunshine, long stretches of cozy beach, and lush olive groves create a dynamic combination accentuated by vibrant artistic piazzas and welcoming rustic cuisine.

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Idyllic seaside villages, incredible traditional heritage, and opulent palaces highlight the mixture of luxury and style that stretches from Puglia to the Amalfi Coast during your personalized tour of Southern Italy. Gargoyles and cherubs adorn the lavish Baroque façade of Lecce’s unforgettable basilica while circular homes with conical rooftops overtake Alberobello’s hills and resemble a storybook village. Turquoise waters splash against white, gold, and black sand beaches found beneath the colorful antique homes. Taste the citrus of homemade limoncello, delight in the perfect texture of olive oil and bask in the wonders of the seaside while you explore labyrinthine streets and revel in luxuries.  To best plan your ideal vacation and tour Italy, consider browsing our other Italian itineraries.

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Embark on this 10-day luxury tour of the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Positano, and Rome that combines modern comforts with historic Italian delights. A picturesque canvas of seaside towns inhabited with warm indigenous hospitality and vibrant beach culture, the Amalfi is Italy’s meridian of relaxation and beauty. Sip champagne and dine on seafood at one of the many gourmet restaurants along the crystal blue seashore and find yourself enjoying gelato at “The Terrace of Infinity” in Ravello, perched upon the jagged cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean. Travel back through ancient civilization and visit the marvels that define Rome, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast.

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The sea charms you with layers of indigo and azure colors brushing against the small stretch of beach. Mountains encircle the enchanting and secluded coastal town. You can sit on the balcony and watch fishing boats roll into the marina, hold your partner’s hand, and indulge in the scenery with a glass of wine. Your Italy tour to Rome, Naples, and Sorrento is handmade to offer the romance of antiquity and amorousness of the coastline, ensuring that you can relax in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Italy with the one you love.

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Driving Italy’s Adriatic Coast: a two week itinerary

Jo Williams

• Adriatic Coast road trip

While many Italian road trip itineraries focus on the cultural north of the country, there is plenty to do in the southern regions too. The archaeological sites of Sicily , the pizza in Naples, and the stunning Abbey of Monte Cassino, to name but a few.

But to truly get off the beaten path, travel to the east coast of Italy where forgotten towns, idyllic nature reserves, and an entirely separate country-within-a-country are waiting to be discovered.

From the border with Slovenia in Friuli-Venezia Giulia all the way down to Italy’s ‘heel’ in Puglia, Italy’s Adriatic coast mirrors Croatia’s celebrated coastline just a few hundred kilometres across the water.

Wide open beaches attract Italian holidaymakers in northern towns like Rimini and Ancona, but a little further south, the countryside opens up with vast mountain ranges, wildlife-rich peninsulas, and a warm and authentic hospitality that often involves some of the most authentic food you will ever come across.

Take a trip along the Italian Adriatic coast and you will discover a whole new side to this top European destination.

Why visit Italy's east coast?

With names eponymous to Italy like Cinque Terre , Pisa, Rome , Naples, Sorrento, Pompeii and the Amalfi, the western shore often gets a lot of the tourism limelight. But the eastern coast of Italy has some impressive sights hidden up its sleeve too - like Venice .

Then there’s the mosaic city of Ravenna , the independent country of San Marino , the ancient cave houses of Matera, and the sun-bathed region of Puglia. South of Venice, the traffic jams (and horns) disappear, the tedious queues for historical attractions are noticeably absent, and the food seems to get better and better. 

The itinerary

Our suggested two-week itinerary of Italy’s Adriatic Coast includes plenty of options for places to visit depending on the season . You can hit the beaches in the summer, visit historic cities in Autumn, or head up to the mountains in the winter.

This Adriatic Coast itinerary focuses mainly on history, nature, and the landscapes of Italy’s east coast whilst aiming to avoid crowds. Of course, if you have never visited Venice or Bologna you should absolutely add them to your list!

Bari’s beaches & Alberobello: 1 night

Start your trip in the southeastern region of Puglia in the port of Bari, one of the biggest cities on the east coast of Italy. It's an art and cultural hub for the south and a major transport hub for ferries to Greece and beyond.

From here, the sun-lounger-laden beaches of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare are a great place to start in the summer months. Further south, the whitewashed old town of Ostuni and the unique Trulli houses of Alberobello make for fascinating day trips with a history dating back to the Palaeolithic times.

If you want to stay longer, you can also visit the Grotte di Castellana , an impressive subterranean cave system not far from the city.

The city of Lecce is another option in winter; it’s an up-and-coming tourist destination and a growing hub for digital nomads. With a young crowd and a heady nightlife scene, the baroque buildings are increasingly becoming home to trendy cafes and art exhibitions.

Recommendations:

Stay at Il Pumo in the city centre. Note you will have to pay for parking.

Visit Polignano a Mare (you can also do a boat tour )

Book a day trip to Alberobello and the Apulian towns

Matera: 2 nights

While the mountainous region of Basilicata is not strictly on the east coast of Italy, you can’t miss a visit to Matera when you are this close! Visiting the Sassi District, with its tufa limestone cave dwellings, is like exploring a living film set.

The compelling history of Matera has also earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, and it’s a fascinating place to learn about. Spend at least two nights here to really get a feel for the place and to sample some of Basilicata’s best local dishes.

Stay at Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita a historic cave hotel in the old town or try Antica Mateola for more parking options.

Visit the Sassi District.

Book a guided tour of Parco Murgia to see Matera's famous underground churches.

Gargano National Park & Tremiti Islands: 2 nights

For nature lovers, head north to the Gargano Peninsula. Gargano's Umbra Forest is a protected nature reserve crisscrossed with hiking and mountain biking trails.

A short boat ride away, the Tremiti Archipelago is a good place to try diving or snorkelling as it lies within a marine protected area.

Back on the mainland, the small neighbouring region of Molise sees very few visitors compared to Puglia. Termoli, a fishing town on the Adriatic coast of Italy, is probably the best-known spot in the region.

Further inland, experience unspoiled nature in the Molisano Apennines, with peaks over 2,000 metres - the area is perfect for skiing and winter sports in the winter months.

Stay at Dimora Marinucci or suebi rooms in Termoli.

Visit Gargano National Park

Book a snorkelling trip to the Tremiti Islands

Sulmona & Campo Imperatore: 2 nights

In neighbouring Abruzzo, stunning mountain drives on empty winding roads make for some of the best driving in Italy . Head up to Campo Imperatore, a highland plain in the shadow of the Apennines' highest peak - the 2912-metre-high Corno Grande.

Nearby the medieval hill town of Santo Stefano di Sessanio is the perfect lunch stop - but pick your timings wisely as the village gives the word 'sleepy' a whole new meaning as much of it is uninhabited.

For a guaranteed meal, choose to stay further south in Sulmona, known for their local delicacy of sugar-coated almonds or ‘ confetti’

Stay at B&B Il Marchese Del Grillo a few steps from the main square in Sulmona

Visit Campo Imperatore

Conero Regional Park: 1 night

The next region you will encounter on your journey north is Marche. Unspoiled by resorts or international tourist crowds, hilltop towns scatter Marche’s rural landscapes. Small working villages look a lot like those in Tuscany , but you won’t find leather shops or expensive restaurants here.

Instead, visit endless fields of sunflowers in the summer months (Marche is Italy’s supplier of sunflower oil), and experience the array of wildlife and vast panoramas in Conero Regional Park -  just south of Ancona.

Stay at Seebay Hotel , situated in a beautiful spot between the ocean and the forest.

Visit Conero National Park

Book a boat tour along the Conero Riviera

San Marino: 2 nights

An absolute must-visit on the east coast of Italy, San Marino is the third smallest country in Europe. One of just three enclave countries in the entire world, San Marino is entirely surrounded by Italy but has retained its independence since it was founded in 301 AD.

As if that wasn’t enough of a reason to visit, it's also the world’s oldest republic but the democratic country isn’t stuck in the past. In 2022 San Marino voted in the world’s first openly gay head of state ; Paolo Rondelli is an LGBT activist and one of two captains regent - the elected leaders of the country.

Make sure to visit the fairytale-like three towers of Mount Titano, a symbol of the country that appears on the national flag.

Stay at Hotel Rosa with views of the Mount Titano

Visit Mount Titano and the tree towers of San Marino

Ravenna: 2 nights

The alluring Emilia-Romagna region is the birthplace of some of the best food in Italy. This includes prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (I learned the hard way not to call it ‘Parmesan’ in Italy), balsamic vinegar of Modena, and tagliatelle alla Bolognese (spaghetti bolognaise).

Another highlight is ‘Motor Valley’ where supercar companies Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati are based.

There’s plenty of culture, too with Bologna, home to the oldest university in Europe, the Renaissance palaces and theatres of Parma, and the former Western Roman Empire capital known as ‘The Mosaic City’ of Ravenna .

Stay at Casa Masoli in a 17th-century building near the centre of town.

Visit Bologna and do a food experience tour (arrange a meeting point in advance if not staying in Bologna)

Book a guided tour of Ravenna's mosaics

Chioggia: 1 night

Of course, Venice needs little introduction, but other lesser-known spots in the Veneto region include the twitchers paradise of Parco del Delta del Po, the colourful Burano, the fishing town of Caorle, and the ‘undiscovered’ Venice - Chioggia.

With fewer crowds, winding canals, gelato on tap, and colourful crumbling houses, Chioggia is the perfect place to spend the night.

Stay at Casa San Cristoforo , a pretty guesthouse in the city centre.

Book a sunset boat tour on the Venetian Lagoon.

Padua: 1 night

A little further inland from the coast there’s also Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet”, Lake Garda, and the often overlooked ‘City of the Saint’ - Padua.

You might be surprised to learn that Padua is 430 years older than Rome, with sights like the Scrovegni Chapel, Palazzo Bo and Galileo Galilei’s podium, and the daily markets of Piazza dei Signori.

Stay at the Le Camp Hotel and Spa in the historic centre of town.

Visit the Scrovegni Chapel and the Padua Cathedral.

Book a tour of the Prosecco Hills

How to do it

Travelling by car in italy.

The easiest way to see the best of Italy’s east coast beaches and the meandering Adriatic Coast is by hiring a car . There are tolls to pay on most major roads in Italy, and traffic is limited in many historical centres and tourist-heavy cities.

Be prepared to pay for parking and walk from your car to the hotel if you're staying in historic centres.

You can work out the costs in advance using the Michelin Route Planner , and avoid fines by checking the relevant ZTL website before visiting (you can also search ‘non ZTL car parks’ on Google Maps).

Unfortunately, because ZTL regulations are determined individually by each city there is no standardised approach, but it is generally easy to spot the areas by a sign with a red circle and the words “Zona Traffico Limitato” in the old city centres. 

Explore the Adriatic Coast by train

If driving in Italy sends a shiver down your spine, or perhaps you want to travel more sustainably, many of Italy’s Adriatic coastal towns are easily accessible by train. The country has a great network of reliable and affordable trains run by Trenitalia and Italo Treno.

The Frecciabianca Adriatic coastal train from Rimini to Lecce takes in some spectacular scenery with stops at Ancona, Pescara, Foggia, and Bari. Tickets for the entire six-hour journey cost less than 60 Euro.

If you have more time

Of course, if you have more time, you can always linger for longer in any of the above destinations: there's enough to explore. Otherwise, bordering Austria, Slovenia, and the Adriatic Sea, the northeastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia is best known for the jagged Dolomite Mountains. But its small coastline has some interesting spots to visit too.

The seaside town of Grado on the edges of the Marano Lagoon doesn’t have the sandy beaches of nearby Lignano Sabbiadoro. Still, the cycle paths and walkways make it a relaxing place to explore - even during the crowded summer months.

Trieste is the capital city of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region and is close to Italy’s border with Slovenia. From here, you can easily hop over to what was once declared the ‘ World's Most Sustainable Country ’ to visit the Venetian coastal town of Piran, the Skocjan Caves , and the rock castle of Predjama.

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Author - Jo Williams

Jo Williams is a freelance writer with 10 years' experience working in travel and tourism. A Brit who got fed up with the 9 to 5 corporate life, she sold everything to become a full-time wanderer.

Jo has travelled to over 70 countries and worked throughout Europe for a major tour operator. She hopes to inspire you to work less and travel more.

Last Updated 21 January 2024

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10 day italy west coast road trip full itinerary – part 1 . ..

So here is PART ONE of our full itinerary for our Italy West Coast Road Trip! Here you’ll find a day by day breakdown of our journey from Genoa to Naples and all we got up to along the way. If you’re just after ideas for your potential road trip, to make it easier, we have done a round up of this trip, outlining the route, transport, accommodation and budget which can be found here . Otherwise, please stick around for our full plan below and as it really is impossible to put the beauty of Italy into words, please check out our travel video for this post here!

Of course, much of our itinerary is better spread across more days, (Cinque Terre would be great across even 2 days in order to be able to explore more!) however if you’re strapped for time like we were and eager to see the highlights of the west Coast, this is definitely the itinerary for you!

Our first day, was a travel day so we haven’t counted it below! We flew in to Genoa from Manchester with Easyjet and collected our hire car from the airport. Our first night’s stay was in a little town called Bracco, half way between Genoa and La Spezia, along the coast but up in the hills. An hours drive away, the Airbnb had incredible views of the sun setting over the valleys and the coast line in the distance, as seen in the photo above!

DAY 1 – CINQUE TERRE

The next day, we headed straight to La Spezia, where we parked for free at a car park 2 minutes walk away from the train station. We purchased a Cinque Terre day pass which was around €7.50 each. It was peak season in July, which meant for an abundance of other tourists doing the same so we would recommend sparing time to consider this. First, we got the train to Monterosso Al Mare, the furthest of the towns taking around 30 minutes and worked our way back over the course of the day.

Monterosso Al Mare is less compact compared to the other towns, and spreads across the coast with a long stretch of beaches, but the main town is a short walk from the station. Vernazza was the second town along, and the station is in the centre, with a nice walk through the market filled streets to the bay and the town square. There is a great view of the church above the sea here, along with plenty of restaurants and bars. Corniglia is the next town, and one we felt seemed the smallest. This town isn’t for the faint hearted and requires a long walk up a lot of stairs to reveal the beautiful town at the top.

Manarola is the next stop. This was by far our favourite town and a definite must see in Italy. This beautiful town is the token of Cinque Terre, the famous postcard image and it looks exactly how it does on the fantastic photos! We spent the most amount of time here, and you could easily spend hours wandering through the markets and exploring the bay. Our only regret from this visit, was that we didn’t bring any change of clothes to go paddling in the crystal clear waters in the dock as many other people were! This town also marked our very first (of many) gelatos of the trip. Iconic moment indeed!

We then stopped off at Riomaggiore, which again, we could have spent hours exploring. As with the others, the winding streets were filled with market stalls and we would definitely recommend taking a stroll along ‘Via dell’ Amore’ for stunning panoramic views of the coast. Also a great spot to stop for a refreshing drink with a view! That night, we stayed in a lovely B&B, called B&B Bellavista in the hills of La Spezia which we recommend for the views alone! The hosts were fantastic and gave us a truly Italian experience. The only issue we had in the suburbs of the cities, is that hardly anyone understands a word of English, but that was our bad, for not learning more Italian! After much poor pronunciation on our part, we enjoyed our first taste of delicious food with a view at a nearby restaurant that night and that marked the end of a very eventful but plentiful day one!

DAY 2 – PISA & FLORENCE

After enjoying breakfast with a view and some (extremely) strong coffee made by our host, we set off for another jam-packed day! From La Spezia, we made our way to Pisa, taking around 1h30 and through one of many toll roads, mentioned in our round up post . We parked in the city centre in a car park opposite to the Porta Santa Maria, Pisa – the entrance to the Tower and Duomo grounds. There are so many beautiful buildings surrounding the tower and, if we had the time, we would have loved to explore these more. Seeing the tower itself is surreal, as with many famous landmarks, it is something so legendary and to be stood in front of it is crazy. That topped with surrounded by people doing the obligatory pose, and many others going for a more adventurous ‘feet lean’, – such an amusing place to people watch! And of course, we couldn’t leave without trying (and failing) the pose ourselves, it would have been rude not to!

From Pisa, we headed to Florence for the afternoon, which was only 1h20 away. Florence was a bit trickier with parking, and you have to be wary of the permit only zones, as with most larger Italian cities. There are many car parks where you are required to leave your keys, however in a hire car, we thought best not to do this. We parked over the other side of the river as this was cheaper and there were more parking options. This also meant for a nice stroll over the bridges and through the narrow streets, and of course an excuse for another much needed gelato for all that walking!

Florence was our favourite out of the cities we visited on our trip. It just had everything you needed to really spend hours getting lost exploring and even shopping. It has so many beautiful buildings and landmarks for days, and the views from the famous Ponte Vecchio are stunning. Our favourite was the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore and we literally stood staring for so long at all the individual designs in the architecture. Definitely a must see! That night, we stayed about half an hour south of Florence in another hotel in the hills with yet another beautiful view of the countryside.

DAY 3 – SIENA/TUSCANY

By our third day, we had caught a glimpse of the Tuscan countryside, but were eager to see what Tuscany really had to offer! We drove down to Siena for an hour drive, and the scenery was a dream compared to the highways and toll roads we had seen plenty of by this point! We parked just outside the town and took an escalator straight up onto the streets. This town really was a maze to us, and we did get lost, but that’s definitely all part of the fun, I guess! Again, like Florence, there are many beautiful landmarks to visit here, we especially liked the Piazza Del Campo and the Cathedral, these are definite must see’s and similar in style to those in Florence.

After a long day exploring around the cobbled Siena streets, we made our way to our B&B for the night – one which we were very much excited about. It was tucked away in the middle of the countryside in Tuscany, 25 minutes from Siena. Our room was in a little chalet with views for miles out of patio doors, and probably our favourite part about our stay were the private hot tubs with those same beautiful views. This really was the life! Although, something we never managed to fit in on our trip, was to visit a vineyard – this would have been our perfect opportunity. The on site restaurant however, had a large wine cellar filled with local wines and terrace dining. All which made our night in Tuscany, one to remember. This is somewhere we would definitely love to visit again, as on our trip we only managed to see a snippet of Tuscany and we would love to visit for a more thorough experience here.

DAY 4 – Montalcino & Saturnia

On day 4, we headed to Saturnia, somewhere we had been very eager to see on our trip and made several stops along the way to admire the views. One of our stops was in Montalcino, a picturesque little town an hour south from Siena. We stopped at several places along the way, but this town was so quiet and endearing, we stayed for another strong coffee! The journey from Siena to Saturnia in total was about 2hrs but the short stopovers made it feel like no time at all. The scenery as we got closer to Saturnia just got better and better.

Saturnia Hot Springs or Terme Di Saturnia (not to be confused with the Thermal Parks which is an entirely different thing and 5 mins drive away!) is a collection of natural hot spring pools descended into the hills of the countryside. It is a sight to see and something pulled straight out of a glamourous travel brochure! There is lots of free parking on site and the site is free to use for as long as you wish (unbelievable I know!) and there are banks of clay/mud which everyone was rubbing into their skin, so of course we joined in! (Hence the photos – no we don’t usually go out like that!). There are also several waterfalls in the top pool which are great fun, although very hot up there. We spent hours just soaking up the Italian sun and floating in the hot pools, covered in mud. Again, this is a definite must do experience, although I can imagine this would be difficult to get to without a car, so bear that in mind!

We then ascended up a very winding road up into Sorano, dominated by a huge castle in it’s skyline – and we just happened to be spending the night in there! Hotel Della Fortezza was our favourite night’s stay across our trip, I mean it would be difficult to top staying in a castle after-all! The owner, Giovanni was a fantastic host, and we got a room with a view and a half! We had the restaurant to ourselves that night, and the chef cooked up a specialty menu of locally sourced food and wine and filled us in on where they came from and how it was made. And, as we previously mentioned, we were disappointed we didn’t manage to have a vineyard experience, but this experience and learning about true Italian cuisine was fantastic! We would definitely recommend a stay here, and it was reasonably cheap too!

And there’s really no better way to round off Part 1 of our Italian adventure Itinerary than sleeping in a castle! The first half of our trip was definitely eventful and always on the move, covering 400km, but we wouldn’t have it any other way. The two nights we stayed in Tuscany were real highlights of our trip, and if we ever got the chance to return for longer, we would in a heartbeat! Part 2 will be along soon, but in the mean time, make sure to check out the video for this post and also if you haven’t already, check out our Italy Round Up blog post!

As always, keep updated with us on our Instagram Page! – We have big things coming!

Sarah & mark

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18 Day Mediterranean Coast Road Trip Itinerary

3 adults, 2 kids, 2 walkie-talkies , and 2 cars. Our Mediterranean coast road trip lasted 18 days across 4 countries: Italy, France, Monaco, and Spain. If you’ve ever thought about taking a road trip around the Mediterranean coast of Europe, here’s the ultimate itinerary to get you started.

When my parents asked whether I’d consider driving the Mediterranean coast with them. It was not a difficult decision. The kids and I flew to Italy, cruised the eastern Mediterranean with them, and then decided to drive the western Mediterranean in one epic 18 day Mediterranean Coast road trip itinerary.

Can you drive around the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean Sea region is surrounded by 21 countries, which together share a coastline of 46,000 km. They are Albania, Algeria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia , Cyprus, Egypt, France , Greece , Israel , Italy , Lebanon, Libya, Malta , Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Slovenia, Spain , Syria, Tunisia, and Turkey . And you can drive around, through, and between them all.

What is the Mediterranean coast road called?

No one road takes you from coast to coast as you pass through multiple countries, but here is a rough map of our Mediterranean Coast Road Trip itinerary.

What is the best way to see the Mediterranean?

Having cruised the Mediterranean and road-tripped, both offer pros and cons. But for freedom to stop, change the itinerary, stay longer, leave sooner than nothing beats a road trip Mediterranean coast.

How long does it take to travel across the Mediterranean?

Well, that’s an open-ended question depending on how many of the 21 countries you’d like to visit along the Mediterranean sea. We traveled from the Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy through the French Riviera and Monaco, ending in Spain at a leisurely 18 days.

Top 3 tips for a Mediterranean coast road trip

Tip #1: Each day below contains links to my supporting articles which cover each of these best places in more detail.

Tip #2: We had two cars and communicated by walkie-talkies. This saved on purchasing different SIM cards for each country we visited with different numbers.

Tip #3: You need to read more about car leasing Europe here . If you decide to go longer than 17 days, it will save you money more than a regular car rental. If you are planning a trip under 17 days then consider using RentalCars.com. They have the best car rental prices – Guaranteed.

Our perfect 18 Day Mediterranean coast road trip itinerary

Note: Tolls & fuel have been converted from EUR to AUD.

Day 1 – Italy: Rome to Praiano

Tolls: $22.90 | fuel: $73, accommodation: hotel margherita, praiano ( check prices ).

Picked up my car lease from Citroen and had a beautiful drive to coastal town, Praiano. Check here for prices on how to get to Praiano from Rome.

We found an insanely scenic place to stay, high up on the hill, and settled in for a few days. We finished this evening with a stunning view at dinner overlooking the sandy beach at a cliff-side restaurant that sported a small kid’s playground, and the glorious sound of Church bells.

Day 2 – Italy: Praiano

Accommodation: hotel margherita, praiano ( check prices).

We didn’t use the car today as we decided to miss the infamous curves of the Amalfi coast and take the bus to Positano . As predicted it was quite the hairy adventure.

After our magnificent day in Positano, we got some laundry done next door for €15 and spent the afternoon swimming in the hotel pool.

Day 3 – Italy: Praiano

Accommodation: tramonto d’oro, praiano ( check price here ).

We were going to attempt a drive to Amalfi today but ended up taking the bus again for our day trip. Our plans to visit Capri were spoiled by bad sea weather. It’s a must if you haven’t been before. The evening ended with a sunset from the rooftop.

Day 4 – Italy: Praiano to Pompeii to Matera

Tolls: $2.80, accommodation: hotel sassi, matera ( check prices in this area ).

We were back on the road today leaving Praiano for Matera. We made a quick stop at the famous Pompeii ruins, an Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site, but didn’t feel like it lived up to its reputation.

Our arrival in Matera was a huge surprise. This city is stunning and used in many ancient movies, including Mel Gibson’s famous one.

Day 5 – Italy: Matera to Termoli

Tolls: $17 | fuel: $86, accommodation: hotel mistral, termoli ( check prices ).

My dad captured the most beautiful photos on a sunrise photography tour around Matera before we ate some breakfast and headed down the coast to the ancient city of Alberobello. This little town is so mysterious and a must-see in Italy. The little houses look like something out of a fairytale for gnomes.

From Alberobello, we visited the Molfetta Outlet before heading to Termoli. We arrived late and simply bought ham and bread for sandwiches that night before hitting the sack.

Day 6 – Italy: Termoli to Perugia

Tolls: $21| fuel: $121, accommodation: albergo nyers, perugia ( check prices ).

The breakfast at our hotel was worth a mention! We didn’t stick around in Termoli, opting to head straight to Perugia instead. The kids and I were supposed to meet my mum and dad for lunch, but we headed straight to Perugia as we couldn’t find them.

Perugia was just as surprising as Matera, a beautiful part of Italy that should be visited. We enjoyed a walk around the city and dinner in town.

Day 7 – Italy: Perugia to Florence

Accommodation: villa san michele, fiesole firenze ( check the price here ).

Funny story today as our GPS directed us down some dangerously narrow roads to the wrong location. Felt truly Italian. When we arrived at our hotel I was gobsmacked, it was incredible, and I didn’t want to leave. Thank God we had booked 2 nights.

Leaving the car at the Villa we decided to take a taxi to Florence and enjoyed an evening walk around town visiting the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and letting the kids ride the carousel. We returned to Villa San Michele for dinner and enjoyed one of the best meals I ate in Italy.

Day 8 – Italy: Florence

Accommodation: villa san michele, fiesole firenze ( check price ).

Following another incredible breakfast, the kids and I went for a swim in the pool. After our swim, the kids wanted to stay at the kids club so I enjoyed a leisurely lunch by the pool, caught up on some writing, and even booked some flights.

Once the kids returned I organized a babysitter and headed back to Florence via the hotel shuttle for an evening with my parents. My Dad attempted a 1kg steak before we walked around Florence with our Italian gelato.

Day 9 – Italy: Florence to Pisa to Monaco to Nice, France

Accommodation: little palace, nice ( check prices ).

A sad farewell to Villa San Michele, but I wanted to start early because I could not leave Italy without letting the kids see popular Italian icon , Leaning Tower of Pisa. I found a great parking spot, took a few happy snaps and we were back in our car on the way to Monte Carlo, Monaco.

We stopped in Monaco very briefly for a quick look at the super impressive cars and gold star hotels before continuing onto Nice in Southern France.

Phew! 3 countries in one day.

In Nice, we had a walk along a beautiful beach in the French Rivera, stopped for a terrible dinner with arrogant waiters, and checked into our tiny out-of-the-way hotel. Not a great start for the French part of our journey.

Day 10 – France: Nice to Arles

Tolls: $30.20 | fuel: $91, accommodation: airbnb apartment, arles ( check prices in this area ).

Our crepes for breakfast were better. And we checked out of Nice and headed to Cannes. Took some photos by the beach and then drove to Aix.

We had a delightful time walking around Aix, before driving onto Arles. We had an ultra-cute French-loft Airbnb apartment for the evening so we cooked our meal and had a night in.

Day 11 – France: Arles

After meeting up with my parents we took a walk around the old city , visiting the amphitheater, taking another ride on another carousel, and made it back home for an afternoon nap.

Day 12 – France: Arles to Creissels

Tolls: $7.80, accommodation: hericlea hotel sport, millau ( check price ).

Today we drove to Saint-Guithem-le-Desert. An adorable medieval-style town, easy to walk around and enjoy. Decided to have dessert for lunch and it didn’t disappoint with mouth-water crème Brulee and profiteroles. I have to admit at least the French know how to do dessert.

Back on the road we made it to Millau and checked into our log cabin, while my parents chose a castle.

Day 13 – France: Creissels to Toulouse

Tolls: $2 | fuel: $105, accommodation: airbnb apartment, toulouse ( check prices in the area ).

Today we decided on an impromptu visit to the French countryside to see a French cave, Aven Armand . I’m so glad we did. The countryside was gorgeous and the caves were fascinating.

After the caves, we headed to Toulouse, checked into our apartment, and bought some kebabs for delivery as the kids were already fast asleep.

Day 14 – France: Toulouse

We took a walk around Toulouse today, found a playground, and rode yet another carousel. Had an afternoon nap before heading for dinner at the Hippopotamus, which was pretty good.

Day 15 – Spain: Toulouse to Pamplona, Spain

Tolls: $39.30 | impound: $140, accommodation: hotel avenida, pamplona ( check price ).

An early start this morning didn’t happen. As the kids and I walked out of our apartment towards the car, there was no car. Instead, there was a market. The French police stole my car. Finally, after several hours we were back on the road and made a mad dash out of France to our Spain road trip. After a quick highway road stop for lunch. We made it to our hotel in Northern Spain late afternoon.

Never to miss any opportunity to see an old town we decided to take a walk around Pamplona and stumbled, by chance, upon a family “running of the bulls”. What fun! And such a relief to just have fun after our stressful morning in France.

Day 16 – Spain: Pamplona to Barcelona

Accommodation: mercer hotel, barcelona ( check price ).

Zaragoza was on our list of stops today and we had a fun lunch at Tommy Mel’s Diner before continuing our trip to Barcelona . Having decided not to visit Southern Spain, we all decided Barcelona was not made for cars and hit up Citroen to return our car. It happened to be the same depot as my parent’s Renault so we all squished in a taxi back to our hotel. The taxi driver actually had no idea what he was doing and dropped us some distance. I was bummed we weren’t going ot make it to Costa Brava, but after walking miles to our hotel, I was more then happy. The Mercer Hotel was incredible.

Day 17 – Spain: Barcelona

As part of our Spain itinerary today we explored Barcelona. We walked the main drag and took the bus to Guell Park . Later that evening we walked to the harbor and stopped for some Spanish food. Dinner at El Ray De La Gamba was a disappointment.

Day 18 – Ireland: Barcelona flight to Ireland

Accommodation: ballsbridge hotel, dublin ( check price ).

It was a sad start as our Spanish road trip came to an end. My my parents came to our hotel to say goodbye and I was emotional mess, but determined that the travel must go on. The kids and I grabbed a taxi to the airport and took a flight to Dublin, Ireland. We settled in at the Ballsbridge hotel for the next 6 nights for TBEX.

What is the Mediterranean coast road trip final tally?

And there you have all my travel tips for an 18-day Mediterranean coast road trip through Italy, Monaco, France, and Spain.

Italy by far was my favorite, followed by Spain. Unfortunately, this being my third trip to France, I’m still not a fan, jaded as it was by the missing car incident, rude restaurant staff, and disappointing food choices. I also blame my English blood.

In all seriousness, seeing the Mediterranean Coast by road is a great way to go. There are so many little towns that are the epitome of history and have such a unique flavor. I wish we could see them all. Maybe next time.

Total Days: 18 Total Distance: 3,507 km (2,179.15 miles) Total Fuel: AUD $476 Total Tolls: AUD $252

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The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como and the culture, art and beauty of Florence and Rome, to the epic views along the Amalfi Coast and traditional Italian towns of Puglia, this Italy road trip has it all!

Road tripping past vineyards, dramatic coastlines and historic cities sounds like a pretty perfect holiday doesn’t it? When it comes to European holidays, Italy is always one of my top recommendations. I love the views, the buzz, the people. And don’t get me started on the food – I mean, delicious Italian cuisine for brekky, lunch and dinner? That’s enough of a reason to visit in itself! 

Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, history, food or fashion, a trip to Italy will no doubt appeal. Spend leisurely days floating beneath the Rialto Bridge in Venice on a gondola, window shopping in Milan’s boutiques, standing where gladiators once fought in the Roman Colosseum or staying in a traditional Trulli house in Puglia.

And the best part about an Italy road trip? The freedom! You don’t have to stick to the obvious routes. While I’ve created an Italy itinerary on the maps below, I’d encourage veering off course from time to time. That’s when you’ll find the hidden gems, the towns the tourists don’t know about, and no doubt some delicious Italian food too.

It’s also worth remembering that some of the interior parts of the country are as pretty as the coasts, with vineyards, sunflower fields and gorgeous hilltop towns. Going on a road trip means you’re pretty much guaranteed to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy too.

So, rather than create one epic Italian road trip, I’ve divided it into a northern Italy road trip and a southern Italy road trip. That way you can just pick one and break the country up into manageable chunks. Got a while? Join the two up and continue down the coast from Rome to Milan.

Click through to take a look at each itinerary, and figure out which one is right for you…

The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itinerary

From driving along the Amalfi Coast and enjoying traditional pasta in Puglia, to enjoying lake views in northern Italy and the incredible canals of Venice, it's time to plan the ultimate Italy road trip! 

The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como, dramatic coastlines of Cinque Terre and the canals of Venice, to the culture, art and beauty of Milan, Florence and Rome, it’s time to plan the ultimate northern Italy road trip!

The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, to the traditional Italian towns of Puglia and Sicily’s beaches, volcanoes and cuisine, it’s time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Italy?

Italy has a Mediterranean climate and is a lovely destination to visit all year round.

Temperatures vary by region, but as a quick example, you can expect average temperatures of around 0°C in around Cortina (a ski resort in the mountains) in January, and as high as 37°C in July in cities such as Milan and Venice. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations like Puglia and Sicily great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Italy, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or in September or October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months, but isn’t too hot. Plus, as you’re missing peak season, you should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list.

I hope you’ve enjoyed checking out my Italy road trip itineraries! Let me know where you decide to go and what your highlights are…

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later… 

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More”

I am obsessed with Italy! I really want to visit Milan and Lake Como so I think that will be my next trip! xoxo Jess

Hey Jess – that’s a great route to take and super easy! I’ve just got back from Trentino which is also stunning!

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Un viaggio lungo la costa italiana

In this episode, Manu tells about a trip he took as a teenager with his family along the Italian coast.

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This podcast is in 100% Italian – spoken at a slower pace, in clear and authentic Italian. It has been designed specifically as a Listening and Comprehension exercise to help you improve your Italian. Download the bonus PDF for some super useful learning resources, including the full transcript and great comprehension exercises .

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Here are your TRUE/ FALSE Comprehension questions .

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1. Manu parla di un viaggio che ha fatto l’anno scorso Manu talks about a trip he went on last year

2. Manu parla di un viaggio fatto con la sua famiglia Manu talks about a trip with his family

3. Manu ricorda ogni secondo di quella vacanza Manu remembers every second of that vacation

4. Il viaggio è avvenuto in autunno quando faceva molto freddo The trip took place in fall, when it was very cold

5. Manu e la sua famiglia sono partiti da Nettuno Manu and his family left from Neptune

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Celebrating Italy in the Off Season

By CNT Editors

The delights of Italy are universal: clinking Negronis in Rome , spinning a Riva through Venice ’s Grand Canal, island-hopping off the shores of Sicily , all interlaced with hefty doses of wine, mozzarella, and art. It’s this limitless allure that has travelers from all over the world descend on the boot with near insatiable fervency, and often all at the same time—at least that’s how it can feel when trying to claim an inch of the Amalfi’s rocky beachfront in July. But in arriving en masse, travelers risk muting the very thing they come to enjoy: the essence of the place, as conjured by the lifestyle that Italians pull off with aplomb.

As such, we are stealing a page out of the playbook of one of our favorite Italian tastemakers, stylist and writer Gianluca Longo, and declaring the off season the new season . These months, usually between September and April, are when the locals reclaim the corners of their country, and move more easily in their daily rhythms. In other words, it is when the most local version of Italy comes alive.

This isn’t just about skipping the crowds. Crucially, it is knowing that the Amalfi coast has extensive hiking trails and vineyards that harvest in autumn, and that Taormina, Sicily’s clogged-all-August resort town, is simply magic at Christmas, and that Lake Como’s foliage in November rivals that of New England’s. Seasonal destinations don’t just go poof! and disappear when the temperatures drop, but are dimensional, with year-round appeal, and the locals will tell you as much. So, we contacted top tastemakers in many of Italy’s most heavily touristed areas to tell us what they love most about their hometowns in less-visited times of the year. And if you need any more convincing, we gathered our top specialists—who know how to connect travelers to a place better than anyone—to share their own tips for pulling it off. Read on to start planning your trip to Italy in the off season. —Erin Florio and Maddalena Fossati

Restaurateur Francesco Panella’s Guide to Eating Your Way Through Rome in Fall

"I like places that are not famous. I'm used to gourmet restaurants, but places like Cesare al Pellegrino —a small 25-seater in Piazza Farnese—reassure me. I often stop at Roscioli's . If they're full, I eat on a stool. That’s how close we are; we've known each other since we were kids. I arrive and ask, ‘Me dai da mangià (Can you give me something to eat)’?" Read more here .

Florence Comes Alive in Fall, According to Italy Segreta Founder Marina Cacciapuoti

"I love weekend walks outside the city center when the air is cold, and you feel the literal and metaphorical warmth of a countryside restaurant upon entering it. The winter light is clearer, starker, and crisper. Maybe we appreciate it more just because the days are shorter and the weather colder, but the sunsets really do turn the sky the brightest pink. On some days, the visibility is so great that the Ponte Vecchio—seen from the Ponte della Trinita—looks like a painting with the hills extending infinitely behind it." Read more here .

How Artist Alessandro Florio Spends Winters in Taormina, Sicily

"Our climate is great year-round, and getting to enjoy the weather without the crowds is a perk. One captivating place is Casa Cuseni, an early 20th-century villa built by Robert Kitson, an English painter who moved to Sicily for love. It’s now a house museum with a delightful bed & breakfast, a wonderful place where some of the most important 20th-century intellectuals and artists stayed, such as Dalì and the futurist Giacomo Balla." Read more here .

Why Portofino Is Best in September, According to Filmmaker Francesco Carrozini

"When I stroll through the square, I can take my time chatting with the vendors. In August they are too busy for that. A favorite spot is Bar Jolly, where I’ll chat with the owner, Mauro, for hours. This place is wonderful—it channels 1950s Riviera with old-school stripes and wood lacquered tables. In August, there is so much glitz that passes through Portofino but in September that’s all gone and the place starts to feel timeless again." Read more here .

The Romance of Como in the Colder Months, According to Hotelier Valentina De Santis

"At this time of year, you either get crisp days when you can almost reach out and touch the opposite shore or romantic mornings when what we call la bruma—a kind of winter mist—rises off the water and everything is hazy and indistinct. You also get the most incredible sunrises and sunsets, and I love to go for long walks with family and friends in the chestnut woods. We always come home with bagfuls of chestnuts. Then begins the fun of roasting them." Read more here .

How Style Editor Gianluca Longo Spends Fall in Puglia

“For me, off-season travel is all about being able to actually connect with locals. One October, I was swimming in Porto Badisco, one of my favorite coves. I noticed these two older women with perfect hair on the shore with their foldable chairs. They were digging into a lasagne. I couldn’t resist chatting to them with the sneaky hope they would offer me a bite. And they did! Plus they had cold beers! We were there alone, just the three of us, chatting together for half the day.” Read more here .

Springtime in Venice Is Unbeatable, According to Author Alberto Toso Fei

“You can take a lesson in Venetian-style rowing along the city's smaller canals. If it's open, go to the island Lazzaretto Nuovo to see where preventive quarantine was developed in the 15th century. Or visit a few historic artisan workshops. Venice has very long traditions of glassmaking, goldsmithing, beadwork, textiles, mosaics, and boat building. In short, one can get into a different mood and tune into the city and its rhythm by finding ways to talk to those who live there.” Read more here .

Le Sirenuse's Aldo Sersale's Winter Guide to the Amalfi Coast

"Many small towns and villages celebrate their patron saints or local products with events that attract both residents and visitors curious to experience the Amalfi Coast like a local. For example, for the Sagra della Zeppola, a festival on Positano's Spiaggia Grande beach in late December, locals prepare the typical frittelle (deep-fried dough), pasta e fagioli, broccoli and sausage paninis, and pizza." Read more here .

How to Do Italy in the Off Season, According to Travel Specialists

“It’s a little bit of a local secret that fall proper is the best season in the Dolomites . Not only is there the changing of the seasons and the colors, but also a sensation of quiet that the locals find very welcome after what was likely a busy summer and early fall. They are keen to promote this time to visitors—over the years, I’ve been told by owners and general managers of hotels that this really is the best time to be here, you’re sharing the paths with fewer people and the air quality is amazing."

Lead editors: Erin Florio, Maddalena Fossati, Arati Menon, Sarah Allard

Editors: Sarah James, Sara Magro

Adaptation: Jaclyn DeGiorgio

Visuals: Andrea Edelman, Sophie Knight, Pallavi Kumar

Lead social media: Mercedes Bleth

Supporting social media: Lucy Bruton, Kayla Brock

Audience development: Abigail Malbon, Amber Port

Production: Erika Owen

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Italy Travel Guide | Money

A country of timeless beauty and diverse regions, Italy invites travelers with its rich history, art and culture. From historical landmarks to cultural traditions, Italy offers an array of memorable experiences. This guide offers insights into Italian culture, cuisine, travel requirements, transportation weather conditions and more.

Whether you’re planning a leisurely vacation or an in-depth exploration, use this Italy travel guide to make the most of your trip to one of the best places to visit in Europe .

The ultimate guide to Italian travel

From the art and history of Rome to the canals of Venice, the vineyards of Tuscany to the beaches of the Amalfi Coast, Italy has much to explore. If you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast or an art lover, this travel guide can help you plan your Italian adventure.

Discovering Italian culture

Italy’s rich cultural heritage boasts centuries of art, music and architecture. Each region has unique traditions and customs. Embrace the spirit of “la dolce vita” — the sweet life — as you explore busy markets, quaint villages and historic landmarks. You might strike up a conversation with locals and immerse yourself in the authentic Italian way of life.

Popular Italian dishes to try

No journey through Italy is complete without savoring the cuisine celebrated worldwide. Full of fresh ingredients and flavors, Italian food captures tradition in every bite. Enjoy mouthwatering pasta dishes like carbonara, bolognese and pesto. Try authentic Neapolitan pizza and creamy artisanal gelato. Pair your meals with a glass of local wine to savor the flavors of Italian food.

Italy travel requirements

Before your adventure begins, ensure you have the necessary travel documents. Citizens of some countries need a visa, so check the specific requirements for your nationality. United States passport holders can visit Italy, one of the best international places to travel , for up to 90 days without a visa.

Your passport must be valid for at least three months past your travel dates, but six months is preferred. Travel insurance can protect your investment while visiting Italy.

How to get around in Italy

Public transportation in Italy is efficient, making it easy to get around the country. The extensive rail system connects major cities and scenic regions, providing an affordable way to travel through Italy. Buses, trams and taxis are common in cities. Consider renting a car to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. For an authentic experience, rent a moped to navigate Italy’s charming streets and coastal roads.

Weather in Italy

Italy’s climate varies from region to region, offering something for every type of traveler. Coastal areas have a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, making them year-round destinations. Inland regions experience more continental climates with distinct seasons. Whether you prefer sun-soaked beaches or snowy mountain retreats, Italy has the climate for your preferences.

The best time to visit Italy

The best time of year to visit Italy depends on your interests and the experiences you seek. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are the best times for pleasant weather and smaller tourist crowds. If you want to experience Italian festivals or hit the beach, July or August is the best month to visit. In the winter, you can book a wellness spa treatment after a day on the ski slopes of the Italian Alps.

Where to travel in Italy

Italy’s geographical diversity means you have many options when it comes to choosing destinations. Rome offers the iconic Colosseum, while the Floating City of Venice offers romantic gondola rides and intricate architecture. Examine the Renaissance art in Florence or take in the Amalfi Coast’s stunning coastal views.

The Eternal City, Rome is where ancient history meets modern life. There are countless things to do in Rome — visit legendary landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Pantheon, make a wish at the Trevi Fountain and dine in a traditional Roman trattoria.

The heart of the Renaissance, Florence boasts world-class art in the Uffizi and Accademia galleries along with the stunning Florence Cathedral and Ponte Vecchio.

Venice is a city of canals, known for St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge and gondola rides. The best time to visit Venice is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild.

Milan is a fashion and design capital that’s home to the Milan Cathedral, Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” and high-end shopping on Via Monte Napoleone.

Amalfi Coast

A stunning coastal region, the Amalfi Coast features picturesque towns like Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi nestled between cliffs and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a string of five colorful villages along the Ligurian coastline offering scenic hikes, breathtaking views and authentic Italian charm.

Renowned for its rolling hills, vineyards and medieval towns like Siena and San Gimignano, Tuscany is great for wine enthusiasts and culture seekers. The best time to visit Tuscany is during the spring and fall, as the summer months can be sweltering.

Italy’s largest island, Sicily is famous for its rich history, stunning landscapes and unique blend of cultures. Be sure to put Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Greek ruins, on your Sicily itinerary.

The bustling waterfront city of Naples is known for its vibrant street life and delicious Neapolitan pizza. Don’t miss the Royal Palace, the Catacombs of San Gennaro and the view of Mount Vesuvius.

On the shores of Lake Maggiore, Stresa, Italy , offers elegant charm, stunning lake views, the lush Borromean Islands and access to Monte Mottarone for panoramic vistas.

The top tourist attractions in Italy

Italy is full of world-famous attractions. Stand beneath the Leaning Tower of Pisa or explore the archaeological wonders of Pompeii. Gaze upon the timeless art of the Sistine Chapel ceiling and relax on the fine sands of Grado Beach. No matter where you go in Italy, you’re sure to encounter beauty at every turn.

• Vatican City : This city, an enclave in Rome, is home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums of art and historical artifacts, and the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s masterful frescoes.
• Leaning Tower of Pisa : The tower known for its unintended tilt is located in Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa.
• Uffizi Gallery : The prominent art museum in Florence features an extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces by artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, Caravaggio and Michelangelo.
• Capri : A picturesque island getaway near the Amalfi Coast known for the Grotta Azzurra sea cave and breathtaking natural beauty.
• Galleria Borghese : The renowned art gallery houses works by Bernini, Caravaggio and Raphael, and is set in the stunning Villa Borghese gardens in Rome.
• Pompeii and Herculaneum : Ancient Roman cities preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius provide a glimpse into daily life during the Roman Empire.
• Murgia Materana Park : A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Basilicata where you can see Neolithic “Sassi di Matera” dwellings carved into limestone cliffs.
• Grado Beach : It’s a blend of relaxation and culture along the Adriatic Sea with shallow waters ideal for families and nearby historical sites like the Basilica di Sant’Eufemia.

What to wear in Italy

Pack smart by considering the local fashion, the season and the activities you’ll partake in. Italy is renowned for its fashion-forward culture, and locals generally put effort into their appearance. Try layers in neutral colors to transition easily from cool mornings to warm afternoons.

Casual dress is acceptable, but you’ll want to dress a bit more formally for dinner at an upscale restaurant. Remember to pack comfortable walking shoes. When visiting religious sites, such as churches or cathedrals, cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

How to plan a trip to Italy

1. select the best time to go to italy.

Determining your ideal time for travel to Italy hinges on your interests and weather preferences. The first step in planning a trip is to consider the experiences you want — whether it’s skiing in the Alps or basking on the Amalfi Coast — and plan accordingly.

2. Decide which of Italy’s diverse regions you want to explore

Italy’s regions offer a range of landscapes and cultural experiences. Research different regions and select the ones that resonate with your interests. Italy offers art, historic sites, food, wine, nature and many other wonders.

3. Set a budget for your trip to Italy

Italy can accommodate a range of budgets, but planning the details of a trip to Italy well before your travel date will make a difference. Research accommodations, transportation costs and daily expenses to establish a budget that ensures a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

4. Craft an Italy itinerary

To create the best itinerary for Italy, balance a mix of iconic landmarks and local gems. Allow room for spontaneity on your Italy travel itinerary while ensuring you cover your must-see destinations.

5. Familiarize yourself with Italian customs, basic phrases and etiquette

Learning a few basic Italian phrases goes a long way in showing respect to the locals. Italians place great emphasis on cordial greetings. When you enter a shop or restaurant, exchange a friendly “buon giorno” (good morning) or “buona sera” (good evening). “Ciao” is a common informal greeting that can mean hello or goodbye.

At mealtimes, it’s polite to wait until the host or server says “buon appetito” (enjoy your meal), before eating. While many Italians in tourist areas speak English, making an effort to communicate in Italian goes a long way. Learn basic phrases like “grazie” (thank you), “per favore” (please), “arrivederci” (goodbye) and “scusa” (excuse me) to show your respect for the local language and culture.

6. Double-check your travel documents

Before departure, make sure you’ve packed your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance and paper copies of any reservations you’ve made. Don’t forget your guide to Italy as well.

Italy travel guide FAQ

What is italy known for, how much does a trip to italy cost, where is the amalfi coast in italy, is italy safe to travel to, summary of money’s italy travel guide.

Italy combines culture, cuisine and landscapes for a tempting travel experience. From savoring pasta in Rome to exploring the historic charm of Florence, this guide full of Italy vacation ideas equips you with the knowledge to plan a remarkable Italian adventure. By understanding the best time to go to Italy, exploring diverse regions, setting a budget and respecting local customs, your time in Italy is bound to be a memorable and enriching one.

© Copyright 2023 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

Cubs’ offense rolling entering West Coast trip; leadership earning praise

Entering play monday, the cubs had scored 58 runs, good for sixth in the majors..

The Cubs’ Dansby Swanson connects for a two-run triple during the fourth inning of Monday’s game against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park.

Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images

SAN DIEGO — Cubs manager Craig Counsell’s new team impressed him on a Sunday morning in the middle of spring training when he had the players run the bases.

‘‘The effort level was more than I expected,’’ Counsell said in a conversation with the Sun-Times, ‘‘and that was really cool for me.’’

As subtle an observation as it was, for Counsell — who has been in pro baseball for more than 30 years as a player, executive and manager — the drill was a reflection of the team leaders he had inherited.

‘‘There’s a lot of attention to detail, baseball rats in the group,’’ Counsell said. ‘‘And they’re thinkers. And they’ve thought about this stuff a lot already. That’s when you can tell about this group: They enjoy thinking about it.’’

The Cubs had plenty to think about after their 9-8 loss Monday to the Padres. After opening an 8-0 lead on the strength of two-run singles by Ian Happ and Cody Bellinger in a four-run second inning and a two-run triple by Dansby Swanson in a four-run fourth, they yielded seven runs in the sixth and two in the eighth — on a go-ahead home run by Fernando Tatis Jr. — to let it get away.

• Cubs blow eight-run lead in loss to Padres to open series in San Diego

Counsell has managed plenty of teams with different leadership styles. What works for one group might not work for another. What works one year might have to shift the next. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but this Cubs team has seemed cohesive so far.

The same core of players were together last season, when the Cubs had to scratch and claw out of a hole to prove they were contenders before the trade deadline.

The Cubs have yet to be tested in the same way this season, but they were dealt a tough blow when ace Justin Steele suffered a strained hamstring in his Opening Day start. So far, they’ve coped well.

In a 5-1 homestand against the Rockies and Dodgers, the Cubs scored eight or more runs four times, despite cold, wet and windy weather. Entering play Monday, the Cubs’ 58 runs ranked sixth in the majors.

‘‘The consistency of the at-bat was just so good and from so many different places in the lineup,’’ second baseman Nico Hoerner said Monday. ‘‘I thought that was just really admirable.’’

Even during spring-training games, Counsell noticed the group packed together on one side of the dugout, talking a lot. That’s a theme president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer seized upon as well.

‘‘The leaders of the team are constantly thinking about how to get better, what can we do differently,’’ Hoyer said. ‘‘They’re always talking about their at-bats, talking about what they’re seeing.

‘‘I don’t worry about that with this group. It’s a very serious group. They get their work in, they’re focused, they want to prepare. You worry about a lot of things. That’s thankfully not one of the things I worry about with this particular group of players.’’

Constant baseball conversations were also a mark of spring training in 2023, when Dansby Swanson and Cody Bellinger were introducing themselves and Ian Happ and Hoerner, bridges to the old regime, were just beginning to come into their leadership roles.

Now they’ve all helped steer a team through a full season together. And thanks to Happ’s extension last year and Bellinger re-signing this spring, they’re all back.

Leadership on the pitching side is just as important, and the Cubs have a mix of veterans (starter Kyle Hendricks and reliever Hector Neris) and homegrown connectors (Adbert Alzolay) helping guide the group. But while starters take the mound every five or six days and relievers’ schedules are determined by role and the state of the game, the offensive core is on the field every game.

‘‘We have distinctive leaders here,’’ said Hendricks, the only player on the roster from the Cubs’ 2016 World Series championship team. ‘‘And you can kind of point to who they are. And maybe the past couple of years — two, three, four years ago — we might have lost that a little bit. But I know back in the years we were winning, we had distinctive leaders that you knew who to follow.’’

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East Coast Comic Expo 2024 | Moncton Coliseum Complex

The East Coast Comic Expo 2024 is a highly anticipated all-ages convention that celebrates the rich world of comic books and its vibrant culture. Organized by a passionate group of Fanboys and Fangirls, this event is a must-attend for comic book enthusiasts and fans alike. Taking place at the Moncton Coliseum Complex in Moncton, Canada, this exciting convention will feature industry professionals, including talented writers and artists, who will come together to celebrate the art form that has captured the hearts of millions. In addition to the presence of these esteemed guests, the Expo will showcase a diverse range of local vendors, creators, and artisans, each displaying their unique talents and creations. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the world of comics, connect with fellow fans, and support the local comic book community. Mark your calendars for June 7th-8th, 2024, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of comics at the East Coast Comic Expo 2024 in Moncton. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind event!

Provided by Ezequiel_ | Published Apr 10, 2024

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