- When you think of Italy, chances are your mind conjures images of sun-drenched vineyards, delectable food, and chic style. But there's a whole other side to this beloved country—the rural areas and small villages that are often overlooked in favor of the major cities.
From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the azure waters of Sicily, each Italian village has its own unique character. Pack up your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure into some of the most beautiful and charming villages in Italy! We’ll show you our top choices for destinations as well as a few things to do while you’re there. So grab your map, loosen up your Italian expression, and come explore with us!
Explore the Picturesque Streets of Positano on the Amalfi Coast
Italy's Amalfi Coast is one of the most stunningly beautiful places in the world. From its azure-blue waters to its lush green hills, it's a paradise that can't be beaten. But if you really want to take in the beauty of this coastline, a visit to the village of Positano is a must.
Nestled among lemon groves and terraced vineyards, Positano's winding streets, pastel-colored buildings, and narrow alleys are the stuff of dreams. Stroll along the waterfront promenade for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea or explore smaller paths for picturesque peeks into local life. Stop in at one of the cafes for lunch or dinner and enjoy traditional Italian fare with panoramic views as your backdrop.
Whether you prefer outdoor activities like kayaking or sailing or prefer to simply wander around and take photos, a visit to Positano is an experience you won't soon forget. With its stunning natural beauty, excellent restaurants and bars, and its laid-back charm, it's truly one of Italy's best-kept secrets.
Experience Traditional Village Life in San Gimignano, Tuscany
If you're looking for a taste of the traditional Italian countryside, nowhere could be better than San Gimignano in Tuscany. A beautiful and rustic place, this village has preserved its traditional charms from the Middle Ages, so you can get a glimpse of what life would have been like centuries ago.
You can explore winding cobbled lanes, plazas and old churches, delighting in the culture and history of this amazing place. As you wander around town, don't forget to visit some of the local cafes, try some regional specialities or check out all the local artisan shops that dot the streets.
San Gimignano also offers some great outdoor activities if you're feeling brave. You can take a bike ride up to an ancient tower known as Torre Grossa and explore the surrounding countryside- or even go rappelling down cliffs!
The area is also full of vineyards where you can learn more about wine production and even sample regional wines.
No matter what you decide to do in San Gimignano, it'll be an experience that will stay with you forever!
Admire the Colorful Houses of Burano Island Near Venice
If you’re looking for a unique day trip from Venice, look no further than Burano Island. Known for its brightly-painted houses, Burano is a colorful world that stands out in the Venetian Lagoon. Here are some of the top things to do:
Admire the Colorful Houses
Burano is full of character and charm, so it's no surprise it's famous for its brightly-colored houses. You'll find houses in all colors of the rainbow, painted with vibrant colors like blue, green, yellow, pink and red. It’s the perfect spot for taking pictures or just to admire their beauty!
Enjoy Delicious Seafood Dishes
Burano isn't only known for its picturesque views—it's also known for its delicious seafood dishes. From steamed mussels to grilled fish to hearty seafood risotto, a meal in Burano will be one you won’t forget. Be sure to save room for dessert—some of the island’s specialties include tiramisu and almond biscotti!
Explore Local Crafts and Souvenirs
The locals on Burano are well known for their lace-making and embroidery work. You can find lace products at local shops all over the island—from tablecloths and handkerchiefs to dresses and shawls—all of them crafted with love by locals. There are also plenty of souvenirs to take home like jewelry boxes, mirrors or postcards—the perfect gifts for your friends and family back home!
Tour the Winding Alleyways and Piazzas of Lucignano in Tuscany
Lucignano in Tuscany is a village of winding alleyways, picturesque piazzas, and ancient churches. Its good looks aren't the only thing to love—the locals will give you a warm welcome, too!
When you visit Lucignano, make sure to:
From exploring winding alleyways to sipping delicious Chianti wines and taking in breathtaking views of Tuscan countryside, there are plenty of things to do in Lucignano that will make your trip unforgettable!
Sample Local Wine and Olive Oil in Castelnuovo Berardenga, Chianti
If you’re into sampling wines and olive oils, Castelnuovo Berardenga is a charming Italian village in the heart of the Chianti countryside that you have to visit. Here you can meander through rolling hills and stunning landscapes, with plenty of wineries and farms open for tasting.
Winery Hopping
The local wine scene here is rocking—you can explore the incredible vineyards and wineries located on the hillsides. Some of them are even centuries old—you won’t find any other place like it! Taste their famous Chianti Classico DOCG, or check out the local white wines like Trebbiano and Malvasia. Not a fan of red? Don't worry, they have plenty of other varietals like Vermentino and Verdicchio.
Olive Oil Sampling
And don’t forget about olive oil! Get your hands dirty by exploring all the different varieties, textures, scents and flavors while going on a guided tour through Castelnuovo Berardenga's many olive groves. Enjoy a traditional Tuscan style lunch in one of its many farmhouses, accompanied by those delicious local products!
Relax in the Thermal Springs of Bagno Vignoni in Val D’Orcia
Ah, Bagno Vignoni—one of the most charming villages in Italy's Val D’Orcia region. This picturesque village is known for its serene thermal baths that offer visitors much-needed relaxation. What better way to explore the Tuscan countryside than to soak in the thermal springs of Bagno Vignoni?
When you visit the public baths, you'll get to experience a unique hot springs pool located right in the main piazza—the large stone pool in the middle is said to be over 500 years old and provides a truly special experience. The waters here are known for their healing properties, so come relax and rejuvenate with a swim here!
For those looking for something special, there are also plenty of private spas in Bagno Vignoni where you can get spa treatments and massages that make use of local ingredients like lavender and rosemary. The hot springs also offer facilities such as saunas, Turkish baths, steam rooms and Jacuzzis. Take some time to unwind and enjoy this beautiful Italian village from a different perspective!
Conclusion
The country villages and countryside of Italy have a charm that can't be replicated. From exploring the cobblestone streets and indulging in local delicacies in Cinque Terre to taking on the highest peak in the Dolomites in Cortina d'Ampezzo, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a leisurely getaway, these villages and countryside offer something for everyone. And, by taking the time to discover these hidden gems, you’ll gain a unique insight into the Italian culture, traditions, and lifestyle that you won’t find anywhere else. So, pack your bags and get ready to hit the road—you won’t want to miss the stunning scenery, delicious food, and incredible experiences that await in Italy's most beautiful and charming villages.
