The coastal towns in Italy found in the northern and southern regions are some of the prettiest in Europe. Many of these small villages have remained almost completely unchanged over the years, one of the reasons so many visitors flock to them each year.
From the small fishing villages of Cinque Terre to the luxurious towns on the Amalfi coast, there is a wide variety of beautiful destinations to explore. In addition to the mainland, there are several spectacular destinations on Italy’s surrounding islands.
Here are 15 of the best coastal towns in Italy you need to visit. Each town has something unique to offer, with stunning architecture, hundreds of years of history, and spectacular cuisine.
Positano
Without a doubt, one of Italy’s most loved towns, Positano, is a luxurious coastal destination sitting proudly on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Known for its beach clubs, high-end dining, and unbelievable views, Positano is a popular base for those visiting the coast.
You can get to the nearby island of Capri, Sorrento, and other Amalfi towns from Positano in under an hour. The main reason to come to Positano, though, is the view. Imagine waking up each morning to the glistening ocean from your private balcony.
The town itself is picture-perfect as well. The colorful homes built on the cliffside are adorned with flowers, and outdoor terraces, taking full advantage of the view. Positano’s romantic alleyways and stunning beauty make it an artist’s dream. You will find many small gallery shops displaying and selling paintings of the Italian town.
One of Positano’s major attractions is its assortment of beaches. The main beach of Spiaggia Grande is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming and has beach chairs and umbrellas available to rent.
Another draw to the coastal town is the cuisine. Positano is primarily known for its locally-grown lemons and fresh seafood. Make sure you try some limoncello while you are there! And to top it off, with a large number of terraced restaurants, you will be able to enjoy both a terrific meal and a view.
Amalfi
Just south of Positano is the smaller Italian coastal town of Amalfi. It was an influential town during the Middle Ages and a significant part of the Mediterranean trading route. Amalfi is a popular destination along the Gulf of Salerno for those looking for a quiet Italian getaway.
The town can be explored in an hour due to its compact size, making it the perfect day trip destination. Amalfi’s most famous site is its Duomo di Amalfi, which sits proudly in the city center.
Near the church is the lively Ruga Nova Mercotorum. This is the town’s main street where most of the action is. You will want to come here for some great souvenirs and places to eat.
Although Amalfi is smaller than other nearby towns, it stays busy throughout the year. Therefore, for the least crowded beaches, you will want to visit during the shoulder season.
The main beach is Spiaggia Grande which is a mixture of pebbles and sand. Due to its amenities and proximity to the city center, it remains the most popular beach near town.
Manarola
Manarola is the most picturesque of the five Cinque Terre villages. Most have seen the famous cliffside town in photos with its charming, colorful homes perched near the water. However, Manarola is also a terrific place to stay if you visit Cinque Terre for more than just a day trip.
Cinque Terre is a well-known UNESCO World Heritage site on the Italian Riviera. The cluster of villages are popular for their picturesque views of the sea and outdoor hiking trails. Via dell’Amore, or Lovers’ Path, is one of the most scenic sections of the trail that connects Manarola to Riomaggiore.
While in Manarola, visit the stunning 14th-century Church of San Lorenzo, which features well-preserved frescoes and a small museum with unique items that showcase the village’s history.
In addition to the church, another popular place to visit is the local harbor, full of colorful fishing boats. You can rent kayaks or join a boat tour for a chance to explore the coastline.
Portofino
Portofino is a well-known retreat for the rich and famous. It is a small fishing village that makes up the Italian Riviera near the bustling city of Genoa. There are plenty of brand-name stores, elegant restaurants, and mega yachts here. However, the real draw is the town itself, including its large harbor.
And although Portofino is a luxury destination, it is still home to some extraordinary historic buildings. One of the most visited sites is the 16th-century Castello Brown, with its lush gardens overlooking the sea.
For some history, continue on the nearby Church of San Giorgio, which sits high above the harbor. Another popular thing to do is take in the town by water. Once you’ve explored the harbor, take a boat tour of the surrounding area.
After a day of sightseeing, take a break at La Piazzetta in the city center. There is no shortage of wonderful shops and restaurants here.
Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is known for its whitewashed homes located on a limestone cliffside overlooking the sea. One of the draws to staying in Polignano a Mare over other towns in Puglia is the variety of hotels with private balconies and rooftop terraces overlooking the water.
Nestled between the cliffside is Lama Monachile Beach. The small beach is a popular spot for swimming and lounging and gets extremely busy during the day. For a more private view of Polignano a Mare, take a walk to the Pietra Piata viewpoint.
Not only are the views of the town looming above the water spectacular, but the town itself is too. Full of honey-colored stone buildings and narrow lanes, the old town is incredibly charming and fun to walk around after a day on the water.
Atrani
Atrani is another town on the southern coast of Italy. Although Atrani is small, it is one of the most popular destinations on the Amalfi Coast and stays very busy during the tourist season. The main attraction in Atrani is the Church of San Salvatore de Birecto.
Due to its size and location, Atrani can easily be added to your Amalfi Coast itinerary. You only need a few hours to explore the main attractions, with plenty of time left for shopping and exploration.
Atrani is also a wonderful place to stay on the Amalfi Coast. It is a little more laid back and less expensive than the nearby town of Positano, but still offers the rich culture and coastline views that people come to the area to experience.
Ravello
Ravello is another stunning town found along the Amalfi Coast. The city has long been a popular destination for writers and artists inspired by the charming hilltop town. Ravello is full of exquisite homes and lush Italian gardens.
One of the most spectacular is that of the 11th-century Villa Cimbrone. The exterior of the villa is adorned with a large garden full of fountains, flowers, and views of the Mediterranean from all over.
The center of Ravello is best explored by foot. The old streets are lined with shops selling handmade and local products and a number of cozy restaurants. Strolling along the narrow streets and admiring the historic architecture is a great way to take in the city.
If you are on the Amalfi Coast, stop in Ravello. Its rich history, delicious cuisine, and enchanting gardens make it a romantic and stunning destination.
Ceralù
Ceralù is one of the prettiest Italian beach towns on the island of Sicily. The beautiful beaches and old, historic buildings have made Ceralù a popular tourist spot . The beaches here are known for their clear-blue water and sandy coastline. For some of the best views of the water, climb up to the Rocca di Ceralù.
In addition to beaches, Ceralù has several attractions, including the Cathedral of Ceralù. The Normans built the structure in the 12th century and decorated the interior with intricate mosaics.
Another great thing about Sicily is its unique cuisine that is quite different than that found in other parts of Italy. The area is known for its fresh seafood and unique blend of Arab, Spanish, and Greek influences.
Of course, no visit to Sicily is complete without a taste of their famous cannolis, which originated in the city of Palermo.
Ceralù is the perfect destination for those looking to relax near the water and experience a different side of Italy. The town’s cuisine, history, and overall beauty make it one of the best places to stay when visiting the island.
Sorrento
Sorrento is a small village situated between Naples and Positano. Sorrento boasts a long portion of coastline, high above the Bay of Naples on the Sorrentine Peninsula. For that reason, it has long been a terrific destination for beach lovers.
The city’s historic center is full of winding alleyways and historic Italian architecture. One of the most beautiful buildings is the Cathedral of Sorrento, built in the 11th century. The church is known for its impressive mosaics and tall bell tower.
Another popular site is the Piazza Tasso. The lively square is lined with restaurants, cafes, and small shops. This is where the action happens and a great place for people-watching. Like many towns on and around the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is known for its locally sourced lemons.
Sorrento is a captivating city with history, charming architecture, and pristine beaches. If you are looking for a mix of sightseeing and relaxation, it is the perfect Italian town to visit.
Sperlonga
Sperlonga is a beautiful town in central Italy known for its ancient history and stunning coastline. The city is extremely old, with structures dating back to Ancient Rome.
One of the most extraordinary sites is the Villa of Tiberius, built between 17 and 24 AD. The villa is an excellent example of architecture for that time. The town is also charming, built with winding alleys and quaint piazzas.
In addition, Sperlonga has an assortment of sandy beaches spread along the crystal-clear Mediterranean water. Sperlonga Beach is a popular destination for locals, perfect for lounging and watersports.
Castelsardo
Castelsardo is another coastal town located on the island of Sardinia. The Doria family founded it in the 12th century and built the city’s famous Castello dei Doria.
The castle sits high on a hill surrounded by shops and piazzas where you can find many popular restaurants and things to do. Along with this popular attraction, Castelsardo is home to large fortresses, important churches, and sandy beaches.
Visit the Church of San Antonia Abate and spend the afternoon on Marina di Castelsardo beach, followed by a traditional seafood dish at a local restaurant.
Capri
Capri is the ultimate island retreat for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. It is one of Italy’s most popular destinations for a reason. Famous for its Blue Grotto, thousands of visitors take the ferry to Capri annually.
One of the best things to do on the island is to join a boat tour. Besides a visit to the Blue Grotto, tours will take you to other stunning locations, such as the Faraglioni Rocks.
Another jaw-dropping spot on Capri is the Gardens of Augustus which sit high on a hilltop. The gardens are overflowing with colorful botanicals and designed with lovely terraces and vantage points of Marina Piccola and Faraglioni Rock.
Capri is also a terrific place for history lovers. One of the best sites on the island is the Villa Jovis. The Roman palace was built in AD 27, and although it is no longer standing, guided tours of the ruins are an excellent way to learn about the island’s history.
Throw in the stunning Via Krupp hiking trail, Scala Fenicia, and Monte Solaro for an all-around taste of what Capri has to offer. In contrast, you could spend an entire stay sipping on limoncello and basking in the sun on the Marine Grande.
The rugged terrain, upscale shopping, and extravagant hotels make Capri the ultimate summer destination for all travelers.
Tropea
Tropea has been voted one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The seaside destination is located in the souther part of Calabria. The village is built on the cliffside overlooking the most beautiful turquoise water and white sand beaches.
One of the best water views is from the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, which sits high above the town.
The town itself is best explored on foot. The historical section is full of narrow lanes that twist their way through the ancient buildings. You can spend an entire afternoon investigating all the quiet piazzas and small shops around town.
One of the biggest draws of Tropea is the coastline of beaches located directly below the cliffside. The beaches here are comprised of fine white sand and lined with large rock formations and caves. They are perfect for lounging and offer public and private sections with beach chair and umbrella rentals.
Tropea is the perfect coastal retreat for a quiet, non-touristy Italian experience full of food, history, and relaxation.
Levanto
The small town of Levanto sits just north of Cinque Terre. Still one of Italy’s hidden gems, the coastal town has become increasingly popular for the long cycling path that connects it to the nearby cities of Bonassola and Framura. The 5.5 km long path runs along the coast and offers scenic views and secluded beaches along the way.
In addition, the small town is not very touristy and makes an excellent base for those wanting to explore the area. Another popular draw to staying here is the large beach near the town, which is much bigger (and less busy) than most in and near Cinque Terre.
Cagliari
The capital city of Sardinia, Cagliari, is a magnificent vacation destination that can be visited year-round. Inhabited since the 8th century BC, the Phoenicians first built the town, but it has since been ruled by the Arabs, Romans, Punics, Pisans, and Aragonese.
The name Calgliari actually means castle, after the large fortification built around the Castle of San Michele, which is high on a hill overlooking the town.
The historic section of Cagliari is divided into four sections, with Castello being the most stunning of them all. The medieval area consists of a labyrinth of alleys and medieval buildings. From the Elephant Tower to the city’s Duomo of Cagliari, historical sites are on every corner.
Other must-see places in the district include the Bastione di Saint Remy, Archaeological Museum, and the Piazza Carlo Alberto. The number of historical sites in this section alone could take several days to see.
The town itself is not the only place for history lovers. Just north of the Old Town sit the remains of a Roman Amphitheatre dating back to the 2nd Century AD. The structure has been immaculately preserved and is still used for concerts, and is open to guided tours.
Due to its location along the Sardinian Coast, there is also plenty of lovely beaches and outdoor activities near Cagliari. Poetto is the most popular of beaches near the town, equipped with several restaurants and cafes lined along the sand.
Conclusion
There is no shortage of beautiful coastal towns in Italy. Each has its own unique history and characteristics that make for an unforgettable experience. From small fishing villages to lush islands, Italy has a range of landscapes for all types of travelers.
Although this list focused on some of the prettiest seaside destinations, there are plenty more magnificent places to visit. For more inspiration, take a look at some other popular Italian destinations.
Enjoyed this post? Here are some other Italian destinations!
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- Florence vs. Rome – A Detailed City Comparison
Rome
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- Rome Travel Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Trip
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- Visit Rome on a Budget: Tips and Free Attractions
Tuscany
- Visit the Beautiful Medieval City of Siena, Italy
- Palio of Siena: Guide to the City’s Historic Race
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Lake Como
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- Visit Villa del Balbianello – Lake Como’s Most Beautiful Villa
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