Southern Italy captivates visitors with its extraordinary beauty and timeless charm. There are so many scenic towns to add to your Southern Italy itinerary.
From the mysterious trulli houses of Puglia to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, and from Sicily’s ancient stone villages to Basilicata’s cave dwellings.
Let’s explore some of the most beautiful Southern Italy towns that you can see on a road trip that make this region a must-visit for travelers.
12 Best Towns in Southern Italy
These 12 breathtaking destinations showcase the very best of the region’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage, perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and beauty.
1. Alberobello, Puglia
One of the most beloved southern Italy towns to visit is Alberobello, a fairytale landscape dotted with over 1,500 trulli – distinctive cone-roofed limestone dwellings that earned UNESCO World Heritage status.
Often cited as one of the prettiest towns in Italy, walking through this town’s narrow streets feels like stepping into another world, particularly in the Rione Monti district where these mushroom-like structures cluster together.
Visitors can explore trulli-museums, stay in trullo accommodations, and sample traditional Pugliese cuisine in restaurants housed within these unique structures.
2. Positano, Amalfi Coast
Positano stands as the crown jewel among the best towns in Southern Italy, with its dramatic vertical landscape of pastel-colored houses cascading down to the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea.
The town’s narrow streets wind past fashionable boutiques, art galleries, and scenic restaurants.
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta’s majolica-tiled dome dominates the skyline, while the town’s two beaches – Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo – offer perfect spots for sunbathing and swimming.
3. Erice, Sicily
Among the smallest towns in south Italy, Erice perches dramatically atop Mount Erice, offering breathtaking views across to the Egadi Islands.
This medieval stone village charms visitors with its cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, and Norman castle built on the ruins of a Temple of Venus.
The town is famous for its pastry shops, particularly Maria Grammatico’s, where ancient recipes for almond sweets are still followed.
4. Atrani, Amalfi Coast
Atrani, the smallest southern Italy coastal towns, preserves its authentic character despite its proximity to busier Amalfi.
Its compact size and preservation from mass tourism make it a hidden gem, with a picture-perfect main square (Piazza Umberto I) surrounded by tall houses and dominated by the beautiful Church of San Salvatore de’ Birecto.
It’s one of the best coastal towns in Italy, the beach here is particularly charming, nestled beneath dramatic cliffs.
5. Castelmezzano, Basilicata
Castelmezzano ranks among the most spectacular small towns in Southern Italy, dramatically set against the jagged peaks of the Dolomiti Lucane, it is truly one of the Italy’s best hidden gems.
Adventure seekers can experience the “Flight of the Angel,” a high-speed zipline connecting to nearby Pietrapertosa, while others can explore ancient stone staircases and peaceful piazzas.
6. Polignano a Mare, Puglia
One of the best places to visit in Puglia, Polignano a Mare is the perfect example of a beach town in Southern Italy, with its historic center dramatically positioned on limestone cliffs above the Adriatic.
The town is famous for its scenic cave restaurant, Grotta Palazzese, carved into the rock face.
Visitors can explore the charming old town’s balconies overlooking the sea, dive from the cliffs at Cala Porto, or sample local specialties like fresh seafood and the famous caffè speciale.
7. Scilla, Calabria
Scilla welcomes visitors with its vibrant fishing tradition and timeless coastal charm.
The Chianalea district, where colorful houses seem to rise directly from the sea, offers one of Calabria’s most picturesque scenes.
The impressive Ruffo Castle stands sentinel over the distinctive purple-sand beach of Marina Grande, while local restaurants serve the freshest swordfish caught daily by traditional fishing boats that dot the harbor.
8. Castellammare del Golfo, Sicily
Castellammare del Golfo presents a perfect blend of history and coastal beauty, with its medieval fortress jutting into the turquoise Mediterranean.
The town’s fishing port bustles with activity each morning, while the evening passeggiata along the marina offers spectacular sunset views.
Nearby, the Zingaro Nature Reserve provides excellent hiking and swimming opportunities.
9. Cefalù, Sicily
Cefalù combines historic charm with beach resort appeal.
Its Norman cathedral, adorned with exceptional Byzantine mosaics, dominates the skyline, while the old town’s narrow medieval streets lead to a perfect crescent beach.
La Rocca, a massive crag overlooking the town, offers adventurous hiking and spectacular coastal views.
10. Amalfi, Amalfi Coast
Amalfi, often called the most picturesque town in Amalfi Coast, stuns visitors with its maritime history and architectural splendor.
The town’s centerpiece, the striped-facade Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, rises dramatically above the main square, while the Paper Museum offers insight into the town’s historic paper-making tradition.
The scenic harbor and beach provide perfect relaxation spots after exploring the town’s stepped streets and hidden gardens.
11. Sassi di Matera, Basilicata
The Sassi di Matera represents one of humanity’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements, with cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs.
Once Italy’s “national shame” for its poverty, today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site where boutique hotels and restaurants occupy restored cave houses.
The best experiences include exploring the rock churches with their ancient frescoes and watching the sunset transform the stone city into a golden wonderland.
12. Ostuni, Puglia
Ostuni rises from the Pugliese countryside like a white mountain, earning its nickname “La Città Bianca.”
The whitewashed old town is a maze of staircases, arches, and alleys opening onto views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding olive groves.
Local markets sell fresh produce and traditional crafts, while traditional restaurants serve Pugliese specialties in atmospheric settings within the ancient walls.
Final Thoughts on the Best Southern Italy Towns to Visit
These charming towns showcase the incredible diversity of Southern Italy, from coastal gems perched on dramatic cliffs to historic hilltop villages frozen in time.
Whether you’re drawn to Puglia’s distinctive architecture, the Amalfi Coast’s dramatic beauty, or Sicily’s ancient charm, these towns promise unforgettable memories.
Don’t miss our comprehensive guides on:
- Bucket List Places to Visit in Southern Italy
- 15 Best Places To Visit In Southern Italy
- 11 Best Places To Visit In Sicily and
- Bucket List Travel Ideas for Southern Italy
For more travel tips and practical information, explore our complete Italy travel guide.
