Have you ever noticed how some places just hum with a different kind of energy? You know, the kind that just settles into you and lingers long after you’ve left?
I’ve always found that in Southern Italy, the air feels thicker, the colors are brighter, and the stories seem to whisper from every corner. But with so many charming towns dotting the landscape, how do you possibly choose where to go?
Well, if you’re looking for the best towns in Southern Italy to visit, I’m here to help you with just the list you’ll ever need.
I’ll touch on the towns that offer a perfect mix of history, beauty, and, of course, really good food. And rest assured, I’ll avoid those tourist traps and focus instead on authentic experiences only.
The Best Southern Italy Destinations You Can’t Afford to Miss
Crowded, well-trodden, or peaceful – there are so many places to go in Southern Italy. But if you’re anything like me, you’ll only want to visit those with the real Italian vibe and fun to make the most of your tour. So, let me present you my very best South Italy cities in no particular order.
Maratea
Maratea. Even the name sounds like a secret whispered on a warm breeze. It’s tucked into Basilicata, a region that often gets overlooked, which, to be honest, is part of its charm.
The town itself is a bit of a marvel, scattered in pieces: the old town clinging to the mountainside like it’s afraid to let go, the bustling port humming with the day’s catch, and the quieter marina where the boats bob gently.
The water there…it’s that deep, clear blue that just makes you want to dive in headfirst. Dark sand, smooth pebbles, dramatic cliffs – the coastline is restless and beautiful. And high above it all, nestled in the green, the centro storico feels like stepping back in time. They say it has 44 churches. I didn’t count, but trust me, there’s a sense of the sacred woven into the very stones.
Then there’s the statue. That Christ the Redeemer, arms outstretched from Mount San Biagio. It’s hard not to be struck by it. For a split second, you might think you’ve landed in Rio. But this one, this Maratea version, has its own quiet power.
And the beaches? Don’t even get me started. South of the harbor, Spiaggia Nera – the black beach – hides a secret: the Grotta della Sciabella, a cave that feels like your own private discovery.
And near the marina, Spiaggia di Santa Teressa with its rocky outcrops and little caves, is pure magic at sunset. Then there’s the Grotta delle Meraviglie – the “cave of wonders.” They found it in 1929, and it’s not huge, but it’s captivating. Worth a peek, absolutely.
Region: Basilicata
Highlights:
- 44 historic churches
- Christ the Redeemer statue
- Spiaggia Nera (Black Beach)
- Grotta delle Meraviglie
How to Get There:
- Nearest airports: Naples (3h drive) or Bari (2.5h drive)
- Train from Rome (4h) or Naples (3h)
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Hotel Villa Delle Meraviglie (cliffside views, private beach)
- Mid-range: Locanda Delle Donne Monache (converted monastery)
- Budget: Hotel Murmann (great value, sea views)
Tropea
They call Tropea the Pearl of Calabria. And I honestly believe it fits. I’ve been to those glitzy Amalfi Coast spots, the ones everyone raves about, and honestly, Tropea just… shines brighter. Maybe it’s the lack of pretension, the feeling that you’ve stumbled upon something truly special.
What got me hooked, or the reason I went back for more than just a quick peek, is that view. Those pastel houses clinging to the cliffs, right above the impossibly blue water. It looks almost unreal, like a postcard you wouldn’t believe. I remember just standing there, feeling the sea breeze, thinking, this is it.
The town itself is a maze of those charming little streets, the kind where you happily get lost. Cobblestones worn smooth by centuries of footsteps, buildings painted in every shade of sunshine, and little restaurants tucked away in squares, promising the best meal you’ve had in weeks.
And then there’s the sanctuary, Santa Maria dell’Isola, perched on that rocky outcrop. It’s become the image of Tropea, and for good reason. It feels ancient and enduring, watching over the town and the sea.
Then, there’s the onions. Cipolle di Tropea. Those sweet red onions they put in everything, even ice cream. Yet, I’ll say, don’t frown till you try it.
If you’re heading down to the toe of Italy, to Calabria, Tropea is the perfect place to land. It’s a great jumping-off point for visiting the Coast of the Gods – Capo Vaticano and its wild beaches.
Just a heads-up, though: if you’re planning a summer visit, book ahead. The secret’s out, and it gets busy. Deservedly so.
Region: Calabria
Highlights:
- Historic center with cliffside views
- Santa Maria dell’Isola monastery
- Famous red onions
- Crystal clear beaches
How to Get There:
- Nearest airport: Lamezia Terme (1h drive)
- Train from Naples (5h)
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Villa Paola (converted convent with gardens)
- Mid-range: Hotel Rocca Della Sena (amazing views)
- Budget: Hotel Valemare (close to beach)
Pizzo
Well, the name of this town sure makes you hungry reminding you of the famous Italian pizzas. But it’s actually one of those Calabrian towns that feels utterly unpretentious, a place where life unfolds at a satisfyingly slow pace. And instead of pizzas, it’s a paradise for any dessert fan.
They have this thing called tartufo di Pizzo – a sphere of ice cream with a molten heart of hazelnut chocolate. It’s the kind of dessert you eat slowly, deliberately.
The town itself clings to a cliff. You’ll see tumble of red-roofed houses looking out over the kind of turquoise water that makes you want to abandon all your plans and just jump in.
So, the days are for the beach, definitely. But the evenings? That’s when Pizzo really wakes up. The centro storico comes alive with the sound of voices, the clinking of glasses.
Most of the action centers around Piazza della Republica. It’s not fancy, just a square lined with old buildings and, crucially, plenty of places serving that famous tartufo. Find a spot on La Balconata – that terrace is prime real estate for sunset views. And then there’s Castello Murat, the old castle, a reminder of the town’s history, standing guard as the streets wind down towards the waterfront and Pizzo Beach.
I only spent an afternoon in Pizzo, a quick trip over from Tropea, and I remember just enjoying the simple act of watching people go about their evening. Honestly, though? A night or two in Pizzo would be the real treat. Let the rhythm of the place sink in. It’s that kind of unassuming, down-to-earth coastal town that stays with you.
Region: Calabria
Highlights:
- Famous tartufo ice cream
- Castello Murat
- Piazza della Repubblica
- La Balconata viewpoint
How to Get There:
- Nearest airport: Lamezia Terme (20min drive)
- Train from Rome (6h) or Naples (4h)
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Piccolo Grand Hotel (historic center)
- Mid-range: Hotel Palazzo Toraldo
- Budget: B&B La Torretta (great location)
Amalfi
Maybe I don’t need to tell you that Amalfi is the most famous of all of South Italy. You’ve seen its photos everywhere. Like those stacked, brightly colored buildings, clinging to the hillside like they’re afraid of sliding into the sea.
It’s a place that everyone seems to pass through, especially if it’s your first time navigating this famous coastline. And there’s a reason for that pull. The town hums with a certain energy.
The main street, Via Lorenzo d’Amalfi, it’s a ribbon of shops and cafes, each one vying for your attention. But it’s worth it to wander off that main drag, to let yourself get a little lost in the smaller streets branching off. You’ll find quiet corners, a glimpse of daily life beyond the tourist bustle.
That cathedral, the Duomo, it’s hard to miss. Worth the small fee to step inside, to feel the weight of history there. And if you’re curious about local crafts, there’s a paper museum – a quirky little spot.
The main beach, Marina Grande, it’s right there by the port, always buzzing. If you’re after a quieter dip, you might need to wander a bit – perhaps to Atrani, just a short walk away, or further along to Castiglione di Ravello.
The thing about Amalfi is the crowds. From morning till night, the main square, Piazza del Duomo, and that main street, they’re packed. If you can manage it, get up early. That sunrise light on the buildings, the quiet before the day truly kicks in – that’s when you see a different side of the town.
I remember once, I ducked into a tiny alleyway, just to get out of the crush of people, and stumbled upon this little overlook. The whole town spread out below, peaceful for a brief moment. It’s those little discoveries that stick with you.
And being right in the center of the Amalfi Coast, well, it makes Amalfi a convenient spot if you like being in the thick of things. Especially if you, like me, have a soft spot for nearby Atrani. I’ll talk about it shortly.
Region: Campania
Highlights:
- Duomo di Sant’Andrea
- Paper Museum
- Marina Grande beach
- Historic center
How to Get There:
- Bus from Sorrento (1.5h)
- Ferry from Naples (1h)
- SITA bus from Salerno
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Hotel Santa Caterina (iconic cliffside hotel)
- Mid-range: Hotel Marina Riviera (sea views)
- Budget: Residenza Luce (charming B&B)
Vietri Sul Mare
It’s true that certain names on the Amalfi Coast draw all the attention. Amalfi, Positano – they’re the celebrities. But Vietri sul Mare is just a hop skip and a jump from Salerno. It’s got a different kind of story to tell.
They call it the capital of ceramics, and you can feel that history in the very air, five hundred years of hands shaping clay. It doesn’t have that manicured, almost too-perfect look of some of its neighbors. Vietri feels a bit more…real.
But that’s where its charm lies. Everywhere you look, there are these bursts of color – the ceramic tiles telling stories on walls, lining shops overflowing with their wares.
And here’s a practical tip: the beaches. They’re sandier, wider than some of those tiny strips of pebbles you find elsewhere on the coast.
There’s this place, the Villa Comunale. It’s got this almost whimsical feel to it, a bit like Gaudi wandered off and left his mark. Definitely worth a look. Honestly, of all the villages along this coast, Vietri holds a particular fondness for me.
It’s a good place to land, especially if you’re watching your euros. You get the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, but with a bit more breathing space, and a little less wallet cries.
Region: Campania
Highlights:
- Ceramic workshops
- Villa Comunale
- Sandy beaches
- Historic center
How to Get There:
- Train from Naples (1h)
- SITA bus from Salerno
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Hotel Raito (panoramic views)
- Mid-range: La Casa di Donn’Amelia
- Budget: Hotel Bristol (good value)
Scilla
The town of Scilla sits right at the very tip of the Calabria peninsula, on a stretch of coast they call the Costa Viola. Most people haven’t heard of it. And frankly, that’s a part of its allure.
It’s got this slow, easy rhythm to it, and the way the houses, all faded pastels, tumble down towards the water, against those almost comical cone-shaped hills… it just gets under your skin. For me, it was a standout.
The town is split in two by this wild, rocky point, and perched right on top is Castello Ruffo. The views from up there, out over the Tyrrhenian, they’re the kind that make you stop and just… breathe.
On one side, there’s Chianalea, where the old fishermen’s houses practically rise out of the water. On the other, Marina Grande, with its beach, where the sand has this violet tinge – that’s where the coast gets its name.
They say the place is named after a sea monster, Scylla. There’s a wildness to the sea there, you can almost believe it. Fishing is still in the blood of this town. It feels real, unpolished.
I stopped in Scilla on a long haul down through the south, heading to Sicily. It’s right there on the Strait of Messina. A perfect spot to break the journey. Though, if you can, give it more than just a night. Let yourself get lost in that atmosphere. It’s worth it.
Region: Calabria
Highlights:
- Castello Ruffo
- Chianalea fishing village
- Marina Grande beach
- Costa Viola views
How to Get There:
- Train from Naples (5h)
- Ferry from Sicily
Where to Stay:
- Mid-range: Hotel Le Sirene (in Chianalea)
- Budget: B&B Chianalea 54
- Budget: Casa del Pescatore (authentic fisherman’s house)
San Nicola Arcella
Now, you probably haven’t heard of San Nicola Arcella. It’s tucked away on the Riviera dei Cedri, a part of Calabria that feels like it’s keeping secrets. And the town itself is small, comfortable.
The old part, a cluster of colorful buildings, clings to a steep cliff, looking out over the Gulf of Policastro. There are viewpoints there, places where you can just stand and let the expanse of the sea settle something in your chest.
Down below, along the rugged coast, is the newer part of town. It started as a simple fishing village, and now it’s found its footing as a low-key resort.
But the real draw, the thing that pulled me in, is hidden beneath those cliffs. Arcomagno beach. It’s this little cove with two massive arches of rock shaped and framed by the relentless push and pull of the sea.
I remember finding my way there out of season, when the gates were supposed to be closed. There’s a little thrill in that, isn’t there? The feeling of discovering something on your own.
Getting down to Arcomagno isn’t a stroll in the park, though. There’s a bit of a scramble involved. You can kayak in, explore those little coves that way, or hike down – a steep fifteen minutes that feels like you’re descending into some hidden tropical paradise.
During my time in Calabria, a couple of weeks drifting through the sun and the scent of the sea, Arcomagno was a standout. It’s the kind of place you want to know how to find, the little tricks and turns.
Region: Calabria
Highlights:
- Arcomagno Beach
- Historic center viewpoints
- Gulf of Policastro views
How to Get There:
- Train to Praia a Mare + taxi
- Drive from Naples (3.5h)
Where to Stay:
- Mid-range: Grand Hotel San Michele
- Budget: Hotel Mercure Dino
- Budget: B&B La Torre Antica
Atrani
Atrani is this small-town clinging to Amalfi. It’s just a ten-minute stroll from the bustle of the coast, yet a world away.
After all, it’s funny how close they are, but how different the feeling. Atrani, to me, it’s the real heart of this coast, the way it must have been, back when things moved slower, when the rhythm was dictated by the fishing boats coming in and out of the harbor.
Tucked in there, between those dramatic cliffs and that brilliant blue sea, it’s a jumble of narrow streets, those sun-faded houses in every shade of pastel. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to just wander, to get gloriously lost.
I can see why artists were drawn to it. Even the beach, Spiaggia di Atrani, it’s got character, that old aqueduct and the arches of the road above framing it. And perched up above, the church of Maria Maddalena, that bright dome catching the sunlight.
Now, despite the tiny size, Atrani has quite a depth hidden in those alleyways and in the views from the terraces. You can hike up into the Vale del Dragone, and the coastline stretches out beneath you, breathtaking. I’ve been back to Atrani countless times.
It’s one of those places that just settles into your bones, a happy place. If you’re looking for a bit of quiet on this famous coast, this is it.
Region: Campania
Highlights:
- Spiaggia di Atrani
- Church of Maria Maddalena
- Vale del Dragone hiking
How to Get There:
- 10-min walk from Amalfi
- SITA bus from Salerno
Where to Stay:
- Mid-range: Eva Rooms (intimate B&B)
- Budget: Palazzo Ferraioli
- Alternative: Consider hotels in nearby Amalfi
Positano
Like Amalfi, Positano is another South Italian celebrity town. And while I vowed to stick with the quiet ones here, Positano is something truly unmissable about the region. There’s no way to say otherwise. Everyone flocks there, from honeymooners to movie stars, all chasing that elusive dolce vita.
Spiaggia Grande, the main beach, it’s a scene, all those brightly colored umbrellas lined up like soldiers, with that iconic hill bristling with villas in the background. And the church, Santa Maria Assunta, you’d recognize that green and yellow dome anywhere – it’s plastered on every postcard.
But here’s the thing about Positano. It’s beautiful, undeniably so. But it’s busy. Those charming streets are often crammed with people browsing for ceramics and those flowy dresses. It’s not my personal favorite, if I’m honest. Even in May, even in October, the crowds are… persistent.
The real beauty of Positano, the thing that truly takes your breath away, is seeing it from a distance. From the water, on a ferry or a little boat, that’s when it all comes together. Or from high above, hiking down the Path of the Gods from Nocelle. That perspective, that’s when you understand the magic.
Maybe you should read my guide on getting to Positano. You’ll need the insider info for a perfect trip.
Region: Campania
Highlights:
- Spiaggia Grande
- Santa Maria Assunta church
- Path of the Gods hiking
How to Get There:
- Ferry from Naples/Sorrento
- SITA bus from Sorrento
Where to Stay:
- Ultra-luxury: Le Sirenuse (iconic hotel)
- Luxury: Il San Pietro di Positano
- Mid-range: Hotel Marincanto
- Budget: Casa Albertina
Marina di Corricela in Procida
Most Southern Italy tour guides will tell you about Naples. But what they often forget to mention is Procida – the actual charisma of the famous town.
It’s an island adrift in the Gulf of Naples, lined with houses in every shade of sherbet and sunshine. And it’s one of those places that feels utterly unique among the norm.
You can hop on a ferry from Naples, or even from Ischia or the Amalfi Coast, and in less than an hour, you’re stepping onto a different kind of shore. A quieter shore.
They divide the island into these districts, these grancìe. And one of them, Marina di Corricella, well, they call it the most colorful village in the south. And they’re not wrong. Even on a grey day, the sight of those houses, all jammed together, painted in those cheerful hues, it’s enough to lift your spirits.
I’ve been to Procida a couple of times. Once, a long while back, when it felt like a secret. And then again more recently, after it was named Italy’s Capital of Culture.
It’s brought more people, sure. You can see it. But the heart of the place, that hasn’t changed. It hasn’t been polished to a gleam, like some of the towns on the Amalfi Coast. It still feels… real.
If you only have a few hours, if you’re just passing through, make a beeline for Marina Corricella.
Find the viewpoint that looks down over the harbor. No cars allowed down there. Just the water, the boats bobbing gently, and that cascade of colorful houses. It’s become the image of Procida, and it’s every bit as captivating in person.
Region: Campania
Highlights:
- Colorful harbor houses
- Authentic fishing village
- Panoramic viewpoints
How to Get There:
- Ferry from Naples (40min)
Where to Stay:
- Mid-range: Albergo La Vigna
- Budget: Hotel La Casa sul Mare
- Budget: B&B La Casa di Cirro
Alghero
Now, this city on the northwest coast of Sardinia has a certain grip on me. I lived there for a week once, and it felt like settling into a place that already knew me.
It has that easy charm of a seaside town – good beaches, of course – but there’s more to it. The old town has character etched into its stones, and the marina hums with the activity of boats coming and going. And the lodging… well, there are plenty of comfortable corners to land.
What sets Alghero apart, though, is that whisper of Catalonia in its bones. Walking along those sea walls, with the bright fishing houses lining the walkway, the smell of salt and grilling fish in the air, it’s a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.
You’ve got plenty of places to stop for gelato, too. North of the old town, the marina is a different kind of beauty, all those sleek boats bobbing in the harbor.
Piazza Civica is the heart of it all. It’s this lively square, buzzing with locals and visitors, surrounded by shops and restaurants. You can feel the energy there. For a view, climb the bell tower of the cathedral. Looking out over the town and the sea, it gives you a real sense of the place.
Alghero has history layered into it. Those old watchtowers, like the Torre di Porta Terra, are a reminder of that. And the views from up there are expansive.
Then there’s Spiaggia del Lido di Alghero, stretching out to the northeast. In the evenings, you see the locals taking their passeggiata along the promenade, that easy, unhurried stroll that’s so much a part of Italian life.
Region: Sardinia
Highlights:
- Historic walls
- Catalan Gothic architecture
- Spiaggia del Lido
- Torre di Porta Terra
How to Get There:
- Direct flights to Alghero airport
- Ferry from mainland to Porto Torres
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa (former royal residence)
- Mid-range: Hotel Calabona
- Budget: Hotel Florida (great location)
Cefalù
This town pretty much rises from the Tyrrhenian. That dramatic rock, the town clustered at its base, the waves whispering against the shore. It was a quiet fishing village once, I imagine.
Now, well, now everyone knows its name, especially when summer hits. It can feel a bit much, all those people drawn to the same stretch of sand.
But you can’t deny the beauty of the place. That little beach right by the old town walls – it’s a sight you won’t forget. It’s the kind of image that sticks in your mind, the reason people flock there, myself included, initially. If you’re after those postcard-perfect shots, Cefalù delivers.
Go in May, though, or maybe September. Let the summer crowds thin out a bit. You can actually breathe then, wander the streets without being swept along in a tide of tourists.
I was there in May once. The sky was moody, the clouds hung low, and it rained now and then. But the crowds were lighter, and there was a different kind of beauty to it, a quiet drama.
Region: Sicily
Highlights:
- Norman cathedral
- La Rocca
- Historic beach
- Old town
How to Get There:
- Train from Palermo (1h)
- Drive from Palermo airport (1h)
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Hotel Calette N°5
- Mid-range: Victoria Palace Hotel
- Budget: Hotel La Plumeria
More South Italy Cities Worth Visiting
Now, the towns we’ve wandered through so far are just the greater taste. There are countless other corners, just as captivating, just as worthy of a slow wander and a lingering meal. Think of these as postcards from places I’ve glimpsed, or still dream of seeing:
- Vieste: That dramatic white town perched on the Gargano Peninsula. I hear the sea caves are something else.
- Polignano a Mare: Those houses clinging to the cliffs, practically daring the Adriatic. And that cove, Lama Monachile? Stunning.
- Monopoli: A bit further down the Puglian coast, more whitewashed walls and the scent of the sea. Simple, beautiful.
- Peschici: Another gem on the Gargano, with a more Moorish feel. I’ve heard the sunsets are legendary.
- Catanzaro: In Calabria, perched high with views for miles. I’ve driven past, promising myself I’d stop next time.
- Castelsardo: Back up in Sardinia, a medieval town overlooking the sea. The basket weaving there is supposed to be incredible.
- Palermo: Okay, it’s a city, not a town, but the sheer energy of it! The markets, the history… it gets under your skin.
- Castellammare del Golfo: In Sicily, that harbor with the fishing boats… it just feels authentically Sicilian.
- Herculaneum: Not a town in the same way, but those ruins… walking through them, you feel the weight of time. Hauntingly beautiful.
- Favignana: That butterfly-shaped island off the coast of Sicily. The turquoise water is calling my name.
- Paestum: More ancient stones, those Greek temples standing proud against the sky. A different kind of beauty, steeped in history.
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it. A handful of sun-drenched corners of the south of Italy. We’ve wandered through ancient streets, tasted the salt air, felt the warmth of the stones underfoot.
Now, which of these whispers to you the loudest? Which town calls to that restless part of you that longs for a different horizon? Tell me in the comments. I’m curious to know where your own southern journey might begin.
