22 Picturesque Coastal Towns in Italy

Author’s Note: I’ve lived in several European cities and traveled extensively throughout Italy, visiting many different coastal destinations.

Mainland Italy, along with her two big islands, Sicily and Sardinia, boasts almost 5,000 miles of coastline. This means that travelers in search of sunlit beachside locales and gorgeous Italian seaside towns have ample terrain to choose from during their trips to this boot-shaped nation.

Coastal towns in Italy come in an assortment of sizes, from the bustling chaos of Naples’ narrow, well-trodden streets, to the architectural wonders of Sardinia’s Cagliari, or the colorful cliffside splendor of Positano.

Here are some of the most picturesque coastal towns, big and small, that Italy has to offer.

Sorrento

Sorrento, situated along the southern end of the Gulf of Naples, is one of the first places you’ll reach if departing from Naples for the celebrated villages built into the precipitous hillsides of the scenic Amalfi Coast.

This pastel-colored Italian seaside town, famous for lemons and citrus fruits, is carved into a high cliffside. Sorrento comes with outstanding vistas across the sea, and is ideal for whiling away an unhurried morning or afternoon.

If you need a rest from strolling the narrow streets, one of the best things to do in Sorrento is to stop for a chilled glass of the popular lemon-infused limoncello digestive, likely made by the Villa Massa Limoncello Distillery.

The busy Piazza Tasso, near the Old Town, and close to the small harbor, is a central hub busy with cars, mopeds, and horse-drawn carts.

You could also survey the Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea, located inside a very pretty and very red 18th-century palazzo, to learn more about the region’s inlaid wood marquetry tradition.

Cagliari, Sardinia

The architecturally mesmerizing Cagliari, capital of Sardinia, is considered by many to be one of the most fascinating coastal towns in Italy.

One of the biggest draws here, apart from the superb views over the Golfo di Cagliari, is Il Castello citadel, perched atop a dominating hill. This upper castle is marked by two impressive-looking 14th-century watchtowers; the Elephant and San Pancrazio towers.

The hilltop area also features a second-century Roman amphitheater, once capable of seating 10,000 souls. Just southwest of the amphitheater, you’ll find the Orto Botanico di Cagliari (botanical gardens), with approximately 2,000 species of Mediterranean plants, plus rare flora and succulents from around the globe.

Other notable sites in Cagliari include the limestone Saint Remy Bastion in the Old City, located at the hilltop Piazza Costituzione. Saint Remy Bastion, celebrated for its awe-inspiring beauty, large central arch, and esplanade rooftop, was built to link the Castello and Villanova quarters to one another.

If you’re a fan of baroque adornments, visit the 13th-century Cathedral di Santa Maria, next to the Piazza Palazzo. Then, when you get a chance, find a bar or outdoor café, order a glass of Limoncello Di Sardegna, and indulge in some people-watching to see how Sardinians go about their daily lives in Cagliari.

Read: Why Visit Sardinia

Venice

While Venice is more of a “floating” network of islands and canals than a typical town, its littoral pedigree is unparalleled.

Located in the Veneto region in northeastern Italy, Venice’s 118 smallish islands are home to iconic sites like the massive St. Mark’s Square.

This lively square hosts the renowned and much-photographed Byzantine Basilica di San Marco, with its four bronze horses mounted on the façade, just above the basilica’s central arch.

Gondola rides through the canals and walks across the city’s bridges to gasp at the beautiful views are a must, even if you only have a day in Venice. Some of the bridges you may want to check out include the Doge’s Palace Bridge of Sighs, and the Rialto Bridge, which stretches across the Grand Canal.

The Ponte dell’Accademia is a lovely span leading to the Dorsoduro university district. Dorsoduro is an area with an artsy, laid-back vibe, filled with restaurants and delightful little shops.

You can drop by the Galleria dell’Accademia—one of the best art museums in Italy—and the Academy of Fine Arts to immerse yourself further in the creative ambiance of the quarter.

The Palazzo Ducale is another must. This intricate palace in Venetian gothic style, former home to the rulers of Venice, is where Giacomo Casanova was imprisoned in 1755. Take a behind-the-scenes tour to marvel at the interiors and learn the secrets of the palace.

Portofino

On the Italian Riviera, in the Liguria region, you’ll come across several Italian seaside towns worth visiting, including the five villages that make up Cinque Terre, plus the swanky, pastel-tinted Portofino.

Portofino is a former fishing village and small harbor where the rich and famous now come to play. Marked by slender buildings and houses in gelato shades arranged around the curved harbor, this destination is known for its chic character, lush, tree-lined hills pushing up against the town, and superyachts that gravitate here every summer.

One of the best things to do in Portofino is to wander around the village’s Piazzetta, which is the main square, located near the water, browsing the designer shops and stopping for gelato.

If you want to gain a bit of elevation, hike up to the small clifftop church of San Giorgio. This yellow Romanesque Catholic church has been rebuilt several times since the 12th century and offers expansive views across the Marina di Portofino.

Brown Castle is a 12th-century fortress that was built to protect the Gulf of Portofino against pirate attacks. The castle is surrounded by even more greenery, and due to its lofty position, comes with wonderful vistas of the town below.

Alternatively, trek out to Faro di Punta del Capo, or the Portofino Lighthouse, which isn’t too far from the castle. Faro di Punta del Capo serves up breathtaking views of the sea, and the waves foaming at the base of weathered cliffs.

Manarola, Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre and her five villages (Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso, Vernazza, and Riomaggiore) are less than a two-hour drive from Portofino.

And while all of the small towns and hiking trails linking these pretty villages together along this terraced, seaside UNESCO World Heritage Site are worth experiencing, if you only have time to visit one, you should probably head to Manarola.

One of the most romantic places in Italy, Manarola is an enchanting little town seemingly clinging to the cliffside.You can visit the 14th-century Chiesa di San Lorenzo church, as well as the 16th-century San Lorenzo watchtower in this tiny village.

One of the real treats in Manarola is to order a fried seafood served in a paper cone, a local specialty, or a glass of Sciacchetrà dessert wine, and some cheese.

Vernazza and the other towns of Cinque Terre are equally beautiful destinations worth visiting, all with slightly different atmospheres.

If you have time, you can hike the relatively short but steep “path of love” that connects Manarola to Riomaggiore, another of the Cinque Terre villages, which will let you absorb even more of this magnificent slice of Italian coastline.

Naples

For some, Naples is a gorgeous, chaotic jumble of history, culture, graffiti, architecture, seaside allure, pizza, and urban life without the gloss of some of Italy’s less gritty destinations. The unpolished beauty here has, without a doubt, captured the heart of many who have visited.

If you’re headed to the Amalfi Coast, chances are you’ll arrive in Naples first, known as one of the best food cities in Italy. And since you’re already here, you should definitely see what this city, with its rich culinary traditions, has to offer.

The first stop for you might be Spaccanapoli, a busy, narrow road that cuts through the historic center. This street is full of bars, boutiques, cafés, small shops, Neapolitan pizza joints, and other eateries, and gives you an instant feel for the thrumming pulse that keeps Naples running.

Piazza del Plebiscito is a wonderful square that showcases Naples’ more sophisticated side. This large, graceful-looking square is home to the neoclassical San Francesco di Paola Basilica, plus the Royal Palace of Naples, where you can learn more about the lavish lifestyles the royal elites enjoyed here in the past.

If castles enthrall you, one of the best things to do in Naples is to visit the 12th-century Castel dell’Ovo, or “egg” castle, the city’s oldest fortress, built next to the sea, with magnificent vistas of the harbor.

Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angioino, is a majestic-looking medieval castle that features five massive round towers made out of sturdy stone. Maschio Angioino occupies an elevated position above the city, with far-reaching views across the Port of Naples.

Positano

The pastel-shaded, vertically stacked buildings of Positano, are recognizable the world over.

After you descend upon Positano, get ready for lots of stairs and perpendicular-oriented treks. Your legs will get a solid workout, no way around it, if you plan to explore Positano’s narrow lanes and historic center on foot.

Some of the best things to do in Positano include shopping in local boutiques that sell the “Moda Positano” fashion style, defined by light and colorful clothing.

Hiking up and down the town’s steep stairs and visiting the town’s most popular beach, Spiaggia Grande, then making your way through the sea of parasols to go for a swim, rate highly as well.

Time allowing, try to visit Positano’s baroque Church of Santa Maria Assunta, located in the flatter part of town, to view the iconic Byzantine Black Madonna. Legend has it that the Madonna was brought to Italy’s western shores by repentant Saracen pirates.

Amalfi

Gorgeous Amalfi, where colorful houses cling to cliffs that plunge into the sparkling Mediterranean, gives its name to the dazzling Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi Town’s Piazza Duomo is the main square, bubbling with life, places to eat, and shopping opportunities. The medieval Duomo di Amalfi Cathedral, along with the St. Andrea fountain, are both located next to the piazza, with the cathedral and its grand staircase dominating the square.

You can wander around Amalfi’s port, noting the medieval watchtowers there, visit the Arsenal maritime museum, and then stroll along the main Ruga Nova Mercatorum (Via dei Mercanti) road and browse the many shops there.

Catania, Sicily

Catania, with Sicily’s brooding volcano, Mount Etna, providing a dramatic backdrop, rates as one of the most unique coastal cities in all of Italy.

The city’s historic center, chock-full of Sicilian baroque architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; you’ll likely spend a lot of your time here. The baroque love affair began after reconstruction efforts kicked off following the region’s devastating earthquake in 1693.

A few of the places to visit include the 13th-century Ursino Castle, built by Emperor Frederick II to guard the city against attack.

Architecture buffs captivated by Sicilian baroque will want to check out the Basilica della Collegiata, as well as the massive San Nicolò l’Arena Benedictine Monastery, plus the Church of San Nicolò l’Arena, which are all prime examples of this ornate architectural style.

Make sure you allot time to roam around Catania’s beating heart, the Piazza del Duomo, where you can appreciate the square’s basalt lava Elephant Fountain, with an Egyptian obelisk mounted atop the pachyderm’s spine.

The basalt elephant is an important symbol of Catania, with purported magical abilities. The large piazza is also home to the Norman Saint Agatha’s Cathedral, rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake.

Read: Best Places to Visit in Southern Italy

Pula

The sunny streets of Pula reveal some of the best that Sardinia’s southern coast has to offer. The historic center is a place to meander slowly among its pastel buildings and stone paths while enjoying an espresso or vermentino at outdoor cafés, such as Federico’s.

The ruins of Nora, just south of town, are a remarkable treasure worth visiting, showcasing Phoenician and Roman history, along with beautifully preserved mosaics and spectacular sea views.

For a swim, head to Spiaggia di Nora beach, which has soft, golden sand that seamlessly merges with serene, turquoise waters.

During the day or early evening, you can enjoy a seafood meal at one of the traditional trattorias located in town, where you can savor Sardinian culinary delights like stuffed culurgiones, little pasta parcels filled with potato, pecorino cheese, and mint.

Atrani

Atrani sits in a secluded cove between towering cliffs and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea along the Amalfi Coast.

Here, locals chat in narrow alleyways while laundry hangs from wrought-iron balconies and fishing boats gently bob in the small harbor. Atrani offers a serene escape from the busier Amalfi region while preserving the town’s genuine character.

Explore the town by wandering along the stepped streets that lead to the central Piazza Umberto I. Kick back here with a limoncello spritz or seafood linguine.

The 10th-century Church of San Salvatore de Birecto, accessible by a long set of stairs, has a history of hosting coronation events, making it a worthwhile visit.

If you’re up for a workout, hiking the historic trails between Atrani and Amalfi or Ravello will reward you with panoramic views of terraced lemon groves overlooking the sparkling sea.

Read: Romantic Italian Honeymoon Destinations

Polignano a Mare

This Greco-Roman town, located in Puglia, is a picturesque spot perched dramatically on top of limestone cliffs above the Adriatic Sea, combining magnificent natural landscapes with an effervescent cultural vibe.

While familiarizing yourself with the historic center, you’ll find slender, whitewashed streets below balconies brimming with flowers and poetic inscriptions on the doorways and walls, especially in the Poetry Staircase Vicolo della Poesia area part of town.

Breathe in deeply, taste the salty air, and then from the old town, wander over to Lama Monachile beach, which sits between tall cliffs, with the clear water gently lapping over pebble shores.

If you enjoy watching daredevils, you should know that a cliff diving world series is held in Polignano a Mare every year, showcasing audacious athletes diving from great heights, which is another reason why this Italian town is on the tourism map.

Book a boat tour to discover Polignano’s celebrated sea caves, where natural light creates surreal blue and green patterns on the walls through underwater openings.

At mealtime, you’ll find a wide range of delicious options to choose from. Dine in a seaside cave restaurant, such as Grotta Palazzese, for an unforgettable fancy meal, or enjoy a simpler course of grilled octopus accompanied by a glass of chilled local rosato rose wine in a local trattoria.

While you’re in town, be sure to try the popular “gelato al caffè speciale,” a blend of espresso, cream, and lemon zest that’s a velvety delight, which you‘ll find at Il Super Mago del Gelo.

Aci Trezza

In Sicily, on the eastern coast, Aci Trezza presents a stunning fusion of myth and legend, set against gorgeous seascapes.

From the shore, you will see the impressive Faraglioni dei Ciclopi volcanic sea stack formations that project from the sea. The locals will tell you that they were formed by stones thrown by the Cyclops Polyphemus toward the Greek hero Odysseus.

You can explore the coastline by renting a small boat or joining a guided kayak tour to get a closer look at the black lava rocks, which stand out against the clear blue sea.

This traditional Sicilian fishing community is one of the most enchanting coastal towns in Italy. Stroll down the waterfront promenade, surrounded by boats, palm trees, and seafood restaurants; the aroma of grilled swordfish seasoned with lemon is bound to lure you in.

The town comes alive during the summer with its many local festivals, which reach their peak during the Festa di San Giovanni in June, featuring parades, fireworks displays, and boat processions.

Sestri Levante

Cinque Terre’s more famous Italian seaside towns can cast a shadow over Sestri Levante, located just north of the Cinque Terre National Park. Nevertheless, Sestri Levante is worth a visit.

The Ligurian village rests on a slender peninsula that divides two beautiful bays, known as the Bay of Silence and the Bay of Fables. The Baia delle Favole received its name in honor of Hans Christian Andersen, who visited the area and was enamored by the area.

Upon arrival, walk through the historic old town, which features yellow-brown ochre-hued buildings and colorful shopfronts that create a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere.

The Bay of Silence boasts a crescent of soft sand and pastel-colored homes, offering a superb location for swimming or watching activity out on the water.

Hike the easy-to-manage Punta Manara trail to enjoy sweeping views of the Gulf of Tigullio, and then go and get lost in town, trying some trofie al pesto pasta, fresh focaccia, or a dry white Pigato wine along the way.

San Vincenzo

San Vincenzo, situated in Tuscany along the Etruscan Coast, combines the best of Tuscany’s rural character with an idyllic seaside sanctuary. Long sandy beaches are coupled with access to the surrounding vineyards and archaeological sites, such as the Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia, with its Etruscan necropolises.

Sprawl out on the Tuscan beach with an Aperol Spritz here or walk through the shaded trails of Rimigliano Park, a landscape of pine forests and sand dunes.

When it’s time to eat, try scrumptious land and sea flavors, including wild boar pasta at Ristorante Le Cav, grilled sea bream, and flavorful wines like a Bolgheri red or crisp Vermentino whites.

Time allowing, stroll around the marina, which transforms into a lively hub with outdoor concerts and craft markets during the summer, often hosted in venues like the Anfiteatro del Porto di San Vincenzo.

Giardini Naxos

Giardini Naxos is widely regarded as one of the most enchanting coastal towns in Italy. This Sicilian town is celebrated for its vibrant beach life and fabulous views of Mount Etna.

The first Greek colony in Sicily, founded around 735 BC, was located here. Explore the Archaeological Park of Naxos and Taormina to view ancient ruins and discover the area’s Greek origins, then enjoy a refreshing swim in the Ionian Sea, just a short walk away.

A variety of Sicilian beaches, ranging from pebbly coves to broad sandy expanses, are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Visit in spring and Etna could still be wearing its snowy cap.

Maiori

Maiori, one of the most beautiful Amalfi Coast towns, is an excellent spot to chill out, thanks to its exquisite seaside character. One of the stars of Maiori is its large sandy beach, which happens to be the longest on the Amalfi Coast, making it perfect for setting up a lounge chair in one of the beach clubs.

The historic center offers a short but steep walk from Piazzetta Raffaele Amato to the 13th-century Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare, which sits above the city, with its green tiled dome visible from afar.

If you’ve had your fill of beach time and historical attractions, you can walk the Path of the Lemons, which links Maiori and Minori, inhaling the tangy scent of the lemon groves.

Camogli

Camogli, snuggled in a scenic bay on the Ligurian coast, is lined with tall, narrow buildings, with an array of sun-faded coral, tawny, and rose colors proudly displayed in formation along the waterfront.

The marina’s serene waters reflect the colorful facades, while fishing boats bob and locals enjoy espresso-fueled conversations. The town exudes timeless beauty and a distinct maritime feel.

As you explore the cobbled lanes, try to pop by some of the artisan shops and bakeries here, where the scent of freshly baked focaccia will beckon you inside. Then visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta and stand in awe of its sumptuous baroque interiors.

If you want to walk somewhere special, tackle the precipitous three-mile trail to San Fruttuoso, where you’ll find a 10th-century abbey hidden in a secluded cove accessible only by foot or boat, with plenty of ocean panoramas along the path.

Portovenere

Portovenere, located in Liguria, sits just south of Cinque Terre and serves as an access point to the region’s dazzling cliffside villages. The harbor here displays a riot of color with its painted houses overlooking docked boats and café umbrellas fluttering in the breeze.

Things to see here include the Porta del Borgo medieval gate, an elaborate system of old alleyways, and extremely steep cobblestone steps winding throughout the city.

Trek out to the end of the promontory where the Gothic Church of San Pietro stands dramatically on a rocky outcrop, facing the sea. Byron’s Grotto, which bears the name of the English poet who used to swim here, is a popular spot for swimming and boating.

The ferry service will also give you simple access to the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto for hiking and snorkeling adventures.

Villasimius

If gorgeous beaches with clear, aquamarine water sing to you, you’ll want to head to the southeastern coastal town of Villasimius in Sardinia, where powdery sands and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe await.

The seaside beauty here truly dazzles, whether you’re relaxing on Spiaggia di Porto Giunco beach or swimming in the transparent waters of the secluded Punta Molentis.

In town, things are a little livelier, yet still relaxed. Restaurants and beach bars serve traditional Sardinian dishes, while gelateria offer their sweet treats.

You can reach more picturesque landscapes filled with olive groves and vineyards via a short drive inland. Also, consider visiting the Area Marina Protetta Capo Carbonara, a protected marine reserve renowned for its outstanding snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Villasimius embodies some of the breeziest and most blissful aspects of Sardinian beach life, which you won’t want to miss.

Aci Castello

In Aci Castello, north of the Sicilian city of Catania, you can experience an amalgam of fortress life and contemporary living.

A Norman castle stands atop a lava rock outcrop here, dominating the seafront while providing sweeping views of the Ionian Sea. The 11th-century Castello Normanno is also home to the Museo Civico, which focuses on archeology and mineralogy.

After exploring the castle, you can then wander around Aci Castello, enjoy the rocky shoreline, or stop for a bite, tucking into some spaghetti ai frutti di mare and grilled calamari.

Gallipoli

Gallipoli truly embodies its Greek meaning of kalé polis, or “beautiful city.” It’s a lovely, whitewashed town along the Ionian Sea in southern Puglia, featuring winding alleys and an active fishing community.

A 16th-century bridge links the small island where the old city is located to the mainland. Stroll around Gallipoli’s narrow streets and take in the aromas of basil and the sea breeze while admiring the sandstone walls of the striking 13th-century Castello Angioino.

One of the best beaches in Gallipoli is Baia Verde, with fine, golden sand. Go for a swim and then experience the local food culture by buying some fresh sea urchins at the market or tasting the garlicky scampi alla gallipolina. This spicy, tomato-based seafood specialty is available at most trattorias.

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