17 Cutest Italian Coastal Towns for a Road Trip!

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

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

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

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

Alora! Let’s get into it…

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Best Italian Coastal Towns on a Map

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

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Italian Coastal Towns in North Italy

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

1. Vernazza: The Heart of Cinque Terre

Recommended by Jillian from Adventure Dragon

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

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

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

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

2. Riomaggiore: The Nightlife of Cinque Terre

Recommended by Elena at The Carry-On Chronicles

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

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

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

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

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

3. Portofino: Haven for the Rich & Famous

Recommended by James from Travel Connecting

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Linn from Brainy Backpackers

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Lerici: A Classic Italian Coastal Town

Recommended by Barbora from Often Out of Office

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

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

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

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

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

6. Viareggio: The Sandy Beach Gem of Tuscany

Recommended by Martina from PlacesofJuma

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

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

7. Bolgheri: Undiscovered Gem

Recommended by Michelle at Intentional Travelers

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

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

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

8. Rimini: Party & Sandy Beaches

Recommended by Raluca at Travel with a Spin

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

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

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

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

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

9. Venice: For the Romantics!

Recommended by Laura of Travelers Universe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Italian Coastal Towns in South Italy

10. Positano: The Gem of the Amalfi Coast

Recommended by Dan from Urban Abroad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Lori from Italy Foodies

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

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

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

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

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

12. Procida: The Italian Capital of Culture

Recommended by Lori from Travlinmad

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

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


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

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

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

13. Tropea: The Coast of Gods

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Terri from Female Solo Trek

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

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

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

15. Taormina: Where Italians go on Vacation

Recommended by Anwar from Beyond My Door

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

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

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

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

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

16. Siracusa: And the Magical Island of Ortigia

Recommended by Annabel from Smudged Postcards

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

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

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

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

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

17. Cefalu: Traditional Sicilian Charm

Recommended by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

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

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

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

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

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

⭐️ BONUS: South Italy Coastal Road Trip

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

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

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FAQ: Italian Coastal Towns

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

What is the most beautiful coastal town in Italy?

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

What is the most famous coastal town in Italy?

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

Which coast is better in Italy?

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

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

What are some underrated places in Italy?

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

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

Is the Amalfi Coast worth it?

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

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

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

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Wrap-Up: Italian Coastal Towns & Beyond…

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

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