Situated on the Tyrrhenian Sea in Calabria, in southern Italy, it stretches throughout 7 kilometers of gorgeous shoreline. After I go to, I really like absorbing the solar, snorkelling within the crystal-clear waters, taking boat excursions to find hidden coves, eating in charming waterfront eating places, and ending the day by watching breathtaking sunsets over the ocean.
6. Noli, Liguria – a medieval riviera escape with genuine Italian soul
This charming medieval city by no means fails to win me over! It stays splendidly off-the-tourist radar due to its small dimension, dedication to preserving its medieval heritage, and dedication to genuine, low-key tourism moderately than large-scale growth – to me, it felt like a peaceable, timeless escape from the fashionable world!
Nestled alongside the Italian Riviera in Liguria, within the northern a part of the nation, the charming city is dwelling to simply 2,700 residents. I used to be completely captivated by the gorgeous turquoise waters, the combo of pebbly and sandy bays, the medieval stone partitions, slender cobblestone streets, and historic towers that body the outdated city, together with the picturesque Ligurian homes topped with terracotta roofs.
I stayed right here for a peaceable brief break, the place I relaxed on the tranquil seashores, wandered by means of the medieval outdated city with its historical towers and partitions, hiked the breathtaking trails of Capo Noli, admired the charming San Paragorio Church, and indulged in freshly made linguine that completely captured the flavors of the area!
My highlights…
- Staying on the charming boutique Paradiso Di Manù – I beloved the distinctive however authentically Italian decor, the intimate and private vibe, the gorgeous views of Spotorno Bay from its hillside location, the outside swimming pool and its very good restaurant is carved into the rock!
- Taking a two hour hike from medieval city of Noli to the Grotta dei Falsari (Cave of the Forgers) – I found Insta-worthy views of the attractive Ligurian Sea, the Gulf of Noli and even the define of the Maritime Alps within the distance!
7. San Fruttuoso, Italian Riviera – a hidden abbey bay on the Italian riviera 
I’m at all times completely charmed by this timeless and breathtaking spot! It’s a small, secluded bay on the Italian Riviera that has retained its unique appeal, due to its distant location – accessible solely by boat or a scenic climbing path – and strict preservation efforts which have safeguarded its gorgeous historic abbey and unspoiled pure environment.
Situated on the Italian Riviera within the Portofino Regional Park, between the cities of Camogli and Portofino in northwest Liguria, this charming hamlet contains a tiny bay with turquoise waters, a pebble seaside, lush inexperienced hills, and superbly preserved historic structure that transports you again in time.
When right here, I explored the historic Tenth-century abbey, swam in crystal-clear waters, went snorkelling to see the bronze underwater Christ of the Abyss statue, hiked the attractive trails by means of the Portofino Regional Park, and dined on the quaint waterside eating places!
My private highlights…
- Staying within the close by 4-star LHP Lodge Santa Margherita Palace & SPA – I actually preferred the funky modern decor, the boutique vibe and the very good wellness space – my favorite services have been the hydromassage, Turkish bathtub, sensory bathe and distinctive ice cascades!
- Eating at Da Laura restaurant – the ocean views, the outside stone ground patio, the genuine Ligurian delicacies and my dish of of lasagnette al pesto which had tender pasta sheets and vibrant inexperienced pesto made it actually memorable!
8. Procida Island, Bay of Naples – a vibrant bay of Naples hideaway with native life
This sleepy however very fairly island affords a splendidly genuine slice of life! I really like the way it has stayed quiet and unspoiled, due to its lack of large-scale tourism and its dedication to preserving conventional appeal and a neighborhood lifestyle—it even had the glory of being named the nation’s Capital of Tradition!
Situated within the Bay of Naples in southern Italy, I like the slow-paced vibe right here, together with the gorgeous surroundings—sandy seashores, rocky coves, pastel-coloured buildings, the glowing blue waters of the marina, and slender cobblestone streets weaving by means of its charming villages.
I took the ferry from Naples and stayed for a brief break wandering the colorful streets of Marina Corricella, enjoyable and swimming on the seashores (my favorite was the sandy Chiaiolella Seashore), exploring the historic Terra Murata with its medieval abbey, having fun with conventional eating and discovering hidden coves alongside the shoreline! To me, it was pure bliss!
- Location: off the coast of Naples, south of the nation
- Location Map
My highlights…
- Strolling throughout the 100-meter footbridge to Vivara which was a small, crescent-shaped islet which have been the stays of an historical volcanic crater. From the slender bridge I might see panoramic views of the shoreline and distant volcanic peaks.
- Exploring the outdated deserted jail of Palazzo D’Avalos which featured a museum, backyard and artwork gallery – it was fascinating to see the rusted iron bars, the pale graffiti of former inmates, and artifacts like uniforms and paperwork which revealed the grim realities of what life was as soon as like there!
9. Gallipoli, Puglia – a baroque seaside magnificence with golden seashores
This pleasant slow-paced coastal city is named “the attractive metropolis”! House to round 20,000 residents, it’s barely off the crushed path, which has helped it largely keep away from the overdevelopment widespread in different vacationer locations. Because of this, it has preserved lots of its conventional methods together with its gorgeous historic structure, that includes placing Baroque, Medieval, and Renaissance types.
Situated on the Ionian coast of Puglia, within the southern Salento area, I discovered a shocking mix of lovely sandy seashores, golden baroque buildings, slender cobblestone streets, and historic fortifications, all set in opposition to the glowing Ionian Sea.
I went on a peaceable summer season break right here and it was divine! I found its spectacular historic citadel, relaxed on the attractive seashores, visited the Sant’Agata Cathedral which had an intricate façade and gazed at breathtaking sunsets alongside the Ionian shoreline!
My highlights…
- Strolling throughout the fairy-tale like Sixteenth-century bridge which linked the New City to Gallipoli’s enchanting Outdated City – it was nice to discover the maze of slender streets within the Centro Storico with its fairly whitewashed buildings and hidden courtyards, it felt like I used to be stepping again in time!
10. Rapallo, Italian Riviera – a sublime riviera city with a relaxed seaside vibe
I assumed fairly coastal city was a really elegant and romantic magnificence spot! It has preserved its unspoiled appeal by harmoniously balancing historic class and pure magnificence with a relaxed tempo of life, steering away from the over-commercialisation usually seen in bigger vacationer resorts alongside the Italian Riviera.
Nestled alongside the Ligurian Coast within the area of Liguria, within the northern a part of the nation, it sits on the Italian Riviera (between Genoa and the well-known Cinque Terre) and is dwelling to almost 30,000 residents.
I stayed right here for a blissful week and relaxed and swam on the seashores (they have been pebbly however a few of the non-public resorts had made small sandy sections), explored the historic Castello sul Mare – a defensive fort – overlooking the harbour, took a scenic cable automobile experience to the gorgeous Sanctuary of Our Woman of Montallegro which had panoramic views of the Gulf of Tigullio and strolled alongside the elegant Lungomare Vittorio Veneto promenade lined with cute cafes and outlets.
My private highlights…
- Staying on the historic boutique gem the Europa Lodge Design Spa 1877 – I used to be an enormous fan of the lovingly restored Seventeenth-century villa it was housed in, the wonderful wellness services – particularly the hydromassage pool and Himalayan salt room and the gorgeous views of the Gulf of Tigullio!
11. Scilla, Calabria – a Calabrian fishing village with storybook views
This lesser recognized gem of a coastal city by no means fails to appeal me! Scilla feels so peaceable unspoilt as a result of it’s tucked away from the vacationer crowds, letting its charming fishing village vibe and genuine Italian magnificence shine with out all of the hustle and bustle!
Nestled within the southern area of Calabria alongside the Tyrrhenian Sea, this charming spot sits on the “toe” of Italy’s boot and is dwelling to simply 4,500 residents. It affords a shocking mix of crystal-clear shimmering waters, a mixture of golden sand and pebbly seashores, picturesque pastel-coloured homes, and the dramatic Castello Ruffo perched majestically on a rocky outcrop.
Whereas right here, I soaked up the solar on the sandy Marina Grande seaside, wandered by means of the enchanting Chianalea fishing district, explored the historic Castello Ruffo with its breathtaking views, and dined on spaghetti tossed with cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a contact of Calabrian chilli for the right spicy kick!
My favorite highlights…
- Eating within the fabulous Restaurant Bleu De Toi – I beloved the standard stone constructing it was housed in, the distinctive platform which was constructed instantly over the ocean (the place we might dine) and my heavenly risotto which got here with citrus fruits and a crimson pumpkin sauce!
12. Gabicce Mare, Marche – a coastal gem with a relaxed household‑pleasant vibe
I’m an enormous fan of this picturesque small seaside city! It’s a lot quieter than the bigger coastal resorts, having fortunately averted overdevelopment due to its location on the sting of a protected nature reserve and a modest inhabitants of simply 5,000 residents.
Situated on the jap Adriatic coast within the Marche area, close to the Emilia-Romagna border and only a brief drive from Rimini, this picturesque spot affords a shocking mixture of golden sandy seashores, vibrant seaside inns, charming Italian piazzas, and a lush inexperienced backdrop of the San Bartolo Pure Park, dotted with fairly hillside villas.
On my journey, I relaxed on the pristine sandy seashores, swam within the attractive Adriatic waters, hiked the picturesque trails of San Bartolo Pure Park, dined at waterfront eating places, and explored the charming hilltop village of Gabicce Monte which was dwelling to cosy trattorias, and scenic terraces.
My highlights…
- Staying on the boutique gem the 4-star Lodge Sans Souci – I beloved enjoyable within the outside saltwater pool whereas gazing on the coastal surroundings, the divine buffet breakfast and the way it had its personal non-public sandy seaside – it was bliss!
- Strolling alongside the pier in Gabicce Mare with the shimmering Adriatic Sea on one aspect and breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the charming city of Cattolica all the way in which to the well-known shoreline of Rimini!
13. Tremiti Islands, Puglia – a distant marine‑reserve paradise
This distant and unspoiled spot at all times leaves an enduring impression on me! There are 5 islands in whole, dwelling to simply 454 residents. It exudes a splendidly tranquil vibe, tucked away within the Adriatic with restricted vacationer infrastructure and the added safety of being a part of the Gargano Nationwide Park’s marine reserve.
The islands are nestled within the Adriatic Sea, round 14 miles off the coast of the Gargano Peninsula within the Puglia area of the southern a part of the nation. I discovered a treasure trove of a mixture of sand and pebble seashores, hidden coves, rugged cliffs, dense pine forests and several other historic buildings surrounded by aquamarine waters.
I caught the hydrofoil boat from the city of Termoli on the mainland and stayed for a blissful 5 days. I swam and snorkelled within the attractive waters, relaxed on the sandy seaside at Cala delle Arene, hiked the awe-inspiring trails on San Domino, explored the historic Abbey of Santa Maria and medieval fortifications on San Nicola, and took an exquisite boat tour and found dramatic sea caves.
- Location: Adriatic Sea, north of the Gargano Peninsula, southeast Italy
- Location Map
My highlights…
- Happening a newbie’s dive tour with a skilled teacher in San Domino – I’ve to confess I used to be a bit nervous however seeing groupers and colleges of sea bream and silvery barracudas in addition to underwater caves made the expertise actually unimaginable!
14. Lipari, Sicily
I assumed this was a singular and picturesque volcanic island! It exudes a tranquil vibe, due to its distant location within the Aeolian Islands and its dedication to preserving its unspoiled pure landscapes, conventional tradition, and historic appeal.
I personally discovered the surroundings right here to be pure magic – rugged volcanic cliffs plunging into glowing turquoise waters, a captivating mixture of pebble, rocky, and a few sandy seashores, cute whitewashed buildings with terracotta rooftops scattered throughout the hillside, cobblestone streets, and engaging historical ruins to discover.
Nestled within the Tyrrhenian Sea, off the northern coast of Sicily, it’s the most important of the Aeolian Islands—an archipelago of volcanic origin—and is dwelling to a inhabitants of round 12,000 folks.
I arrived by ferry from Milazzo port in Sicily after which explored the traditional Lipari Citadel and its fascinating Aeolian Archaeological Museum, strolled by means of the charming streets of Marina Corta, relaxed on the distinctive pumice-stone seaside of Spiaggia Bianca, hiked scenic volcanic trails, and loved scrumptious meals at conventional trattorias!
- Location: an island positioned in Tyrrhenian Sea off the northern coast of Sicily
- Location Map
My private highlights…
- Sipping on a candy Malvasia delle Lipari wine and watching the sundown over the Baia di Canneto (Bay of Canneto) from the pebbly however very nice Coral Seashore.
15. Isola del Giglio, Tuscany – a tiny Tuscan island with rugged coves
I really like this secluded small island positioned off-the-beaten-path! It has a laid-back environment as a consequence of its small dimension, out the way in which location, and dedication to preserving its pure magnificence.
Situated off the western coast of Tuscany within the Tyrrhenian Sea, I completely adore its surroundings, with turquoise waters, a mixture of sandy and pebble seashores, rugged cliffs, hillsides dotted with charming stone buildings, picturesque fishing villages, and the medieval fortress of Giglio Castello perched majestically above all of it.
I caught a ferry from Porto Santo Stefano in Tuscany and spent a dreamy lengthy weekend right here enjoyable on the seashores, snorkelling within the clear waters which have been teeming with marine life, exploring the charming port city of Giglio Porto with its vibrant waterfront, hiked the picturesque trails, wandered the slender cobblestone streets of the medieval village Giglio Castello, and drank scrumptious native Tuscan wines!
- Location: Tyrrhenian Sea, off the coast of Tuscany
- Location Map
My favorite highlights…
- Going snorkelling within the calm and exceptionally clear spot of Cala dell’Arenella and seeing swarms of tuna fish, black coral and even a moray eel (which made my day)!
16. Lake Orta, Piedmont – a tranquil piedmont lake with cobbled road appeal
I feel it is a very lovely hidden gem! I really like visiting this lesser-known gem as a result of it affords a way more tranquil and under-the-radar vibe in comparison with the extra well-known Italian lakes, and it proudly steers away from mass tourism.
Nestled within the foothills of the Alps within the Piedmont area of northern Italy, I feel this place is a bit slice of heaven, with its calm, glassy waters surrounded by pebble and rocky seashores, a couple of small sandy stretches, lush inexperienced hills, cobbled streets, elegant villas, charming gardens, and the atmospheric small island at its heart, topped by an historical monastery.
I stayed in a stupendous lakeside boutique lodge and spent my days exploring the charming village of Orta San Giulio, visiting the peaceable Isola San Giulio with its historic monastery, strolling the serene nature trails and chapels of the Sacro Monte, having fun with picturesque boat rides, and easily enjoyable by the tranquil lakeside.
My favorite highlights…
- Staying on the ultra-romantic Relais & Chateaux Villa Crespi – I used to be in awe of the elegant decor, the historic Nineteenth-century villa it was housed in, the 4 poster mattress within the visitor room, the wellness services and the gorgeous lake views, it was onerous to go away!
- Wandering by means of the beautiful cobblestone streets early within the day – the morning mist hovered above the shimmering lake and made it appear nearly magical!
17. Calabria and Basilicata Areas – rustic southern coasts and hill cities
These are are splendidly rustic and untouched areas! I completely love how quiet and intriguingly mysterious it feels, due to its distant location, dedication to preserving conventional life, and the splendidly low ranges of mass tourism in comparison with different well-liked Italian areas.
Situated on the very southern tip of the nation, Calabria, often known as the nation’s “toe,” is dwelling to 1.8 million residents, whereas neighbouring Basilicata, simply to the north, has a inhabitants of 550,000. I’m in awe of the fascinating mix of nice sandy and pebbly seashores, rugged mountains, rolling hills, unspoiled coastlines, and historic cities that includes historical stone buildings, cliffside villages, and charming church buildings.
I stayed in these areas for a blissful fortnight and explored the gorgeous cliffside seashores of Tropea, hiked the dramatic landscapes of Pollino Nationwide Park, found the UNESCO-listed cave dwellings of Matera, explored the charming hilltop villages of Civita and Maratea, relaxed alongside the attractive Ionian shoreline, and visited historic sights from Greek ruins to medieval castles!
My private highlights…
18. Cala Pulcino, Lampedusa Island, Sicily – a secret lampedusa cove with dolphin sunsets
This secluded cove is a beautiful secret magnificence spot! Situated on the distant island of Lampedusa, I discovered it might solely be reached by boat or a difficult hike, which has fortunately deterred massive vacationer crowds!
It’s positioned on the southern coast of Lampedusa island, the most important of the Pelagie Islands within the Sicily area, nestled within the Mediterranean Sea, however really nearer to Tunisia than mainland Italy. I personally thought it was a beautiful pure paradise with lovely turquoise waters and mushy white sands, framed by rocky cliffs.
I hiked the well-marked path for 40 minutes from Casa Teresa to achieve it, and as soon as there, I spent a blissful 4 hours enjoyable on the sandy seaside, swimming, snorkelling, and absorbing the zen-like vibe!
My private highlights…
- Happening a sundown dolphin watching tour on a yacht – crusing on a big fashionable catamaran, recognizing playful dolphins whereas sipping on native cocktails and going for a sundown swim was a really superb expertise!
19. Ostuni, Puglia – rustic southern coasts and hill cities
This quaint and fairly hilltop city is usually referred to as the “White Metropolis” of Puglia! I personally discovered it completely dreamy, tucked away within the heel of Italy’s “boot,” with its enchanting maze of whitewashed streets, superbly ornate church buildings, surrounding olive groves, and glowing views of the Adriatic Sea. It exudes a timeless, genuine vibe that’s refreshingly untouched by mass tourism.
Situated within the Puglia area in southern Italy, it’s perched on three hills overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Close by seashores like Costa Merlata, Torre Guaceto, and Rosa Marina, only a 10 to 20-minute drive away, provide a stunning mixture of golden sands and small pebbles, good for a soothing seaside escape.
I stayed right here for a protracted weekend and wandered by means of the maze-like streets of its whitewashed outdated city, explored the gorgeous Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta which had a really spectacular Gothic-Romanesque facade, strolled by means of the traditional olive groves, dined on scrumptious Puglian delicacies at charming trattorias, and relaxed on the close by seashores.
My highlights…
- Going for handcrafted cocktails at Lounge Bar 700 – I adored the 8.5-meter-long stone counter which was adorned with vintage tin plates, the boutique vibe and my Vodkatini which got here with bitter orange and a choice of tasty tapas dishes.
