places to visit in south east italy

Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy

15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy

Southern Italy is a vast region that contains the provinces of Abruzzo, Apulia, Basilicata, Campania, Calabria, Molise and Sicily – Sardinia is also sometimes included in this region but this island has less in common with the rest of Southern Italy and has differing culture and traditions. This region of Italy has been inhabited by many different civilisations since antiquity including the Greeks, Romans, Etruscans, Arabs, Normans and Byzantines. This diverse inhabitation is mainly due to the regions accessibility from the Adriatic, Ionian and Mediterranean seas.

In terms of tourism, Southern Italy has some absolutely magnificent offerings including beautiful stretches of dramatic coastline, picture perfect beaches, charming coastal islands and a plethora of historic cities and towns. Possibly the best known region is the gorgeous Amalfi coast and La Cinque Terre; this area on the Mediterranean coast is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Europe. Furthermore, cities such as Naples, Lecce and Palermo have some iconic historical sites including the Castle Nuovo, the Basilica di Santa Croce, and Palermo Cathedral that are waiting to be explored. With so much to offer, a trip to Southern Italy can be a true adventure.

Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in South Italy :

Located on the western coast of Southern Italy, Naples is one of the largest and most productive of Italy’s metropolises and accounts for a large percent of the countries economy.

This city has a huge commercial and public port and watching the various container ships and cruise liners entering the docks is certainly impressive.

Furthermore, Naples has a myriad of historical sites such as the domineering Castle Nuovo and the San Gennaro Catacombs.

Moreover, Naples is in close proximity to the legendary ruins of both Pompeii and Herculaneum, and in the shadow of the epic volcano Mount Vesuvius – these three sites are all must see attractions when visiting this region of Italy.

Lecce is lovingly known as the Florence of the South due to its plethora of opulent historical structures.

Located in the far south, this city is the main hub of the region and is also famed for its beautiful light Lecce Stone that has been used to create most of its structures.

Important sites include the beautiful Basilica di Santa Croce, the Cattedrale dell’Assunzione della Virgine, Lecce Castello and the ancient Roman Amphitheatre.

Furthermore, Lecce has several distinct and gorgeous squares such as the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza Sant’Oronzo.

If historical buildings are not your thing, you can always relax in the sublime Villa Comunale gardens, or see the excavations of the Faggiano Museum.

Bari is a fantastic coastal town located half way up the Adriatic coast of the South of Italy.

This port city has an extensive harbour, some gorgeous beaches, and a delightful historic old town centre.

The old town centre can be found close to the harbour and has a myriad of narrow streets packed full with interesting structures.

Within the old town, you can find the impressive Castello Svevo, the Cathedral of San Sabino, and the Basilica of San Nicola.

Furthermore you can also find several museums here – most notably the Archaeological Museum and the Bari Civic Museum.

In the modern part of Bari, you can find a host of designer establishments and quality restaurants and bars if you prefer to shop and dine.

4. The Amalfi Coast

This particular region of Southern Italy is one of the most beautiful and world renowned.

Stretching from Naples to Salerno, the Amalfi coast offers dramatic scenery, gorgeous towns that hug the mountains, and some interesting historical sites.

This protected region features some idyllic coastal towns such as Amalfi, Erchie, Minori and Positano – these towns have a series of multi-coloured houses that stack up against the hillsides and provide picture perfect photo opportunities.

Furthermore, sites such as Villa Rufolo in Ravello provide unrivalled views across to the Mediterranean Sea.

This whole region is crying out to be explored and a regular train and bus service make it easy to do so.

Pescara is one of the most northern cities in Southern Italy and lies on the western Adriatic Coast of the country.

The city has a large harbour that is a great place to walk through and admire the various fishing and sailing boats.

Furthermore, spanning part of the harbour is the impressive Ponte del Mare which is a suspension bridge that has a split cycling and walking track running its entire length.

Either side of the harbour, Pescara benefits from two long stretches of golden and pristine beaches – these beaches are packed full of amenities and are the perfect places to soak up the sun and relax.

6. Catanzaro

Catanzaro is one of the most prominent cities on the dog leg of Italy and is situated in the mountains but extends down to the coast.

Once of the most impressive landmarks of Catanzaro is the Biodiversity Park – this park features an extensive botanical gardens, a military museum and a children’s playground.

If you head out of town, you can find the gorgeous Cascata Campanaro that is surrounded by hiking trails and some amazing scenery.

Spanning the Fiumaerlla torrent is the Ponte Bisantis – this huge bridge is one of the most important architectural constructs in Southern Italy and is a fine site.

Aside from parks, bridges and natural scenery, Catanzaro also offers a great beach in the form of Catanzaro Lido for those who want to kick it back a notch.

Palermo  is actually the capital of the Island of Sicily and holds an important place in the history of this southern archipelago – it serves as the economic and cultural centre of Sicily and contains some of the islands most important landmarks.

Palermo Cathedral is simply stunning – its differing architectural styles show the various empires and nations that have conquered Sicily.

The Palermo Archaeological Museum expands on the city and islands history and contains some magnificent artefacts and relics dating back as far as the Roman era.

For more history, you can travel underground and visit the Capuchin Abbey and Catacombs – here you can find over 8000 bodies that have been preserved by the monks that live here.

Palermo also features some fantastic markets and many places to find a bargain with the locals.

8. Brindisi

Brindisi is located to the north west of Lecce and is an important coastal town in the region of Southern Italy.

This city has an ancient history and was supposedly founded by a the hero Diomedes.

The first thing you will notice about Brindisi is its amazing port – the two pronged body of water contains a myriad of shipping vessels and some fantastic scenery.

Secondly, if you travel to the northern part of the city you will reach the Isola Sant’Andrea – this small island sits at the opening of the harbour and contains a brilliant castle and fantastic views out to the sea.

Brindisi also features a range of superb historical structures such as the Monument to Italian Sailors and Brindisi Cathedral.

9. Barletta

Further up the eastern coast of Italy you can find the city of Barletta .

This port is a great place to relax and enjoy the beaches and fine Adriatic climate, but also has a host of interesting sites and attractions.

The main point of interest is the immense Castello Svevo – this castle was constructed during the Norman period and has a fantastic design and impressive battlements.

If you enjoy walking, the Lungomare Pietro Mennea and the Lido provide opportunities to stretch your legs and take in the sea breeze.

This area of Barletta is well maintained and geared for tourists and those wishing to enjoy a day at the beach.

Barletta also has several interesting museums and lies in close proximity to Andria and Trani which are two other wonderful destinations.

Foggia is a city and commune located in close proximity to the Parco Nazionale del Gargano.

This commune has been known as the granary of Italy and is surrounded by fertile farmland – it also serves as an important transport hub in this region of Italy.

Foggia has a fantastic array of attractions and one of the most famous is its cathedral; this Baroque structure has a sublime design and features some stunning architecture.

The Piazza Umberto Giordano sits close to the cathedral and has some great shopping opportunities and is surrounded by beautiful buildings.

Aside from the architecture, Foggia also has some magnificent parks such as the Parco Karol Wojtyla and the Parco San Felice.

For something different and off the beaten track, Foggia is certainly a top pick.

Capri is a small island off the western coast of Southern Italy that lies in close proximity to the Amalfi Coast and Naples.

This island is truly beautiful and is a hugely popular destination for day trips.

When you step off of the boat you will be astounded at the fantastic scenery of this mesmerizing place.

Take the funicular to the Piazzetta and perhaps site and enjoy a drink and people watch.

If you prefer to stay active, take a boat trip around the island or explore the fantastic Blue Grotto cave network.

Continuing the theme of adventure, you can hike to Monte Solaro for possibly the best views of the whole of Capri.

Finally, the nightlife in Capri is vibrant and if you enjoy partying, consider stopping here until the early hours of the morning!

12. Catania

Catania is the second largest city on the island of Sicily and can be found on it’s eastern coast.

Combined with the surrounding communes and towns, this metropolis is actually the 7th largest in Italy.

Within the confines of this busy city, you can find a range of historical sites and interesting attractions.

Ursino Castle and the Cathedral of Catania are both beautiful structures that have stood the test of time and provide insight into the history of the city.

Alternatively, if you want to travel further afield, you can see the immense Mount Etna which is active – trips are possible to see the smouldering crater and look down on the island of Sicily from up high.

This island is much larger than Capri which and both sit at either end of the Gulf of Naples.

Ischia is a volcanic island and contains a range of mountains and rocky terrain.

One of the main sites of this island is the impressive Aragonese Castle that sits proudly on its own small island and is connected by a long footbridge over the sea.

Ischia also contains some beautiful villages, an active port and some divine natural gardens.

Finally, the island is also home to a selection of beautiful beaches and hidden bays that are a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

14. Parco Nazionale del Gargano

On the eastern Adriatic coast of Southern Italy there lies an immense national park – Gargano.

This park covers over 110,000 hectares and is renowned for its beautiful scenery and dramatic coastlines.

Throughout this region you can find a multitude of hiking trails, mountains, lakes and stretches of rocky cost and cliffs.

Furthermore there is a wave of delightful coastal towns such as Manfredonia and Vieste that have great beaches and some brilliant sites and hospitality.

15. Messina

Messina is one of the most important cities on the Island of Sicily and has an extensive history as a major port in the Mediterranean.

This city is only a short distance across the Straight of Messina to mainland Italy and has regular boats that travel to Reggio Calabria and Villa San Giovanni.

In the city itself there is a magnificent cathedral and bell tower that sit in a picturesque piazza.

Furthermore, the Messina Regional Museum contains a myriad of interesting artefacts and displays about the history of the area including archaeological excavations and artwork from Caravaggio.

In the immediate area, there is also several coastal towns such as Torre Faro that have beaches and a host of restaurants and beach bars.

15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy:

• The Amalfi Coast
• Parco Nazionale del Gargano

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

14 Best Places to Visit in Southern Italy

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on February 5, 2024

A remarkably rich and varied region to travel around, Southern Italy boasts some of the nation’s most beautiful cities, landscapes and scenery. As it is blessed with warm weather, crystal-clear waters and delicious food, many holiday here in the sunny summer months.

Also referred to as the Mezzogiorno or ‘Midday’ region, it consists of Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania and Molise. Surrounded by the Adriatic, Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas, its innumerable beaches are lovely to lounge on while colourful towns line its craggy cliffs and coves. Among the most picturesque places to visit in Southern Italy are Sorrento and Capri while its large cities Lecce and Naples also attract lots of visitors.

Due to its central position in the Mediterranean, the south has long been inhabited by a number of peoples and cultures. Both the Ancient Greeks and Romans, for instance, left behind loads of artistic treasures and archaeological sites. Of these, Pompeii and Paestum are undoubtedly the most famous.

With so much charming countryside and so many idyllic islands to see, not to mention the iconic Amalfi Coast, Southern Italy really is the gift that keeps on giving.

Map of Places to Visit in Southern Italy

Commonly called the ‘White Town’, Ostuni’s gleaming houses, walls and churches immediately catch the eye as you approach. Spread across three hills surrounded by gorgeous countryside, the small city lies about an hour’s bus journey northwest of Brindisi.

Hemmed in by medieval city walls, its enchanting old town is a treat to get lost in. As you amble about its narrow alleys, you can snap some great photos amongst all its wonderful, whitewashed buildings. The highlight though is its imposing 1,000-year-old cathedral which exhibits a striking mix of Gothic, Romanesque and Byzantine features. There are also some pretty palazzi and the ornate Saint Orontius’ column to admire nearby.

Thanks to the town’s prominent setting, you can also enjoy sublime views over all the rolling hills and olive groves below. If you have a car, you can easily reach both Alberobello and Lecce in an hour from Ostuni.

13. Arco Magno

One of the most stunning natural sights in Southern Italy (and that’s certainly saying something!) is undoubtedly that of Arco Magno. Located in Calabria, just outside the tiny town of San Nicola Arcella, the ‘secret’ beach and breathtaking rock arch are not to be missed if you’re in the area.

Lying alongside the Tyrrhenian Sea, its soaring sea cliffs and rough, rugged headlands conceal a small swathe of sandy beach. Part of the Riviera dei Cedri, they create an astounding natural amphitheater with only the twenty-meter-high arch letting in the sea’s waves and sunshine.

Clambering down its steepish steps and seeing the beach, cliffs and arch before you really is an awe-inspiring experience. After lounging on its sands and watching the sun’s rays magically light up its crystal-clear waters, you can also wander along the path atop the arch and enjoy yet more spellbinding sea views.

The largest city in the south, Naples has an incredibly rich history, culture and cuisine for you to delve into. Although it is quite grubby and a bit run-down, its atmospheric streets boast all kinds of artistic and architectural treasures.

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, the important port was founded back in the first millennium BC. Long a mixing pot of cultures, its diverse heritage and unique identity are clearly displayed in its enormous historic center – the largest in Europe.

See also: Where to Stay in Naples

Here you’ll come across impressive sites such as the colossal Castel Nuovo, picturesque Royal Palace and its lavish, fresco-filled cathedral. The sprawling city also has a wealth of captivating museums and churches to check out and an endless supply of delicious Neapolitan pizza to try.

Its sparkling shores and the hulking great Vesuvius in the distance hint at all the other amazing places you can visit nearby . These include not just Pompeii and Herculaneum’s extensive ruins but the sun-kissed Sorrento, Capri and Amalfi Coast too. While some people aren’t too keen on Naples, we absolutely loved everything and can’t wait to head back soon.

11. Maratea

In contrast to the vast, gritty city, the glitzy town of Maratea is delightfully known as the ‘Pearl of the Tyrrhenian’. Set in a scenic spot along Basilicata’s west coast, it occupies a lush valley amid forest-coated hills and mountains.

While its range of landscapes, scenery and views already make it worth visiting, Maratea is not called ‘the town with 44 churches’ for nothing. Wandering about its magnificent medieval center, you’ll keep stumbling across their fine, fading facades and fetching architecture. Its main church is Santa Maria Maggiore which was built in 1505 and contains some interesting artworks. Keep an eye out too for the Statue of Christ perched high above the town atop Mount San Biagio.

Due to its popularity, Maratea is often fully booked in summer with many reserving rooms over a year in advance. It’s easy to see why as its marinas lie near to twenty or so tantalizing beaches. Add in all its fine dining options and fun watersports and the resort really is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

10. Castelmezzano

Located in a yet more spectacular setting still is the charming town of Castelmezzano. Rightfully recognized as ‘one of the most beautiful villages in Italy’, its cluster of colourful houses make for an astounding sight what with the forests and peaks looming above them.

Nestled amidst the dramatic-looking Dolomiti Lucane Mountains, the remote town is equidistant from both Bari and Naples. After around a two-hour drive inland from either, you’ll finally see the eleventh-century settlement perched high on the hillside. Established by the Normans who were fleeing the invading Saracens, its well-protected route saw brigands hide here in later years.

Aside from snapping some photos of its striking backdrop and buildings from various viewpoints, you can hike and climb around the surrounding mounts. A particularly popular one is the Seven Stones Path up to the precipitously-placed Pietrapertosa. If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, you’ll instead want to try its thrilling ‘Flight of the Angel’. Strung 100 meters in the air, the zipline shoots you between the twin towns at speeds of 120 km/h.

9. Sorrento

A must-visit town for many, Sorrento sprawls across steep, craggy cliffs alongside the sparkling Bay of Naples. Lying around an hour’s train journey down the coast from the bustling port city, it also acts as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast .

Due to its romantic setting, views and streetscapes, countless poets, philosophers and painters have stayed here over the years. With so much lovely architecture and arresting landscapes on show, it is no wonder Keats, Nietzsche, Goethe and Wagner were enchanted by its beauty.

Other than strolling about its sunny streets and chic marinas, there are lots of terrific restaurants to try. Along the cafe-lined Piazza Tasso, you just have to taste some of its tasty local specialties and strong limoncellos.

From its clifftops, you can also gaze out over the glittering bay and giant Mount Vesuvius before you. Sorrento is also a convenient base for visiting the volcano, Capri and Amalfi Coast as well as both the popular Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Head just a bit further south of the Amalfi Coast in Campania and you’ll come across the hugely interesting archaeological site of Paestum. Once an important ancient Greek coastal city, it has very well-preserved temples, painted tombs and an amphitheater to explore.

Originally named Poseidonia after the lord of the sea, it was founded around about 600 BC with its three delightful Doric temples dating to roughly this time too. As all their sturdy stone columns are still standing, they form a strangely moving sight, alone amidst the ruined city.

Besides admiring their ancient architecture and ambling around the rest of the excavations, you can enter its National Archaeological Museum. This displays many terracotta figurines and large painted fragments from the buildings and temples mentioned above.

Once a common destination on the Grand Tour, Paestum’s endless ruins, temples and city walls are well worth checking out if you have the chance.

Home to lush green slopes, soaring cliffs and twinkling turquoise waters, Capri really does paint a pretty picture. Once a favored resort of Roman emperors, the isle and all its idyllic towns are now one of Southern Italy’s most popular day trip destinations.

Easily reached from both Naples and Sorrento, its rugged landscapes already appear absolutely incredible on the ferry ride there. Upon arrival, you can take a funicular up to Capri Town, check out its sophisticated shops and restaurants or hike about its hillsides. There are also some very intriguing historic sights to see such as Emperor Tiberius’ villas of Jovis and San Michele.

Although it is quite expensive and can get very crowded, Capri is still one of our favorite places in Southern Italy. Its irresistible scenery, views and ambience make the romantic island a must-visit in our view. Seeing the Blue Grotto’s magical sea caves on a boat trip was another highlight we won’t forget any time soon.

6. Alberobello

Yet another memorable spot to visit in the south is the adorable fairytale town of Alberobello. Set around an hour’s drive southeast of Bari, it is renowned for its unique, eye-catching collection of trullo architecture.

Meaning ‘beautiful tree’ in Italian, the small town is certainly one of Puglia’s prettiest thanks to all its traditional trulli. These distinctive dry-stone buildings are all painted bright white and topped by conical stone roofs made without mortar. Numbering about 1,500 in total, they mostly date to the nineteenth century.

While it really is tiny, we loved exploring the town’s scenic streets and snapping pictures in front of all the cute stone structures. Some also contain cozy cafes and restaurants or souvenir shops selling miniature models of trulli and local food products.

A magnificent place to visit or vacation, Tropea’s attractive old town is perched in an improbable spot atop steep sea cliffs. Aside from seeing all its historical sites, its sweeping sands below are ideal for sunbathing or swimming in the sea.

Recently included as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy , local legend has it that Hercules himself founded the clifftop town on the way back from one of his heroic feats. Its unlikely setting alongside a dramatic drop almost makes it look as if the gods of old put it there.

Other than enjoying the atmosphere and trying dishes featuring its famous red onions, you can stop by its historic sights. While its twelfth-century cathedral contains marble sarcophagi and an important painting of the Madonna of Romania, Santa Maria dell’Isola Church stands alone atop a large rocky outcrop overlooking the sea.

Down below, you can always lounge along one of Italy’s prettiest beaches or swim and splash about in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Thankfully still a hidden gem, Tropea offers up a very alluring mix of historic sights, beaches and delicious Calabrian food.

4. Sassi di Matera

Now recognized the world round, Matera’s popularity has exploded in recent years with tons of tourists pouring in each day. Already cool to explore, the hilltop town’s stupendous ‘sassi’ count among it and Southern Italy’s top attractions.

Thought to be among the first human settlements in Italy, these ancient cave dwellings are really fascinating to wander around. Carved out and used since as early as 7,000 BC, the extensive network riddles the cliffsides around its old town. Clustered all closely together, the atmospheric old houses make for some fabulous photos and viewing.

Getting lost too amidst its winding, narrow streets and steep staircases truly is an unforgettable experience. As you step back in time and follow in the footsteps of generations gone-by, you’ll come across spectacular viewpoints and centuries-old cave churches. Among the most unique places in Italy, the Sassi di Matera are not to be missed out on.

Fittingly known as the ‘Florence of the South’, Lecce is home to lots of ornate Baroque buildings and interesting old churches. Set in the center of Puglia’s Salentine Peninsula, it also lies not far from some stunning beaches and coastline.

Founded over 2,000 years ago, it has long acted as an important hub for the region. At its heart is a striking second-century sunken Roman amphitheater while dozens of decadently decorated churches dot its streets. Of these, the Basilica di Santa Croce’s finely detailed facade and lovely Lecce Cathedral are by far the most impressive.

The city also has a very harmonious look and feel as almost all its buildings are made out of the light Lecce Stone. At night, this makes its lively streets even more magical as their fine facades seem to emit a warm glow. This was our favorite time of day as there was a buzz about town and the scorching sun had set.

We also had time to fit in a couple of day trips to Sant’Andrea and Gallipoli along each coastline. While the former boasts some sublime sea stacks and shimmering turquoise waters, the latter’s old town on a limestone island is amazing to explore. We couldn’t recommend both enough!

2. Pompeii & Herculaneum

Two of the world’s most famous and fascinating archaeological sites, Pompeii and Herculaneum just have to be explored if you have the chance. Remarkably well-preserved, all their excavated streets, homes and temples offer an enthralling look into daily Roman life millennia-ago.

In 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius violently erupted burying both cities in meters of ash and pumice. For centuries, they lay frozen in time until archaeologists slowly started unearthing their ancient streets lined by destroyed buildings.

With around 11,000 people believed to have been living there, Pompeii’s site is understandably much, much larger. Must-see ruins here include its enormous amphitheater, fabulous forum and the fresco-filled Villa dei Misteri. Of course, there is also the Temple of Apollo and House of the Faun to see alongside countless other parts of the city. As it is so massive, you should probably plan where to go beforehand or take a guided tour.

Lying further from Salerno and closer to Naples in the shadow of Vesuvius is the smaller, wealthier resort of Herculaneum. As it was once a seaside retreat of the Roman elite, it has tons of elegant houses containing mosaics, frescoes and courtyards to examine. In contrast to Pompeii, it is much less crowded and exhausting to explore.

1. Amalfi Coast

Absolutely unmissable of course is the iconic Amalfi Coast. Rightfully celebrated for its majestic Mediterranean landscapes and charming colourful towns that tumble down the cliffs, it has long been a hugely popular jet set destination.

Overlooking the sparkling Gulf of Salerno, its steep sloped mountains and small fishing villages line the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula. Coupled together, they paint an unimaginably beautiful picture with phenomenal views to be enjoyed up and down the coast.

Besides basking in its dramatic scenery, you can visit idyllic little towns like Amalfi, Positano and Minori among others. Here you amble around their quaint centers, see old churches and stop off for some seafood or shop for ceramics. Tiny paths also snake their way up the mountainsides to yet more astounding viewpoints.

As its roads are often narrow, packed and not very fun to drive along, many people take relaxing boat excursions up and down the coast. Seeing the Amalfi Coast before you in all its glory really is the perfect end to an unforgettable trip around Southern Italy.

Share this post:

15 Best Places to visit in Campania, Italy

27 Top Tourist Attraction in Naples, Italy

Where to Stay in Naples: 7 Best Neighborhoods

17 Best Things to do in Lecce, Italy

17 Best Places to Visit in Puglia, Italy

9 Best Day Trips from Naples

How To Spend One Week in Italy: DIY Itinerary

14 Best Places to Visit in Lazio, Italy

14 Amazing Things to do in Capri, Italy

Where to Stay in Milan: 8 Best Neighborhoods

Reader interactions.

December 21, 2017 at 1:22 pm

I was born in southern Italy just south of Naples , the town is just beneath the Vesuvius. We lived in a building that 600 years old , walk out front and you see the volcano and the back yard you have stunning views of the Bay of Naples , Capri , Ischia and at times you would see the tip of Sorrento. I am very lucky to have lots of family that live in southern Italy , so when we visit it is like being home again. My husband and I have also traveled to northern Italy and it is absolutely breathtaking as well.

December 4, 2016 at 1:07 pm

Italy is fabulous. From Rome to Venice the Amazing Tuscany region, and the rest of Northern Italy takes my breath away each time we return. My family is from Tuscany. We have yet to see & spend time in the southern areas of Italy, as Tuscany calls us back time & time again. Looking forward to a leisurely trip through the southern regions of Italy.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Southern Italy: Discover the Best 33 Places To Visit

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

The Best Places to Visit in the South of Italy

One of the oldest inhabited regions in Europe, Southern Italy is awash with archaeological sites, beautiful small towns, picture perfect beaches, and local culture.

Known for its warm Mediterranean climate, diverse landscapes, history influenced by the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans, and its delicious cuisine, Southern Italy is rapidly becoming one of Europe’s most popular destinations.

One of our favorite places in Europe to visit, we share the very best Southern Italy destinations, from heel to toe and everything in between, including the well-known big hitters and a few lesser-known hidden gems.

Italy Travel Resources

Here are the services we use and recommend for traveling in the Italy;

• Search for affordable flights with Skyscanner
• Book your airport transfers with Intui Travel
• Find hotel and accommodation deals with Booking.com
• Book the best value car rentals with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Find and book ferries with Ferryhopper
• Find the best activities and tours with Get Your Guide
• Get highly-rated travel insurance with True Traveller
• Get your convenient travel esim from Airalo or Holafly

Where is Southern Italy?

Southern Italy, also known as Meridione or Mezzogiorno in Italian, is a macroregion of Italy made up of the regions of Abruzzo, Apulia (Puglia), Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, and Sicily.

The regions of Southern Italy form the lower part of the Italian ‘boot’, including the ankle which is Campania, the toe of Calabria, the arch of Basilicata, and Puglia which makes up the heel. Molise is located to the north of Puglia and Abruzzo is further north still.

The island of Sicily is separated from Calabria by the narrow Strait of Messina, and the heel and toe are parted by the Gulf of Taranto.

RELATED POST: The Ultimate Bucket List Italy Road Trip

Is this your first time visiting Italy? Get all the information you need in our Italy Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

The most northerly and largest region in Southern Italy, Abruzzo has a diverse landscape made up of an Adriatic coastline and the Apennine Mountains. National parks and nature reserves cover much of its rugged and forested interior and there are a number of hilltop towns dating to the medieval and Renaissance periods.

Civitella del Tronto

Civitella del Tronto, situated in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park of Italy, is a remarkable cliff-top town that boasts the largest fortress in Italy and the second largest in Europe.

The village is considered one of Italy’s most beautiful, with its striking fortress dominating the hillside above the charming village below, surrounded by high mountains.

The fortress, built in the 16th century and transformed by Philip II of Habsburg, King of Spain, was the last to fall to the armies of Emanuele I. Although largely destroyed by the locals, a major renovation project took place between 1975 and 1985, and the fortress is now open to the public.

After admiring the fortress and its views, visitors can explore the gorgeous small town with its stone buildings dating from medieval and Renaissance times, narrow stone-paved roads, and interesting architectural details on the houses.

In addition to its fortress, the town has some important religious buildings, such as the Abbey of Santa Maria in Montesanto, which has been recently restored to its 13th century state and is one of the most beautiful monuments in the area.

L’Aquila, the capital city of the Abruzzo region, is a beautiful medieval town surrounded by the stunning Apennine Mountains, with the Gran Sasso d’Italia massif to the north east.

The town is situated on a hillside in the middle of a narrow valley and is a maze of narrow streets, lined with Baroque and Renaissance buildings, churches, and elegant piazzas.

Earthquakes have marked the history of L’Aquila, as the city is situated partially on an ancient lakebed that amplifies seismic activity. Despite being less than an hour-and-a-half drive from Rome, the city is sparsely visited by tourists but is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Don’t miss the Fountain of the 99 Spouts and the Renaissance castle of Forte Spagnolo during your visit, and if you have time, the nearby Navelli plateau is worth a visit for its fields of saffron crocuses which give Abruzzo its name: ‘the land of yellow gold’.

Scanno is set deep in the Sagittario Valley, high in the Abruzzo mountains, and is perhaps most famous for its glistening heart-shaped lake, Lago di Scanno. If you’re visiting in summer, the lake is a busy camping spot where locals and visitors alike go to swim and paddle board in the turquoise waters, before enjoying various music festivals and hot summer night parties.

Away from the lake, Scanno appears much like any other Italian hill town rising from the mountain in a jumble of buildings and towers. Spend some time here and you’ll find a fantastically well-preserved medieval mountain town with a beguiling history. 

The women of the town in their traditional dress and distinctive headgear have been captured and preserved on camera by some of the best photographers of the 20th century, including Cartier-Bresson and Giacomelli, and were known as the most beautiful women in Italy. Visit the higgledy-piggledy, tiny Museo della Lana to understand the very special photographic history of Scanno.

Amongst the beauty of Scanno’s medieval alleys and honeyed buildings, you will find workshops making and selling traditional local crafts, such as lace and jewelry as well as a handful of good restaurants and bars.  For authentic local food, head to Ristorante Alla Fonte by the church.

Trabocchi Coast

Undoubtedly one of the most captivating Italian territories overlooking the Adriatic Sea is the Coast of the Trabocchi, known as ‘the pearl of Abruzzo’.

The main attraction of this coast is the trabocchi , primitive yet complex fishing platforms constructed of wood that sit over the water. The historic structures resemble giant wooden crabs, or as noted poet Gabriele D’Annunzio wrote, ‘colossal spiders’, with protruding rods and an overall unique form.

Using pulleys and ropes, the elevated arms with nets attached to them are raised and lowered to catch the day’s fish from the clear water below. Today, only 23 remain, and some have become rustic restaurants.

The Costa dei Trabocchi includes the towns of San Vito Chietino, Rocca San Giovanni, Fossacesia, and Vasto, with the trabocchi tucked in coves or on points, accompanied by pebble beaches with crystal-clear water.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Italy . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Basilicata is a region of striking landscapes, characterized by rugged mountains and virgin forests, with occasional breaks for quaint villages and picturesque towns. Located in the instep of Italy’s boot, this fertile land was a battleground for ancient empires for centuries but is now a charming coastal holiday destination.

Castelmezzano

Castelmezzano is one of the most beautiful hidden treasures of Basilicata. It is also one of the two stations for the Flight of the Angel , the highest zipline in the world, which connects with Pietrapertosa on the opposite side of the valley, surrounded by the dramatic Lucanian Dolomites.

Entering the small village is an unusual experience, as you pass through a tunnel dug into the rock after crossing a spectacular gorge. Upon exiting the tunnel, Castelmezzano appears, perched and protected by the surrounding mountains.

The urban structure of Castelmezzano is typically medieval, with a concentric cluster of houses with sandstone slab roofs set in a rocky basin. Walking through the historic center is particularly evocative due to the presence of buildings cut into the bare rock and numerous steep stairs that open up between the alleys.

Of note is Santa Maria dell’Olmo with its majestic Romanesque style façade, which stands in Piazza Caizzo at the heart of the town.

A unique and unforgettable tourist destination in Basilicata, Matera is renowned for its extensive cave dwellings, the  Sassi   di Matera . Visitors can stay in caves, wander through the picturesque lanes alongside the cave-filled cliffs, and learn about the fascinating history of this place.

The caves of Matera have been inhabited for centuries, with some humble and some smarter residences. However, by the early twentieth century, the area was known for poverty. Until the 1950s, hundreds of families were still living crowded into cave houses, leading to squalor and malaria-ridden conditions.

The situation became a national scandal in Italy, and the cave residents were eventually moved by law to modern buildings on the plateau above. By the 1980s, the abandoned caves of Matera were no longer scandalous but fascinating reminders of the past.

Some of the wealthier residents moved back and renovated old cave houses and in 1993, Matera was made one of Italy’s newest UNESCO World Heritage sites for being ‘the most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region, perfectly adapted to its terrain and ecosystem’.

Since then, Matera has become increasingly popular as an off-the-beaten-track tourist destination. More and more old cave houses are being converted into comfortable modern dwellings, hotels, B&Bs, and restaurants, and visitors can take guided tours of the sassi and visit historic reconstructions of cave life.

Pollino National Park

The Pollino National Park , covering 1,925 square kilometers, is the largest natural park in Italy. Its unique landscapes and complex environments earned it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015.

The protected area consists of the Pollino and Orsomarso massifs, home to some of the highest peaks in southern Italy, including Serra Dolcedorme, standing at 2,267 meters and offering stunning views of the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas.

Make sure to seek out the oldest tree in Europe, a Loricate Pine that is around 1,230 years old, and the natural thermal pool of Grotte Delle Ninfe in Cerchiara, which is rich in minerals and mud, ideal for skin treatments.

The park’s waterways feature deep gorges and wide valleys, perfect for sports such as rafting, canyoning, and canoeing. Nature enthusiasts can indulge in trekking, hiking, and mountain biking, with some excellent trails just waiting to be explored.

The subject of a thousand Instagram posts, the charming village of Rotondella is easily recognizable from above, with its houses nestled closely together and its streets winding up the hill in a distinctive spiral.

Known as ‘the balcony on the Ionian Sea’ for its breathtaking views of the stunning Lucanian Sea, Rotondella remains one of Basilicata’s hidden gems despite its photogenic fame.

Rotondella has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times when it was first inhabited by the indigenous population of the region. Over the centuries, it came under the influence of different civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and Aragonese.

In the medieval period, Rotondella thrived as a crucial agricultural center, renowned for its olive groves and vineyards. Its strategic location along ancient trade routes also contributed to its historical importance, and the legacy of this can be seen in the historic center which is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and charming squares.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Italy.

Calabria forms the metaphorical toe of the Italian boot and is often referred to as the ‘Caribbean of Europe’ due to its unspoiled beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and rustic charm. The countryside is dotted with hillside towns, ancient Greek temples, and Byzantine churches, making it one of Italy’s best-kept secrets.

Catanzaro is known as the ‘City Between Two Seas’ because of its location on the Isthmus of Catanzaro, Italy’s narrowest point, which separates the Ionian and Tyrrhenian coasts and is just 35 kilometers long.

Also known as the city of the three V’s, Catanzaro is named after its three distinct features. The first ‘V’ stands for Saint Vitalian, the patron saint of the city. The second ‘V’ represents velvet, as Catanzaro has been an important silk center since Byzantine times, producing the finest silks, velvets, damasks, and brocades.

The third ‘V’ symbolizes wind, as the city experiences strong breezes from the Ionian Sea and La Sila, a nearby mountainous plateau. The “VVV” symbol was used to identify Catanzaro’s silk industry for both domestic and foreign markets and became an icon for the city’s finest fabrications.

The historic center of the city boasts several significant monuments, including the Duomo where you can admire the Madonna and Child, a 16th century statue by Antonello Gagini da Messina. The Norman Tower, which has a square and crenelated shape, is the only remaining structure of the ancient Norman castle.

Cosenza, also known as the ‘City of the Bruzis’, is one of the oldest cities in Calabria. It is situated on seven hills in the valley of the Crati River, near the confluence of the Busento tributary.

The city’s origins date back to the fourth century BCE when it became strategically important for the Bruzi family. The old town, which clings to the slope of the Pancrazio Hill near the banks of the Crati, evokes its medieval atmosphere and history. Since the late 19th century, the new town has been expanding across the plain below.

In recent years, Cosenza has seen a revival of its vibrant past. The historic center is among the oldest and most beautiful in Italy, featuring monumental buildings, manor houses, churches, and narrow winding alleys that attest to its conformity.

Cosenza’s historic old town is packed with beautiful medieval and Baroque buildings including the the iconic 11th century Duomo di Cosenza on Piazza XV Marzo.

Other notable places to explore are the San Domenico Church, the Church of Sant’Agostino, and the ancient Castle of Cosenza, which dates back to the 13th century and offers panoramic views of the city and surroundings.

For more stunning views, hike to the top of Mount Pollino, located just outside of Cosenza. 

San Nicola Arcella

San Nicola Arcella is a charming coastal town located on the Tyrrhenian Sea coast that offers visitors a blend of historical heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a relaxing Mediterranean atmosphere.

During the medieval period, San Nicola Arcella became an important coastal town due to its strategic location along the Tyrrhenian Sea. The town’s historical legacy is reflected in its ancient buildings, churches, and historical landmarks.

One of the highlights of San Nicola Arcella is the Arcomagno Beach, a stunning cove with crystal-clear waters and a natural arch formation accessible by boat or on foot through a scenic trail and nearby Dino Island, also known as Isola di Dino, is a small island known for its white cliffs and sea caves.

Scilla is a captivating coastal village situated on the west coast of Calabria, known as ‘the jewel of the Costa Viola’.

This charming fishing village is reminiscent of famous spots on Italy’s Cinque Terre, with a patchwork of colored houses overlooking the calm waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Despite its beauty, Scilla remains virtually undiscovered by tourists.

Its location on the Strait of Messina, which connects Calabria to Sicily, offers a rich history with over 2,000 years of traditions in fishing for swordfish. According to ancient Greek legends, Scilla was home to the sea monster Scylla, one of the two monsters (alongside Charybdis) who guarded the Strait of Messina and terrorized Odysseus as he sailed the seas.

Today, Scilla is an enchanting town to visit, with charming streets to wander, a castle to explore, a sweeping beach, and extraordinary sunsets.

Tropea is a picturesque town that overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea as it juts out from the top of Italy’s toe. The stretch of land along which Tropea is located is known as the Costa degli Dei or Coast of the Gods.

Tropea’s allure is not new. Legend has it that Hercules founded the town upon return from his labors at the Pillars of Hercules, today’s Strait of Gibraltar.

Visitors will find the hero’s name gracing the main square, Piazza Ercole. However, Tropea’s history goes beyond the mythological, with discoveries of ancient Greek tombs and a Roman port in the area.

The old town perches over the sea, and Tropea’s antique palazzi are built right to the edge of the rock, which drops straight down to Tropea Beach below, providing panoramic views.

Italy Travel Inspiration

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Monte Cassino: How to Visit the Abbey & War Graves

Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy

Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Driving in the Alps: Top Tips & Best Routes

Northern Italy Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Motorhoming in Italy: Your Complete 2024 Guide

Tuscan Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

One Day in Venice – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Winter Destinations Europe: 23 Amazing Wintry Places

Where is Hot in January in Europe? Top 36 Warmest Places

Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map

Europe Road Trip – 24 Incredible Routes

Rome in a Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Driving to Italy from UK: Best Routes & Driving Tips

Florence in One Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

One Day in Palermo – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

The Ultimate Bucket List Italy Road Trip

Autumn in Europe: 23 Stunning Destinations for Fall

A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Campania is a region renowned for its mild climate, fertile land, and breathtaking landscapes, and is home to some of Italy’s most iconic tourist attractions. The territory is mostly characterized by gentle hills, the Matese mountains, that border Molise, and the rugged Irpinia area.

Amalfi Coast

From Sorento to Salerno, the incredible Amalfi Coast boasts several gorgeous towns, like Amalfi and Ravello. Yet, Positano is the best-known of Amalfi’s towns and arguably the most beautiful.

Positano has beautiful beaches, like Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo, and Arienzo and the town is a jumble of narrow cobbled streets and pretty squares. In one of the streets is the Santa Maria Assunta Church, a must-see, which features a beautiful, tiled dome.

Avid hikers will delight in the Path of the Gods , a scenic trail that offers stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. The trail starts in Bomerano and ends in Nocelle, with several vantage points along the way.

For a different perspective of the Jenga-like pastel-painted houses as they tumble towards the sea, take a boat trip and visit the Blue Grotto cave and nearby Capri for a taste of the high life!

RELATED POST: A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Ischia, an island that has long been overshadowed by its fashionable neighbor Capri, is having a moment, but managing to retain its deep authenticity.

The island is part of a trio of islands known as the Phlegraeans off Naples, which also includes Capri and Procida. However, Capri’s popularity with day-trippers often makes the island a victim of over-tourism. In contrast, Procida is the smallest of the three and has never received much attention, although it is worth a visit for its pastel villages and artisan workshops.

Ischia’s charm lies in its position between being both newly fashionable and authentic. Although there is development, particularly in the hotel sector, there are still simple bars, beach clubs, and harbors that are more likely to dock fishing boats than super yachts.

The island is home to several delightful villages, such as Forio, Ischia Ponte, Sant’Angelo, and Casamicciola, and boasts natural thermal spas, lush vineyards, and deserted coves, making it easy to see why it is quickly becoming one of Italy’s up-and-coming destinations.

Mount Vesuvius

Vesuvius is one of three live volcanoes in Italy, the other two being Mount Etna in Sicily and Stromboli, which is one of the Aeolian Islands and has produced some of the continent’s largest volcanic eruptions.

It sits in the crater of the ancient Somma volcano, overlooking the Bay and the City of Naples, and is best known for the catastrophic eruption in 79 CE, which destroyed the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Despite its last eruption occurring in 1944, Vesuvius still poses a significant threat to the cities surrounding it, particularly the bustling metropolis of Naples.

Nevertheless, you can take a steady hike up Vesuvius for around 30 minutes before you plateau out onto the rim. The rim is very clearly defined with a path about 75% of the way around and much of the route is lined with wooden barriers to stop you from getting too close to the edge.

Don’t expect to see fire and brimstone spewing out of the crater, but you will see plenty of steam and can feel the heat coming off the crater in waves. The panoramic views of the Bay of Naples are spectacular.

RELATED POST: How to Visit Pompeii & Vesuvius in One Day

Naples, or Napoli for Italians, is a bustling port city with a population of 4.4 million inhabitants, known as ‘Neapolitans’, and is the third largest city in Italy.

Despite its lively and chaotic nature, Naples boasts a long and rich cultural history dating back 3000 years. While the city may initially appear dilapidated and neglected, it is home to many beautiful churches, museums, and monuments and the historic center is a UNESCO site.

As the birthplace of pizza, espresso, and football legend Diego Maradona, who played for SC Napoli, Naples has been a popular destination for city trips for years and is becoming more popular every year. Despite its increasing popularity, Naples offers a more authentic and less touristy feel than Rome or Venice .

Naples is home to many Neapolitan churches in Baroque and Renaissance styles, each with its own atmosphere and identity. The Duomo di Napoli, the city’s cathedral, houses the treasures of patron saint San Gennaro. Three times a year, his clotted blood liquefies, and if it doesn’t happen, it is believed to bring disaster upon Naples.

History enthusiasts will enjoy the National Archaeological Museum, which houses ancient artifacts from the Roman Empire and the ancient Catacombs of San Gennaro beneath the city. You can also visit the Royal Palace of Naples, built in the 17th century, to see marvelous frescoes, art, and furniture.

The Archaeological Park of Pompeii is located at the foot of the Vesuvius volcano.

The original city was founded around the 8th century BCE by the Osken people. While many cities in Campania were built by Greek settlers, Pompeii was an exception due to the fertile soil around the volcano.

Pompeii was conquered several times throughout its history, first by the Etruscans in the 6th century BCE, and in the 5th century BCE, it was conquered by the Samnites, like the rest of Campania. These conquests came to an end when the Romans defeated the Samnites in the 4th century BCE.

The Romans fortified the city of Pompeii, but the inhabitants did not take kindly to the conquest and revolted. The Romans did not let this go unpunished and in 81 BCE, Pompeii, having been besieged by the Romans, became an official Roman province.

In 62 CE, a major earthquake struck, causing chaos and severe damage to the city. Some of the inhabitants of Pompeii fled, but some stayed in the city to rebuild it, not knowing that this earthquake was the prelude to a much greater disaster.

Pompeii was completely covered in a meter-high layer of ash from a huge Vesuvius eruption in 79 CE. During the eruption, around 20,000 people lived in the area and it was also a much-visited holiday destination for the Romans. Although a large number managed to flee the city, over 1,000 human remains were found in the Pompeii ruins alone.

The volcanic eruption pushed cities like Pompeii and Herculaneum into oblivion. Finally, in the year 1599, the city was found during the digging of a canal and later in the 18th century, efforts were made to remove the two cities from the ash layer.

Today, Pompeii is one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions and also a thriving site for historians and archaeologists, partly because of the ash layer, meaning everything that remained in the city has been extremely well preserved.

The smallest region in South Italy, Molise is an area rich with historical and cultural heritage, and an abundance of locally produced food and wine. This Italian hidden gem boasts a magnificent coastline with awe-inspiring cliffs, stunning natural reserves, and picturesque villages that appear to be frozen in time.

The capital of Molise, Campobasso is situated in the high basin of the Biferno River, surrounded by the stunning Sannio and Matese mountains.

The city is renowned for its skilled blade craftsmanship, including scissors and knives, a tradition that dates back to the 14th century, locally grown succulent pears, and delicious Scamorza cheese.

One of the city’s main attractions is the Castello Monforte, which was built in 1450 by the local ruler, Nicola II Monforte, on Lombard or Norman ruins. The castle has Guelph merlons, a style of crenelated parapet, and is situated on a commanding point, where traces of ancient settlements (including Samnite walls) have been discovered.

The magnificent old town of Campobasso is situated around the castle and its walls. It is renowned for its intricate network of alleys and winding stairways, resembling a labyrinth of ancient stone buildings that still maintain their distinctive characteristics. These include small courtyards or internal gardens, as well as rich decorations, friezes, and stuccoes, dating back to the noble families who once owned them.

Isernia is a small sleepy town surrounded by hills that are renowned for producing exquisite red, white, and rosé Italian DOC wines.

Despite enduring several episodes of destruction, Isernia has managed to preserve a significant number of archaeological remains and the historical center still maintains the same layout as the Roman cities, featuring a large raised market street, surrounded by numerous alleys and small squares.

The town is a photographer’s dream, with narrow atmospheric alleys capturing rays of light that bounce of buildings in every shade of terracotta from the palest putty to the deepest baked orange clay.

Don’t miss the 14th century Duomo di Isernia, a Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to the Apostle Peter. The cathedral is situated in the Piazza Andrea in the old town and stands on the site of an Italic pagan temple of the 3rd century BCE.

Its present appearance is the result of many renovations, occasioned partly by numerous earthquakes and partly by building refurbishments.

Originally a fishing port, Termoli is on the Adriatic coast and today is a popular holiday destination with Italian families.

The old town has been meticulously restored and is a genuine walled community that protrudes into the sea. Many of the houses have been rebuilt and painted in a range of pastel colors, adding to the town’s charm.

In the central square, visitors can find the 12th century cathedral, and nearby is the Castello Svevo of Termoli, the most prominent structure in the town.

Built by Count Robert I of Loritello during the middle ages and extensively renovated during the rule of Frederick II after being damaged in an attack by the Venetian fleet, the Castle was part of a fortification system, which included a wall surrounding the entire city, of which only a tower remains visible today.

Termoli’s resorts are renowned for their pristine beaches and the relative purity of their waters, and the town makes a great base from which to explore the hilltowns of Larino, Casacalenda, Montorio, and Montelongo, which still preserve a rural way of life that is disappearing in other, more developed, parts of Italy.

Probably the best known of the regions in Southern Italy, Puglia, or Apulia , is the heel of Italy’s boot. Blessed with rolling countryside, miles of gorgeous beaches, vibrant towns, and delicious local olive oil, Puglia epitomizes the best of Italy without the crowds. Whether you’re a sun worshipper, culture vulture, or foodie, Puglia will tick all those boxes and more.

RELATED POST: Puglia Road Trip: The Best 7 Day Itinerary + Map & Tips

Alberobello

For many, UNESCO Alberobello is the pinnacle of a Puglia trip, home of the famous Alberobello Trulli houses; a distinctive circular building with a conical roof. Trulli are built from local limestone stacked without using mortar and are considered one of the best examples of vernacular architecture in Europe.

The walls and openings of these round houses are generally whitewashed and the stone roof tiles often have religious, pagan or magical symbols painted on them. The origins of the Trulli are obscure although the name is also applied to ancient ground tombs found in the Roman countryside.

We found the Trulli site a little Disneyesque and overcrowded with day trippers. We much preferred the rural Trulli houses found in the Murge dei Trulli; they somehow seemed to sit better in the natural surroundings.

A walking tour is a good way of understanding the history and architecture of the Trulli houses and seeing some of the off-the-beaten-track highlights. 

Once you’ve finished admiring the trulli, head for Vino & Amore, a fabulous deli with a tasting room in the non-trulli part of town. The owner is passionate and enthusiastic about the local produce and will give you spot-on suggestions and descriptions for your lunch. Go there and eat lots of fabulous local produce and drink a glass of local wine. You won’t regret it.

Gallipoli is a charming small port town on the west coast of the heel. Head for the small island across the Ponte Papa Giovanni II, past the medieval Gallipoli Castle, and you’ll find a vibrant and busy tangle of streets and alleys. There is an old-world feel here and you can easily imagine what it must have been like 50 years ago.

Get off the main arteries and into the mass of houses, churches, and small family-run restaurants to experience the real Gallipoli. Whitewashed walls with the plaster chipping off and washing hanging from balconies covered in bougainvillea and wisteria just add to the ambiance.

There are numerous small churches and chapels, all with extraordinary doors, often carved from one piece of wood. Gallipoli is a photographer’s dream, every alley has an angle, every corner a surprise. You could wander for hours and never get lost – just keep going and eventually, you’ll get to the sea!

Head for the Basilica Cattedrale di Sant’Agata. The cathedral sits on the highest point of the island and has an incredibly ornate exterior. The interior is also ornate but where the outside is softened by the color of the stone and natural light, the inside is dark and feels a little forbidding, but the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into such buildings never fail to impress.

Lecce is often called ‘the Florence of the south’, due to the beautifully carved stone Pietra di Lecce, used in much of the 17th century Lecce Baroque style buildings.

Head for the old town, to the west of Castello Carlo V. Coming from the castle, you will arrive in the Piazza Sant’Oronzo, complete with a partially visible Roman amphitheater and a pretty dodgy 1970s clock tower which rather spoils the effect!

A central square is a great place for lunch, spending an hour or so with a tasty pizza and a glass of local wine means you can absorb the beauty of the pale Pietra di Leccastone at your leisure.  

Stroll along Via Vittorio Emanuele for shops, gelaterias, and cafés before arriving at the magnificent Piazza Duomo which not only houses the Duomo but the Palazzo Vescovile, a 70m campanile and a seminary, built by Giuseppe Zimbalo , known as Lo Zingarelli or ‘tiny gypsy’ in the 1600s.

You will have to pay and entrance fee to visit the Duomo…sometimes you can see too many churches, but the medieval crypt in this one is worth the entry fee. Studded with over 100 columns in serried ranks, the crypt is beautifully simple, the columns carved intricately and so differently to the fussy Baroque style in the cathedral above.   

Further along Via Vittorio Emanuele, you will find paper-mâché workshops, Lecce’s other claim to fame.

Other must-sees in Lecce are Porta Rudie, the 18th century city gate through which everyone who entered the city in ancient times would have passed; Santa Croce, the church built between 1549-1679 has a stunning rose window by Zimbalo and Chiesa del Rosario said to be Lo Zingarello’s finest work, with an ornate and detailed exterior.

If you’ve had enough of churches and religious buildings, wander the back streets of the old town not forgetting to look up at the fabulous architecture, and then head to one of Lecce’s beaches, like Punta Prosciutto, Torre Lapillo, or Porto Cesareo.

Built atop a hill, you’ll see Ostuni in the distance as you arrive through the lush Valle d’Itria. The so-called ‘ La Citta Bianca ‘ or ‘the white city’ (although the Italian is so much more romantic!) is a maze of alleys, stairs, dead ends, and glimpses of the Adriatic.

Head for the old town where the citadel at the top of the hill is still fortified by the ancient walls. This is where you will see the white walls and white-painted buildings that give the town its name, and from Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, the sunset over the Adriatic is one of the best we’ve seen.

Ostuni is one of the best places in Puglia for simply meandering, it’s a town just begging to be wandered! Make sure you wander in the morning or late afternoon after the long lunch break, this is when the town is at its most vibrant and lively.

Consider taking a walking tour here. Because of the maze-like nature of the citadel, it is easy to miss the best sights. Stop often for gelato and coffee to soak up and enjoy the atmosphere.

Santa María di Leuca

Santa Maria di Leuca, often referred to as simply Leuca, is at the southernmost point of the heel and sits on a promontory between the Ionian and Adriatic seas.

The Greeks called this place Leukos, meaning ‘brilliant sun’, and it was a prominent place in Magna Graecia , the name given by the Romans to the coastal areas of Southern Italy that were extensively populated by Greek settlers. Little did they know it would come to have some of the best beaches in Southern Italy and become a must-see place on any Puglia itinerary!

Leuca was a simple local fishing village until the end of the 19th century when tourists started to visit, attracted by the crystal clear waters and beautiful scenery. Many wealthy southern Italians made Leuca their summer residence and they built large and ornate villas which still decorate the seafront.

Head up to the lighthouse, which is the second most important in Italy after Genova. Next to the lighthouse sits the simple yet beautiful Basilica Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae (end of the land), built to commemorate the passage of St. Peter here during his journey to Italy.

The views are stunning and sunsets draw a big crowd, so go early and wait it out with a beer if you want the best spot!

Evenings on the seafront are family-orientated and busy. There are lots of food vans selling crepes, gelato, and pizza along the promenade, as well as a number of restaurants and bars. Look out for the saltwater pool, when the surf is up, the waves crashing against it are mesmerizing.  

Just above the port is the Cascata Monumentale Di Leuca, the last point of the Apulia Aqueduct, a project that was started in 1868 and was not finished until 1941. The Cascata , which is 300 steps high, is not operated often and there is no set timetable, but you may be lucky during the summer months and even luckier to see a night operation where it is spectacularly lit. Check at the local Tourist Office for information.

There are a lot of sea caves to the east of Leuca which can only be explored by boat and all along the sea-front you will see signs for boat tours. You can visit  Grotta Della Poesia , the Cave of Poetry, by car from Leuca. This dramatic swimming hole is located in Roca Vecchia and is well worth a detour with your towel and swimmers in the boot of your hire car.

Taranto is home to the Tarantella, Italy’s lively and graceful folk dance. It was alleged that victims of the tarantula’s bite could cure themselves by frenzied dancing which sweated out the poison.

The dance is characterized by light, quick steps, and a teasing flirt and only takes place privately in Taranto at 6am on 29th June, every year to celebrate the Feast of St Peter and St Paul.  It is the only known place where the dance has survived.

The picturesque Città Vecchia is an island dividing the Mare Grande from the Mare Piccolo and was the site of the Roman citadel, Tarentum. The old town today is still laid out as it was in 967 CE.

There are now less than 1,000 people living on Città Vecchia, in a city of some 200,000 residents. The Duomo, founded in 1071, has been the object of much subsequent rebuilding and includes a catacomb-like crypt with sarcophagi and painted frescoes. Behind the Duomo is the 11th century San Domenico Maggiore with its high, double-approach Baroque staircase.

The impressive Castello Aragonese, the huge castle built by Frederick of Aragon in the 15th century, dominates the eastern corner of Città Vecchia.

Wander the streets, soak up the atmosphere and people-watch to your heart’s content, then head for the lively fish market for lunch. Held in a magnificent Art Deco building, you can buy and eat the fabulous and abundant shellfish, for which Taranto is famous.

Sicily is a gem of an island. Rich in Greek and Roman architecture, with stunning Baroque towns dotting the landscape, incredible natural wonders, and a beguiling capital city, Sicily has a wealth of experiences for you to discover and explore.

RELATED POST: Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map

South of Agrigento town, the Valley of the Temples has an incredible entrance. Perched along the top of a ridge, the temple ruins are literally lined up and waiting for you to explore.

Start early before the tour buses and day-trippers arrive and spend an idyllic morning with the UNESCO World Heritage site to yourselves. Marvel at the fact that you can walk through and around the temples and ruins and touchstone that was quarried and chiseled thousands of years ago.

The rediscovery of this ancient site began towards the end of the 18th century when the first European travelers reached Sicily and discovered an unexpected and vast archaeological heritage.

The highlights are the Temple of Concordia , built around the 5th century and located along the Via Sacra. One of the best-preserved temples, the name Concordia comes from a Latin inscription found near the temple itself.

The Temple of Heracles is the oldest. Much of the temple was destroyed by wars and natural disasters and today has only eight columns left. The Temple of Castor and Pollux, the twin brothers born to Jupiter and the Queen of Sparta, has only four columns left and has become the symbol of Agrigento.

Not far from the Valley of the Temples is Scala dei Turchi or ‘stair of the Turks’, so called because marauding Turkish pirate ships were known to find shelter in the bay.

On first inspection, the cliffs of Scala dei Turchi seem too perfect and too white to actually be real. But real they are and made of soft limestone and blinding white marl, shaped, smoothed, and buffed over millennia by the sea and wind to look like a giant meringue, rising up from an impossibly blue surrounding sea.   

Cefalù, recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, is situated on the northern coast.

The town is dominated by a monumental rock rising to a height of 270 meters, which was already known to the Phoenicians as the promontory of Hercules. The Temple of Diana, a megalithic building linked to the cult of water, stands on the rock and is accompanied by a nearby cistern dating back to the 5th century BCE.

The historic quarter of Cefalù lies in the shadow of a towering bastion and is clustered around the Duomo, a colossal cathedral commissioned by Ruggero II the Norman. The outsized proportions of the Basilica are amplified by the ancient megalithic walls, of which evidence remains along the Giudecca cliffs and at the ancient Porta Terra, now Piazza Garibaldi.

Cefalù’s pretty beaches are some of the most stunning on the island, featuring sandy shores and romantic rocky coves, perfect for diving into the crystal-clear waters, and the walk through the ancient gate of Porto Pescara to Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio is a real Instagram moment.

UNESCO listed Mount Etna is Sicily’s biggest natural wonder and Europe’s largest and most active volcano, standing a mighty 3,350m high. After Kilauea on Hawaii, Mount Etna is considered the second most active volcano in the world.  

If that doesn’t put you off, you can get to the summit of Mount Etna, look deep into her craters, and hear the rumbling magma stirring. It’s like a moonscape at the top, with sulfur swirling around the ash-covered landscape, and views that are often above the clouds.

Getting to the top of Mount Etna involves a cable car, a specially adapted bus, and hiking for the 400 meters or so of the ascent with a specialist vulcanologist guide. The sense of achievement and wonder at the top, as the guide shares a flask of local wine with you, is well worth the effort of getting there!

The most complex of all the cities in southern Italy, Palermo has been caught between West and East for millennia. With dazzling buildings, Arab-Norman architecture, hidden corners, and chaotic markets, any visit to Palermo is exhilarating.

You must visit the food market which is on every day and situated in the area around Via Porta Carini. Here you can buy street food, fish, meat, fruit, vegetables and pretty much everything else you can imagine.

You can stop for a coffee and people watch, choose your fish and meat and have it cooked in front of you, to be eaten on a ramshackle table in the open air, or simply wander and take in the colors, sounds, and smells of this fabulous market.  

Must sees include Catalan-influenced Palermo Cathedral; the Palatine Chapel inside the Palazzo dei Normanni, famous for its mosaics and gold decor; the Arab-Norman churches of San Giovanni degli Eremiti and La Martorana; and Fontana Pretoria in what was one called the ‘Squate of Shame’ due to the nudity of the statues!

RELATED POST: One Day in Palermo – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Segesta is a glorious temple and Roman amphitheater, incredibly well-preserved and picturesque. Easily accessible on a day trip from Palermo less crowded than the Valley of the Temples, and set in beautiful rolling countryside, the Temple of Segesta is a must-see on any Southern Italy itinerary.

A magical place, the setting between lush rolling hills, with far distant views to the sea and mountains, is perfection. The surrounding fields, with their exact rows of silver-green olive trees and vines, are archetypal Italian and just add to the atmosphere of Segesta.

The architecture of both temple and amphitheater is breathtaking. The temple is particularly interesting due to its unfinished nature and complexity. It is impressive that it has survived as intact as it is, given that until just a few years ago, visitors were able to walk inside and around the columns. 

RELATED POST: Segesta Sicily: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know

Syracuse (or Siracusa) is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily known for its ruins. It has a vibrant and modern café culture, with lots of great bars and restaurants, and is perfect for an afternoon strolling the pretty streets, window-shopping, and admiring the architecture.

Head for the old town of Ortigia, on an island connected to the new city by the Ponte Umbertino. Cross from new to old and you’ll find yourself in another world, with magnificent ancient churches, a temple, local markets, and even a castle.  

Make sure to visit Piazza Duomo to see the Cathedral, a fascinating mix of pagan temple and Christian church. The Duomo stands on the ruins of a temple dedicated to Athena, built in 480 BCE. Behind the Baroque facade of the cathedral, Doric columns from the original temple are still visible.

Another must-see is the Fonte Aratuse, a fountain originating from a freshwater spring that creates a small semi-circular lake. Here there are fish, geese, and ducks, and the only naturally occurring Papyrus in Europe.  

Are you looking for more travel ideas? Check out these top posts…

EU Travel Made Easy: The Schengen Advantage of Your Irish Passport for Your British Spouse

Tarifa Guide: Best Things to Do + Top Visitor Tips

La Bambouseraie: How to Visit the Hidden Gem in Anduze

Blue Eye Albania: Visit Sarandë & Theth Natural Pools

Love it pin it.

15 Best Places To Visit In Southern Italy (Cities, Towns & Islands)!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » 15 Best Places To Visit In Southern Italy (Cities, Towns & Islands)!

Have you been wondering which places to visit in Southern Italy? I’ve got you covered!

Southern Italy is a paradise for travelers.

With its ancient cities, crystal clear waters, and stunning landscapes, it offers something for everyone.

However, even this stunning region has a few highlights that shine even brighter, standing out as the best places in Southern Italy.

During our three months traveling around Italy with our three daughters, we got to experience some of the best that Southern Italy has to offer.

From learning about trulli in Alberobello to hiring a boat and boating around some volcanoes in the Aeolian Islands, we were constantly amazed by what this region had to offer us.

We also had the chance to talk with other travelers who were considering visiting the area and ask them which places were worth including in their itinerary.

It turns out that some of the best spots include hopping between different islands on a boat tour or walking around the alleyways of Matera.

Here is our list of the most beautiful places in southern Italy that you should see at least once in your lifetime.

15 Best Places To Visit In Southern Italy

Wondering where to go in Southern Italy? If you are planning a trip, then make sure to add the following destinations to Southern Italy to your itinerary.

Southern Italy is best explored with a rental car. I can’t imagine visiting these destinations by public transport! We love renting our cars through Discover Cars .

BEST SOUTHERN ITALY CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

I recommend  and use   Discover Cars . They search through all rental companies to find and offer only the best deals.

We absolutely love every region of Italy , but there is something so unique and different about these cities and towns in South Italy.

We’ve picked them as the best places to visit in Southern Italy.

Make sure to visit Matera, it is one of the best cities in southern Italy. It is such a unique destination with its cave dwellings.

Another reason you should visit Matera is that it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

At Matera, you’ll discover the magnificent Murgia Timone, a gigantic plateau made of rock.

The plateau is dotted with many caves carved into the stone by the people who lived here many, many years ago.

There are plenty of things to do in Sassi di Matera .

While the caves are truly fascinating to see and explore, just as remarkable is the views this site gives you of the nearby ravine and old town.

There are countless photo opportunities of this south Italy must-see destination.

Watch our video of our time in Matera with our three daughters here:

Book a Day Trip to Matera from any of the Following Places:

• Click to book your day trip from Rome to Matera (If you are short on time, here is a great day trip to book from Rome. The day trip takes 12-14 hours so it is definitely a big day, but a worthwhile one too book).
• Click to book your day trip from Bari to Matera (For those based in Puglia, this day trip is an easy 6 hour tour – and even includes wine tasting and lunch).

Tours and Passes We Recommend For Your Trip:

• Enjoy a 2-hour walking tour of the historic center known as the Sassi – Book your tour here . This is the most popular tour, if you can only do one tour, then this is the one we recommend.
• We also absolutely loved hopping over to Parco Murgia where you can walk, explore and get wonderful views of Matera from across the ravine. Click here to book a spot on the Parco Murgia tour .

Where to Stay In Matera:

If you stay overnight in Matera (and we suggest you do! We stayed for 3 nights and it was magical), we highly recommend you book accommodation in the Sassi (the historic part of the city).

We stayed in an incredible cave house in Matera. It can sleep 4 guests and it was just such an incredible experience, never mind that the views were to die for! Click here to check out the prices on Booking.com. We loved watching the sun set over the glorious Sassi from our balcony. However if you prefer a hotel, you can also find some adorable ones in the Sassi as well.

1. Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita

The Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita is a unique hotel located in a restored 18th-century cave dwelling and offers guests a truly immersive experience in the historic Sassi neighborhood.

The rooms (that can sleep 2-5) are beautifully designed with natural stone walls and feature modern amenities like air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

Overall, Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita is a highly-rated and popular choice for travelers looking for an authentic and luxurious stay in Matera.

Check out pricing and availability on Booking.com

If you love a city vibe, some of the other best cities to visit in Southern Italy include Catania, Brindisi, and Bari.

2. Alberobello

Alberobellow might be super touristy but it is also one of the most beautiful towns in southern Italy and one of the best places in Puglia .

Architecture doesn’t get quirkier than the buildings you’ll find in Alberobello’s city center.

The small town is packed with ‘trulli’ (whitewashed huts constructed of dry stone and topped with cone-shaped roofs).

Also take time to sample some of the scrumptious bread this region is famous for – and to taste some delicious local wines, of course!

One of the best things about this gorgeous town is that you can easily explore this town in just a few hours.

The drive from your base town to Alberobello will take you through some picturesque olive groves, so it truly makes for a great day trip from towns such as Bari or Ostuni.

After experiencing Alberobello, you’ll be certain that it’s one of the best southern Italy towns!

Puglia might be one of the most underrated regions of Southern Italy. We loved our 2 weeks exploring this gorgeous part of Italy.

See our video of Alberobello here:

Tours We Recommend:

• Take a guided day tour from Bari to Alberobello and Matera (Enjoy a 6 hour day trip to both Alberobello and Matera – such a great way to see two of my favorite destinations in Southern Italy)
• Enjoy a 2-hour walking tour from one of the locals (Learn about the history, visit both Rione Monti and Aia Piccola districts, taste some Olive Oil, and see the inside of a traditional Trullo)

Where To Stay In Alberobello:

Some people base themselves in Alberobello, but we found that a few hours of strolling around was enough for us. We much preferred basing ourselves in Ostuni. So as gorgeous and adorable as Alberobello is, I recommend you only organise it for a half-day or full day trip. However, if you do wish to stay in a trullo then this is a great place to do so.

1. Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso

Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso is a popular and highly rated accommodation option in Alberobello.

This unique hotel consists of a collection of traditional Apulian stone houses called trulli, which have been restored and transformed into cozy guest rooms and suites.

The hotel is located in the heart of the historic center of Alberobello, making it a convenient base for exploring the town’s attractions.

Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso has received excellent reviews for its friendly staff, comfortable accommodations, and authentic Italian charm.

Click here to check pricing and availability on Booking.com

3. Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is quite literally a clifftop town (but regardless it is still a fabulous destination for those visiting Puglia with kids ); the northeastern outskirts drop away very suddenly into the waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Naturally, this placement makes it the ideal location from which to witness stunning views, making the spot a southern Italy must-see.

The town is also well-regarded as having some of Italy’s best-tasting gelato, which is the perfect snack to treat yourself to while taking in the gorgeous sights on offer.

Book yourself a romantic meal at the waterfront cave restaurant: Grotta Palazzese . What an unforgettable and unique experience that will be!

It is one of the best places to visit in South Italy if you want to sneak in some beach time as well.

Fair warning: The beach here in the town has large rocks on them. It is uncomfortable to walk on and lie down on. Our kids didn’t seem to mind them as much as we did, but if you have something like a yoga mat, it might be helpful to bring along to make it a touch more enjoyable to lie down on. I’ve even seen people bringing those inflatable camping matresses to lie down on!

• Enjoy a local tour guide on a wonderful walking tour of Polignano a Mare

Where to Stay in Polignano a Mare

We stayed in Ostuni whilst we explored Puglia. However, I really loved Poligano a Mare. And when I return to Puglia I think I would like to base myself here.

Covo dei Saraceni

Covo dei Saraceni is a luxurious 4-star hotel in a prime clifftop location above a stunning pebble beach.

Guests can enjoy the most breathtaking views of the sea from the terrace of Il Bastione Restaurant, which specializes in local fish and seafood dishes.

Come summer, it becomes an exclusive outdoor dining experience.

Add to that panoramic views and an amazing coastal setting and you’ve got yourself a magical Italian escape – all that’s left to do is book your stay!

Check here to see if Coco dei Saraceni is available for your stay.

For one of the best small towns in southern Italy, head to Erice.

Sitting atop the intimidating Mount Erice near Sicily’s north-western shore, this destination presents visitors with amazing views in all directions.

When you’ve finished admiring the sights of the Aegadian Islands, the port of Trapani, and San Vito Lo Capo, explore the wonders Erice itself has to show.

Two castles left over from centuries past still stand here, along with fortifications from ancient Phoenician times making it one of the best historic south Italy towns.

Erice is accessible via cable car from the outskirts of Trapani. As you ascend to town, you’ll experience sensational sweeping views.

Alternatively, if the weather is subpar, you can opt for a bus to ferry you between Erice and Trapani.

This is a very worthwhile day trip from Trapani . We based ourselves in Trapani and whilst I don’t care much for Trapani itself, it does make a great base for some of my favorite day trips in Sicily.

5. Taormina

If you’ve heard of Sicily’s Taormina before, chances are you already know the main attraction of this south Italy town: shops and restaurants.

Delicious food fills the streets with tempting aromas while boutiques and stalls of handcrafts will happily supply you with perfect souvenirs – perhaps even a few more than you really need!

Taormina is also home to a striking Greek amphitheater, lovely gardens, and cute cafes.

There are also some gorgeous beaches that you will enjoy at Taormina.

This town is one of our favorite destinations on the island of Sicily. You can read more about what to do in Taormina in our blog post here.

• Book a full-day Mount Etna, Wine & Alcantara Canyons Tour here (Experience a full-day excursion exploring craters, deserts, and a lava cave 2,000m above sea level. The tour includes a wine tasting and lunch among breathtaking scenery!)
• Enjoy a 2.5-hour boat cruise along the coastline from Giardini Naxos to Isola Bella (Explore the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea” on a 2.5-hour boat cruise from Giardini Naxos to Isola Bella. Discover the Blue Grotto and enjoy a refreshing swim in the sparkling waters.)
• Book your spot on this half-day pizza making tour (Join a pizza-making class in Taormina with a qualified chef to learn how to create an authentic Italian pizza. Experience a hands-on approach to making pizza dough and picking quality toppings.)

Where To Stay In Taormina

We stayed in Taormina for 3 nights and honestly, it was not long enough. You could easily spend 7 nights here! We personally preferred to stay close to the beach as we spent more time on the beach in comparison to exploring Taormina itself.

UNAHOTELS Capo Taormina

UNAHOTELS Capo Taormina is a 4-star beachfront hotel located right next to the Azure Mediterranean Sea.

With its private beach and unique sea-water swimming pool, this luxurious hotel also offers a free shuttle bus to/from Taormina Center, making it easier for visitors to explore the city.

The balconies in all rooms provide stunning views of either the garden or the sea, depending on whether you choose classic or superior.

Come experience UNAHOTELS Capo Taormina and create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful places in Sicily.

Check here to see if UNAHotels Capo Taormina is free for your stay.

6. Procida Island

When planning what to see in southern Italy, make sure that you add this quaint, charming, and romantic small island to your list.

We spent 5 incredible nights on Procida Island . We loved visiting during the shoulder season when there were barely any other tourists and we could just immerse ourselves in the normal everyday life of the locals.

Most people visit Procida for a day trip as it is a really small little Island and easy to explore in one day.

Marina Corricella is the oldest village on Procida Island and it is basically where you will find the gorgeous photos that you have seen all over the internet of all the colorful buildings.

The entire space is arranged in an amphitheater on the sea and the age-old tradition of fishing in the village creates a relaxing and communal atmosphere.

Corricella is renowned for its unique architecture, so take the time to appreciate the arches, domes, terraces, and colorful facades.

You can watch our video of our trip to Procida here:

Day Trip From Naples:

• Procida Island Day Trip with Lunch (Visit Procida on a day trip from Naples. Explore Procida on your own page, and enjoy an included yummy lunch at a restaurant. Ferry tickets from Naples and back are included.)

Where To Stay On Procida

Many people visit Procida on a day trip. I can’t imagine trying to explore this tiny little island with so many other tourists. We stayed for 5 nights on Procida and while you definitely don’t need 5 days, staying for at least one night will allow you to see the quieter more beautiful side of this island.

Il Borghetto Apartments & Rooms

Il Borghetto Apartments & Rooms is the ideal guest home for your stay in Procida.

Located close to the port, restaurants, and shops, this bright, modern, and clean accommodation will ensure you get the most out of your visit to the island.

Plus, their excellent free breakfast served in a beautiful garden makes Il Borghetto an ideal spot for travelers!

See if this guest home is available for your stay in Procida.

7. Amalfi Coast Towns

A must-see in southern Italy, the charming coastal towns on the Amalfi Coast are unforgettable! Mountains and cliffs frame the sea, creating a wonderful sense of security within the towns.

From the pastel-colored homes in Positano to the views from Ravello, the towns along the Amalfi Coast are sure to steal your heart.

If you enjoy breaking a sweat while on holiday, be sure to go hiking in the area as it’s known to have some of the most picturesque trails (give the Path of the Gods a try)!

The Amalfi Coast is a very popular tourist destination and chances are, you’ve seen the spectacular views of the area across the internet. Now it’s your turn to get your own pictures.

Amalfi Coast Resources:

• How to get from either Rome or Naples to Amalfi Coast
• Which town to stay in Amalfi Coast
• Find the best beach on Amalfi Coast

8. Sorrento

Known as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento has a long-standing reputation for being a must-see spot for southern Italy vacations.

The town is cloaked in literary romance, having been visited by the likes of Dickens and Tolstoy.

You can’t help but feel the enchanting atmosphere of the town from the moment you arrive.

Due to its popularity over the years, the town has built an impressive repertoire of high-pedigree hotels and first-class restaurants, all shaped by charming Italian tradition.

Take your time shopping at Piazza Torquato Tasso, visit the multiple museums, and soak in the view of the Bay of Naples.

Wondering Where to Stay?

• Here is our post on the best hotels in Sorrento

Tours We Recommend :

• Book your full-day boat cruise to the Island of Capri (Explore the stunning beauty of Capri on a boat cruise. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, discover the Green and White Grottoes, Casa Malaparte, and other island highlights.)
• Book your full-day tour to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius (Take a scenic ride from Sorrento to the stunning ruins of ancient Pompeii. Explore the arena, baths, and shopfronts on a half-day shared or private tour of this fascinating archaeological site.)
• Book a full-day Amalfi Coast tour (Experience the stunning beauty of southern Italy with a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast. Take in breathtaking views of Positano and Amalfi, and explore the heart of this fascinating town.)

9. Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa

Although two separate towns, Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa are so small, and so close together, that many travelers visit both on a single-day trip.

These are some of the best towns to visit in southern Italy if you want to get away from the crowds.

Castelmezzano has a reputation as being one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.

High up on the hills, above the Basento River, the town is magical both day and night.

A stone’s throw away, Pietrapertosa is a charming hamlet filled with history and culture.

The village is built entirely on bare rock and is full of single-family houses arranged in rows.

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience, these two towns are a must-see.

I think it is best to visit both of those towns on a day trip, I wouldn’t recommend you stay overnight.

We visited them both from Matera. You easily r ent a car from Discover Cars for the day to make it easy for you to get to both towns. It is a wonderful drive!

It was honestly one of my favorite day trips. The towns were pretty sleepy and not much was happening, but they are just so unique and so extraordinary to see!

The best way to visit these towns is by driving. So if you have a rental car , you can easily visit them from Matera as your base town.

• 2 Hour walking tour of Castelmezzano
• 2 Hour walking tour of Pietrapertosa

10. Pompeii

Pompeii is one of the best places to go in Southern Italy if you are a history buff.

When the famous volcanic eruption took place in 79 A.D., the ancient Roman city of Pompeii was buried under a thick blanket of volcanic ash.

Today, these ancient ruins are a massive attraction for travelers worldwide.

Whether or not you are a history lover, a trip to Pompeii is incredibly enriching. A visit to  Pompeii’s archaeological ruins  highlights the most fascinating and best of southern Italy’s rich history.

Get whisked away to a time long gone as you explore the beauty of Italy’s lost city. You can read about our time  visiting Pompeii  here.

If you have extra time, you can also easily visit Herculaneum from Pompeii. Car or taxi rides will take you anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes.

Book a Day Trip to Pompeii:

We personally stopped at Pompeii on our drive from Naples to Amalfi Coast.

I wouldn’t stay overnight in Pompeii, so I recommend you either do it as a day trip from Naples or perhaps as a stop on the way from Naples to Sorrento or Amalfi Coast.

• Book a day trip to see both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius from Naples. (This tour takes 7 hours and is incredibly popular so make sure to book ahead of time! It includes everything from your pickup to your skip-the-line ticket, a guide, as well as a yummy pizza lunch).
• Don’t line up at Pompeii! Grab this fabulous Skip-the-Line and 2-Hour walking tour ticket here. (You can get lost in the Pompeii ruins so easily, so I recommend you book a guided tour of the sight – the history is really interesting to hear).
• Visit both Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast on this great-value tour. (Explore the Amalfi Coast & Pompeii on this 8-hour tour! Departing Naples by bus, relish an excursion brimming with archaeological ruins & scenic vistas!)

One of the best cities that southern Italy has to offer, Cefalu offers an incredible combination of experiences for holiday-goers.

On the shores of Sicily, Cefalu is home to one of the best beaches in the area, architectural masterpieces, and quaint cobble-stoned beautiful beaches.

Make sure that you take the time to visit the little port and watch the local fishermen going about their daily business.

We mostly spent our days simply strolling around the gorgeous walking streets in the old town, as well as enjoying some lazy days on the beautiful beach.

Easy-going and accommodating, Cefalu is the epitome of true Italian culture.

Book a Day Trip to Cefalu:

• Book your half-day tour from Palermo to Monreale and Cefalù (Discover Monreale’s Norman Cathedral and Cefalù’s Greek origins on a 6-hour tour from Palermo. Explore Sicily’s rich history with stops at the Mandralisca Museum and Duomo.)
• Enjoy a half-day wine-tasting tour in the town of Castelbuono (Discover Sicily’s finest wines on a 4-hour tour of Castelbuono, where you’ll stroll through the idyllic town center and indulge in a wine tasting at Abbazia Sant’Anastasia winery..)

Where To Stay In Cefalu:

We made the mistake of booking an Airbnb on the outskirts of Cefalu. On the map it looked like it wouldn’t take long to get from Cefalu to our accommodation, however, the roads were windy and curving around the mountain and it took longer than we wanted. Which meant that it felt like ‘too much effort’ to get to Cefalu and back again. So I highly recommend you stay close to the beach in Cefalu itself.

Hotel Kalura

Hotel Kalura is a luxurious 4-star beachfront hotel in Cefalu, with a stunning view of the Rocca of Cefalù.

Guests can spend their days lazing around on the private beach or taking a refreshing dip in the pool. Additionally, there is a tennis court for those who are feeling active. All rooms at Hotel Kalura are Mediterranean-style and offer balconies with most overlooking the bay.

No matter what room you choose, you’ll be able to take in breathtaking views that will make your stay unforgettable.

See if Hotel Kalura is available for your stay in Cefalu here.

Known as the ‘White City”, Ostuni in Puglia , announces itself to travelers before even arriving.

The city rises high above the ocean and boldly claims its territory by boasting a labyrinth of houses, arches, and chapels. It really is quite a sight to behold.

If you are a lover of history, then Ostuni is an essential addition to your itinerary.

Take your time getting lost in the alleyways, climbing all of the staircases, and discovering all of the nooks!

We actually based ourselves for 2 weeks here in Ostuni, so by the time we left we almost felt like locals.

Our favorite restaurants included Porta Nova (fantastic seafood), Pizzeria Notti Bianche (for Neapolitan-style pizza), and La Pastasciutta (for pasta).

• Book your walking tour with a gelato tasting here (Take a walking tour of Ostuni’s historic center with a local guide, visit the Cathedral, and soak in breathtaking views from the highest point. Discover hidden gems and experience Ostuni’s full flavor!)
• Book your olive oil tasting tour here (Explore Ostuni’s hidden olive groves and rich history, while you taste three types of extra virgin olive oil during a unique one-hour tour. Don’t miss it!)

Where To Stay In Ostuni:

We personally based ourselves in Ostuni whilst we explored the Puglia region. We had a wonderful time and it is so central to some of the most popular destinations in Puglia.

1. Hotel Monte Sarago

One popular 4-star hotel in Ostuni, Italy is Hotel Monte Sarago . It is located in the historic center of the town and offers stunning views of Ostuni.

The hotel features elegantly furnished rooms, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a restaurant, and a spa.

The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and equipped with modern amenities.

Guests have praised the hotel for its excellent location, friendly staff, and luxurious amenities.

See if Hotel Monte Sarago is available for your stay here .

The secret beach town of Tropea is a hidden gem. The rugged, yet picturesque, piece of paradise is one of the best towns in southern Italy to both explore and relax in.

Although it can get crowded during July and August, a trip to the haven during May, September, and October will provide a surreal experience.

If you do manage to pull yourself away from the tranquility of the beaches, then make sure that you visit the Santa Maria dell’Isola, Centro Storico, and the Norman Cathedral for an all-around Italian experience.

• Book the popular Coast of Gods snorkeling tour here (Join a small-group boat tour to explore beaches, bays, and grottoes. Swim, snorkel, and discover local history and culture with your knowledgeable skipper.)
• Rent a Marinello Boat and explore the coast (Our favorite way to explore is to rent our own boat so we can do our own thing. This boat rental is for 4 hours and can fit up to 7 people).

Where To Stay in Tropea:

Wondering where to stay in Tropea? We have you covered! Here is the best hotel to stay in.

1. Hotel Rocca della Sena

One popular hotel in Tropea, Italy is the Hotel Rocca della Sena . It is located just a short walk from the historic center of Tropea and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.

The hotel features comfortable and spacious rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace with panoramic views, and a restaurant serving traditional Calabrian cuisine.

It has received positive reviews from travelers and is known for its great location and excellent service.

Click here to see if Hotel Rocca della Sena is available for your stay .

14. Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian Islands in the Mediterranean Sea are worth a visit. Located on Sicily’s northeastern coast, the Aeolian Islands include the likes of Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Panarea, and Stromboli.

The largest, and arguably the most popular, of these islands is Lipari. However, each of the islands boasts uniquely beautiful features.

The seven islands offer travelers stunning waters, opportunities to dive, volcanoes to trek, and decadent wine to sip.

Regardless of which of the UNESCO-protected islands you visit, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

The Aeolian Islands offer the ultimate trip for those venturing off the beaten path.

You can easily take a boat to get to these islands or you could choose one of the organized tours listed below.

As we were traveling as a family of 5, it was cheaper for us to rent a boat rather than take an organized tour. And I’m so glad we did as it was an incredible day exploring the islands and enjoying some swimming spots.

Book a Day Trip to the Aeolian Islands from:

• Click here to book your day trip from Tropea (Experience the beauty of Stromboli, Lipari, and Vulcano on an 11.5-hour guided tour that takes you through black-sand beaches, pretty villages, and the awe-inspiring Stromboli volcano.)
• Visit Lipari and Vulcano on your day trip from Milazzo & Taormina (Explore the culture and beauty of Liparian Islands, witness incredible rock formations at Lipari and Vulcano, bask in the stunning black sand beaches, and discover the enchanting Gelso.)
• Visit an active volcano! Book your spot on the Stromboli Summit Crater Excursion (Join a guided sunset hike to witness stunning lava explosions on Stromboli. This 5-hour tour ends late at night and requires an overnight stay.).

Where To Stay In The Aeolian Islands:

There are plenty of awesome options of where to stay to explore the Aeolian Islands. We found the most lively island to stay on is Lipari Island. Saline is another great option as it has plenty of restaurants and bars but also has a beautiful nature aspect to it as well. We personally enjoy basing ourselves on Malfa. It feels quiet, and local and we love it.

Lipari Island: Hotel Borgo Eolie

Hotel Borgo Eolie is the perfect place for travelers visiting Lipari Island to get great value for their budget. It is the most popular hotel on the island.

This 3-star hotel offers all the creature comforts of home, with an outdoor pool with hydro-massage, a buffet breakfast in the morning, and even a free shuttle service to/from the Lipari harbor.

They have double, triple, and quadruple room options. The rooms are spacious, although perhaps a bit dated.

Hotel Borgo Eolie is a great and affordable option for your stay on Lipari Island.

Check price and availability on Booking.com

15. Capri Island

Capri is a must when you visit southern Italy. Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Capri is made up of three island outposts.

The beauty of the area is breathtaking, with steep cliffs descending into the turquoise water.

Be advised that the exclusivity and magnificence of Capri mean that the price of visiting is significantly higher. However, one glance at the sublime space, and every penny becomes worth it!

The best time to visit this island is definitely outside of the peak summer months (June-August).

So we highly recommend you book your day trip in May or September if you can – it’s the only way to avoid the crowds.

Or treat yourself to a few days in a villa on Capri Island.

You can read about our day trip to Capri Island from Positano here.

Book a Day Trip to Capri from:

• Visit Capri and the Blue Grotto from Sorrento (Enjoy a spectacular 8-hour boat tour of the stunning coastline and breathtaking Blue Grotto. Includes Prosecco, soft drinks, seasonal fruit, beer, and snorkeling equipment.).
• Sea and City sightseeing by boat from Naples (Discover the breathtaking sights of the Gulf of Naples, Mt Vesuvius, grottos, and caves on a magnificent Capri tour, complete with free time for island exploration.)
• Enjoy a relaxing boat trip around the Isle of Capri (Enjoy a popular and affordable Sorrentine boat trip from Capri. Highlights include the Faraglioni rocks, White and Green Grottos, snorkeling, and Limoncello!).

Where To Stay In Capri:

We visited Capri on a boat tour. But we spent so long waiting at the Blue Grotto to get a turn to go inside that we didn’t have much time to spend at Capri itself. I don’t feel like I had enough time to enjoy the beaches or really even have a proper explore around. So if you want some beach time, I highly suggest you stay for a few nights on this romantic island.

1. Capri Palace Jumeirah

This luxurious hotel is located in the town of Anacapri and offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples.

The hotel features elegantly designed rooms and suites, all equipped with modern amenities.

The Capri Palace Jumeirah also offers a range of facilities including a spa, fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, and several restaurants and bars serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

It is a popular choice among celebrities and high-end travelers seeking a luxurious retreat on the stunning island of Capri.

Click here to check prices and availability for the hotel.

South Italy FAQs

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

Late spring and early autumn: May, early-June, mid-September, and October. These months are the best as the climate is warm without being too hot and places are less crowded.

It depends on whether you want to spend your holiday in close-by cities and beaches or take a road trip across a region (or two!) My advice is to stay 10 days to soak up the wonders that Southern Italy has to offer! However, one week is already a good amount of time.

Naples if you plan to visit the Amalfi Coast and Matera (alongside all the other places that the regions of Campania and Basilicata offer). Bari if you will spend your time in Puglia and the surrounding areas. From Bari, you can easily reach the Gargano area. Besides, the city is decently connected via train to Lecce – the starting point for traveling in magical Salento. If you have a rental car , you can easily visit Puglia from north to south.

Yes, the south is the cheaper part of Italy – especially when it comes to the delicious southern cuisine! In Naples, you can eat with no more than 10€ per person (and yeah, I’m talking about the pizza in the traditional pizzeria). The rule applies to the other southern regions as well. If you travel off-season, you will also find cheap accommodations and activities. Just keep in mind that, during the summer season, prices are higher everywhere.

Final Thoughts On Must-See Southern Italy Cities, Towns & Islands

There’s no question that any trip to Italy will provide you with plenty of wonderful memories (and even photographs!) to cherish for years to come.

While these 15 spots could be considered as the best South Italy cities, towns, and islands by many travelers, you should also consider your own interests and preferences.

Doing some independent research into the beautiful cities and countryside of southern Italy will help you truly get the most out of your time here.

We love Italy and we can’t wait to see more and more of what this country has to offer!

• Are you looking for the easiest way to get around Sicily? You can save yourself a lot of heartache by simply booking a taxi .
• We like to create our own itineraries and go where the wind takes us. But if you prefer to put your feet up and let someone else do the planning for you, check out our friends at Albatross Tours .
• Are you traveling to Italy and want to know more about the EU visa requirements for Colombian citizens ?

_____________________

Over to you:

• What are you most looking forward to on your Southern Italy vacation?
• Which of these 15 best of South Italy destinations do you want to see?

Jolene Ejmont

4 thoughts on “15 best places to visit in southern italy (cities, towns & islands)”.

Loved most of these but some are getting better known and hence a bit busier during the season – which also seems to get longer every year. I’d add Lecce, Martina Franca and Polignano al Mare.

Thanks Gary! We are visiting Martina Franca and Polignano al Mare in the next few months, can’t wait 🙂

Want to go to Southern Italy for husband’s bday at the end of November. What is the weather going to be like? Will it ruin a 4 night vacation?

Best recommendation I have is to check the weather forecast closer to time. If you were after a HOT summer holiday, it won’t be the most ideal time to go 😉 But it could still be a pleasant holiday – just not sure what you are expecting weather-wise?

Comments are closed.

2024 - Wanderlust Storytellers. All Rights Reserved.

About Us  |  Contact Us  | Work with Us  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

* Disclaimer: Wanderluststorytellers.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and other Amazon sites.

The Best 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Planning a trip to southern Italy? You’ve come to the right place. This is the ultimate 10 days in southern Italy itinerary.

Southern Italy is a captivating region known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. It boasts ancient ruins, picturesque coastal towns, and –best of all — delectable pizza.

Southern Italy offers all the pleasures of la dolce vita you’ll find elsewhere in Italy. But it has a slightly more Latin twist. For centuries, it was shaped by Arab, Greek, and Spanish domination.

At its most basic, southern Italy consists of four regions: Campania, Calabria, Puglia, and Basilicata. There are also the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, worlds apart in their own right.

The south boasts a rich array of art and architecture and sites that you simply won’t find in northern Italy — the whitewashed towns and olive groves of Puglia, the sensual drama of Naples, the stunningly beautiful of Capri, or the ancient eerie allure of Matera.

On top of that, you’ll find ancient Greco-Roman ruins, dazzling Baroque churches and towns, and Byzantine sites.

The food is also insanely good in southern Italy. It’s one of the great joys of visiting. Naples is the birthplace of pizza. In general, there’s a strong emphasis on fresh farm to table ingredients and seafood.

I just spent almost 3 weeks in southern Italy. So, I am ready to hand over the best 10 day southern Italy itinerary with some must know tips.

Overview of 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here’s a snapshot glance of what you can see with 10 days in southern Italy.

Day 1 : Naples

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius or Capri
• Day 3 : Positano
• Day 4 : Amalfi & Ravello
• Day 5 : Matera
• Day 6 : Matera, stop in Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni
• Day 7 : Ostuni
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare & Monopoli
• Day 9 : Alberobello
• Day 10 : Lecce

More Time ?

If you have more than 10 days in southern Italy, you could spend more time in Naples at the outset or more time in Puglia at the end of your trip.

The towns of Trani, Brindisi, or Bari in Puglia are all well worth visiting. You could also head further south to the sizzling island of Sicily.

If you want to spend a bit more time on the glamorous Amalfi Coast instead, here’s a way to tweak this southern Italy itinerary:

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius
• Day 3 : Capri day trip from Naples
• Day 4 : Positano
• Day 5 : Amalfi Town & Ravello
• Day 6 : Matera
• Day 7 : Matera
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare
• Day 10 : Ostuni & Monopoli

Bases & Tours For A 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary

For this southern Italy itinerary, I would recommend 4 bases. You could base for 2 days in Naples, 2 days in either Positano or Ravello, 2 days in Matera, and 4 days in Puglia.

For Puglia, I think the best bases are Ostuni, Monopoli, or Polignano al Mare. They are centrally located, have cute centro storicos , and have train stations if you need them. If you are visiting in summer and want a beach, you might opt for Monopoli.

If you don’t moving around a bit more, you could also stay in a trulli in Alberobello for a 1-2 nights just to have the experience.

Puglia is fairly easy to drive around. Just don’t plunge into the centro storico of any city or town. I would pick up a car on the way out of the Amalfi Coast. Before that, I would use trains, private transfers, buses, or ferries to get around.

Best Hotels:

Here are some hotel recommendations, based on hotels I’ve stayed in or checked out myself.

Naples : Eurostars Hotel Excelsior , T he Britannique , G rand Hotel Vesuvio

Positano : Palazzo Mur a ,   L a Sirenuse ,  I l San Pietro ,  H otel Poseidon

Ravello : Hotel Caruso ,  Hotel Villa Cimbrone ,  Palazzo Avino ,  V illa Maria

Matera : Sextantio Le Grotte , Aquatio Cave Hotel & Spa , Palazzo Gattini

Polignano a Mare : Hotel Grotta Palazzese , Giovi Relais

Ostuni : Hotel Relais La Sommita , Paragon 700 , Masseria Le Carrube

Monopoli : Hotel Don Ferrante , Palazzo Indelli

Alberobello : La Mandorla Luxury Trullo , Trullo Essenza-Trulli Anti Charme & Relax , Romantic Trulli

You might also consider staying in a “masseria” in the Puglia region. They are fortified farmhouses that have been transformed into luxury hotels with large rooms.

I stayed at Masseria Il Melograno (near Monopoli) and Masseria San Domenic o (near Ostuni) when I was touring Puglia. San Domenico is one of the world’s best small luxury hotels and was just stunning!

Best Tours:

Here are some of the top tours you will want to book in advance:

• half day tour in Naples with an archaeologist
• Pompeii entrance ticket
• Amalfi Coast boat tour
• Path of the Gods guided walking tour
• Amalfi vespa tour
• Matera tour with cave visit
• Alberobello walking tour with trulli visit
• Ostuni walking tour
• Lecce walking tour

10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

This south of Italy road trip starts in Naples and ends in Lecce.

Naples should be the starting point for any trip through southern Italy. From the airport, you can taxi or book a private transfer to your hotel.

Naples is the region’s capital and a vibrant, sometimes overwhelming, city. Naples lives by its own rules and has no discernible tourist gloss. It can be a a chaotic assault on the senses.

So, you’ll have to take the gritty with the pretty. But, with its long list of marvels, Naples will please those looking for culture, history, and pizza. For every dirty street, there’s a sumptuous Baroque church.

With only a day in the city, you could follow my one day in Naples itinerary .

I advise spending most of your time in the historic center around Spaccanapoli. The old center is teeming with tiny lanes, ancient palazzi, pizzerias, and ornate churches.

Some of the must see churches include Gesu Nuovo, the Cloister of Santa Chiara , Sansevero Chapel, and the Duomo di Napoli .

Sansevero is a stunning over-the-top Baroque chapel filled with exquisite Baroque sculpture. It’s a must see, but always sold out.

Be sure to  b ook a timed entry ticket  online well in advance. Alternatively, if tickets are sold out, you can  book a walking tour  that includes a visit to the chapel.

In Capodimonte and the National Archaeological Museum , Naples has two of Europe’s greatest museums. Art lovers should go to the Capodimonte for its large cache of top rate Renaissance and Baroque art. Those going to Pompeii should get a preview of its treasures at the archaeological museum.

In high season (May to September), I advise  booking a skip the line ticket for the archaeological. museum. I took this  private tour  of the museum with an archaeologist and loved it! 

Day 2: Pompeii & Vesuvius

On day 2, visit Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius from Naples. In Pompeii, explore the well-preserved ancient city buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. 

Walk through homes, baths, theaters, temples, a brothel and the forum. Don’t miss the beautifully restored frescoes in the House of Menander, the House of the Vettii, and the Villa of Mysteries.

Stroll along the historic streets, imagining life in this bustling city over two thousand years ago. 

After Pompeii, head to Mount Vesuvius. The imposing volcano overlooks the Bay of Naples.

Embark on a hike along the trail and enjoy breathtaking views. Reach the crater’s edge and witness the power of nature that once engulfed Pompeii.

Vesuvius is also known for its wineries. And you can book a winery tour and lunch there.

At a minimum, for day 2, you’ll need to book a  P ompeii entrance ticket , a Mt. Vesuvius entrance ticket , and perhaps a  private transfer to Pompeii .

I also advise booking a  3 hour tour to Pompeii with an archaeologis t  to get the complete historical backdrop. You can also book a  f ull day tour to both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius . 

For more information and must know tips for visiting, here’s my  complete guide to visiting Pompeii .

Day 2 Alternative: Capri

If you’ve already been to Pompeii or just prefer a scenic island, spend day 2 in Capri. You can take the ferry from Naples or book a Capri day trip from Naples .

Capri is one of the most dazzling and seductive islands in the Mediterranean. You’ll be delighted with Capri’s soaring cliffs, shimmering emerald water, whitewashed towns, and historic landmarks.

Capri has two adorable towns, Capri Town and Anacapri. Capri Town is the more glamorous of the duo.

In Capri Town, you can go upscale shopping on Via Cammarelle. Or hike along the coastal trail or up to Villa Jovis.

In Anacapri, you can visit the beautiful Villa San Michele, hike to belvederes or tour the Blue Grotto. Capri is also beautiful as seen from the water, so a boat tour or visit to the Blue Grotto is magical.

Here are some of the tours you might consider in Capri:

• boat tour of Capri
• 6 hour Blue Grotto visit and walking tour
• private boat tour with Blue Grotto
• cooking class with wine pairing
• tour of Capri Town, Anacapri & Blue Grotto

For more information and tips, you can check out my 2 days in Capri itinerary .

Day 3: Positano

One day 3, head to the pretty-in-punk pastel town of Positano. You can book a private transfer from Naples to get there.

Start your day in Positano with a stroll along Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront. 

Take in the vibrantly colored umbrellas and crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. If you’re up for it, take a refreshing dip in the sea or rent a lounge chair and relax on the sun-kissed sands.

If you enjoy hiking for views, you will want to hike the the Path of the Gods. This scenic trail offers panoramic vistas of the Amalfi Coast and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. You can do it yourself and book a private transfer to Bomerano (where the trail starts) or take a guided tour . 

After taking in the vistas from the Path of the Gods, descend back to Positano. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the local trattorias or cafes.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Admire its beautiful dome and stunning Byzantine-style mosaics. 

Explore the charming alleys and narrow streets of Positano. They’re lined with boutique shops, artisanal craft stores, and local art galleries.

Positano is known for its stylish clothing and beautiful ceramics. Pottery spills out on virtually every nook and cranny of the town. 

The best views of the sea-tumbling houses are from the top of Via Christoforo and Via Pasitea.

As the sun begins to set, find a spot at one of the cliffside bars or restaurants with panoramic terraces. Sip on a refreshing cocktail or sample some ice cold limoncello as you watch the sunset.

For dinner, reserve at a restaurant with cliffside views. Options include La Sponda at La Sirenuse Hotel, La Terrace in Hotel Eden Roc, Maestro’s in Villa Treville, or Il Tridente at Hotel Poseidon.

Day 4: Amalfi & Ravello

On day 4, visit the towns of Amalfi and Ravello. You can take the bus, the ferry, or go on a guided tour from Positano .

Like Positano, Amalfi Town is carved into a cliff and houses seem to tumble down to the sea.

The main attraction in Amalfi is its gorgeous cathedral. It’s a heady blend of Byzantine, Romanesque, and Moorish styles.

The exterior is covered in mosaics and has a loggia with Moorish arches. A dramatic steep staircase leads to the entrance through the Cloister of Paradise.

The cloister is lovely — filled with frescos, statuary and ancient sarcophagi from Paestum. From there, you can wade through the reliquaries and artifacts in the Diocesan Museum and inspect the cathedral itself. For more information, you can check out my complete  guide to Amalfi Cathedral .

If you are interested in ancient trades, you can also check out Amalfi’s Paper Museum. Amalfi was a major producer of handmade paper in medieval times.

The museum is housed in a 13th century paper mill. Guides will demonstrate how paper was made using traditional methods and machinery.

Have a walk through the piazzas and charming back streets of Amalfi. Then, head up to Ravello.

You can hike up via the Valley dei Ferrierre trail or the ever-so-steep Ravello Challenge. Or you can take a bus or taxi.

Ravello is a tiny town. But it’s chock full of high quality ceramic shops. It has a lovely cathedral and two magnificent medieval villas.

Villa Rufolo is in the Piazza del Duomo next to the cathedral. Its main draw is its magnificent gardens. From the Wagner Terrace, you have stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.

Villa Cimbrone is even better. It’s the epitome of romance.

The grounds are filled with crumbling follies, ancient statuary, rose gardens, and wisteria pergolas. Its belvedere, the Terrace of Infinity, offers up the best panoramic vistas on the entire Amalfi Coast.

For more information on these two towns, you can check out my one day in Amalfi Town itinerary and my 2 days in Ravello itinerary .

Day 5: Matera

On day 5, pick up your rental car and head to Matera. Matera is one of Italy’s most alluring sights, thanks to its sassi cave dwellings. It’s the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city at 9,000 years old.

The town looks and feels ancient. It was definitely one of my favorite spots in all of southern Italy.

There are approximately 3,000 cave houses and 150 cave churches. Once the “shame” of Italy, they are now renovated and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can even stay in a cave hotel!

The best way to see it all is to book a walking tour of the sassi . You can also book a private tour or a food and wine tour .

If you want to do it on your own, the two sassi districts (Barisano and Caveoso) can be accessed from several points in town including from Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Piazza Duomo, and Piazza San Francesco. You’ll see signs. The main drag is Strada Panoramic dei Sassi.

You’ll also want to visit some cave churches. The most impressive is the 10th century Santa Maria d’Idris.

It’s perched on a hill and offers up great views of the sassi . Inside, there are some lovely medieval frescos to admire.

Just south of the church is a cave museum, the Casa-Grotto di Vico Solaria. You can even see the “mangers” for the donkeys and pigs that once lived inside.

You can also check out some of Matera’s other museums: MUSMA (contemporary scupture), Muse Nazioinale Ridola (archaeology finds), or Museo d’Arte Medieval e Moderna (sacred and contemporary art).

In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Via Ridola. It’s a charming street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Stop for dinner at a cozy trattoria and sample the local dishes like orecchiette pasta, lamb, and delicious cheeses. I had delicious meals at Baccanti and Ristorante Burro Salato.

Day 6: Matera To Puglia

Spend your morning in Matera. Begin your day with a visit to the Matera Cathedral. The entrance is in a side street.

Marvel at its impressive architecture, adorned with intricate details and frescoes. There’s even a cave-like nativity scene. And you can climb the bell tower for great views of the gorge.

Explore the adjacent Piazza Duomo and take in the panoramic views of the Sassi districts from the belvedere.

In the afternoon, head out to the town of Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni in the region of Puglia. It’s about a 1:15 drive from Matera to Martina Franca.

The town is built on a hill overlooking olive groves and has an appealing historic center. It’s dominated by the Palazzo Ducale in Piazza Roma. Another main square is the Piazza Plebiscito, home to a beautiful Baroque church.

Have lunch at Trattoria Sant’Anna or Trattoria Pizzeria del Corso. Then, it’s just a 30 minute drive to Ostuni.

Ostuni is one of Puglia’s most appealing hilltop towns, known as the “White City.” It’s a historic settlement that spans three hilltops.

Settle into your accommodation and take an evening stroll through the city.

It’s a maze-like tangle of up and down streets that you’re sure to get lost in. Head to the scenic viewpoints in Ostuni, such as the Belvedere Santa Lucia or the Terrace of Sant’Oronzo, for breathtaking panoramic views.

Have dinner at Taverna della Gelosia or Osteria Ricanatti.

Day 7: Ostuni & Monopoli

In the morning, visit Ostuni’s Spanish-influenced Gothic cathedral. Marvel at its impressive facade and step inside to admire the beautiful interior with its ornate decorations and stunning frescoes.

You could also visit the Archaeological and Civic Museum. It’s a small museum with some interesting artifacts dating back to Paleolithic times. The must see exhibit is the pregnant “mother of the world,” from 28,000 years ago.

But the real joy of Ostuni is just wandering the whitewashed streets. There are flowers at every turn, even a few cats.

I had a delicious lunch at Cielo. it’a an atmospheric place with whitewashed vaulted ceilings.

In the afternoon, drive to the seaside town of Monopoli. It’s a fascinating seaside town with charming narrow streets, a magnificent cathedral, and some great trattorias.

It’s less touristy and has a more lived in feel than towns like Matera or Albrobello. The Monopoli Cathedral is a real must visit. I took shelter in it during a rainstorm, so got to inspect it pretty closely.

In the early evening, take a stroll along the Lungormare. Admire the classic Apulian blue and red fishing boats. There’s an old defensive tower, which you can climb for views.

Enjoy an aperol spritz in Piazza Garibaldi. Then, grab some fresh seafood at one of Monopoli’s many restaurants. I enjoyed La Locanda Sul Porto and Gaia Osteria Popolare.

READ : One Day In Monopoli Itinerary

Day 8: Polignano a Mare

On day 8, head to Polignano a Mare, a timeless beauty. It’s a picture perfect whitewashed village that seems made entirely of limestone.

The town’s winding streets are lined with flowering plants. The town offers incredible views over the Adriatic Sea.

Via Roma is the main drag. It’s chic and chock full of chic shops, eateries, and gelato shops.

But the back streets are adorable too. You’ll see poems written on some of the walls and steps.

Polignano is best known for the inlets and coves carved into its shoreline.

The most famous of these is right in the center of town, the Lama Monachile Beach. The Grotto Palazzese is a tiny masterpiece that’s home to a cave restaurant and 5 star hotel.

Taking a stroll along the Lungomare Domenico Modugno or the Longomare Cristofero Columbo makes for good viewing. The first one is where you’ll find the famous statue of Volare, the singer songwriter and a Polignano native.

You might consider taking a boat cruise through the coves, a boat cave tour , or a street food tour while in Polignano.

I was in Polignano for a few days so I was able to sample some of its fabulous restaurants. I had fine meals at Osteria dei Mulini, Restaurant Antiche Mura, and Specchie Sant’Oronzo. Even the street food cafe, at Olio su Pane, was delicious.

READ : One Day In Polignano a Mare Itinerary

Day 9: Alberobello

Alberobello is an incredibly unique and picturesque town in Puglia, known for its iconic trulli houses. Trulli are round stone buildings with conical gray slate roofs. Alberobello has over 1500 of them.

If you can ignore the crowds, the town has a real fairytale vibe, almost like a fantasy film set. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

The trulli are spread out along the eight streets of the Rione Monte. Some of them are adorned with astrological or astronomical symbols on the roofs.

The best way to see them is from one of the town’s many belvederes. There are especially good views from Belvedere Santa Lucia and from the belvedere on the left of the Piazza del Popolo. You could also book a guided walking tour of the trulli.

Afterward, make your way though the labyrinth of streets of Alberobello. You’ll come across the best known trulli — Trullo Sovrano and the Trullo Siamese.

Be sure to head to the Rione Ain Piccola. It’s a more authentic and less trafficked area with nearly 400 trulli .

Alberobello is also a fun place to take a guided food tour , an e-bike tour with foccacia tasting , or a cooking class .

I had the best focaccia I’ve ever tasted at Enoteca Regionale (made with burnt flour) and learned how to make mozzarella at Mimmo’s trullo.

If you want, you could spend half of the day 9 in Alberobello and half of the day in the cute neighboring town of Locorotondo.

The unique circular town boasts narrow streets, whitewashed houses with sloped roofs called cumerse , and intricate balconies adorned with colorful flowers.

Be sure to see Palazzo Morelli, with its eye catching carved portal. The main church is San Giorgio.

It’s a beautiful Baroque church with an elegant facade and a stunning rose window. Step inside to admire the ornate interior, with its intricate altars and Neapolitan frescoes.

In the Marziolla district, you will find another fascinating collection of trulli .

Day 10: Lecce

Polish off your 10 days in southern Italy with a visit to lavish Lecce. It’s Baroque jewel known as “the Florence of the South.”

It’s also called the “City of Churches” and the “City of Gardens.” To visit the city properly, you can book an architecture tour , zip around on a rickshaw tour , or go on a street food tour .

Lecce is a maze of narrow streets. Its nerve center is Piazza del Duomo.

The square is a stunning architectural ensemble with the magnificent Lecce Cathedral, Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop’s Palace), and the Seminary (which has a beautiful cloister and bell tower). It’s especially lovely in the evening when its lit by floodlights.

The Duomo has an extravagant, highly chiseled facade. It was built by the principal architect of the city’s Baroque transformation, Giuseppe Zimbalo.

If you proceed down Via Vitttorio Emanuele II, you will arrive at Santa Maria del Rosario. It’s Zimbalo’s last and finest work.

The other main square is Piazza Sant’Oronzo to the east. In the southern part of the square, you’ll find the sunken remains of a Roman amphitheater. it was built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century.

At the square’s heart is the Colonna di Sant’Oronzo. You’ll also see two other gems, the 16th century Sedile and the Church of San Marco.

From this square walk north on Via Umberto to see the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce. It’s the apotheosis of Lecce’s frenzied Baroque architectural style.

Santa Croce showcases intricate carvings, ornate decorations, and a facade adorned with mythical creatures, dragons, angels, and other symbolic motifs. It is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Italy .

In the early evenings, join the crowds at Piazza Sant’Oronzo for an apertivo . Try a glass of Salice Salentino , a renowned and robust local wine, at Caffe Alvino. There are also some good win bars on Via Umberto.

The city brims with rustic restaurants serving up hearty southern Italian food. Check out Crianza or la Vecchia Osteria da Totu.

More Than 10 Days in Southern Italy?

If you have more than 10 days, you have several options.

If you are a city person, I would spend more time in Naples at the outset of your trip. The city takes awhile to get under your skin and there are just so many attractions.

You could also spend more time eating your way through Puglia. The towns of Molfetta, Trani, Brindisi, and Otranto are all well worth visiting.

Another idea is to head further south to Sicily. To do this, you could fly out of Bari Airport or Brindisi Airport to Palermo or Catania.

For ideas on what to do in Sicily, you can check out my blog post on five ways to spend one week in Sicily . I also have itineraries for Syracuse , Trapani , Catania , Taormina , and Palermo .

If you are feeling a bit bushed after 10 days in southern Italy trip, perhaps you just want to lounge on a beach in Cefalu or Taormina.

Alternatively, ruin lusters can explore the island’s fine Greco-Roman ruins in Segesta , the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento , Syracuse Archaeological Park , or the Villa Romano del Casale .

Tips For A 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here are some other must know tips for spending 10 days in southern Italy.

1. How To Get To Southern Italy

You’ll want to fly into Naples. It has its own international airport, NAP. It’s also known as Capodichino Airport. 

From the airport, you can take a taxi or  book a private transfer  to your hotel. You can also book a  private transfer from Rome , if you fly in there.

Naples also has a major train station that’s well connected to other cities, Napoli Centrale. 

2. When To Visit Southern Italy

The general rule to to avoid July and August. These are the hottest, most expensive, and busiest months.

This is especially true on the island of Capri and in the Amalfi Coast. I was also told Matera can get up to 120 degrees in summer.

Late April/May is a delightful time to visit. Everything is lush, festooned with flowers, and landscapes look like fresco paintings.

The weather stays good until about late October. So, a fall visit is also a good choice.

3. How To Get Around Southern Italy

For the part of your itinerary centered on Naples and the Amalfi Coast, I wouldn’t get a car. I would use the extensive network of buses, trains, and some private transfers.

The road along the Amalfi Coast offers one of Italy’s most famous drives. But the road is difficult, with hairpin turns and heavy traffic. Plus, rental rates are high. I personally wouldn’t want to drive there.

In general, however, the train system in the south isn’t as good as the north. So, once you depart the Amalfi Coast, I think it makes sense to pick up a rental car for the rest of your trip.

Driving in Puglia is pretty straightforward. The roads are reasonably well maintained, except for small rural roads where you will find potholes. And the traffic is less heavy than more popular places like Tuscany.

4. What To Eat In Southern Italy

Southern Italy is a foodie paradise. The region boasts fresh ingredients, sun-ripened produce, bold flavors, and magical herbs.

Naples is the birthplace of pizza. As Julia Roberts said in the movie Eat, Pray, Love , it’s easy to have a “relationship” with it.

Neapolitan pizza has a thin, soft, and slightly chewy crust. The sauce is made from the delicious crushed San Marzano tomatoes.

In the Amalfi Coast, everything is made with lemons — limoncello liqueur, lemon cakes, lemon delight, lemon pasta, and lemon flavored pastries.

The pasta specialities are scialatielli and ravioli caprese . Scialatielli is a type of homemade pasta that is typically served with a flavorful seafood sauce.

You’ll also find an abundance of fish and seafood — mussels, clams, tuna, octopus, shrimp, etc.

In Puglia, the burrata and mozzarella is impossibly smooth and creamy. It’s usually served with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

You’ll also find some of the freshest vegetables I’ve ever tasted. The zucchini, artichokes, and eggplant are all delicious.

The homemade pasta is to die for. In Puglia, the specialty is orecchiette . It’s a small ear-shaped pasta. It is often served with a variety of sauces, such as broccoli rabe, cherry tomatoes, and anchovies.

Another thing to try is focaccia barese . It’s a delicious variation of the classic Italian flatbread. The bread is generously topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, and olive oil, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in southern Italy itinerary. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources.

• 3 day itinerary for Rome
• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• 3 day intinerary for Naples
• 1 day itinerary for Vatican City
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• 2 day itinerary for Venice
• 1 day itinerary for Milan
• 1 day itinerary for Siena
• One week in Umbria
• 10 days in Italy itinerary
• 10 day itinerary for Tuscany
• 12 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 2 weeks in Sicily itinerary

If you need a 10 days in southern Italy itinerary, pin it for later.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on June 20, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

• Travel Journal
• Travel Advice
• Travel Inspiration
• Photo Diary
• Photography Tips
• Photography Inspiration
• Destinations
• Home Inspiration
• Blogging Tips
• Work With Us

12 Beautiful Towns In Southern Italy That You Must Visit

Yup, I’m hankering on about Italy again! Honestly, I just can’t help it, it’s one of my favourite countries in the world to visit. Now, if you’re anything like me, you’ll love how diverse Italy is. In lots of ways, the North feels so different from the south, which can actually feel like a totally different country (but somehow, still surprises me). Even the Italian language sounds so different, but that’s just one of the things that makes gorgeous cities such as Milan , regions such as Cinque Terre and places like Rome feel so different and totally special.

Now, if you’re hankering for a little bit of sunshine and that gorgeous Italian charm, then you’ve gotta visit some of the beautiful towns in Southern Italy. 

The south of Italy is known in Italian as the ‘Mezzogiorno’ or ‘Midday’ region and has some of the oldest and most important historical towns in Italy as well as some of the most epic beaches (that’s perfect for a chillout day).

Anyway, before I ramble any more about my love for Italy (and specifically, Sothern Italy), here are the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy that I hope you’ll love. 

1.) Maratea

Maratea is positioned along the rocky coastline of the Mediterranean Sea and this medieval town with its ritzy harbour is one of the top spots in Italy.

If you want to stay here during the summer you may have to book well in advance to secure your chosen hotel as rooms book up FAST.

For a sumptuous stay, pop over to the  Santavenere Hotel  that even has its very own beach. It’s a great spot for cocktails and enjoying the lovely coast.

2.) Sorrento

Sorrento is an almost perfect blend of little streets and stunning history – it’s one of the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy. Within easy reach of Naples by the choo-choo train, car or ferry from here to the nearby Isle of Capri, it’s a great spot to visit on your trip around Italy.

Best of all, It’s totally convenient for visiting Pompeii and has some great views of Mount Vesuvius, too. Sorrento has some yummy restaurants and is well renowned for its gourmet cuisine.

Make sure to check out Accento Restaurant which serves up some of the best seafood in the area. What else could you want from beautiful towns in southern Italy? Well, maybe gelato, eh? 

Oh, and don’t forget to book this Amalfi and Positano boat trip . It departs from Sorrento and is just beautiful. Just be sure to book your tickets in advance; places do fill up during the summer.

Plus, you can see the other tours we also love.

3.) Paestum 

Paestum is a town on Italian soil but it was founded by the ancient Greeks when they were in control of this part of Italy, then it was known as Poseidonia after the god of the sea.

The Greek architecture alone is worth a visit so be sure to put that into your itinerary in addition to visiting the three well-preserved Greek temples that you have to see. The oldest was built about 550BC (give or take a year 🤣 )and is the Temple of Hera which is amazing.

If you’re short on time, you can also make a day trip from your lodgings or stay overnight at the gorgeous, Mec Paestum Hotel .

Just be sure to book your tours to the temples, especially if you’re departing from nearby Sorrento. There are some really great tours that take in the temple with a guide (or alone). Take a look at our favourites, below.

4.) Alberobello

The town of Alberobello is unique in that it is the best-preserved example of Trulli architecture to be found in all of Italy (well, so I was told).

Homes built in the Trulli style are made with conical stone roofs without using mortar (though, I’m no builder so don’t quote me on that).

The oldest homes date from the 14 th century and totally stunning, making it one of the must-see and beautiful towns in Southern Italy to visit.

To make things easier, book this 2-hour walking tour of Alberobello . It’s such a great way to explore the Trulli houses and really learn more about the history and culture of this town in Southern Italy. 

Book: The best 2-hour walking tour of Alberobello

Look, I’m warning you in advance… there are so many photo opportunities in the beautiful ancient town of Tropea.

Perched on top of some sheer cliffs and across the road from a narrow sandy beach, it’s said to have been founded by Hercules himself.

If you’re sightseeing, there are two gorgeous churches in Tropea too, the Santa Maria del’Isola is a medieval church that was built on an island although years of siltation have resulted in a land bridge forming between the island and the mainland.

The other is the cathedral; it has two unexploded bombs dating from WW2 sitting just outside the church door. Locals believed the building was protected by the patron saint so watch your step! 

The churches alone make this one of the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy. You’ll love it!

Okay, yes – technically a city but I had to include it!

Naples or Napoli as it is known locally is the largest city in southern Italy and is the birthplace of the original pizza, the food here is taken very seriously and the city has a strong personality of its own full of narrow winding streets with a strong African influence that makes it so unique.

To be honest, It’s a city you’ll either love or hate (it always seems to foster such polarising views). If you’re in the city, you might wanna head over to the medieval castle of Castel Nuovo, it’s huge!

The seafront fortress of Castel del’Ovo is another popular haunt you’ll enjoy exploring. Best of all, Naples is close to mainland Europe’s only active volcano, Mount Vesuvius.

Read more: Best things to do in Naples

7.) Capri 

Technically a small island, Capri has a gorgeous town and marina that you have to explore. 

The whole island is rich in history and mythology and one lovely spot you have to visit when in the region.

If you’re looking for things to see, The home of Roman Emperor Tiberius (Villa Jovis) is still one of the major spots to see on the island and so is the Blue Grotto.

The waterfront cave is only accessible by boat and only when there are favourable tides (so be prepared for cancellations).

Just be sure to book your Capri and Blue Grotto boat tickets before you arrive. Tickets go like hot cake in the summer and you really don’t want to be stuck when you arrive. 

Book: Capri and Blue Grotto boat tickets (from Sorrento)

8.) Pompeii and Herculaneum

Pompeii and Herculaneum were two Roman towns and villages that were obliterated when Mount Vesuvius erupted all the way back in 79AD.

Probably the most famous of the two is the town of Pompeii, which you can now wander around and explore when you’re in the area.

An awful  3,000 people perished in the town, but the hot ash immortalised the ruins into what it is today. Be warned, it can get pretty busy here, so plan accordingly and remember you might have to queue for a ticket to enter. 

Oh, also the nearby town of Herculaneum is smaller and was a wealthier district and gives an example of how the wealthy Romans once lived.

Make sure to visit the Herculaneum Archaeological Area if you’re a history buff! 

Finally, be sure to book either the guaranteed Pompeii entry ticket or the guided tour, below. This way, you’ll avoid lots of queuing for tickets and touts.

Read more: How to visit Pompeii

9.) The towns of the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is actually a cluster of clifftop towns and little villages along with one of southern Italy’s most beautiful coastal roads that is pretty hair-raising to drive.

I still can’t figure out if the drive is terrifying or exciting… I’ll let you decide.

It’s certainly not a route for the nervous driver but a truly spectacular road and a great way to see several traditional towns in the area like; Vietri sul Mare, Positano , Minori and Cetara.

If you are too nervous to drive this route, you can take a boat tour from Sorrento to view at a less sweat-inducing pace.

Read more: Best things to do on the Amalfi Coast

10.) Castelmola

Perched on the island of Sicily , Castelmola is one of the most beautiful towns in southern Italy to visit. Yep, it’s a pretty small town but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth seeing.

Best of all, it overlooks the more famous town of Taormina. Yes, Taormina is a more popular destination but Castelmoia is mostly ignored by all but Sicilians.

It is relatively unspoiled and you could be one of the first non-Italians to venture here (okay, I jest, but you get the picture). Not only that, there are some of the best beaches in Sicily not too far away. 

A word of warning, it is a steep climb up to the village but you are rewarded with spectacular views, much better than those you would get from Taormina below.

Read more: Best places to visit in Sicily

11.) Matera 

Perched in the countryside of Southern Italy is the stunning town of Matera – a spot you have to see.

When in the town, make sure to visit the old caves (Sassi de Matera) that once used to be homes, see the stunning architecture of this hilltop settlement and gorge on all the gelato that you’ll have no problem finding.

It really is a stunning place. Though, to make your trip super easy, book a guided walking tour of Matera itself. This way, you’re guaranteed not to miss any part of this incredible city; see our favourite tours, below.

Read more: Best things to do in Matera

12.) Castelmezzano

Saving the best till last? I’ll let you decide!

The small town of Castelmezzano (nestled in the mountains of southern Italy) has been given the classification of one of the most beautiful towns in southern Italy.

Totally surrounded by mountains the town was a refuge for bandits in the 19 th century because of its abundance of hiding places. Thankfully, today that’s not a problem that we visitors will have to deal with.

Around 1,000 people live here permanently, and that numbers grow several times larger with the influx of summer visitors – so be prepared for busy streets in the height of summer.

Still, it makes for one of the most beautiful towns to visit in Southern Italy.

Read more: The best places to visit in Italy

17 Beautiful Places In Italy To Visit

Check Out The Very Best Of Great Britain!

Pop Over To Our YouTube Channel For Travel Videos!

Puppy Defender. Foodie. Chocolate Fiend and Custard Lover. Dip, Cover or Wrap anything in sugar and I'm Yours!

Riding The World’s Tallest Indoor Roller Coaster In Edmonton, Canada

18 Best Things To Do In Valencia, Spain

You may also like.

Trekking To The Highest Point In Geiranger, Dalsnibba, Norway

5 Easy Ways To Avoid Paying Excess Baggage Charges At The Airport!

Lava Baking And Geothermal Pools At Fontana, Iceland

Looking for something, fellow connected travellers.

• 565k Facebook
• 0 Pinterest
• 1,202,450 TikTok
• 355,142 Instagram
• 23,800 X (Twitter)
• 33,257 Email Subscribers

Adventure Awaits!

Have You Seen These Yet?

Greek Island Food Recipe: A Piece Of Greece At Home

8 Experiences To Have In London This Winter

21 Best Places In The UK To Visit

8 Travel Quotes To Make You Smile

Exploring The Beauty Of Jasper National Park, Alberta

• Privacy Policy

Email address:

Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

25 Best Places To Visit In Southern Italy

Last Updated on July 29, 2023 by Soumya

Traveling to Southern Italy and looking for the best places to visit ? Wondering if Italy’s southern coast is the perfect place to holiday? What are the top tourist destinations in South Italy that you could add to your itinerary?

Well! Well! We have just the perfect South Italy bucket list for you that will answer all your questions and some more!

Southern Italy is one of my favorite places to visit because there’s just so much to do here. Whether it is digging deeper into ancient Roman history at Pompeii and Herculaneum, strolling through the charming streets of Amalfi Coast towns, learning all about Sicilian Baroque in Ragusa Sicily , or seeing the pretty Trulli houses of Alberobello, Italy’s south has something for everyone.

With an endless list of attractive towns and cities to visit, Southern Italy makes for an amazing holiday destination. There’s no chance that you’ll ever get bored here! You’ll only want to come back again and again for more.

In this ultimate list of best places in South Italy , we talk about 25 amazing cities, UNESCO sites, coastal towns, and hidden gems. Please note that our list is divided by 5 different southern Italian regions with Campania being the most popular with the highest number of tourist attractions.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Top places to visit in Campania, South Italy

Editor’s choice

One of the most historic places to visit in Southern Italy is the UNESCO world heritage site of Pompeii. The ruins of this ancient Roman city tell a story that can move you to the core.

Once upon a time, Pompeii was a rich and prosperous trading town, set against the backdrop of Mt. Vesuvius on the Italian coast. On 24th of August, 79 CE, Vesuvius spewed fire, ash, and rock in the most fiery eruption in history engulfing the entire city of Pompeii and several others nearby.

More than 10,000 people were killed in the eruption. Houses and shops vanished under a thick layer of ash. Strangely, the ash also acted as a preserving agent and protected bodies, pottery, and even frescoes in the most unblemished form.

2000 years later, travelers can experience the life and culture of Pompeii by walking through the excavations and stepping into ancient villas, temples, marketplaces, and granaries. Some of the most iconic attractions are the public kitchens or the Thermopolia, the Garden of the Fugitives, the Villa of Mysteries, and the brothel or the Lupanar.

Getting to Pompeii : The best way to get to Pompeii is by train from Naples . Get off at the Pompeii Scavi train station, which is just 2 mins away from the main entrance of Pompeii archaeological site. With the coming of high-speed trains, Pompeii is also done as an easy day trip from Rome .

Herculaneum

Herculaneum (or Ercolano) is another Roman town like Pompeii that was buried during the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 CE.

Although Pompeii was a bigger town with more people, Herculaneum was the richer one. The abundance of luxurious mansions here speaks of Herculaneum’s opulence.

Some of the best things to see in Herculaneum are the baths or the Thermae, the House of Neptune and Amphitrite, and the warehouses called Fornici. The mosaic of Neptune in the dining room of the House of Neptune and Amphitrite is absolutely breathtaking.

Do not miss the Scroll’s Villa or Villa dei Papyri which is the most magnificent villa in Herculaneum. Apparently, it was owned by the Roman senator, Lucius Calpurnius who was also Julius Caesar’s father-in-law.

Getting to Herculaneum : The best way to visit Herculaneum is by taking a train from Naples. It is the same Circumvesuviana train that stops at both Ercolano (for Herculaneum) and Pompeii Scavi (for Pompeii).

Naples is one of Italy’s largest cities and the capital of the Campania Region. Once an important cultural center of the ancient Greek and Roman empires, the Naples of today is filled with historical and architectural wonders.

Explore the historic center of Naples (also a UNESCO heritage site) on a walking tour . Step into one of the city’s many beautiful cathedrals and visit the unending galleries of the archaeological museum. Be sure to join a guided tour of Naples’ underground city , an unmissable attraction. And do not forget to try some authentic Neapolitan pizza and flaky sfogliatelle. There’s lots of interesting stuff to do in Naples, even if you are visiting for one day .

Naples is often just used as a thoroughfare for Pompeii and never really explored. So, the next time you are in Southern Italy, do visit Naples because this city totally deserves a visit.

Getting to Naples : The easiest way to get to Naples is by Frecciarossa or Italo high-speed trains from Rome. Once you are in Naples, you can explore the historic center and the seaside by walking around or using buses and trams. You’ll find a handy map of Naples’ public transport network here .

Recommended by Samantha from New England Wanderlust

Be sure to add the small town of Ravello sitting atop a cliff overlooking the beautiful Tyrrhenian Sea on your Amalfi coast itinerary . With documented history dating back to the 9th century, Ravello is not only historically fascinating, but also incredibly romantic, charming, and less crowded than other popular towns in the Southern Italy region. 

Two of Ravello’s attractions that are absolutely worth your time are Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. These villas date back to the 11th century, and showcase stunning gardens, as well as breathtaking views of the sea and coastline. The walk between the two villas is only 10 minutes, and is also very scenic, making it easy to explore both in just a few hours. 

After exploring the villas, enjoy lunch under lemon trees at Mimi Ristorante Pizzeria for some of the best pizza in the Amalfi Coast. They also specialize in limoncello, so you’ll definitely want to linger for  digestivo after your meal.

Getting to Ravello : The best way to get to Ravello is either by taxi or bus from Amalfi, which will take about 30 minutes. Taxis and buses will drop you off right at the main entrance to the town. From there, it’s only a 2-minute walk to the piazza. Once in Ravello, you’ll be able to walk everywhere, as it’s very small.

Paestum Greek Temples

Recommended by Noel from Travel Photo Discovery

The Greek temples of Paestum are one of the most underrated UNESCO treasures in Italy.

Located in the Campania region about an hour and a half drive from Naples, this magnificent archaeological complex of Paestum has a cluster of well-preserved temples and city ruins. 

There are three main temples dedicated to Neptune and the goddesses Hera and Athena along with a spectacular museum that you can visit for frescoes panels and other artifacts excavated from the site.

Surprisingly, the park grounds are not jam-packed with tourists probably because of Paestum’s isolated location and relative obscurity. If you are in the Campania region of Southern Italy, place Paestum on your must-visit list of world heritage sites to see.

Getting to Paestum : The best way to travel to Paestum from Naples or anywhere in the Amalfi Coast is by car. If you are in Naples, you can also take the regional train which takes around 1hr 15mins to get to Paestum from Naples Central station.

Recommended by JJ from Travel Across The Borderline

Sorrento is a beautiful small town in Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, in the Campania region. This glamorous stretch of coastline has long been thought of as the gateway to the Amalfi coast and a playground for the rich and famous and it’s easy to see why. Balmy Mediterranean weather, a sun-soaked coastline, stunning vistas and azure waters; Sorrento is the epitome of ‘la dolce vita’. 

There are many ways that you can enjoy your time in Sorrento such as taking part in the evening passeggiata along Corsa Italia, Sorrento’s main shopping street. You could maybe stop for a glass of wine and do some people-watching outside one of the many bars that line the street. Spend time at Villa Comunale, a small park with spectacular views over the Bay of Naples. You’ll be able to spot Mt. Vesuvius and the island of Ischia, making this is an excellent spot to watch the sunset.  

Sorrento isn’t known for its beaches. However, there are a handful of small public beaches and four beach clubs in Marina Piccola. The most popular beach club is Marameo beach. Marameo has sun loungers, cabanas, a hot tub, changing cabins, a great restaurant, canoes to rent and floating sun loungers.

Getting to Sorrento : Sorrento has great transport links and is only an hour away from Naples by train. There are also daily buses to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello and regular ferries to Capri. This makes Sorrento an excellent base for exploring the Amalfi coast. 

Recommended by Merry Allison from Virginia Vacation Guide

Minori, Italy is a quiet beach village situated in the beautiful Amalfi coast region of southern Italy. It offers visitors a quieter retreat compared to several tourist hotspots nearby, like Amalfi and Positano. The village is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Minori is located at one end of the Path of Lemons, which is a lovely stone trail that winds through the high hills of the region. The path is lined by lemon trees and provides beautiful views of the beaches and sea below. The path also connects Minori with its sister town of Maiori. 

Minori features a small but peaceful beach area lined with cafes. One of the central landmarks of the town is the sunny yellow church, Basilica di Santa Trofimena. 

For history lovers, the Villa Romana e Antiquarium is another top attraction located nearby. The well-preserved ancient Roman Villa dates from the 1st century. It is small but includes interesting historic artifacts and restored tilework. 

Getting to Minori : You can get to Minori by train, car, taxi, or bus from Naples. You can take a 37min train ride from Naples to Salerno. And, then take a 20min taxi ride from Salerno to Minori. The town is about a 50min drive by taxi or car from Naples. The bus offers the cheapest alternative, but the ride takes about 2 hours from Naples. 

Recommended by Elena from The Carry-On Chronicles

Positano is easily one of the most sought after destinations in Southern Italy. Perched atop a cliffside along the Amalfi Coast, picturesque Positano offers breathtaking scenery with its colorful buildings and dramatic seaside location.

While the charming village of Positano offers a laidback vibe, it also provides a range of activities to suit various interests. From sun-soaked beaches, to charming boutiques, to incredible hiking opportunities like the Path of the Gods, there’s more to Positano than its postcard-perfect facade.

Although the famous cliffside village isn’t necessarily known for its history, there are some historic gems to be found here too. The Byzantine-style Church of Santa Maria Assunta is one of the town jewels, dating back to the 12th century.

Getting to Positano : Determining  how to get to Positano  will take some advance planning, as this Amalfi Coast village is not serviced by any airports and there are no direct train routes. However, there are a couple of different options available, including arranging a private transfer, taking a bus, doing a bus and train combination, or traveling by boat.

Best places to visit in the Campanian archipelago

Recommended by Jolene from Wanderlust Storytellers

One charming and colorful island-town in Southern Italy is  Procida .

Enjoy the rich and uniquely wonderful Italian architecture in many of the buildings on Procida. From the Santa Maria Delle Grazie with its yellow coat of paint to the pastel-colored houses that rise just above the Mediterranean Sea, all make this town charming and special.

To view the unique residential architecture of Procida, head to the historic center, Terra Murata. You’ll find Casale Vascello which is a large courtyard surrounded by tall brightly colored terraced houses! 

Make sure to visit Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo. It is a gorgeous Italian church with a decadent interior that is one of the best things to see in Procida.

A cultural gem on the island is Palazzo D’Avalos. There is an archaeological museum, an art gallery, and a beautiful Mediterranean garden, all on-site. Plus, those views over the distant bay of Naples are incredible. 

Whether visiting Procida as a day trip or staying on the island, there are plenty of great places to eat! From lovely cafes selling delicious coffee and pastries to restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Italian pasta and freshly grilled fish, Procida offers several options.

Getting to Procida : Visiting this stunning island is super easy with nearly 30 ferry trips a day directly from the Bay of Naples.

Recommended by Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The biggest island in the Bay of Naples, Ischia is also the most diverse. Best known for its thermal pools, this island has so much to offer the savvy visitor.

Ischia is blessed with both black and white sand beaches (as well as every other shade in between).

There are several amazing  things to do in Ischia  including hiking to the top of Monte Epomeo, exploring stunning botanical gardens, sipping on locally grown wines, visiting scintillating sunset spots, and discovering fascinating historical attractions.

Getting to Ischia : To get there, inexpensive ferries depart Naples port daily. For a little more, you can take the faster hydrofoil. In any case, the trip lasts from 50 mins to 1h 30min, so travel time doesn’t have to eat into your vacation.

Once you arrive on the island, you can get around by bus, water or regular taxis, or hire your own car or scooter. Driving in Ischia can take a little getting used to, so for a stress-free journey, perhaps choose one of the other options. 

Recommended by Tori from Tori Pines Travels

The island of Capri is located off the shores of the Amalfi Coast. It is a famous destination known for its beaches, glowing grottos, lemons, Caprese salad, and many famous visitors.

From Marina Grande, take a boat tour around the island to see the famous sights, the blue grotto, Via Krupp and the Faraglioni Rocks. Back on land, jump on the funicular up to Capri town. From there you can wander the cobblestone alleys and shop for handmade Italian leather sandals, where they make them to fit your foot.

When you get hungry, have lunch or dinner at Da Paolino . Enjoy a traditional Italian meal under a twinkling lemon grove, but be sure to book reservations several months in advance.

You can choose to stay on the mainland in a Amalfi town like Positano, and take a day trip from Positano to Capri for a wonderful day adventure. But, try to spend a few nights here as there’s so much to see and do.

The island shuts down many of its shops and restaurants during the winter, so you’ll want to visit between April and October.

Getting to Capri : It’s easy to get to by ferry from many of the Amalfi Coast towns, Sorrento or Naples.

Best places to visit in Sicily, South Italy

Val di noto.

Of all the places in Southern Italy, southeastern Sicily has my heart. And that is because, here, I get to visit the beautiful Baroque towns of Val di Noto.

A devastating earthquake struck Sicily in 1693 and many towns turned into rubble. The authorities decided to resurrect these places in a combined effort. This resulted in the creation of an exceptional group of 8 towns that displayed classic Sicilian Baroque components . They are the Late Baroque Towns of Val di Noto.

Built in late 17th century, these eight towns ( Ragusa , Modica, Noto, Scicli, Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, and Palazzolo), are now a UNESCO world heritage site. If you love art and architecture, you’ll love talking a walk through their historic centers. Modica is also famous for its unique chocolate that is still made in the traditional Aztec style.

Getting to Val di Noto : Take a bus (1.5 hours) from Catania Airport to Noto. This is the fastest way to get there. You can also take a train (cheapest) which takes about 3 hours.

Greek temples of Agrigento

There are many wonderful things to do in Sicily and one of them is visiting the Greek Temples of Agrigento on the west coast.

Agrigento or Akragas was once an influential Greek city. A strategic location on the Sicilian coast made Agrigento a powerful place even during Roman rule.

The Greeks built a number of Doric temples in Agrigento. The ensemble, that came to be known as the Valley of Temples, is now a UNESCO site and a beautiful stop on every Sicily itinerary . Some of Agrigento’s unmissable highlights are temples of Concordia, Heracles, Juno, and Dioscuri. Don’t miss the medieval Christian necropolises located behind the Temple of Concordia.

Getting to Agrigento : The best way to get to Agrigento is by regional train from Palermo Central to Agrigento Bassa station. The journey takes around 2 hours.

Recommended by Marianne from Pasta Pretzels & Passports

If you are looking for a beautiful town to explore in  Sicily with kids , then look no further than Erice. Pronounced EH-richay, this 12th-century medieval village sits at the top of Mount Erice and overlooks the region of Trapani.

At 750 m above sea level, the village is surrounded by defensive walls with narrow cobblestone roads running through it. With a population of only about 300 permanent residents, Erice’s historical center is largely intact, clean, and well-kept.

There are public transit buses that run from Palermo to Erice several times daily, depending on the time of the year. You can also choose to drive to Erice, but you will only find a limited number of parking spots located just outside the city walls.

Once inside the walls, be sure to stroll the streets and admire the incredible architecture. With a beautiful church, amazing doorways, and historical courtyards, there are plenty of perfect places to grab that Instagrammable shot!

If you love to shop, Erice has many interesting little shops filled with locally made handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious sweets and pastries. Do not leave town without trying their signature marzipan fruit, almond biscuits, and pastries, or their incredible cannoli.

Getting to Erice : The easiest way to get to Erice is by car from Trapani (30 min drive). The most exciting way is to take the cable car from Trapani to Erice.

Recommended by Veronika from Travel Geekery

The whole island of Sicily is worth exploring but if you need to focus on a single place, let it be  Taormina . 

The small town, located in northeastern Sicily, has it all. Ancient sights, a stunning coastline, great gastronomy, and a chilled vibe – you’ll find everything in Taormina.

The Old Town of Taormina stretches mid-way in a hill, between the gates Porta Messina and Porta Catania. Near Porta Messina, you can find the Ancient Greek Theatre from the 3rd century BC. It offers not just a unique trip to far-flung history, but also stunning views of Mount Etna in the distance and the Ionian Sea below. 

Beaches in Taormina are plentiful too. Accessing them is especially fun – by taking a cable car. Mazzaro beach is beautiful but packed. Instead, opt for Isola Bella Beach a little further away. The beach boasts a unique little islet that you can walk over to and explore for a small fee.

Getting to Taormina : You can get to Taormina easily from Catania – it’s only an hour-long drive. If you’d rather not drive in Europe , then you can take the bus or train.

Recommended by Rose from Rose Campau Slow Travel

For many travelers to Sicily, Messina is the first city that they will see. For thousands of years, Messina served as an important port city and as a gateway to the Mediterranean. It remains so to this day.

Along with that storied history comes a great number of beautiful, historic buildings for you to discover. The Duomo has stood since its construction in 1551, and was actually designed by a young protege of Michaelangelo.

Climbing up to the top of Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re near the esplanade provides panoramic views of the entire city of Messina and the gulf. More beautiful buildings to explore include Chisea del Carmine, Campostano, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III.

Messina is also known for its incredible wines, producing varietals that are rich in history and difficult to find elsewhere. You’ll find them served by the glass at nearly every little restaurant in town, but a nice option is to visit the vineyards themselves. Located just a short distance from the city limits, Cantine Maduado and Tanuta Enza La Fauci are both family-run vineyards that offer tours and tastings to the public with reservations.

Getting to Messina : As the third largest city in Sicily, Messina is easily accessible by public transit from other parts of Italy. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Catania Airport, about 100km away, and then taking a public bus.

Another more scenic option is to fly into Reggio Calabria Airport on the mainland, and then take the ferry across the Mediterranean Sea into the Port of Messina.

Recommended by Diana from Travels in Poland

Located on the northern coast of Sicily, Palermo is a beautiful city with a mountainous backdrop and the open sea on the other side.  Wandering the streets of Palermo, visitors can feel the culture within the colorful streets. 

A visit to Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house, is a must-do when in Palermo. Still in use, the opera house hosts a variety of events and tours, many of which spectators can purchase tickets for in advance . 

The Capuchin Catacombs has over 8,000 mummified bodies and their significance in Palermo’s history make the place worthy of a visit. 

Get a real taste of Italy here because the original Sicilian Pizza originated in Palermo. Traditionally, the square-shaped Sicilian pizza did not contain mozzarella but eventually evolved into the more modern style Sicilian pizza. 

Do not miss visiting Palermo’s beautiful beaches such as Mondello or Cefalu that invite visitors to take a dip in the crystal blue waters.

Getting to Palermo : The best way to get to Palermo from mainland Italy is to fly to Palermo International Airport. You can also reach Palermo by train by using the train ferry service that crosses the strait of Messina.

Recommended by Clotilde from A Princess Travelling With Twins

South Italy is packed with places of breathtaking beauty, but there are few places yet to be discovered. If you want a small unspoiled refuge where the beaches are still wild and the skyline is still natural, don’t miss a visit to  Favignana, the best-kept secret in Sicily .

Although quite outside the international circuit, it is well known by Italian tourists who triple the population in the summer months, so you are not going to be alone there. This is also an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture in an authentic way.

By renting a bike, in one day, you can explore most of the enchanting bays and beaches (not to be missed Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra, and Bue Marino). However, the island is best appreciated if you dedicate a few days to it and savor its hidden beauty. Venture towards the slightly more secluded beaches such as Cala Preveto, stop for an aperitif by the sea at sunset, or visit the “giardino dell’impossibile” that recounts the history of the once great tuff quarries of the island.

Getting to Favignana : Favignana can be easily reached from Trapani by hydrofoil. About 30 minutes is all it takes. This makes it an extremely popular destination even for just a day trip.

Best places to visit in Basilicata, South Italy

Recommended by Caitlin from Twin Family Travels

Located in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy, Matera has a long and rich history, dating back to the Paleolithic period. Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest continually inhabited settlements in the world. The city is known for its unique architecture, which features cave dwellings that were carved into the rock formations of the surrounding hillsides.

Matera is best explored on foot by wandering the narrow streets and exploring the unique architecture of the renovated Sassi Barisano and preserved Sassi Caveoso areas.

Start your visit by learning the history of Matera at Casa Noha. You can also visit the unique Catholic church Chiesa di Santa Maria di Idris, the Duomo of Matera, and the MUSMA Museum of Contemporary Sculpture.

Getting to Matera : Matera is serviced by public transport but it is slower than other parts of Italy. The best public transportation option is to take a 1.5-hour train ride from Bari. There are also slower bus options from major cities. If you are short on time, renting a car is your best option. 

An obscure, little town in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy, Metaponto is often outshined by the more famous Matera. What everyone remains oblivious to is the fact that Metaponto was once built as a Greek city of defense. It is, therefore, home to the last remains of the famous Palatine Tables , a 6th-century BCE Greek temple dedicated to Hera and Apollo.

When in Metaponto, you can visit the Palatine Tables, explore the medieval castle, and check out the National Archaeological Museum.

Metaponto is home to only 1000 people and does not see many visitors. So, if you are looking for a quiet retreat in Italy’s south, Metaponto is the best place to be.

Getting to Metaponto : The easiest way to get to Metaponto from Matera is by driving – takes about 45 mins. You can also take a SITA SUD bus that runs 4 times during the day and gets you there in an hour or so.

Best places to visit in Apulia, South Italy

Polignano a mare.

Recommended by Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me

Perched on the cliffs looming over the emerald waters of the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare is one of the best places to visit in Southern Italy. Its compact size makes it easy to wander around its maze-like narrow streets and be seduced by the poems written all over the quaint town’s walls, doors, and stone steps.

While walking around Polignano a Mare, you will find several spots with incredible views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The most popular among them is Terazza Santo Stefano.

However, the best thing to do in Polignano a Mare is to join a boat tour of the sea caves and enjoy the views from the water.

Getting to Polignano a Mare : Polignano a Mare is situated in the northern part of Puglia near Bari. It takes about an hour to get to Polignano a Mare from Bari by train or 40 minutes by car if you’re driving.

Alberobello

Recommended by Andreaa from Andoreia Travels The World

Alberobello is a charming small town in the Puglia region of Southern Italy. It is best known for its Trulli houses, which were built without the use of mortar. Apparently, the reason behind choosing this unique building technique was to avoid paying high taxes: the locals would simply dismantle the dwellings when tax collectors came into the area. Now, that’s innovative!

Without a doubt, one of the  best things to do in Alberobello  is to stroll along the small streets while admiring the unique architecture of its Trulli homes. A guided Trulli tour is a great way to do it.

But you should also sample some of the local dishes like the popular Orecchiette pasta and the special Puglia cheese called Pallone di Gravina . Be sure to visit the unique Sant’Antonio Church with a conical roof.

Getting to Alberobello : Alberobello is a great idea for a day trip from Bari, the capital city of Puglia. It can be easily reached by car, bus, or train. However, out of these options, the train is probably the most comfortable one.

While the trains leave from Bari Central Station, you should be aware that the route is operated by Ferrovie Sud-Est and their ticket booth is not inside the actual station, but directly on the platform.

Recommended by Theresa from Fueled By Wanderlust

Bari, Italy is the capital of Puglia and is best known for its gorgeous old town. Bari was once fortified with a wall that dates back to the 4th century BC, with a restored section still standing today. The city sits along the Adriatic Sea and you can see fisherman tenderizing octopus right on the rocks. 

The best thing to do in Bari is to wander its maze of shady, winding streets. You’ll see locals congregating outside shops conversing loudly or passing chairs to be arranged in a circle for friends and family to sit and chat.  

Bari is also an excellent foodie city with a specialty in focaccia, especially from Panificio Fiore. The signature pasta of the region is orecchiette , which you’ll see at local stalls and tourist shops in all sorts of colors.  Or course, it would be a mistake to leave Bari without eating any octopus, whether grilled, in a sandwich, or chopped in a salad.

Bari is the perfect base for several day trips, including seaside Polignano a Mare or the fascinating UNESCO towns of Matera and Alberobello.  

Getting to Bari : To reach Bari, you can either fly into Bari International Airport or take the train to Bari Centrale.  If you don’t plan to do much day tripping, a rental car is not necessary. However, the charming historical towns within Puglia are a road tripper’s dream, so renting a car is still recommended for longer Italy itineraries.

Recommended by Anda from Travel For a While

When visiting southern Italy, most tourists keep close to the coast, looking for the most picturesque villages. However, there are treasures to be found inland too. Lecce’s nickname is the Florence of the south because of its rich Baroque architecture.

It’s a pleasure to wander its streets lined with the typical Lecce stone buildings. Lecce’s history goes back a long time, and you can still admire the Roman amphitheater in the heart of the city. The old part of the city is locked within the old city gates dating from the 16th century.

There are more  reasons to visit Lecce , besides the architecture. The city has a good vibe, with locals going out often and also an artsy feeling with boutique art shops almost everywhere. Add to that a great food scene, good weather and the proximity to not one, but both the Adriatic and the Ionian Sea and you have a great destination on your hands.

Getting to Lecce : The best way to get to Lecce is by flying into Brindisi Airport, which is just 25 miles away. From Brindisi, you can take a bus to Lecce.

Recommended by Megan from Megan & Aram

One of the best places to visit in Southern Italy is the beautiful coastal city of Monopoli, in the countryʻs Puglia region. This city does get tourists, but it is often overshadowed by other greats nearby (such as Polignano a Mare and Alberobello). However, you will find so many incredible  things to do in Monopoli  that it makes for the perfect base to explore the region!

If you are a beach lover and are visiting Monopoli during the warmer months, head to Porto Ghiacciolo. A long walk (or short drive) away from the city center, this beach sits at the foot of the Abbey of Santo Stefano, a castle that really makes for a unique setting! There is also a bar and a DJ here, making it a lively spot to spend the day. Another popular beach in Monopoli is Cala Porta Vecchia, a public beach that is located not too far from the center.

If you’re into history, be sure to check out the Monopoli Cathedral, the city’s old town, the views at Castello di Carlo, and the Il Bastione del Molino ruins right on the seafront. Before leaving Monopoli, be sure to grab dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants in the city, such as Komera, Cucina Nostra .

Getting to Monopoli : You can easily reach Monopoli by train from other places around the region and it is a short and direct train journey from Bari. The city is pretty walkable, so you will not need to rent a car or take public transportation (unless you are heading to Porto Ghiacciolo or somewhere further outside of the city).

Loved this bucket list of best places to visit in Southern Italy? Pin it for later!

You may also like:

• Rome To Pompeii Day Trip: 4 Best Ways To Do It
• Is Pompeii Worth Visiting - 12 Amazing Reasons Why It Is!
• Naples In A Day - Here's What You Should Do

Related Posts

• 30+ Best Things To Do In Naples Italy In 2024
• Naples To Pompeii: How To Get There In 5 Easy Ways?
• 16 Epic Things To Do In Ragusa Sicily – The Ultimate Travel Guide

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Post Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Begin typing your search term above and press enter to search. Press ESC to cancel.

Italy's East Coast

Top places to go along the adriatic sea.

Most visitors to Italy make Venice a top place to go but don’t see much else along the Adriatic coast. Italy’s east coast has many beach resort towns but there are plenty of interesting places and hidden gems to visit, too. The major east coast rail line runs between Trieste in the north and Lecce in the south and most of these places can be reached by train. Explore Italy’s Adriatic Coast from north to south, from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region to Puglia , the heel of the boot:

Trieste and Grado

The city of Trieste and the lagoon island of Grado are top places to go in northeastern Italy. Once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, they still show Austrian and Hungarian influence. Trieste is a magnificent city sporting one of Italy’s largest squares, a castle, and Roman ruins. Grado has walking and biking paths along the sea, canals and harbors, pedestrian streets lined with trees and shops, and beaches. It’s near the ancient Roman town of Aquileia .

• Where to Stay : Duchi Vis à Vis is a designer hotel near the main square and harbor of Trieste. In Grado, Residence Hotel Hungaria is well-located just outside the pedestrian zone.
• Trieste Travel Guide
• Grado Travel Guide

Little Venices: Chioggia and Comacchio

Both Chioggia and Comacchio, south of Venice, are sometimes called Little Venice because of their canals but they are smaller and easily accessible. At the heart of Chioggia’s historic center is a wide pedestrian street full of bars and restaurants. Chioggia has a lively fish market, sandy beaches, a seaside promenade and direct ferry service to Venice in summer. Comacchio , in the Emilia-Romagna region, is known for its eel fishing and is a great place to take an interesting boat trip into the lagoon.

• Where to Stay : Hotel Grande Italia is by Chioggia’s main pedestrian street and the ferry stop. Al Ponticello has rooms and apartments overlooking the main canal in Comacchio.
• Chioggia Travel Guide
• Comacchio Travel Guide

Ravenna, City of Mosaics

Although not right on the coast, Ravenna is a stop on the main rail line. Ravenna is best known for the spectacular 5th-6th century Byzantine-style mosaics adorning its churches and monuments. Ravenna is still known for its mosaic production. Other sights include Roman sites, several museums, and Piazza del Popolo, the elegant main square that was created in the 15th century when the city’s canals were covered over.

• Where to Stay : Albergo Cappello is inside a Renaissance palazzo, very near San Vitale Basilica.
• Ravenna Travel Guide

Cesenatico and Rimini

Cesenatico is a charming town known for its maritime museum and the main canal, designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Rimini is one of Italy’s top beach resorts with 15 kilometers of sandy beach. It’s also known as one of the best places for nightlife, especially in summer. Rimini has a good historic center with beautiful piazzas, Roman ruins, and places you may recognize from Fellini films since Federico Fellini was from Rimini.

• Where to Stay : Grand Hotel Cesenatico is by the sea and the main canal and has a private beach and swimming pool. Grand Hotel Rimini is an elegant, historic hotel by the sea that was a setting for Fellini’s movie, Amaracord.
• Cesenatico micro-guide
• Rimini Map and Guide

Conero, le Marche

• Where to Stay : Mure Hotel Numana is a comfortable, modern hotel a few minutes walk from the beach.
• Le Marche Map and Guide

Vasto, Abruzzo

Vasto is a charming town in the southern part of the Abruzzo region coast. It’s on the part of the coast sometimes called, la Costa dei Trabocchi , wooden fishing machines. The town itself is on a hill with a sandy beach below in the resort town of Marina di Vasto. In the old town there’s a castle, cathedral, palaces, and the oldest church, Santa Maria Maggiore, in existence in the 12th century. Visit the Civic Museum to learn more about the town’s history and be sure to try the Brodetto alla Vastese , Vasto’s special fish soup.

• Where to Stay : By the sea, Residenze Longhi has sea-view rooms. a garden, terrace, and parking. B&B il Pavone is in the historic center near the cathedral.
• Abruzzo Map and Guide

Vasto image credit: Mike Mazzaschi, A Path to Lunch

Gargano, the Spur of the Boot

Puglia’s Gargano Promontory offers everything from pretty seaside towns and clean beaches to charming inland villages and the mountains of the Gargano National Park. Whether you want to swim in the sea, hike in the forest, or visit historic towns and villages, there’s plenty to do. Rodi Garganico , Peschici , and Vieste are 3 top seaside towns and from Rodi you can take a ferry to the Tremeti Islands . Inland, Vico del Gargano is classified as one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy . From there, head into the Foresta Umbra in the Gargano National Park. On the other side is the picturesque white-washed town of Monte Sant’Angleo , famous for the Cave Sanctuary of Saint Michael.

• Where to Stay : Palace Hotel San Michele is a 4-star hotel by the castle in Monte Sant’Angelo. Park Hotel Villa Americana is in the seaside town of Rodi Garganico. Or for self-catering, stay at Pizzicato Eco B&B in Vico del Gargano.
• Gargano Map and Places to Go

Southern Puglia and the Salento Peninsula

Farther south along the coast, Trani has a picturesque Romanesque cathedral and castle by the sea. Bari , Puglia’s largest city, has an interesting historic center with a castle, a seaside promenade and harbor, a big pedestrian-only shopping street, and plenty of good restaurants and nightlife. Polignano a Mare , built on a cliff, is one of the most picturesque towns along the coast and there’s a nice, sandy beach below it. The main train line ends in the Baroque city of Lecce , slightly inland. Beyond Lecce is the Salento Peninsula known for its good beaches and picturesque towns.

• Where to Stay : In Trani, Hotel San Paolo al Convento is a nice 4-star hotel in a former convent, right on the harbor. In Bari, Bozzi 1910 is a condo hotel near the harbor between the train station and historic center. In Lecce, stay in a medieval fortress at Torre Del Parco 1419 , a 5 minute walk from the historic center.
• 5 Places to Go on the Salento Peninsula

This post may contain affiliate links to sites I believe are of benefit to travelers. There is no cost to you but the small amount of revenue helps defer the cost of bringing you this free information.

Related Articles

Author Martha Bakerjian Categories Seaside Towns , Where to Go in Italy

Italy Facebook Page Email Me

Commenting is closed for this article.

Italy's East Coast originally appeared on MarthasItaly.com Jul 14, 2023 , updated: Aug 11, 2023 by Martha Bakerjian .

Southern Italy

Campiglia Marittima-  Discover the Top 4 Must-Visit Sights

Castel del piano – tuscany’s enchanting escapes revealed, what is rome famous for – 28 things that make rome…, coffee shop in florence – 14 choices for your caffeine fix, northern vs southern italian food – 14 rich culinary delights, sorrento food – cuisine with rich history and tradition, amalfi coast food – 13 typical dishes to taste, tuscan food – a wealth of pasta sauces, soups, and sweets, tuscan desserts – sweets, cookies, cakes, and wines, what to wear in rome – where fashion meets history, rome to tuscany – navigating the best travel route, italy in january – your winter guide for 10 things to…, rome in january – visiting the eternal city in winter, rome to amalfi coast day trip- everything you need to know.

Southern Tuscany – Best Towns, Where to Stay, and Itineraries

Southern Tuscany offers visitors charming borghi or small towns, rich history, and restorative hot springs, and gorgeous beaches. This region is not to be overlooked for the larger cities in the north, the Tuscan countryside is absolutely worth a spot on your itinerary.

This region is an excellent trip destination due to the variety of activities and opportunities that it offers in just a small area! The towns here are best known for their incredible beaches, impressive hot springs, charming Tuscan countryside, excellent wine and food, and rich ancient, medieval, and Renaissance history. You can’t go wrong with a trip to Southern Tuscany, and there are so many wonderful places to choose from!

The options you’ll encounter when planning a visit to the south of Tuscany can leave you with what Italians call the “ imbarazzo della scelta ” – the sensation of an impossible choice due to an abundance of fantastic options! But don’t worry. Read on for itinerary ideas, the best towns in Southern Tuscany, and details to help you select the perfect spots for your travels.

Where Is Southern Tuscany and How To Get There

Southern Tuscany is considered to start at Siena and stretch down to the region’s southern border with Lazio, where you’ll find Monte Argentario.  

Some of this region’s best gems are not well connected with trains, so your best bet for flexible travel is a car. Buses do run between many towns, but are better for slow travel fans who have time to follow the bus route or make stops: schedules often don’t offer a lot of options, and it won’t be the most efficient route. You can check tickets and timetable on Tiemme , the main bus company for the south of Tuscany,

Siena is a great starting point for your adventures in Southern Tuscany, and can be accessed by train or bus from the major airports in Italy.

The 5 Best Towns in Southern Tuscany

Pienza was named for its patron, Pope Pius II. He renovated the Southern Tuscan town of Corsignano following the urban ideals of the Italian Renaissance, starting city planning trends that spread to other towns in Italy and across Europe. Famous for its Pecorino cheese, Pienza is full of history, Tuscan charm, stellar food, and wine experiences.

2. Massa Marittima

A quintessential small Tuscan town, Massa Marittima offers a famed Cathedral of San Cerbone, an archeological museum, and a relatively erotic ( but potentially and controversially censored ) “The Tree of Fertility” fresco. Mining was a critical industry in the area. This rich history can be explored in the Mining Museum of Massa Marittima which is located inside an ancient quarry and structured like the tunnels of a mine. 

3. Montepulciano

Located on the site of an ancient Etruscan town dating back to the 4th century BCE, Located in Southern Tuscany, Montepulciano is a very walkable town famous for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano , the Noble Wine. Be sure to check out the charming and unique San Biagio Church just outside the city limits.

4. Pitigliano

Pitigliano is essentially and impressively carved out of the tuffaceous volcanic rock found in the south of Tuscany, and is home to a ton of Etruscan archaeological sites. It came to be known as “Little Jerusalem” and is an important city for Jewish culture in Italy. The Pitigliano Synagogue is worth a visit, and next to it, you will find the Museum of Jewish Culture.

Just a few kilometers away, you will find two other Borghi del Tufo – other towns carved into the volcanic rock and famed for their Etruscan sites: Sovana and Sorano . Sovana boasts the Sovana Arc heological Park , one of the most famous archeological sites in Italy. The Archeological Park San Rocco is located between the towns. Sorano is also known for its impressive hot springs .

5. Castiglione della Pescaia

A critical stop on the coast of Southern Tuscany, Castiglione della Pescaia offers a charming port, luxury beach resorts, and nature adventures in the nearby pine forest and marshes. Between walks along the lungomare promenade and afternoons by the sea at Castiglione della Pescaia’s many beaches, don’t miss the famed Diaccia Botrona Natural Reserve which is a hot spot for bird watching and nature photography.

Other Things to Do and Places Worth Visiting

While those are the top contenders for towns in the south of Tuscany, there are a few other considerations in the running.

The Val d’Orcia , where you will find Montepulciano, offers a lot of other inspiring stops. From wine trails and vineyards , to towns built for hot springs, to ancient castles and small countryside chapels, this Valley is rich in wonderful experiences. It can be enjoyed by car or more slowly, allowing you to appreciate the countryside that much more, on foot or by bike. Montalcino is a town in the Val d’Orcia famous for the production of Brunello red wine. It also offers amazing views of the valley.

San Galgano Abbey , between Siena and Grosseto, offers a breathtaking and looming structure, whose slight deterioration only adds to the sense of the age of this structure (over 800 years!). Grosseto is a seaside town, and the largest in the Maremma , the southernmost region of Tuscany that offers beautiful coastlines and an abundance of charming towns – you can’t go wrong just exploring this area.

Monte Argentario is a promontorio in the south of Tuscany that was originally an island and boasts nature reserves, hilly treks, gorgeous beaches, and portside towns with Spanish fortresses like Porto Ercole and Porto Santo Stefano . On the mainland, you will find Capalbio which offers a unique Tarot Garden in addition to the usual gorgeous churches and alleyways. A bit to the north is Talamone , which can be found right below the Maremma Nature Reserve.

Where to Stay in Southern Tuscany – Best Hotels

There are so many incredible options for places to stay in Southern Tuscany – from agriturismos, to spa resorts, to charming town apartments. Here are a few favorites!

Agriturismo near Saturnia’s thermal springs waterfall

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Agriturismo Le Cascatelle (@agriturismo_le_cascatelle)

Agriturismo Le Cascatelle is located just a kilometer from the thermal baths at Saturnia. This large complex offers apartments, rooms, and villas depending on your needs. 

Location : Località Terme Di Saturnia, 58014 Saturnia, Italy

Features : Free parking, Exceptional breakfast, Bar

Reviews : 9.2/10

Room in town for a walkable dream in Pitigliano

Located in the center of Pitigliano, Casa Messi is a restored 15th-century building that offers an authentic and local feel. Each room is designed with both Tuscan charm and convenience in mind, offering both a kitchenette and a washing machine. 

Location : Vicolo della Stella 35, 58017 Pitigliano, Italy

Features : City view, Balcony, Air conditioning

Reviews : 8.5/10

Seaside Hotel in Castiglione della Pescaia

Just a couple minutes’ walk from the beach, Hotel Lucerna offers a great location, incredible views, and impressive amenities. The hotel boasts a restaurant, mini-cruises of the Tuscan Archipelago, a reading room, and a rooftop terrace, as well as free parking and AC in each room. 

Location : Via IV Novembre 27, 58043 Castiglione della Pescaia, Italy

Features : Private parking, Free WiFi, Bar

Reviews : 8.7/10

Best Beaches In Southern Tuscany

The coastline of Southern Tuscany is charming as well as relaxing! Whether you want to adventure or sunbathe, it’s sea, sand, dunes, forest, and wetlands are always close by. 

Cala Violina

Cala Violina is a popular beach near the commune of Scarlino, in Maremma Grossetana. Cala is Italian for cove, and this beach is crescent moon shaped. It was named violin cove following a local legend that the sand makes an astonishing sound when walked upon, similar to that of a violin. 

Historically home to one of the most important Tuscan ports, Baratti and the Golfo di Baratti are located on the coastline near Piombino and Grosseto. With a charming port and stunning beaches near pine forests, this is considered a must-see beach in Southern Tuscany.

Cala del Gesso

The most beautiful beach in Monte Argentario is often said to be Cala del Gesso, which can be found near Porto Santo Stefano. It does not have umbrellas or restaurants but can be reached by foot or by boat.

Read more: Best Beaches in Tuscany – Discover The Beauty

Hot Springs in Southern Tuscany

Southern Tuscany’s towns and countryside are rich in restorative thermal waters from hot springs. Many of these springs have been used by humans for their healing properties since ancient times and were referenced often in travel documents of pilgrims headed to Rome and Jerusalem. Many are now situated near or built up as modern spa towns where tourists flock for rest and relaxation, leaving visitors with options to visit the natural springs or experience more customized luxury in the waters.

The ancient town of Saturnia – with Greek, Etruscan , and Roman roots – sits atop a hill overlooking the glorious hot springs bearing the same name. Within minutes of arriving, you will understand why people have been drawn to this place for so long! The springs stretch from Mount Amiata to the hills of Albegna and Fiora rivers. There is a paid spa in the town of Saturnia, but the springs in public nature are free to visit – don’t miss the waterfalls Cascate del Mulino and Cascate del Gorello.

Hot Springs in the Vald’Orcia

Ever seen an Italian town with a pool of water sourced from hot springs in the main piazza? Bagno Vignoni is one of a kind! The piazza dates back to the Renaissance and is built directly over the hot spring source. The pool can’t be swimmed in now, but if you follow the springs that flow out of the pool you will find free and public bathing spots down the hill in the Park of Mills. The nearby Bagni San Filippo (15 minutes by car) is located at the foot of Mount Amiata.

Historically, the thermal waters of San Casciano dei Bagni have had a particular draw from international nobility, thanks to fame and promotion by the Medici family. The Grand Duke Ferdinand even built a portico over the source of one of its springs.

Other Hot Springs

One of the Borghi del Tufo , Sorano , is also located near impressive hot springs, the Terme di Sorano. Be sure to check out the 15th-century swimming pool Il Bagno dei Frati which was originally used by monks.

The nearby thermal baths are so important in Venturina Terme that terme (thermal) was added to the town name in 2014! The hot springs here are largely centered around the spa, which was first built in 1883, and draws many people seeking to cure specific ailments and illnesses with the waters. 

The town of Sassetta is nestled gorgeously in a chestnut tree-covered hillside. The water of its springs is said to be particularly hot, up to 50° Celsius or 122° Fahrenheit.

Southern Tuscany Itineraries

If you’re traveling with specific interests in mind, check out the following itineraries!

Rest and Relaxation At The Spa Towns 

If you’re looking for a relaxing break on a vacation, the thermal baths will provide just the ticket! Start in Bagno Vignoni , where the thermal spring pool in the piazza will set the mood. You can take a day trip just 20 minutes away to Bagni San Filippo, or add it as the next stop on your tour. Next, head to San Casciano dei Bagni before heading south to the famed Saturnia . On the way, you can stop in Sorano for a bite to eat among the ​​ tufo volcanic rock, or for a whole day if you’d like to check out their thermal baths as well!

The Scenic Route

Want to see as much of the region as possible without spending too much time traveling at once? This trip can be stretched across any number of days depending on how much you want to see. Ideally, you’d spend at least a day or two in each town. It’s done ideally by car, and times are listed as drive time.

Start in Siena , before heading onto Massa Marittima (1 hour and 10 minutes). Reach the coast at Castiglione della Pescaia (40 minutes) and continue on, through Grosseto , to Porto Ercole (1 hour) of Monte Argentario. While you’re there, you can check out Orbetello if you’d like! From there, cross over to the famed hot springs at Saturnia (1 hour) before continuing on to the Borgho del Tufo, Pitigliano (30 minutes) . Next, head up to the Bagni San Filippo (1 hour) and then onto the wine town Montepulciano (35 minutes). Here, you should be sure to taste their Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Then return to Siena (1 hour), and you’ve completed your loop through Southern Tuscany!

Restaurants – Where To Eat

Pizza & core.

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Pizz & Core (@pizzecoreargentario)

Pizza & Core is a Neapolitan-style pizzeria in Porto Santo Stefano that is very accommodating, offering both vegan and gluten-free options. 

Official Website : Pizz & Core

Location : Corso Umberto I, 4, 58019 Porto Santo Stefano GR

Reviews : 4.7/5

Insider Tip : Authentic Pizza Napoletana

Sette di Vino

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Brian and Blanca’s Diary (@kaintourog)

If you stop in Pienza , be sure to check out the cozy restaurant Sette di Vino . This place has a local, family-friendly ambiance and the menu is full of typical Tuscan eats.

Official Website : N/A

Location :  Piazza di Spagna, 1, 53026 Pienza SI

Reviews : 4.8/5

Insider Tip : Exquisite local cuisine

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

What is rome famous for – 28 things that make rome unique, popular articles, towns in tuscany – 15 jewels of italy’s rich culture, bolgheri – exploring the charm of tuscany’s wine country, val d’orcia – valley of castles, hot springs, and vineyards, popular posts, pitigliano – guide to southern tuscany’s best kept secret, sorano – guide to the ancient hill town in tuscany, giglio island, italy – 11 things to do and where to..., popular category.

• Campania 24

Experience Southern Italy: 12 Amazing Vacation Destinations

Located in Southern Europe, Italy (Repubblica Italiana) is the third-most populated state within the European Union (EU). Italy’s shape is generally referred to as a boot. Southern Italy is known as the bottom part of the boot, consisting of the ankle, toe, arch, and heel.

Southern Italy includes 8 of the 20 beautiful regions of Italy —  Abruzzo, Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, Sardinia, and Sicily. The south also differs from the northern and central parts as its Greek colonization heavily influenced it.

From historical and archeological sites to beaches and mountains, Southern Italy is a unique region every traveler should experience. Check out our list of must-visit travel destinations in Southern Italy.

Alberobello, Apulia 

Recommended by Chris of LooknWalk

A small town in the province of Bari in the Apulia (ita: Puglia) region of Southern Italy. Alberobello is a picturesque destination that is well-known for its Trulli houses.

Known as the Capital of the Trulli, one of the city’s neighborhoods has been made a UNESCO World Heritage site because of these strange, whitewashed houses. The buildings have conical roofs and no mortar.

While many of these Trulli are still inhabited—and there is a separate, completely residential neighborhood of Trullis—some houses have been turned into stores, restaurants, or lodging.

Once you get off the train or bus, follow the signs and walk to the protected area. Alberobello can easily be visited as a half-day trip from Bari . Put on some good walking shoes as that’s what you’d be doing most of the time: walk! Explore the streets and the cute houses, stop to take photos, visit the church (also a trullo), and get some souvenirs.

You can also visit the Trullo Living Museum (from July to September). It features old workshops and houses furnished with original 19th-century tools and objects brought to life by actors.

Feeling hungry? Pack some snacks and stop in the square right in front of the entrance to the protected area and refuel. Or venture away from the tourist center to get something to eat in a local restaurant.

If you want to spend the night in a Trullo, plan, and book in advance, especially if you travel during the high season (summer).

Capri, Campania

Recommended by Kerry of VeggTravel

The Isle of Capri is located in the Mediterranean Ocean to the south of Italy. Popular with visitors and locals alike, its charm draws you in with its quaint residences and magnificent mountainous sights. One of the most common ways to see this magnificent Italian island is a Sorrento to Capri day trip , as it is fairly expensive to stay in Capri. 

Other options are to get a ferry to Capri from Naples or the Amalfi Coast or take an organized boat tour. With this option, you also visit the beautiful blue grotto, which illuminates the small cave in a bright, alluring color. 

Another must-do is to take the chair lift to the peak of Monte Salaro. From 583 m above sea level, you can enjoy panoramic views of the bay of Naples, the Amalfi coast, and the captivating Capri Town.

If you’re not acquainted with Italy, there are highly restricted public beaches, and Capri is no different. This means that most of the ‘coastline area’ is privately owned by beach clubs, which require you to pay to enter. The price of these can be pretty expensive, so it’s just worth doing if you’re taking pleasure from the beach club all day.

Otherwise, head to the public beach early to get one of the limited spots available. One of the most popular beach areas on the island is the Marina Piccola. There are great places to cliff jump from, and you will undoubtedly see some of the iconic rocky backdrops in the photos.

Naples, Campania

Recommended by Ronja of Ronja Goes Abroad

Naples, the third-largest city in Italy, is located in Southern Italy. It is known for its beautiful architecture and is one of Europe’s most essential and significant ports. But this city isn’t for everyone.

Arriving in Naples can be a shock. Traffic changes significantly if you travel by car, and you can feel tension while driving. If you arrive by plane and take the train/metro to the central station, getting above ground and seeing the surroundings might shock you.

The city has had a severe problem with garbage for many years, and you can see it here. The faster you get from the sea, the poorer and dirtier it gets. Therefore, the main tourist location is by the sea. But be aware of pickpockets!

The port area and its surroundings are beautiful. It’s the Naples you know from all the photos. Take a walk by the sea and stop to eat at one of the many restaurants.

You cannot visit Naples without eating pizza. There are many underground ruins in Naples worth a visit. Tickets to the catacombs are around 12€. Naples is an old city with many castles for one to visit, such as Castel dell Ovo by the sea. 

When visiting Naples, you must take a day trip to Pompei. It is easy to get there by public transport. Jump on the MET train or metro number 1 to Pompei. Both arrive in the city center, which is a short walk to the ruins. If you are not one to visit ruins, take a shuttle bus up to Mt. Vesuvius. Visiting the volcano is worth it for both the views and the sight itself.

The best time to visit Naples is in summer but be prepared for the warm weather and the many tourists. If you are up to visiting during the off-season, October is a great time to visit. The weather is not around 50 to 68°F, and there aren’t as many tourists as during summer. 

Positano, Campania

Recommended by Lori of Travelin Mad

Positano on the Amalfi Coast of southern Italy is one of Italy’s most beautiful and celebrated small towns and a favorite vacation destination for Italians. Brightly-colored houses, shops, and hotels cling to the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, making for one of Italy’s most beautiful small towns .

To get to Positano, you must take a bus or a private shuttle, as no train lines serve the Amalfi Coast. A rental car is the least desirable since there are few parking places.

When relaxing and exploring the town, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its beautiful Moorish tiled dome, provides an excellent reference point. It has great views of the sea and great photo ops.

By day, you can relax at sunny Spiaggia Grande beach or head to Da Adolfo and Laurito beach. In the evening, wander the narrow streets that wind up and down the mountainside with upscale shops, boutiques, and restaurants. You can even have leather sandals custom-made for you while you are dining.

Make time to hike Il Sentiero Degli Dei, the Path of the Gods, for incredible scenery above the shoreline. It’s an easy hike with breathtaking views. For a different way to sightsee, take a guided boat tour of the coast, and don’t forget your camera.

After dinner, try a sip of limoncello, a local digestive made from Sorrento lemons. Shops all around town sell lovely ceramic bottles of the liqueur, which you can take home as a special gift.

Procida, Campania

Recommended by JJ of Travel Across the Borderline

Procida (pronounced pro-cheee-dah) is the smallest inhabited island in the bay of Naples, Italy. It is often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Capri, which is excellent news for you because whilst people are overcharged in busy Capri, you will have laid-back Procida all to yourself! 

I recommend staying in Naples or nearby Sorrento and taking the ferry to Procida for a day trip . The small island is easily covered in a day. 

Procida, Italy, is famous for its pretty pastel-colored buildings that line the harbor. One of the best things to do is hike up to the viewpoint to admire Procida in all its glory. It will be very hot and sweaty, but I promise the view is worth the effort!

The best viewpoint in Procida is on the island’s opposite side, where the ferry drops you off, but plenty of signs are pointing the way. You can also type ‘Panorama Elsa Morante sulla Corricella e Terra Murata’ into Google Maps or Maps.me to find your way there.

After your hike, you can cool off with a refreshing dip in the sea and then treat yourself to some delicious Italian cuisine in one of the many outdoor restaurants.

Sorrento, Campania

Recommended by Sam of FindLoveAndTravel.com

A little over an hour south of Naples, Sorrento is one of the most beautiful areas in Southern Italy! Its proximity to Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Capri is a great starting point.

Naples also has tons to see and do! Sorrento has many shops and restaurants throughout the city, which is very walkable! Since they are located right on the water, Sorrento is known for having excellent seafood. They even have a fishing village at Marina Grande. 

Furthermore, they have some great beach clubs. The clubs are more of a boardwalk into the crystal blue water than a sandy beach. Sorrento also has a very small public sand beach as well. 

Additionally, you must add a lemon grove to your Sorrento itinerary ! You will get to see the giant lemons Sorrento is so famous for, and he usually also includes some complimentary shots of limoncello! 

For sunset, you can walk to the Sorrento lift, which brings you to the edge of the cliff on which Sorrento is perched. You can see Mt. Vesuvius across the Gulf of Naples as the sunsets.

Sorrento has a large ferry port, making it easy to get to Positano and Capri, which are must-sees! Pompeii and Herculaneum are easy day trips to add to your southern Italy intermarry.

Vietri sul Mare, Campania

Recommended by Jackie of  Jou Jou Travels

Vietri Sul Mare is a hidden gem along the Amalfi Coast in the Salerno province. It is known as the ceramic capital of the world and boasts one of the most beautiful, serene beaches. The town has a beautiful view of the cityscape as soon as you exit the train station.

You can easily get to Vietri Sul Mare from Salerno by taking one stopover or ferry to the Marina di Vietri from Amalfi or Salerno. Then, you will be alarmed by the adorable town’s true uniqueness and creativity. The streets are decked with ceramics, and each shop, one after another, has handmade ceramics you can buy and take home with you as a souvenir.

Not only that but there is so much to do after wandering the cute, quaint streets full of tiled walls and paths. Start your day shopping, then head to the private beach, Spiaggia Della Crestarella. It is relaxing and much less touristic than the other beaches in popular Positano or Capri.

In the center of the town, you will also find the Cathedral of Vietri, which is worth a stop. There is also a Park and Amphitheater over the sea with a tiled staircase leading down to the Amphitheater.

This is a great photo spot; right above it, you will find a nice place to grab food in front of the sunset. This restaurant, Pane & Panorama, serves some tasty sandwiches in front of a panoramic view of the town.

Castellammare del Golfo, Sicily

Recommended by Marianne of Pasta Pretzels & Passports

Castellammare del Golfo is a pretty seaside town located one hour west of Sicily’s capital, Palermo. Centered around their marina, the town is filled with wonderful shops, restaurants, gardens, cafes, and even a castle! This town is worth a visit if you are heading to Sicily !

There are so many things to do in a small town that will fill your days. Depending on your interest, you can relax by one of several scenic beaches, do some sightseeing, shop, enjoy the nightlife, or just soak in the culture on a stroll around town!

One of the iconic things to do in Castellammare is to visit Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve. This pristine area features 7 km of windswept shores, precipitous cliffs, turquoise water, natural coves, and grottos for swimming. Enjoy the stunning natural vistas as you hike, swim, or relax in the Sicilian sun.

If you want to do a little shopping, head to the Quattro Canti and Corso Garibaldi. This cobblestone pedestrian-only area is very picturesque, with gorgeous views of the marina and castle from the central gardens. Here, you will find quaint little boutiques, gelaterias, restaurants, and artisanal shops filled with fantastic locally-made goods.

One thing you do not want to miss is a trip to the Belvedere. Take this short drive to the top of the cliff for a jaw-dropping view of the town. It is a photographer’s dream, and you will also find a nice restaurant tucked into the hillside.

Palermo, Sicily

Recommended by Caroline of VeggieWayfarer.com

Sicily, a Mediterranean island in southern Italy, is favored by many travelers looking to soak up some much-needed vitamin D in the winter months and those looking for the best beaches to relax in summer. The capital of the island, Palermo, is the perfect hub to explore the multitude of quaint towns in Sicily .

Visit the Norman Palace, which has an impressive Palatine Chapel adorned with hundreds of golden mosaics, the Church of Gesu, and the Church of San Cataldo to soak up some typical Sicilian culture.

For lunch, grab a traditional spleen sandwich or a delicious Arancini (fried riceball with ragu or à la norma for vegetarians), and keep some room for gelato with a big brioche.

Make your way towards the Cathedral of Palermo. You can climb narrow stairs and onto the roof for the best views over Palermo for a few euros.

The local markets (Ballaro, La Vucheria, and Il Capo) are prime locations for the famous Palermitan street food, good coffee, and people-watching.

Keep a close eye on your belongings here, though, as pickpockets are notorious in the area. End the day with a delicious plate of pasta with sardines or swordfish skewers. Buon Appetito!

Trapani, Sicily

Recommended by Tjasa of The Travel Momento

When visiting southern Italian cities, one of the most charming places you need to see is Trapani. Located on the West coast of Sicily , it is the perfect base to explore this island site and the place with the best traditional Sicilian cuisine.

Although not among the popular Sicilian towns, the ancient city of Trapani will find a place in your heart with its history, culture, and architecture. The best way to spend one or more days in Trapani is to explore the narrow, cobbled streets of the old center on foot. Walk through the alleys and admire the various churches, chapels, and temples that are still in existence today.

Some of the most prominent sights are the long main street Corso Vittorio Emanuele, alongside which you can find the Palazzo Senatorio o Cavarretta and Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. If you continue to the seaside, you will reach Torre di Ligny, which today represents the seat of the history museum. This is a fantastic spot to finish your day and admire one of the best sunsets you have seen.

In addition to Trapani’s rich architectural heritage, there are some beautiful surroundings to explore, reachable by bus, cable car, or rented car. Drive up to the unique village of Erice and its medieval castle overlooking Trapani and the Sicilian coastline, get blown away by the pinkish salt lakes in Matala, and jump into the turquoise sea of the Aegadi islands. 

Catania, Sicily

Recommended by Lara of The Best Travel Gifts

One of the best places to visit in Southern Italy is Catania, Sicily. This beautiful, World Heritage-listed city is filled with historical buildings and rich culture.

One of the best things to do in Catania is a walking tour through the historic city. You can either take one of the free walking tours that depart from Piazza Università or create your own. Some highlights to include in your walking tour are Ursino Castle, Palazzo Biscari, Monastero dei Benedettini, the Roman Theater, and Piazza del Duomo.

If you have a strong stomach and you love being around locals, make sure you add a stop at La Pescheria (the fish market). It’s a great place to experience authentic Catania.

Besides being a beautiful city to visit, Catania is also a great starting point for a day trip to Mount Etna, which is a must when you’re in Sicily. 

You don’t want to miss the opportunity to stand on the top of an active volcano (no worries; it is still safe to visit Mount Etna) and admire the view over the island. There are many options for organized tours from Catania. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take the bus. 

Taormina, Sicily

Recommended by Mariana of RoadTripEuroGuide.com

Among the many places you can visit in southern Italy, Taormina is probably one of the cutest cities in Sicily and worth a weekend trip at a minimum! There’s a debate going around on “ What is Better? Sicily or the Amalfi Coast ,” and Taormina is a defining point on why I pick Sicily each time.

One of my favorite things to do in Taormina is to lay on the pebble beach of Isola Bella and take in the views. A few other beautiful spots to visit are the park, Villa Comunale di Taormina, and the Teatro Antico di Taormina, especially at sunset.

Beyond that, the winding streets are full of Sicilian restaurants and the sea breeze, which carries the scent of flowers right to your table. I would gladly talk about top restaurants, but every restaurant is wonderfully delicious. I will say this: do not leave without eating a cannoli or having a granita.

A little legend I learned about in Taormina has got this city forever stuck in my mind. Way back, a beautiful Sicilian girl was taking care of flowers on her balcony when a Moorish man passing by noticed her and fell in love.

They had a love affair full of passion until she discovered he had a wife and kids waiting for him back home. She went crazy with jealousy, and one night, while he was sleeping, she cut off his head and decided to use it as a vase to grow her beautiful plants!

People walking by her balcony noticed her blooms, and they began to forge colorful clay head pots, wishing to have the same magic green thumb.

Today, in the streets of Taormina and all of Sicily, there are several varieties of ceramic heads, and the lesson is free for everyone to learn. Sicilian women don’t put up with foolishness.

Vacationing in Southern Italy

If you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, southern Italy is a great option! This region is truly special, from beautiful coastal towns to the rolling hills of the interior. Whether you’re a history buff looking to explore ancient ruins and stunning medieval cathedrals or a foodie searching for world-class cuisine and local delicacies, southern Italy will leave a lasting impression.

With its beaches and stunning coastline, this beautiful part of the country is also the perfect destination for those looking to rest and relax. So, if you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, add southern Italy to your travel bucket list!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel - Groves is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

The best things to do, eat, and see in Southern Italy

Think of visiting Italy and romantic visions of Rome, Venice, and Florence probably come to mind (and for good reason!). But travelers who venture to the bottom half of the “boot”—a.k.a. Southern Italy—will find a world of vibrant cities, coastal landscapes, unique cultures, and so much more to explore.

Whether you’ve already visited Italy’s classic cities or you want to spend your first trip checking out attractions in Southern Italy instead, our guide to Southern Italy will help you prepare for an unforgettable trip.

Southern Italy travel tips

• Currency:  The euro.
• Languages:  Italian, along with regional dialects. English is widely spoken in larger, more populous areas, but trying out a few  Italian phrases  will help you connect with locals.
• How to travel in Southern Italy:  Taking a private coach from one region or city to the next allows travelers to soak in Southern Italy’s coastal and country scenery, and to stop in small, charming villages and towns along the way. Plenty of historic and cultural highlights are located near city and town centers, which makes walking a molto bene (a.k.a very good) mode of transport once you arrive in each new place.
• When to go: Southern Italy shines year round, with more than 200 days of sunshine and temperatures that rarely dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. That said, our experts say March to June is the time to be at the bottom of the boot. You’ll miss the tourist crowds and revel in the milder weather. Christmas is also a fantastic time to make your trip more affordable and enjoy a host of holiday events.

What to pack for Southern Italy

No matter what time of year you travel to Southern Italy, toss these essentials in your suitcase:

• Comfy shoes.  Terrain in Southern Italy includes everything from steep hills to narrow stairs to sandy shorelines. Good walking shoes will keep your feet comfortable and ready for any adventure.
• A lightweight scarf or shawl.  In warm, sunny months, drape this light layer over your shoulders, head, or neck to protect your skin from the sun. In cooler, off-season months, it’ll provide a cozy buffer against cool breezes and the occasional sprinkle.
• A hat, shades, and SPF.  The sun in Southern Italy can be intense, but taking this trifecta on your trip will keep you protected.
• A cross-body bag or belt bag.  In Southern Italy, cities like Naples can be crowded in spots, which can make carrying a bulky tote or backpack cumbersome. A cross-body or belt bag with a slim profile will help keep the day’s essentials close at hand—and out of others’ way.
• Reusable travel wine sleeves.  For bringing back bottles of delicious Sicilian wine, which can be tricky to find in stores at home.

Need even more tips? Check out our ultimate Italy packing guide >

See all Italy trips

4.7 out of 5 stars

4.8 out of 5 stars

4.6 out of 5 stars

4.5 out of 5 stars

Read more Italy travel guides

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Sicily's beautiful south-east

By Antonia Quirke

Picture four towns yellow as cider held up to the light. Towns cut off from the rest of Sicily by geography - rough mountains and deep ravines - and yet close enough to visit all in one day, and within reach of the sea so you never feel trapped and grilled. Towns once an architectural chaos of Middle Eastern and Punic, suddenly shaken into a formal beauty by a devastating earthquake in 1693. New stones were cut then, and streets redesigned by a Spanish duke, avenues lengthened and straightened, staircases and grand churches all conceived with baroque grace. Wit and order, space and air.

Drive 90km south from Catania, along quiet roads bordered by hazelnut groves, and you might find yourself stuck behind a tractor piled with white onions all the way into Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (all these towns are) partly renovated after decades of neglect. The streets off the ravishing main drag are edged with genteel bars and shops selling coy lace dresses, leading to smaller lanes lined with bird-filled gardens and the occasional gently decaying palazzo where you pay just pennies to walk around. No guards stalk the rooms. One morning, in the perfectly baroque Palazzo Nicolaci, I find a walnut billiard table nudging a broken harpsichord in a ballroom. On startling high borders are painted still-bright birds of paradise, hunting rifles and parakeets.

A sultan's turban tumbles into a scattered bunch of poppies. I'm in a jewel case. Even at 10am the heat is drugging. Opening one of the long, curtained windows in a side room laid out like a parlour, I get the feeling it hasn't been sat in for years. Didn't Don Fabrizio in The Leopard once say that a house of which one knew every room wasn't worth living in? The little, golden-stoned town is spread out below, the sea beyond, a blue vapour. On the steps of the grand Municipio - the town hall - young men lounge in the morning silence scratching the ears of their brindled boxers, those most loyal dogs that are raced for bets alongside pimped-up scooters late at night through the backstreets of Palermo. In the 1893 Caffè Sicilia next door, white-aproned waiters bring cappuccino ghiacciato - delicious iced coffee poured on almond-milk granita - for a couple of priests sitting mesmerised by the huge flight of steps leading to the cathedral opposite. Rebuilt after part of the building collapsed in 1996, the inside of the cupola in San Nicolò was painted by the Russian artist Oleg Supereco with a gigantic, meditative fresco of the Pentecost. My devout friend Daniela used to go to watch him in the very early morning lying on high boards across scaffolding, delicately painting directly onto the mortar of the 300-square-metre dome - the largest modern fresco in Italy - until one day he hoisted her up rapturously on ropes to join him and touch the swirling robes of his apostle John.

On Thursdays in the summer, after the delirious six o'clock pealing of town church bells, Noto becomes fantastically alive, crowded with girls back from a day at the beach, singing along to a band doing covers of old songs dedicated to romantic frustration. Nicola Di Bari's La Prima Cosa Bella . Then several in the antique style of Ammore Busciardo (Love the Traitor). Crescendo upon crescendo.

A table of twenty-something beauties in shorts and diamanté-studded boots scandalise the black-robed grandmothers shuffling along the cobbles, ordering yet more wine and bread, eating and smoking hard with lovely brown, rapacious hands. The global craze for hair swept into large librarians' buns makes their young faces very classic; dark eyes marvellous and serious, perilously gorgeous to behold. Even the northern Europeans around here tonight seem from another time, as though they arrived on some boat in the early 1950s. A blonde in a nip-waisted white frock, clinking silver bracelet and high ponytail looks like Sylvia Plath. A sun-drowsy, barefooted English art student carrying small pots of watercolours and thumbed paperbacks in a weathered leather bag smokes on a bench in the Piazza XVI Maggio, opposite a fountain in which Hercules battles a monster.

Just an hour's drive from Noto, the far smaller town of Scicli sits on the same latitude as Tunis and radiates a mix of bella-figura theatricality and extreme sweetness. Its central pedestrian street, via F Mormino Penna, is paved with pale, ceramic-glimmering stones that seem to continually roll with crimson snapdragons fallen from high window boxes. Many of the balconies in these towns are buttressed with such droll imagination: gasping mermaids, monks clutching wriggling monkeys. My favourite here is a nobleman with a tremendous moustache gobbling grapes until, come the last carving, he is empty-handed and doleful.

Sicilians have a great sense of irony and pessimism, a belief in sod's law. Ask a Sicilian how they are and they will never say 'good', but the more cautious 'could be better'. Never tempt fate, never be pompous. And although they have a great sense of fun and a wicked love of nicknames (I've met a 'pistola' and 'the philosopher' in less than two minutes), they are far less fulsome than their reputation would have it. Far less than the Neapolitans. My friend Emma from Naples, now long-married to a glowering Sicilian baron, used to write overblown love stories for women's magazines in the 1970s and says she frequently made herself wail with her tales of grieving lovers and unfaithful husbands, weeping at her desk in a way that would make her husband look at his shoes.

Around the famed and lightly crumbling Palazzo Beneventano in the centre of town (Anthony Blunt's favourite baroque building) a sculptor opens the doors to his cool-walled workshop after breakfast and a boy pads through the dainty Piazza Ficili with a bag of pastries. Little ochre dragonflies sit in the pools of water between morning-scrubbed cobbles. 'This is beginning to feel like a place with money,' says the Viennese artist Katia Bernhard, who comes to the town for the light and the long summers. 'It's still cheap enough to live as an artist, but you have to wait hours for the bus…'

Outside cafés along via Penna at dusk, the talk is of a kalif who just visited the town of Syracuse on a 132ft yacht and bought all 3,000 seats at the ancient Greek amphitheatre so he could watch a production of Aida on his own. The painter Franco Polizzi - one of many artists in the Scicli Group who have gathered here to work since the 1980s - eats a plate of donkey mortadella while a gang of children play hide-and-seek around him. Bumping their heads as they count down each number, they toss dark curls and move in a giggling tide up and down the stones, eventually ducking into a church to hide under a rococo platform decorated with life-size lutes and cellos.

'When Syracuse was born,' stresses Polizzi, lifting his eyes disbelievingly to heaven, 'there was no London!' An antique dealer in Ortigia once told me he finds all the best Italian stamps in London. The connection between the British and Italy is deep and long, although few poets or noblemen doing the Grand Tour ventured south of Palermo: nothing beyond there to see, surely? For centuries these towns were almost entirely bypassed by foreign visitors and, excepting August, they are still rarely full of tourists - more northern Sicilians than anybody else - bar perhaps a few Germans standing around looking at frescoes of a shepherdess gazing down as though she had just fallen out of heaven. Since Inspector Montalbano was filmed in the area more are coming, but Scicli remains languorous. Time here is long. When one evening my college boyfriend Luca (from Messina) and I go looking in the Piazza Italia for a prawn-and-orange salad that his sister had insisted was troppu bona , nobody seems to be serving it. When did she actually eat it? Five, six years ago, shrugs Luca, rolling a cigarette. I stop in my tracks. Surely they will have changed the menu by now! This, Luca finds hilarious.

Nothing can prepare you for the first view of Ragusa. The oldest part of the city, Ibla, was spilt in two by the earthquake and part of it rebuilt in the baroque style, but hints of the old town still sit alluringly cheek-by-jowl with such formal perfection. As you round the bend on the road from Modica, up the town rises like a giant sandcastle, a thing of part-dilapidated magnificence conceived in a moment of delirium. Ragusa is secretive, mysterious. Walking around, you feel weirdly high up. Even the squares are on a rake - at all times there's this sense of being on a hill, of walking on air surrounded by silence. Or perhaps the sound is muffled because your eyes are working overtime. In the streets radiating from the immaculate Piazza Duomo, tiny, hidden orange gardens give on to palazzos nuzzling more palazzos with guest rooms and state rooms and saddle-rooms now turned into a ticket office in which a guide clock-watches and counts change, sitting on a tatty 19th- century cushion the colour of velvety moss. The highly polished marble floors in the piazza's neoclassical Circolo di Conversazione - a handsome social club where 18th-century Ragusan gentry gathered to talk and drink - throw up a brooding haze in the late afternoon, if you manage to peer through the windows before a janitor shoos you away and locks up at five o'clock. I half-spy a citrus grove lying beyond, exquisitely private.

Later, sitting outside the church of San Giuseppe with my local friend Teresa, we watch the funeral of a 104-year-old Benedictine nun, her coffin appearing covered in white roses. Two dogs sleep outside the door, stretched like figures in relief. It strikes me that at this moment every human in my vision bar the pall- bearers and now-emerging organist is eating ice cream in some form: cone, tub, brioche and the miniature, two-bite cono turco , dipped in highly flavoured, sometimes perfumed hard chocolate to prevent drips. Sicilians claim they invented ice cream, and frown at any mention of more ancient Arabian sorbets. The square is quiet, a slight breeze moving over all. Teresa tells me a story of the remains of the convent of St Mary and Jesus nearby, with its overgrown garden where the week before a workman she knows saw a ghost of a Franciscan friar and fell back into a hole, snapping his leg. Her face is solemn, despite the drooly smells of stuffed tomatoes wafting from the restaurant next door.

It is impossible to spend time in Ragusa and not talk of ghosts. Photographs of the recently departed plaster the town and on 2 November, the day of the dead, everybody shivers. We trudge through the square on a long dusk-and-wine tour of Teresa's favourite sights: the iron balcony where Marcello Mastroianni appeared in Divorce Italian Style playing an impoverished Sicilian nobleman. The red house where the Inquisition punished a lovelorn and vindictive priest. The apartment where an old American pianist lives, who can be heard playing Ravel on Christmas Day. Everywhere, broken stone walls overhang with wild capers. Drunkish now, we brave the Discesa Mocarda, a little staircase leading high up to the scruffy, deserted lanes where the city's sick once lived in caves carved into the hillside. 'Even children on a dare won't come here,' pants Teresa. But instead of ghosts we find only fragrant lime bushes and thin, affronted cats.

Just 20 minutes' drive south from Ragusa, in the Piazza Santa Teresa in Modica, teenage boys perform somersaults off benches, calling up to their girls who are leaning out of apartment windows mock-scolding ( si babbu! ) and gossiping in young voices that ring off 17th-century walls as though this were an exotic aviary. The boys' collars are turned up high and their hair - despite their acrobatics - carefully arranged into immaculate quiffs. It seems every man in Modica has a pristine and theatrical barnet. I like to think of it as a kind of 21st-century equivalent of wigs and powder. Even a builder going hard at it with his drill! Even the fishmonger in the arches before you reach the Palazzo Salemi selling skate and squid under a massive portrait of Padre Pio, the monk from Campania who had stigmata that smelled of a perfume they called The Odour of Sanctity.

Modica was once one of the most important towns in Renaissance Sicily. It might not now have the mystery of Ragusa or the cuteness of Scicli, but instead it has a swagger, a continental European feel. Downtown, the glass shutters on the apartment buildings have the look of 16th arrondissement Paris. Balanced on several rocky spurs, the old walled town (once an Arab city called Mohac) is connected to the more elegant baroque below by breathtaking stairs. Climb 250 steps up to the cathedral of San Giorgio and a perpetual wind lightly rattles the doors. Inside, baroque runs riot; outside, pale lilac bougainvillaea teems in terraced gardens stretching down like a waterfall of Rosolio wine.

What it must have been like to see these churches and palazzos and staircases when they were first built. Not here the brooding lava stone of Palermo or Catania, but towns made of gilt and mint green. Not the misery of the northern churches where you see medieval effigies of Christ wearing real human hair, his wounds shaped like chasmal mouths. Here, just fat cherubs and niads. Nebula bubbling and wavering. Lovers dissolving into gurgles, holy choirs bearing mandolins and a figure of St Joseph with a parched wooden staff bursting with borage and starflowers. Ció che é impossibile agli uomini é possibile a dio . What is impossible with man is possible with God.

And still… there is to these southern towns more than just the patina of devotion. I have seen pilgrims, shoeless on the midnight motorways, walking in their wordless hundreds. And other more modest but unforgettable things. One time, on a coast road south of Modica, past fields and fields of cabbage and pumpkin, I stopped to buy supplies from a farmer who let me rummage through a box of chocolatey earth for the best garlic and potatoes, and who watched my face closely for the sudden surprise and happiness on it as I found, at the bottom, pink in the peaty cool, a bag of Venus shells just pulled from the sea.

Best places to stay in Sicily's south-east

Where to stay.

The towns are within easy reach of each other (and close to the Vendicari nature reserve and beach) so basing yourself at a villa from which to explore makes sense. You will need a car (public transport is hopeless) and a map: signs are not the best, and trying to get directions in this part of Sicily can occupy most of the day. Ask the way to a particular restaurant, for example, and locals will want to know why you chose that one.

Villa Farli Covered with late-blooming jasmine and rounded by olive groves, this property sits deep in fields outside Scicli. Super-private, elegant and romantic, its pretty bedrooms are hung with sepia portraits of much loved, lace-wearing aunts and rugged cousins. A classily cool pool and an endless stone outdoor table act as magnets to anybody staying: someone always seems to be in either place, whatever the hour, reading, planning excursions, snacking on leftovers or the moreish fresh almond milk made by the owners and left daily in the fridge.

Telephone: +44 20 7377 8518 Website: www.thethinkingtraveller.com Price: From around £3,800 per week sleeping six

Palazzo Trigona Suite In a gorgeously renovated 17th-century palace in the heart of Noto, this handful of rooms and suites is exactly where you want to be in town, with the pealing of cathedral bells in the morning and early evening just outside your high windows, as the sun hits walls with its syrupy Sicilian gold. The most meticulously restored of all the baroque towns, Noto gets more visitors than the others and yet there is something ineffably demure here, something EM Forsterish, but also a young, egalitarian café culture.

Telephone: +39 0931 835597 Website: www.palazzotrigonasuite.com Price: Doubles from about £175

GETTING HERE: British Airways ( www.ba.com ) flies from Gatwick to Catania on Sicily's east coast. EasyJet ( www.easyjet.com ) flies from Gatwick and Manchester to Catania. Flights are seasonal

This feature was first published in Condé Nast Traveller January 2016.

By Condé Nast Traveller

By Lee Marshall and Lucrezia Worthington

By Lee Marshall

Find flights to Palermo

A house in Ragusa

Agave growing at a house just outside Noto

Artichokes at the market in Scicli

A backstreet in Modica

Olivia Morelli

Mary Lussiana

Noto's baroque theatre

Cappuccino Ghiacciato and brioches at Caffè Sicilia in Noto

A card game is underway in Modica

A Chapel in Noto

Corso Umberto Emanuele, the main street in Noto

Cedro lemons

A doorway in Noto

A door in Noto

A frescoe in San Pietro chruch, Modica

Olive trees

Palazzo roofs in Noto

A pistachio gelato

A rug drying on a balcony in Modica

Statues at San Pietro church in Modica

A street lamp in Modica

Tapestry and furniture at a country estate

Celebrity Blog

• Choosing a Cruise
• Planning / Booking A Cruise
• Preparing For Your Cruise
• Special Occasions
• What To Expect On A Cruise
• Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific
• Central America
• East Coast & Bermuda
• Mexican Riviera
• South America & Antarctica
• Destinations

17 Best Places to Visit in Southern Italy

By Kieran Meeke

Last updated: April 11th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

Discovering the best places to visit in southern Italy is a joy, as the region is so full of delights, whether these are related to food, wine, coffee, or simply gorgeous views.

After all, you’ve not really been to Italy until you’ve had the experience of discovering a place where you have the best espresso, pasta or pizza you’ve ever tasted in your life.

Places like the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Sardinia, or Sorrento stand out because they’re not just the best spots in southern Italy but are among the very best places to visit in the world. Whether you want a culinary, cultural, natural, or historic experience, Italy and its islands always has somewhere to tempt, surprise, and delight you.

Naples is an authentic Italian city that’s warm, full of life, and history, and loves its food, wine, and shopping.

Restaurant in Naples

Speaking of Italian food , Naples is surely unmissable just as the spiritual home of pizza. In between meals, you’ll find an Historic Center that is a World Heritage site, among many other delights.

Some of the best things to do in Naples include visiting the grandiose Royal Palace, the impressive gothic Duomo, and the imposing Castel dell’Ovo. Anyone interested in the Roman Empire will find themselves entranced by the National Archaeological Museum.

Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples

Back in the present, enjoy the shops, and restaurants of the Chiaia neighborhood behind the Piazza del Plebiscito. While Milan might be better known for fashion, Naples is arguably the home of Italian men’s style.

Pompeii and Herculaneum

The Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum in Southern Italy were both victims of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD, preserved in time by layers of ash. They were affected in different ways, and it’s well worth trying to visit both if time allows.

Pompeii was a bigger town, and there is much more to see, such as the spectacular Villa of the Mysteries, and the Amphitheatre. But do take water on a hot day, as there’s not much shade.

Herculaneum

Herculaneum is much smaller, but the buildings are better preserved. The upper floors of many still remain, and you can see the original vivid colors.

Together, both bring the past to life in a way that few other historical sites do. Walking their cobbled streets, you feel as if the inhabitants have just fled the volcano’s eruption, a moving and unmissable experience.

The capital of Sardinia is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, not to mention shopping. The historic old town has narrow streets lined with charming buildings, and sights such as the 13th-century Duomo, whose frontage was inspired by the cathedral in Pisa.

Visit the Bastione di Saint Remy, or Monte Urpinu, for views over this Italian coastal town . The Archaeological Museum has some quirky exhibits, including 19th-century wax anatomical models, and the ancient Mont’e Prama sculptures.

Poetto Beach, Cagliari

To relax, head to Poetto Beach, one of the most beautiful city beaches in Europe. This five-mile stretch of white sand is lined with bars and restaurants, and starts a short distance from the heart of this most wonderful of southern Italian cities.

The Amalfi Coast

Amalfi, Amalfi Coast

There are few places in the world to compare to the Amalfi Coast for beauty. It’s not just the natural wonder of a spectacular landscape meeting the azure blue of the Mediterranean at its most beautiful.

To this creation of nature, Italian style has added some of the world’s prettiest towns, and villages. You can see all this at its best while hiking the Path of the Gods from the village of Agerola to Nocelle.

Running along the coast is one of the world’s most scenic drives. Every curve, of which there are many, delivers another spectacular view of cliffs, sea, and beautiful towns.

Positano, Amalfi Coast

Leave time to visit beautiful Amalfi Coast towns such as Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello. You’ll come away with exquisite handmade crafts in leather or paper, a beautiful piece of clothing, or just the memories of a lifetime.

Alberobello

One of the most beautiful mountain villages in the world , the unique trulli houses of Alberobello are traditional conical Apulian huts built with a dry-stone, mortarless technique.

Originally a way to avoid paying local property taxes (as the houses could theoretically be easily dismantled), they are found only in this small part of Italy.

Trullo Sovrano, Alberobello

Trullo Sovrano is a two-story house, now a museum, where you can learn more details of their history. Otherwise, walking around the street of a town lined by the strange structures is an otherworldly experience.

Most of the trulli are now shops, restaurants or places for visitors to stay overnight. Happily, the loose limestone walls have mostly now been more securely plastered over, although the distinctive roofs remain.

Just over an hour from Taranto , the hilltop town of Matera is a journey thousands of years into the past. Its “Sassi di Matera” are ancient cave dwellings recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, peppering the hillside and gazing out over a deep gorge. You may recognize the town, as it’s been the location for multiple movies.

While many of the Sassi date back to the Paleolithic or Neolithic eras, the most remarkable include the 10th-century Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtù. Above ground, the 13th-century Romanesque cathedral of Matera is filled with glorious frescos and Byzantine art.

The historic heart of Ostuni, known as La Città Bianca (“White Town”), is one of Puglia’s most famous attractions. It’s also one of the best places to visit in southern Italy.

Its whitewashed buildings and hilltop setting give the town an ethereal appearance. The narrow, cobbled streets call out for leisurely strolls that end in a small adventure.

You might stumble on a historic church that could be in anything from medieval and Renaissance to Baroque style. You might find an artisan’s shop with an exquisite souvenir, or a restaurant that wows the palate.

Greek Theatre of Taormina

This hilltop town on Sicily’s eastern coast has a picture-perfect setting between Mount Etna and the Mediterranean. However, its chief claim to fame is its well-preserved ancient Greek Theater, still used for concerts

The majestic setting of the theater, overlooking the sea, is a major distraction for the audience. Fortunately, being carved out of solid rock, the arena has superb acoustics.

Taormina is a place of narrow medieval streets, with the main Corso Umberto packed with delightful shops and restaurants. The public gardens, Giardini della Villa Comunale, are a highlight.

Isola Bella, Taormina

Just offshore, you’ll find one of the most romantic places in Italy —Isola Bella is a tiny island with a lovely beach and crystal-clear waters. The terraced gardens are a great place to admire the views around this “Pearl of the Ionian Sea.”

Lecce has been called the “Florence of the South” for its wealth of Baroque architecture. The historic center is a delight of ornate churches, handsome palaces, and impressive piazzas.

The central Piazza del Duomo is a place to orient yourself and take it all in. The Duomo itself, Bishop’s Palace, and the Seminary Palace are all splendid.

Tied together through the use of the warm local limestone, the town has an air of calm elegance. Few visitors can resist its charms, even before they try the wonderful local cuisine.

What can match the thrill of visiting one of the world’s most famous and active volcanoes?

Mount Etna’s sometimes snowy cone dominates the views along the coast from Taormina.

Take a cable car or 4×4 tour to the higher altitudes for the best panoramas over otherworldly landscapes of lava. If you want to walk the craters and lava fields, the Silvestri Craters are one of the best places to hike in Italy .

Famous as a movie location, the Sicilian village of Savoca has somehow retained its original charm and tranquility. Set atop a craggy hill, it enjoys sweeping views of the island’s landscape.

You can visit several picturesque churches, a castle, and several places associated with the movies. However, the real charm of the village is its beauty, and a taste of authentic Sicily .

That taste comes in Sicilian dishes such as tagliatelle with wild fennel, fresh bread with local olive oil, or a bottle of Sicilian wine. Don’t forget to sample the lemon granita topped with a sesame-coated biscuit—a traditional dessert with Arab roots.

Perched high above Taormina, Castelmola is another hilltop Sicilian village with spectacular views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. Its cobbled streets radiate from the Piazza del Duomo, where it’s practically obligatory to try the local almond wine and or almond pastries.

Its name comes from the ruined castle that still towers over the town. While Taormina is often called the most beautiful town in Sicily , Castelmola is with good reason called one of its most beautiful villages.

Hopefully, Cagliari’s Archaeological Museum will inspire you to find out more about Sardinia’s history. Su Nuraxi is a fascinating archaeological site inhabited from 1600 BCE up to the third century AD.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features the conical nuraghe (nuraxi in the Sardinian language), which are megalithic “beehive” structures. Unique to Sardinia, the major ones stand up to 50 feet tall.

The price of admission includes a guided tour, an essential to unveil all the wonders of this exceptional place. The Nuragic civilization left no written records, but their bronze sculptures leave a memorable impression on all who see them.

Founded as a Phoenician port in the 8th century BCE, Nora in southern Sardinia grew into a prosperous Roman city of 8,000 people. Today, much of that Roman city can still be seen, including the baths, forum, Temple of Tani, and Teatro Romano.

The only Roman theater found on Sardinia, it’s still used for concerts. The seaside setting remains as striking as it must have been at Nora’s peak.

Don’t leave without taking a snorkeling tour to see submerged Roman roads, and some beautiful mosaics. A rise in sea levels and a drop along a geological fault left them preserved underwater.

Molentargius Marshland

If you can tear yourself away from Sardinia’s beaches and historic towns, the Molentargius Marshland is a wonderful contrast. The rich birdlife attracted by the marshes make it an essential stop for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

The vast area, just outside Cagliari, is best visited by bike, or on one of the well-marked hiking trails. Expect to see species such as pink flamingos, herons, and egrets.

Originally a saltworks, (it gets its name from the donkeys, or molenti , used to transport salt) the marshland is now a designated Ramsar Wetland (an officially recognized site of international importance). It is one of the most important wetlands in Europe for migrating and many endangered species.

Capri’s Blue Grotto has been an attraction since the time of the Roman Empire. Being rowed through this natural wonder while your boatman sings an Italian aria is something to embrace for its sheer wonder and joy.

Capri has more to it than this, however. There are reasons why it has attracted the fashionable crowd since the Emperor Tiberius first holidayed here more than 2,000 years ago.

Villa San Michele, Capri

His home, Villa Jovis, can still be visited, although Axel Munthe’s Villa San Michele is more famous. Most visitors, however, do not stir too far from the island’s beautiful Italian beaches , a café table, or anywhere they can take in the views.

Don’t leave without trying Caprese salad. Tomato bursting with flavor, soft mozzarella, and fresh basil combine with tasty olive oil to offer up Italy on a plate.

Anyone taking a ferry to Capri normally passes through Sorrento . They should leave enough time to see this lovely town, which has a long history of tourism.

The setting overlooking the Bay of Naples, and Capri, is worth the visit alone. And as one of the best food cities in Italy , make sure to find a restaurant with a view, and you can then enjoy some of the best seafood (and pizza, pasta, and gnocchi) to be found in the country.

The historic center is a charming maze of artisanal shops selling local crafts. The 15th-century Sorrento Cathedral, Villa Pollio Felice, and the art of the Museo Correale di Terranova are major attractions.

Limoncello, Sorrento

Few visitors leave without at least sampling the local limoncello, if not buying a souvenir bottle. A tour of a lemon grove is one of the best things to do in Sorrento to learn more about the origins of this golden liqueur.

Has this list of the best places to visit in southern Italy inspired you to travel to Europe? Then browse our cruises to Italy to find the perfect cruise to take you away on your next Italian adventure.

Kieran Meeke

Kieran is a freelance travel writer who has lived and worked in 12 different countries, on every continent except Antarctica. He now spends his time between Kerry, Ireland, and Granada, Spain, while writing for newspapers and websites worldwide.

Related Itineraries

Italian Riviera & France

• 9 nights ON CELEBRITY EQUINOX
• DEPARTING FROM ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA), ITALY
• Starting from $1099 USD
• DEPARTING FROM BARCELONA, SPAIN
• Starting from $1999 USD

Best of Italy & Croatia

• 10 nights ON CELEBRITY CONSTELLATION
• Starting from $2949 USD

Greece, Turkey & Italy

• 11 nights ON CELEBRITY ASCENT
• Starting from $3516 USD
• 11 nights ON CELEBRITY CONSTELLATION
• Starting from $3999 USD
• 10 nights ON CELEBRITY ASCENT
• Starting from $7799 USD

Related Articles

14 Expert Tips for Planning a Trip to Greece

What Is Norway Known For?

8 Fascinating Cities in Scandinavia to Explore

12 Best Beaches in Tuscany

20 Best Beach Destinations in Europe

15 Best Things to Do in Sintra

Why Sail on a Round-Trip Alaska Cruise From Vancouver

20 Places to Visit in New Zealand & Australia Virtually

When Is the Best Time to Visit Key West?

21 Best Places to See in the World

How to Go Island Hopping in the Caribbean

The Ultimate Croatian Food Guide

Free Vacation Planning Services

CALL US 888-751-7804

Sign Up for Special Offers

I would like to receive electronic Promotional messages from Celebrity Cruises Inc. You can unsubscribe at anytime. Please view our Privacy Policy .

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *
• Country * Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Greenland Grenada Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati North Korea South Korea Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Sudan, South Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

STAY IN THE KNOW

Thank you for subscribing.

See you on board soon.

10 Best Places To Visit In South Italy

The warm weather is not over yet. There is still time and a good reason to visit South Italy this month!  South Italy has some amazing offerings. The Best Places to visit in South Italy include; beautiful stretches of dramatic coastline, picture perfect beaches, charming coastal islands, and a plethora of historic cities and towns. It was hard to narrow our list down to just 10, but here are the 10 best places to visit in South Italy.

• This article was written to educate about Train Travel and was made by Save A Train The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World .

1.  The Amalfi Coast 

This protected region features some idyllic coastal towns such as Amalfi, Erchie, Minori, and Positano – these towns have a series of multi colored houses that stack up against the hillsides and provide picture-perfect photo opportunities.

Furthermore, sites such as Villa Rufolo in Ravello provide unrivaled views across the Mediterranean Sea.

Milan to Genoa Trains

Rome to Genoa Trains

Florence to Genoa Trains

Venice to Genoa Trains

2. Sorrento

Sorrento has both the amenities that tourists find comforting as well as unique and higher-end antiquities for sale in the old town. A ferry leaves from here to the isle of Capri, and it is a great jumping off point for Pompeii. However, Sorrento is also known for its excellent gourmet cuisine , stunning cliff dwellings (though no beaches), and stunning views of Mount Vesuvius.

Bologna to Pompei Trains

Pompei to Nocera Inferiore Trains

Salerno to Nocera Inferiore Trains

Salerno to Mercato San Severino Trains

This medieval town is positioned along the rocky coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. Its ritzy harbor is one of the top hotspots in Italy. If you want to stay here during the summer you may have to book well in advance to secure your chosen hotel as rooms book up FAST. As we are nearing the end of the warm season, you may have some luck with last-minute bookings!

Salerno to Maratea Trains

Bari to Maratea Trains

Naples to Maratea Trains

Potenza to Maratea Trains

Some cool history, Paestum is a town on Italian soil, but it was founded by the ancient Greeks when they were in control of this part of Italy! Then it was known as Poseidonia after the god of the sea.

The Greek architecture alone is worth a visit so be sure to put that into your itinerary in addition to visiting the three well-preserved Greek temples that you have to see. The oldest was built about 550BC (give or take a year) and is the Temple of Hera which is amazing.

Salerno to Paestum Trains

Naples to Paestum Trains

Pompei to Paestum Trains

Potenza to Paestum Trains

5. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Naples

Naples, or Napoli, depends on what language, is the third largest city in Italy. To be honest, there are some very opposing views on this part of South Italy. To some, it is huge, filthy, crime-ridden, and falling apart, to others it is edgy and atmospheric. Whatever blows your hair back, we guess?  One thing is for sure though. This coastal Southern city has its own personality! Many favorite Italian foods originated in Naples and its surrounding areas such as pizza, and spaghetti. These dishes are taken seriously here and usually feature fresh, locally grown ingredients. Tourist attractions in Naples include a huge medieval castle , Castel Nuovo, as well as the seaside fortress of Castel del Ovo. The city is also next to Vesuvius, the only active volcano on the European continent.

Milan to Naples Trains

Florence to Naples Trains

Venice to Naples Trains

Pisa to Naples Trains

6. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Alberobello

The town of Alberobello is unique in that it is the best preserved example of Trulli architecture to be found in all of Italy (well, so I was told).

Homes built in the Trulli style are made with conical stone roofs without using mortar (though, I am no builder so do not quote me on that). The oldest homes date from the 14th century and totally stunning , making it one of the must-see and beautiful towns in Southern Italy to visit.

Naples to Monopoli Trains

Bari to Fasano Trains

Taranto to Fasano Trains

7. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Tropea

Look, I am warning you in advance. The photo opportunities in this place are insane. Be careful that you do not miss out on the real thing! The beautiful ancient town of Tropea is perched on top of some sheer cliffs and across the road from a narrow sandy beach , it is said to have been founded by Hercules himself.

If you are sightseeing , there are two gorgeous churches in Tropea too, the Santa Maria del Isola is a medieval church that was built on an island although years of siltation have resulted in a land bridge forming between the island and the mainland. The other is the cathedral; it has two unexploded bombs dating from WW2 sitting just outside the church door. Locals believed the building was protected by the patron saint so watch your step!

The churches alone make this one of the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy. You will love it!

Vibo Marina to Tropea Trains

Catanzaro to Tropea Trains

Cosenza to Tropea Trains

Lamezia Terme to Tropea Trains

8. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Capri

Technically a small island, Capri has a gorgeous town and marina that you have to explore. The whole island is rich in history and mythology and one lovely spot you have to visit when in the region.

If you are looking for things to see, The home of Roman Emperor Tiberius (Villa Jovis) is still one of the major spots to see on the island and so is the Blue Grotto. The waterfront cave is only accessible by boat and only when there are favorable tides (so be prepared for cancellations).

Reggio Emilia to Florence Trains

Genoa to Florence Trains

Sestri Levante to Rome Trains

Parma to Florence Trains

9. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Pompeii and Herculaneum

Pompeii and Herculaneum were two Roman towns and villages that were obliterated when Mount Vesuvius erupted all the way back in 79 AD.

Probably the most famous of the two is the town of Pompeii, which you can now wander around and explore when you are in the area. An awful 3,000 people perished in the town, but the hot ash immortalized the ruins into what it is today. Be warned, it can get pretty busy here, so plan accordingly and remember you might have to queue for a ticket to enter.

Oh, also the nearby town of Herculaneum is smaller and was a wealthier district and gives an example of how the wealthy Romans once lived. Make sure to visit the Herculaneum Archaeological Area if you are a history buff!

Torre Del Greco to Pompei Trains

Naples to Pompei Trains

Salerno to Pompei Trains

Bari to Pompei Trains

10. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Aeolian Islands

Last on our list of Best Places to visit in South Italy. The Aeolian Islands! They are known as the Hawaii of Italy. It is a string of islands north of Sicily, and it is silly gorgeous. As amazing as it may be, hardly anyone knows about it. But the ones who do keep coming back. Because they know they will have the place all to themselves.

Renting scooters to zip around beautiful black beaches. Sunset aperitivo in Pollara. Boating around the surrounding islands of Stromboli, Panarea, and Lipari. Getting steamy with sulfur water spas in Vulcano. The Greek vibes (no surprise – the islands were named for Aeolus, the god of the winds, by Greek settlers). Salt eroded houses spilling down to the shore. And feeling like you are in on a big secret that you only wanna share with your loved ones!

Naples to Salerno Trains

Naples to Milan Trains

Rome to Naples Trains

Bari to Salerno Trains

Insider tip: travel here between Easter-October and Book in advance if you want to visit in August!

Ready to pack your bags for the South of Italy trip? Then book your train ticket with Save A Train within minutes. No extra fees, no fuss, just fun! 

Do you want to embed our blog post “10 Best Places To Visit In South Italy” onto your site? you can either take our photos and text and just give us credit with a link to this blog post. Or click here: https://iframely.com/embed/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.saveatrain.com%2Fblog%2Fbest-places-visit-south-italy%2F%3Flang%3Den – (Scroll down a little to see the Embed Code)

• If you want to be kind to your users, you can guide them directly into our search pages. In this link, you will find our most popular train routes – https://www.saveatrain.com/routes_sitemap.xml . Inside you have our links for English landing pages, but we also have https://www.saveatrain.com/fr_routes_sitemap.xml , and you can change the /fr to /de or /it and more languages.

Laura Thomas

Related posts.

5 Most Unforgettable Nature Reserves In Europe

10 Once In A Lifetime Destinations

Best Hotels Near Train Stations In Italy

Translation flags, search blog, search hotels and more..., destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Recent Posts

• Digital Visa for Freelancers: Top 5 Countries for Relocation
• 5 Platforms To Explore Volunteer Programs Worldwide
• New EU Rail Regulations: Better Protection for Passengers
• 7 Amazing Spring Break Destinations In Europe
• Traveling To Europe During Bank Holidays

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

12 spectacular destinations to visit in Italy

There are countless photogenic corners, cultural hotspots and gastronomic delights to discover

Does Italy have a bad angle? If so, we haven’t found it. Instead, the country has an endless array of spectacular places, from the mountains of the Dolomites to the Adriatic- and Ionian-edge coastline of Puglia, via beautiful, historic cities, and more stylish shorelines and holiday-playground islands to which its effortlessly chic denizens have flocked to come summer for decades.

Among the most incredible places in Italy are the jet set’s regular summer destinations, from the always-yacht-studded marina of Portofino on the country’s Ligurian coast, to the glamorous isle of Ischia in the Gulf of Naples.

Then there are the dramatic landscapes of Italy’s volcanic islands, such as the Aeolian archipelago and Pantelleria, technically off the coast of Sicily , but actually closer to Africa.

Feeling inspired? Here are 12 of the most spectacular places in Italy…

Positano, Amalfi Coast

It’s hard to narrow down the most spectacular part of the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy’s Campania region. There’s the fishing village Conca dei Marini, where monasteries cling to the cliffside; romantic Ravello, high above the Tyrrhenian Sea and home to hallowed homes such as Villa Cimbrone; and peaceful Praiano, a little away from the action, and all the better for it. Then there’s perfect Positano, a “vertical” town with colourful buildings stacked along its precipitous coast. John Steinbeck was right when he wrote in the May 1953 issue of Harper’s Bazaar that “Positano bites deep”. He continued: “It is a dream place that isn’t
quite real when you are there and becomes
beckoningly real after you have gone.” We couldn’t agree more.

Where to stay: You’ll likely have seen images of Le Sirenuse , since it’s undoubtedly one of the most attractive hotels in the world, run by the Sersale family since 1951. For something a little more modern, check in to the minimalist Casa Angelina , a short drive along the coast in Praiano.

Venice, the Veneto

Italy’s great cities are all spectacular in their own right but few capture the imagination like Venice does. The Floating City is adrift in the Adriatic, built on more than 100 islands in the Venetian Lagoon. There are must-do tourist activities, whether it’s ordering a Bellini at Harry’s bar, heading over to the Cipriani for a dip in its Olympic-size swimming pool, or parting with a small fortune for an espresso at one of the two iconic cafés on St Mark’s Square – Caffè Florian has been serving coffee on this site since 1720. For a more local feel, don’t miss art district Dorsoduro, or visit other islands, such as colourful Burano.

Where to stay: Back in 2014, Amal and George Clooney staged some rather spectacular nuptials in Italy and one backdrop was provided by the Aman in Venice, a converted palazzo with a mesmerising view of the Grand Canal.

Portofino, Genoa

There’s a reason Portofino’s harbour is awash with super-yachts come high summer. The former fishing village is south-east of Genoa, with Italy’s signature pastel-hued houses lining the coastline, plenty of designer boutiques and a cobbled square overlooking the port. It’s an excellent base for exploring the Italian Riviera, especially if you want to see the colourful, captivating villas of the Cinque Terre, a Unesco World Heritage Site an hour’s drive away. For something a little off the beaten track, head to Lerici and the Bay of Poets, where Percy Bysshe Shelley drowned in 1822.

Where to stay: As splendid as its name suggests, Splendido Mare, a Belmond Hotel , has long been one of Portofino’s most sought-after stays, favoured by the jet set since the 1950s. It is set in what was once a Benedictine monastery.

Aeolian Islands

Travellers who venture a little further are always rewarded and this is certainly the case with the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the north coast of Sicily . There are no airports on the islands themselves – you’ll have to touch down in Palermo or Catania in Sicily and travel onwards by boat. The main islands are Lipari (the largest), Salina, Stromboli and the aptly named Vulcano (there are seven in total, and each has its charms). Your itinerary should, naturally, involve taking to the water, whether that’s with a sunset tour around Lipari’s faraglioni rocks, or spending the week at sea on a cruise with Cognoscenti Travel , where all the logistics will be taken care of for you.

Where to stay: On the second-largest Aeolian island Salina (mostly famous for its delicious dessert wine – and capers), Hotel Signum has a spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant with a female chef at the helm.

The Dolomite Mountains

Travel to the very top of Italy, and you’ll be swapping sun-soaked beaches for spectacularly scenic mountain ranges. The Dolomites, which stretch across several regions, are a breathtaking destination to visit in spring and summer, when the temperatures rise and the snow subsides to reveal a canvas of rolling green hills. Vineyards abound here, meaning oenophiles are in for a treat, while you’ll also find some of the best spa hotels in Europe , where bracing hikes are bookended by serious sauna sessions.

Where to stay: My Arbor , perched high above the South Tyrolean town of Brixen, is a shiny new wellness hotel with a serious reputation. Perched on stilts, this architectural marvel combines morning yoga and walking trails with a world-class spa and tasting menus worth lingering all evening over.

Ischia, Gulf of Naples

We don’t have a bad word to say about any of the isles in the Neapolitan Archipelago, but less-frequented than its super-glamorous neighbour Capri is Ischia. This volcanic island in the Gulf of Naples has thermal waters, with rock pools heated by underground volcanic activity, Roman ruins and sandy beaches with panoramic views, including out to the mediaeval Aragonese Castle, on a small tidal island but connected by a stone bridge. One of its most picturesque towns is Lacco Ameno, at the foot of Mount Epomeo. Even less visited by tourists is the colourful island of Procida, Italy’s official Capital of Culture a couple of years ago.

Where to stay: For an unforgettable setting, book a stay Faro Punta Imperatore , located within a lighthouse in a remote corner of Capri – the views are as incredible as you’d hope.

Lake Orta, Piedmonte

When imagining Northern Italy’s scenic lakes, your mind likely goes to the famous Lake Como. But for something a little off the beaten track, Lake Orta has plenty to offer. Perched on the peninsula, main town Orta San Giulio offers postcard-perfect streets dotted with authentic restaurants and independent, artsy shops.

Where to stay: Chateaux Villa Crespi is a 14-room palatial wonder, where the stately rooms are studded with antiques and a double-starred restaurant awaits you downstairs.

Norcia, Umbria

In the central Italian region of Umbria , Norcia is the place that gave us charcuterie – the term norcineria denotes the art of processing pork and the techniques that have been handed down since the Middle Ages in this part of the country. The beautiful countryside that surrounds the mediaeval town is especially scenic come early summer, when the lentil fields flower before the harvest. It’s the Italian destination for you if you want to get out into the great outdoors, since the village of Castelluccio di Norcia, one of the highest settlements in the Apennines, is the perfect base for hiking and mountaineering. The town is in the province of Perugia – to the namesake city, which is the capital of Umbria, it’s around an hour and 20 minutes’ drive north of Norcia.

Where to stay: Palazzo Seneca is a refined Relais & Châteaux property close to the town square (sadly affected by the earthquake in 2016) in Norcia, with supremely stylish bedrooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant (with cookery classes available to show you the ropes).

Ostuni, Puglia

Dazzling Ostuni is all the way down south in the heel of Italy’s signature k nee-high boot, with bright white buildings, and lots of scenic surrounding countryside and shorelines. The whitewashed old town is complemented by a cathedral with Gothic, Romanesque and Byzantine architectural accents, and the Porta San Demetrio, one of the city’s original mediaeval gates. While you’re here, Puglia has many more places that are worthy of a visit, including the Baroque beauty Lecce, affectionately known as the Florence of the South, sleepy seaside towns such as Castro and Gallipoli, and gourmet haven Nardò, flocked to by foodies in the know.

Where to stay: Paragon 700 is a boutique hotel housed within a palazzo in Ostuni, with a vaulted restaurant and a swimming pool you’ll be grateful for when the scorching summer heat hits.

Lake Como, Lombardy

Lake Como is a worthy winner of a slot on our most spectacular places in Italy shortlist – and we’re sure George Clooney would agree. The fork-shaped lake in Lombardy, a swift drive north of Milan, is lined with stately private homes (including, of course, Casa Clooney), beautiful towns such as Bellagio, and swimming pools suspended over the water. You can get around the lake by ferry, but really the only way to see it in style is on board a glossy wooden Riva boat.

Where to stay: The grande dame of the lake is Villa d’Este , which has one of the region’s signature over-water pools, gorgeous grounds that feature a mosaic with a path leading up to a fountain, a spa and various restaurants, including the refined Veranda. Alternatively, you could book a stay at the place recently crowned the best hotel in the world, Passalacqua , or check in to the sleek, chic Il Sereno , with its contemporary design, world-class facilities and breathtaking views.

Matera, Basilicata

The main attraction in millennia-old Matera in the south is its Unesco-protected Sassi, a complex of cave dwellings carved into the edge of a mountain, inhabited since the Paleolithic period until as recently as the early 1950s. It’s thought to be one of the oldest cities in the world, up there with the likes of Jericho and Aleppo. Unsurprising for somewhere this photogenic, it’s no stranger to film crews – James Bond fans will have spied it in No Time To Die . The city – in the Basilicata region, which borders Puglia and Calabria – is built on a rocky outcrop with a canyon backdrop. More history awaits at its rock churches, some of which are graced by 13th-century frescoes.

Where to stay: If you want to experience what it might have been like for the cave dwellers of Matera, stay at the atmospheric Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita . Or be a temporary member of the Coppola clan with a sojourn to their Italian casa , Palazzo Margherita , in the walled 15th-century town of Bernalda.

Pantelleria, Strait of Sicily

Made famous by the film A Bigger Splash back in 2015, Pantelleria was until then one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. The island is in the Strait of Sicily , and fewer than 70 kilometres from the coast of Tunisia. As with many of Italy’s isles, it’s volcanic, with lava rock formations, beautiful bays, an ancient castle, lots of old churches, narrow cobbled streets to stroll and vibrant markets to browse. It’s home to several lakes, including the heart-shaped Specchio di Venere, along with acclaimed wineries and orchards producing prized olives, dates and capers.

Where to stay: Sikelia Luxury Retreat is a boutique retreat that can be hired as a whole to create a private island paradise for you and a select fortunate few.

4 luxury bucket list destinations for 2024

The wellness benefits of going on a cruise

London's most luxurious hotels

Where to go in Thailand

The most spectacular hotels on Koh Samui

The most luxurious hotels in Phuket

The best hotels in St Tropez

Gwyneth Paltrow's New York guide

12 of England's best hotels with outdoor pools

The luxury guide to Hong Kong

A-list approved Cannes hotels

Money blog: Avocados 'laser-tattooed' in supermarket trial; Netflix users warned of scam

Lasers are being used to "tattoo" barcodes onto extra large avocados to replace stickers at Tesco. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news below, and leave your thoughts in the comments box.

Friday 31 May 2024 21:00, UK

• First-time buyers urged to consider building societies over banks
• Netflix users warned of scam
• Avocados 'laser-tattooed' in supermarket trial
• Drivers unaware as Low Emission Zone fines go live in Scotland

Essential reads

• The popular sweets that are the 'least bad' for you
• Think twice before buying your holiday clothes from Zara
• Savings account that could bag you a free £8,500 in five years
• Best pub chef in UK shares amazing cheap pasta recipe
• Women in Business : 'A truck unloaded a £600 car that her son bought on eBay thinking it was a toy' - the schoolgate stories that led to GoHenry
• Money Problem : 'My mortgage lender is ending my two-year fix and I haven't been in the house for two years - can they do this?'
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

An investigation has been launched into whether the biggest banking merger since the financial crisis could harm competition.

The Competition and Markets Authority announced the inquiry into Nationwide's £2.9bn takeover of rival Virgin Money this morning.

The move would bring together the fifth and sixth largest retail lenders, creating a combined group with around 24.5 million customers and nearly 700 branches.

It would spell the end of the Virgin Money brand, with Nationwide planning to rebrand the business within six years.

The CMA has invited interested parties to give their views on the deal, as it considers whether it could "result in a substantial lessening of competition" in the market.

Nationwide struck the takeover agreement in March, and last week a clear majority of 89% of Virgin Money shareholders voted in favour, helping to clear the path to complete.

The government has sold £1.24bn of its shares in NatWest, accelerating the process of private ownership.

The Treasury's shareholding in the high street bank has fallen by approximately 3.5 percentage points to 22.5%.

NatWest, formerly Royal Bank of Scotland, received multibillion-pound bailouts during the 2008 financial crisis, leaving the government with an 84% stake.

The government has been selling down its stake in the lender, with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt planning to sell all of its interest in the bank by 2025 or 2026 should the Conservatives be re-elected.

There was supposed to be a public share sale this summer, allowing individuals, not just institutional investors, to purchase stock, but the plans have been shelved due to the election.

In recent years, the sell-off has become more rapid. In 2018, the government owned 62% of the group, but by December of last year that was down to just under 38%.

In March, that fell below 30%, meaning the government was no longer classed as a controlling shareholder in the lender.

Earlier this year, NatWest wrote to shareholders asking them to support an increase in the amount of stock the bank could buy back from the government in a year, from just under 5% to 15%.

The establishment of Great British Energy is among the last remnants of the "green prosperity plan" devised and championed by Ed Miliband, the shadow secretary of state for energy security and net zero, three years ago.

The former Labour leader's vision was to spend £28bn per year in the first five years of an incoming Labour government on decarbonising the UK economy.

However, as the current leader Sir Keir Starmer recognised, the issue was swiftly weaponised by the Conservatives because all the money - as Mr Miliband himself had made clear - would have been borrowed.

More importantly, the plan did not survive contact with Rachel Reeves, the shadow chancellor, who has made fiscal responsibility her priority.

The £28bn-a-year spending pledge was watered down in February this year to one of £23.7bn over the life of the next parliament.

A sizeable chunk of that will be on Great British Energy, described by Mr Miliband as "a new publicly owned clean power company", which Labour has said will be initially capitalised at £8.3bn.

And, instead of the money being borrowed, Labour is now saying "it will be funded by asking the big oil and gas companies to pay their fair share through a proper windfall tax".

Read on  here... 

Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee are joining Glasgow as cities with Low Emission Zones where motorists could face fines up to £480 if they don't comply.

The zones were introduced two years ago, but drivers were given a grace period before charges began.

In Dundee, the grace period ended today - in Edinburgh and Aberdeen it's tomorrow.

A non-compliant vehicle entering the zone can be charged £60, which doubles with each subsequent breach up to a maximum of £480.

If paid within 14 days, the initial fine will be halved to £30.

Despite the warning, only 55% of drivers in Scotland are confident they know where the zones are in operation, according to online marketplace Carwow.

Some 30% of Scottish motorists are not sure if they understand the rules and 24% are not sure if their vehicle is compliant.

"We therefore need to tackle the lack of understanding among motorists about Low Emission Zones in Scotland – where they are and which cars are compliant - because, without better knowledge, millions of drivers are at risk of being fined," said Sally Foote, chief commercial officer at Carwow.

The Low Emission Zones aim to discourage high-polluting vehicles from entering certain areas, just like those in English cities like Sheffield and Bristol.

Unlike English Clean Air Zones, Scottish LEZs apply to all types of vehicles except motorbikes and mopeds.

Non-compliant vehicles are not allowed into those zones whatsoever, unlike English LEZs, which apply a daily charge.

Ultra-low emission vehicles are automatically compliant, but others must conform to certain Euro emission ratings, which can be found in your V5C logbook - or you can check online.

Cars, vans, minibuses, taxis and private hire vehicles with a petrol engine must have at least a Euro 4 rating, while those with diesel engines should have a Euro 6.

Grants are available to people living within 20km of a LEZ who have no other choice but to sell or adapt their vehicles.

Hackers say they have stolen confidential information from all Santander staff and millions of customers, reports the BBC.

A gang going by the name of ShinyHunters posted an advert on a hacking forum claiming to be selling 30 million people's bank account details, six million account numbers and balances, 28 million credit card numbers and HR information for staff.

Earlier this month, the bank said data was accessed belonging to customers in Chile, Spain and Uruguay and all current Santander employees, but nothing that would allow transactions to take place.

As of March, Sandander as a whole employed more than 211,000 people and as of 30 June 2021, 20,900 employees worked for Santander UK.

Santander has declined to comment on the claims beyond a statement released on 14 May.

It read: "Certain information relating to customers of Santander Chile, Spain and Uruguay, as well as all current and some former Santander employees of the group had been accessed.

"No transactional data, nor any credentials that would allow transactions to take place on accounts are contained in the database, including online banking details and passwords. The bank's operations and systems are not affected, so customers can continue to transact securely.

"We apologise for the concern this will understandably cause and are proactively contacting affected customers and employees directly."

ShinyHunters have previously sold data stolen from AT&T and claim to be selling private data hacked from Ticketmaster, the BBC reported.

Lasers are being used to "tattoo" barcodes onto extra large avocados to replace stickers at a UK supermarket.

High-powered beams will draw the Tesco logo by removing a tiny section of the top layer of the skin in a trial designed to be environmentally friendly. 

The etching, directed by a computer program, takes a third of a second to mark an avocado, 70 million of which Tesco sells a year.

Customers at approximately 270 Tesco stores in southeast England will see the new avocados and – if feedback is positive – they will be rolled out across all stores.

Tesco said it could save nearly a million plastic stickers on its loose extra-large avocados, based on current sales information.

"We're really excited to hear customer feedback on our new laser-etched avocados, avoiding the need for a barcode sticker that can easily be forgotten and left on when recycling through household food waste," said Tesco avocado buyer Lisa Gilbey.

The trial also includes replacing the plastic tray packaging for two of its most popular avocado lines and moving to a cardboard container that is easier to recycle.

Westfalia Fruit, which supplies avocados to Tesco, said this could save more than 20 million pieces of plastic tray packaging from the twin-pack avocado alone, increasing up to 25 million pieces across the pre-packed range.

The laser-etched avocados will be in all stores taking part in the trial this weekend.

Income growth over the last 15 years has been the "worst in generations", according to a report.

Pay packets would be 24% higher for the average Briton if incomes had risen at the same rate since 2009-10 as they did prior, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) found.

Real average earnings this year are expected to be 4% higher than in 2019–20, but disposable incomes will be broadly unchanged due to higher mortgage payments, tax rises and falling employment, the IFS said.

"Although there has been a widespread slowdown in growth internationally since the financial crisis, the UK has fallen from being one of the fastest growers prior to the Great Recession, to one of the weakest performers," said Tom Waters, an author of the report and an associate director at IFS.

UK income growth lagged behind comparable nations between 2007 and 2019, coming 10th out of 14 countries analysed by the IFS.

At 6% growth, the UK was performing half as well as the US, and well below the 30% that could be expected in a similar time period pre-recession.

Germany outstripped the UK by some margin at 16% growth, while only France, Spain and Greece recorded a lower rate.

Between 2019 and 2023, UK incomes fell by 0.5%, the third worst growth among 12 countries for which there was available data.

"Living standards have languished for more than a decade," said Mubin Haq, chief executive of the abrdn Financial Fairness Trust.

"On a range of measures, UK performance has been weak, especially in comparison to other wealthy countries. The danger is that stagnation becomes the new normal. 

"This is in no one's interests and stunts too many futures and too many lives."

Netflix subscribers are being urged to be wary of suspicious emails or texts claiming to be from the streaming giant.

Customers have reported being contacted by scammers claiming to be Netflix, asking for payments or stating there are problems with their account. 

Under no circumstances should links be clicked on in any suspicious-looking messages, consumers have been warned. 

Recent figures cited by Birmingham Live showed victims of scams lost £1,730 on average, with around half saying they were left feeling angry with themselves or "stupid".

Netflix issued a message to millions of its customers: "If you get an email or text message (SMS) asking for your Netflix account email, phone, password, or payment method it probably didn't come from Netflix.

"We'll never ask for payment through a third party vendor or website. 

"If the text or email links to a URL that you don't recognise, don't tap or click it. If you did already, do not enter any information on the website that opened.

"Scammers can't get information from you unless you give it to them. So don't click any links in the messages or reply to them."

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

JD Sports is one of the big losers on the stock market this morning after its shares plunged more than 12% in early UK trading.

It comes after the sportswear retailer released its results for the year to January on Friday - and revealed it had suffered an 8% drop in pre-tax profits.

Revenues also dropped by 8.3% to £3.51bn over the 12 months - but its organic sales grew by 9%.

Despite the figures, the chain's chief executive Regis Schultz hailed the company's "strong" performance in what he described as a "challenging market".

In other markets news, the government has sold £1.24bn of its shares in NatWest.

The Treasury's stake in the high street staple has fallen by around 3.5 percentage points to 22.5% as a result of the move.

The bank received several multibillion-pound bailouts during the 2008/09 financial crisis and is being gradually returned to private ownership.

However, a public share sale planned for this summer has been postponed because of the upcoming general election - as Sky News revealed last week.

Overall, there's little change on the FTSE 100 this Friday morning.

It's down 0.3% as investors await inflation news in the US and Europe which could impact on potential interest rate cuts.

On the currency markets, £1 buys $1.27 US or €1.17 - similar to yesterday's rates.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

The Federal Register

The daily journal of the united states government, request access.

Due to aggressive automated scraping of FederalRegister.gov and eCFR.gov, programmatic access to these sites is limited to access to our extensive developer APIs.

If you are human user receiving this message, we can add your IP address to a set of IPs that can access FederalRegister.gov & eCFR.gov; complete the CAPTCHA (bot test) below and click "Request Access". This process will be necessary for each IP address you wish to access the site from, requests are valid for approximately one quarter (three months) after which the process may need to be repeated.

An official website of the United States government.

If you want to request a wider IP range, first request access for your current IP, and then use the "Site Feedback" button found in the lower left-hand side to make the request.

FinanceBuzz

13 Amazing Places To Visit Before They Disappear (How Many Are on Your Bucket List?)

Posted: June 21, 2023 | Last updated: June 21, 2023

Many of the world’s once-great attractions and destinations have been lost over time, whether due to natural conditions or other events, such as war and urban development.

In today’s world, we still have plenty of amazing places to visit — but for how much longer? From the Great Barrier Reef to Venice, Italy, here are the places you need to visit before it’s too late.

And if you're going to expedite a visit, you may be able to earn travel rewards with the right credit card. 

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

Amazon rainforest

Location: About 60% of the Amazon rainforest is in Brazil

What’s happening: Deforestation and fires

The Amazon rainforest is the world’s largest rainforest and is also home to some of the most unique species of plants and animals on the planet. But if deforestation and massive fires continue to clear the rainforest, it’s predicted that much of the area will eventually see a permanent change.

Why you should visit: Remote and virtually untouched land awaits your next adventure; compare credit cards to help find the right travel card for your next trip.

Want to learn how to build wealth like the 1%? Sign up for Worthy to get ideas and advice delivered to your inbox.

Location: Between Israel and Jordan

What’s happening: It’s shrinking

The Dead Sea is dying. Or at least, it’s disappearing. This historic lake between Israel and Jordan is shrinking at a rapid pace each year, which is increasing its already high levels of salt. Fortunately, barring any severe changes, the Dead Sea should still be around for many years to come.

Why you should visit: It’s the lowest land elevation on Earth and swimming in its salty waters feels like floating.

Everglades National Park

Location: Florida, U.S.

The largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. and a World Heritage Site is slowly disappearing, and many of its inhabitants are along with it. Agricultural and urban development are taking land from the Everglades, while invasive species of plants and animals are spreading and destroying native species.

Why you should visit: Filled with beautiful landscapes and unique plants and wildlife, there’s nowhere in the world quite like the Everglades.

7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest

Galapagos Islands

Location: Ecuador

What’s happening: Ecosystem degradation

Because of increased tourism, illegal fishing and poaching, as well as the introduction of invasive species, the famed Galapagos Islands are seeing a negative impact on their fragile ecosystems. The islands were made famous by Charles Darwin, who visited them and later came up with his theory of evolution by natural selection.

Why you should visit: It’s a chain of beautiful, volcanic islands filled with endemic (not found anywhere else in the world) species of plants and animals.

Location: Italy

What’s happening: It’s sinking

When you build a city on the water, there’s always going to be a battle to stay afloat. Such is the case with the city of Venice, the famed City of Canals in Italy, which is slowly sinking into the Venetian Lagoon. Try to lower some financial stress when you visit by earning cash back with the right credit card. 

Why you should visit: There aren’t too many cities in the world that are crisscrossed by various canals, and Venice is the most well-known of them.

Glacier National Park

Location: Montana, U.S.

What’s happening: Glaciers are melting

Due to climate change, the glaciers that Glacier National Park is named for are vanishing over time, with a prediction for a total disappearance by 2100. With less ice, there has also been more fire, with an increased number of wildfires contributing to more park closures in recent years.

Why you should visit: It’s one of the most beautiful national parks in the U.S., offering pristine scenery and dramatic landscapes.

Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards

Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Arizona, U.S.

What’s happening: Irreversible changes

It’s not likely the Grand Canyon will disappear anytime soon, but this world-famous national park has seen some irreversible changes over the years and more changes are bound to happen. This is primarily due to invasive species being introduced to the area and human development, such as the Glen Canyon Dam being built.

Why you should visit: It’s world-famous for a reason, offering jaw-dropping vistas, hiking, camping, and more.

Great Barrier Reef

Location: Australia

What’s happening: It’s dying

Coral reefs are living creatures, and we might not have the largest collection of coral reefs for much longer. The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia is suffering from worldwide climate change, which is killing many of its corals.

Why you should visit: It’s one of the seven wonders of the natural world, filled with wonderful plants and wildlife, and it’s disappearing quickly.

Great Wall of China

Location: China

What’s happening: Deterioration

An architectural wonder that was started nearly 2,000 years ago, the Great Wall of China still stands today as a monumental work of historical significance. But not all of it’s still there. It’s estimated that around 30% of the wall has eroded or simply disappeared over time, due to natural occurrences and human interference.

Why you should visit: As one of the new seven wonders of the world, the Great Wall of China is an incredible feat of construction and longevity.

Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards

Location: Island country in Southeast Africa

What’s happening: Deforestation

Deforestation is widespread across Madagascar since the local population requires firewood and charcoal for their everyday needs. This has contributed to a large loss of habitat for plants and wildlife in the area. Illegal wildlife trade has also increased as a possible side effect of deforestation since there’s more access to certain animals.

Why you should visit: After splitting from the African continent around 160 million years ago, Madagascar has become a veritable natural paradise, with forests, coral reefs, mangroves, and more.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Location: Tanzania

What’s happening: Ice cap is shrinking

If you’re familiar with Mount Kilimanjaro, you know about its giant ice cap at the top. It’s part of a well-recognized backdrop in photos of Kilimanjaro National Park below the mountain. But the ice cap is shrinking, and predictions say it could be gone completely during this century.

Why you should visit: It’s the highest point in Africa and the largest free-standing (not part of a mountain range) mountain in the world.

Outer Banks

Location: North Carolina, U.S.

What’s happening: Beach is eroding

The Outer Banks (not the TV show, but where the show is set) are shrinking each year, giving up land to the relentless waves of the ocean. For the residents who live here, it’s a seemingly losing battle to preserve the area they know and love. After all, who can stop the sea from making its changes?

Why you should visit: The Outer Banks barrier islands provide beautiful beaches and summertime escapes for visitors nationwide.

5 Signs You’re Doing Better Financially Than the Average American

Location: Argentina and Chile

Patagonia is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, but its spectacular icefields aren’t slated to be around forever. According to some, the ice found in Patagonia is melting at some of the planet’s highest rates.

Why you should visit: Patagonia spans both Argentina and Chile and offers visitors opportunities to explore vast and wild landscapes.

Bottom line

All of these places and attractions are expected to one day disappear, but some of them might not have as much time as others. 

If you want to travel to these destinations, it’s likely best to make plans sooner rather than later. To help fund any upcoming trips, use helpful rewards and benefits from the best travel credit cards .

More from FinanceBuzz:

• 6 genius hacks Costco shoppers should know
• 9 things you must do before the next recession.
• Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
• 9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day

More for You

Stephen King Election Remark Takes Internet By Storm

What Your Body Is Trying To Tell You if You Can Feel or Hear Your Own Heartbeat, According to Cardiologists

What Happens if You Deposit More Than $10,000 in Your Bank Account?

The 6 best cars of the year, according to Edmunds

‘My will says my home should go to my children’: Does my husband have any ownership claim on my house? He spent $85,000 on repairs.

This Is What a TSA Agent First Notices About You

Mom Shares Tip That Helped Her Drop 160 Pounds Healthily—Without Fad Diets

International reaction to Donald Trump's criminal conviction

The Only Major Actors Still Alive From Gilligan's Island

Wondering How Much to Give at a Wedding? What 2 Experts Recommend

How to stay asleep all night if you keep waking up — an expert explains

‘Wheel of Fortune’ Host Pat Sajak Loses it While Contestants Celebrate Incorrect Guess

Expert shows what would actually happen if you stopped mowing your lawn — and what you should do instead

Trump adviser blasts College Republicans statement on New York verdict

Is Victoria Beckham’s Diet Healthy? She Eats The 'Same Thing Every Day,' According To Her Husband David

Report: Timberwolves Players Didn’t Go On Inside The NBA Postgame Show Because Draymond Green Was There

Woman Fosters Stray Who Gave Birth To Her Puppies Alone In The Rain

Archaeologists found a secret chamber at the base of the Great Pyramid of Giza, and they have no idea what it is

‘I gave up a job that I loved passionately’: My husband secretly set up a trust that includes our home and his investments. What should I do?

‘Survivor' Issues Rare Statement To Viewers, Asks Them to "Please Consider Embracing Kindness"