12 Fairytale Villages in Italy You Have To Visit
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When you think of visiting Italy, you probably think of Rome, Florence, and maybe Venice, which is understandable. But if you only focus on these major cities and overlook Italy’s fairytale villages, you’re missing out on a whole different side of Italy, a side that’s equally, if not more, enchanting.
Italy has many magical villages that offer a different perspective on the country’s history, culture, and scenic activities. Visiting these villages lets you see some of Italy’s most beautiful parts that often go under the radar.
Planning your trip to Italy any time soon? Add these fairy-tale villages to your itinerary. They are probably the most postcard-perfect backdrops you will ever see.
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Manarola, Cinque Terre
One of Cinque Terre’s five villages, Manarola is the perfect destination for experiencing authentic Italian charm and a tranquil atmosphere. This charming fishing village is perched on a cliff and is famous for its colorful houses and scenic coastal views. The vibrant buildings, narrow alleys, and terraced vineyards create a postcard-perfect scene.
Despite being a loved tourist destination, Manarola retains its peacefulness, perfect for leisurely exploration.
When visiting, walk along Via dell’Amore, a scenic cliffside path connecting Manarola to Riomaggiore, another Cinque Terre village. You could also walk down to the small picturesque harbor, perfect for just relaxing or dipping in for a swim.
Read also: Italian Trip Planning Tips
Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio
Civita di Bagnoregio has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. The village is perched dramatically on a plateau with cliffs, surrounded by expansive eroded valleys and rolling hills. The views from Civita are stunning, with the surrounding badlands creating a surreal and beautiful backdrop. Due to erosion and earthquakes, much of the original town has been lost, and there is a danger that the entire village could disappear, earning it the nickname “The Dying City.”
The village is accessible via a footbridge, which adds to its unique and dramatic setting. When there, find the San Donato Church, located in the village’s central square. The 7th-century church showcases beautiful frescoes and a striking bell tower you don’t want to miss. You could also wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets with charming stone houses, archways, and flower-filled balconies.
Read also: Places To Retire in Italy
Alberobello, Puglia
Alberobello is world-famous for its unique trulli houses and dry stone huts with conical roofs. The village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over 1,500 trulli clustered together, creating a fairytale-like landscape. The whitewashed walls and conical roofs of the trulli, often adorned with painted symbols, stand out against the blue sky and the surrounding greenery.
If you are into unique architectural beauty, an enchanting atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and picturesque landscapes, Alberobello is a destination you should add to your travel list. When visiting, discover Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trulli in Alberobello. It is now a museum showcasing how people used to live in these unique structures.
Read also: Venice, Italy
Vernazza, Cinque Terre
One is never enough for Cinque Terre villages, which is why you need to visit at least two, if not all. That being said, Vernazza, another gem in the Cinque Terre, is worthy of a feature in your travel list. Vernazza is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery, with colorful houses perched on cliffs overlooking the azure waters of the Ligurian Sea. The village has a picturesque harbor filled with fishing boats, narrow alleys lined with vibrant buildings, and terraced vineyards that climb up the hillsides.
Vernazza is a must-visit for its captivating beauty, rich history, and charming ambiance. It perfectly blends natural splendor, historical significance, and authentic Italian culture. More noteworthy highlights of Vernazza include the Medieval Doria Castle, the 14th-century Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church, and the stunning harbor area.
Read more: Cinque Terre, Italy
Castelluccio di Norcia, Umbria
Castelluccio di Norcia is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, mainly from the lentil plantations and the surrounding mountains. The village is perched on a hill overlooking the Great Plain (Piano Grande), a vast plateau surrounded by the Sibillini Mountains. In spring and early summer, the plain transforms into a spectacular sea of colors with the flowering of lentils and other wildflowers.
This village is an excellent destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a tranquil escape. Its stunning landscapes, particularly during the flowering season, provide a unique and unforgettable experience. When visiting, you can hike in the Sibillini Mountains, wander through the charming village, or just marvel at the colorful blooms of Piano Grande.
Read also: Best Things To Do in Rome
Castelmezzano, Basilicata
Castelmezzano is famous for its dramatic and picturesque setting amidst the jagged peaks of the Lucanian Dolomites. Its houses are carved into the rocky cliffs, creating a stunning and almost surreal landscape. The surrounding mountains and forests add to the area’s natural beauty.
Breathtaking scenery, rich history, and numerous outdoor activities are some of the things that set Castelmezzano apart as a destination. Explore the charming stone houses and traditional architecture, walk on the ancient Norman Steps leading to the Norman Castle, and enjoy panoramic views of the village and surrounding mountains from the Norman Castle.
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Can’t get enough of this village’s scenery? Take the Flight of the Angel (Volo dell’Angelo) zipline. This thrilling zipline adventure, which runs from Castelmezzano to the neighboring Pietrapertosa village, offers a bird’s-eye view of Castelmezzano and the surrounding landscape.
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Read also: Tourist Traps in Italy
Cefalù, Sicily
Nothing describes “tranquil, old-school glamor” like the coastal scenery and historical sites of Cefalu. This charming small town sits along the Tyrrhenian Sea and is backed by the dramatic cliffs of the Rocca di Cefalù, a rocky bluff that dominates the city.
Stunning coastal scenery, long sandy beaches, crystal-clear wears, picturesque canals, medieval buildings, and charming squares add to Cefalu’s appeal. With its scenery, this destination offers a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. If you want some active exploration, hike on La Rocca’s hiking trails, which lead to different viewpoints; explore the history-soaked Cefalu Cathedral, or just stroll along the old town’s narrow streets.
Read also: Capri, Italy
Montemerano, Tuscany
What comes to your mind when you think of an authentic Tuscan experience? If it is the opportunity to explore a perfectly preserved historical destination surrounded by rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards, visiting Montemerano would be a dream for you. If you want to explore the idyllic Tuscan countryside, Montemerano is a destination that will impress you. Its narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses, and beautiful squares create a timeless, serene atmosphere.
Monetmerano’s tranquil ambiance will not disappoint you if you are into relaxation. On the other hand, if you are into active exploration, you want to make time for Piazza del Castello, a beautiful square surrounded by medieval buildings and the stunning 14th-century San Giorgio Church. You could also sample Tuscan wines in the nearby vineyards or go for spa treatments at Saturnia Hot Springs.
Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
Matera, Basilicata
Matera is known for its dramatic and unique landscape, where ancient cave dwellings were carved into the limestone cliffs. These caves include homes, stores, and places of worship, many of which have been restored and are open to the public. It is a great destination for people who would like to explore ancient human civilization and rich cultural heritage. Talking of cultural heritage, Matera was named a European Capital of Culture in 2019, which goes a long way in highlighting how rich its culture is.
History aside, the Murgia Plateau, which Matera stands on, with its deep ravines and rocky terrain, adds to the city’s rugged beauty. It is also difficult to ignore the juxtaposition of ancient caves and Baroque architecture, which creates a visually stunning and otherworldly appearance.
When visiting, take note of Matera Cathedral, which stands on the highest point of Matera, and Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a restored cave dwelling that provides a glimpse into ancient dwellers’ traditional way of life.
Read also: Venice, Italy
Ravello, Amalfi Coast
Situated on a hillside overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ravello is a destination you don’t want to miss. Ravello is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast, lush gardens, and historic architecture.
For starters, Ravello experiences smaller crowds than most of the towns on the Amalfi Coast, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking beauty and tranquility. While the whole of Ravello is a scene out of a fairytale movie, you want to take note of spots like Villa Rufolo, a magnificent villa dating back to the 13th century, known for its beautiful gardens and spectacular views. This villa hosts the famous Ravello Festival, featuring concerts and cultural events. If you have more time, swing by Villa Cimbrone and the Ravello Cathedral.
Read also: Fairytale Towns in Europe
Monteriggioni, Tuscany
Another destination to experience the ultimate Tuscan charm would be Monteriggionni. This medieval village is surrounded by circular fortification walls dating back to the 13th century. This village’s well-preserved walls and towers have stood the test of time, providing a glimpse into its military past of Tuscany.
Beyond the medieval charm of this village, you cannot ignore the surrounding Tuscan countryside, with its rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and cypress trees, which add to the town’s scenic beauty. The views from the town walls offer panoramic views of the picturesque landscape, perfect for sightseeing and photography opportunities.
Read also: Beautiful Small Towns in Europe
Bellagio, Lake Como
Located on the shores of Lake Como, Bellagio is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, offering stunning views of the lake and the Alps. The town features narrow, cobbled streets, charming alleyways, and beautifully manicured gardens. The waterfront promenade is lined with elegant villas, colorful buildings, and lush greenery, creating a picture-perfect setting for photography and sightseeing.
Despite the luxurious ambiance, idyllic beauty, and popularity, Bellagio has retained a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you are looking to soak in perfect scenery or escape the bustle of major cities, the scenery of Bellagio will not disappoint you.
Read more: Lake Como, Italy
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