From sun-bleached villages to quiet coves and timeworn cities, this guide brings together 20 of the most beautiful places in Southern Italy. Some are well-known, others might come as a surprise, but they have one factor in common: authenticity.
Southern Italy has become something of a second home for me. My partner is Sicilian, and we return to the south several times a year, oftentimes by driving from Belgium. A folly which has allowed us to discover many magical places along the way.
Narrowing this list down to just twenty was no easy task. There are countless places that could have made the cut, but these are the ones that have stayed with me the longest. For me, the most beautiful places in Southern Italy are Favignana, with its crystalline waters, Matera, carved from stone and time, and Palermo, chaotic, soulful, and endlessly captivating.
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Practical Tips for Visiting Beautiful Southern Italy
ACCOMMODATIONS WITH EPIC VIEWS
- PALERMO: Cathedral View Apartments
- AGRIGENTO: Colleverde Park Hotel
- MATERA: Il Belvedere
- RAVELLO: La Dolce Vita Ravello
HIGHLY RATED TOURS
- AMALFI: From Naples: Sorrento & Positano Tour
- SICILY: Mount Etna Guided Hike
- PUGLIA: Polignano a Mare Boat Tour
- MATERA: Guided Sassi Tour
ESIM CARD: Purchase your electronic simcard before heading out to Italy
CHECK TIMINGS FOR TRAINS: I always use Omio to book my public transportation in Italy
MORE INSPIRATION: Find all my Italy Travel Guides
20 Pretty Places in Southern Italy to Travel
1. Palermo
READ MORE | A local’s guide to things to do in Palermo
Palermo is chaos impersonated and more than a little frayed at the edges. It is also the most majestic place you will ever have the pleasure of visiting in Southern Italy. It is the city my partner hails from and, thus, a place I have come to know intimately over the years.
Begin in the historical centre, explore the Byzantine mosaics in the Palatine Chapel, and grab a coffee in front of the Cathedral of Palermo before heading up to its roof for one of the best views over the city. If views are your thing, make sure to spend some time popping into the Chiesa di Santa Catarina d’Alessandria. Not only will you get some of the best parties in the city, but for €10, you can clamber up two flights of stairs and get sweeping views over Piazza Pretoria.
Wander through the lively Ballarò Market. Here, vendors have perfected the art of gesticulating; the promise of delicious fried snacks wafts through the air at any time of day, and locals come to buy fruit and vegetables for the week. It’s here, among the stalls, that you will find the true heart of Palermo. Make sure to save some room for the queen of all Palermitan street food: A crunchy arancina or brave a sandwich with milza (spleen).
When the city heat rises, escape to Mondello Beach. Just 20 minutes away, this crescent of soft sand and turquoise water is a favourite among locals. No, really, come June, it is absolutely packed to the rafters with Palermitans looking for a reprieve from the blistering sun.
MY FAVORITE PLACES TO STAY | 20 Boutique hotels in Palermo to stay
LUXURY PICK | Rocco Forte Villa Igiea
BEST LOCATION | Mori di Porta Nuova
BEST VIEWS | Cathedral View Apartments
2. Agrigento
READ MORE | 15 Day trips from Palermo in under two hours from the city
Just outside Agrigento on Sicily’s southern coast, the Valley of the Temples is one of the best-preserved collections of ancient Greek ruins anywhere in the world and an absolute must isit place in Southern Italy. I made the rooky mistake of visited at midday one blistering summer’s day with temperatures north of 40°C (104°F). Thankfully there were plenty of waterfountains dotted around the 1,300 hectares.
Agrigento is made up of eight major temples scattered along a sandstone ridge overlooking the sea. The highlight is the Temple of Concordia, standing nearly intact after more than 2,000 years. Nearby, the gargantuan collapsed columns of the Temple of Zeus brings a touch of drama. Don’t miss the haunting bronze statue by Igor Mitoraj, casually chilling and reclining in front of the temple.
Entry costs €12, and the park is open daily from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM (last entry around 6:30 PM). A combined ticket also grants access to the excellent archaeological museum nearby, where many original artefacts are kept. To explore the site and learn about the history, you can either download the free Valley of Temples official app (which had a few glitches but overall full of great info), or pay an additional €/$5 for an audioguide, or splurge for a local guide with skip the line tickets!
Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore. Wear good walking shoes or at least some comfortable footwear as the terrain is uneven. Make sure to bring a refillable waterbottle.
RECOMMENDED STAY | Colleverde Park Hotel
WHERE WE STAYED | B&B Kolymbetra
SUSTAINABLE PICK | B&B La Casa di El
BEST LOCATION | I Tetti di Girgenti
3. Ortigia
READ MORE | 15 Day trips from Catania in under two hours from the city
The Baroque city of Ortigia rests on a tiny island just off the coast of Syracuse. Though it’s barely a kilometre wide, this sun-drenched gem holds more charm than cities ten times its size. For me, it is one of the most beautiful places in Sicily, I loved it so much that I intended to come for a weekend and ended up staying for four weeks.
Ortigia moves at its own rhythm: slow, sunlit, and utterly enchanting. You can spend hours wandering its honey-hued lanes, where every turn reveals a crumbling palazzo, a tucked-away chapel, or a cat basking in the warmth of a doorstep. Fear not, the local cat population is well taken care of by locals who set up little houses and feeding stations for the feral felines.
At the heart of the island lies Piazza Duomo, with the majestic Syracuse Cathedral. Think of a sweeping Baroque façade built over the ruins of a 5th-century Greek temple, its ancient columns still visible if you look closely.
Each evening, I would walk by the ornate Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco, its sculpted façade bathed in golden light. For sunsets, head to the Fonte Arethusa or the Lungomare di Levante, where the sky turns fire-orange and the clink of aperitivo glasses carries on the sea breeze.
Tip: If you’re staying overnight, be sure to register your car’s number plate with your host. Parking on the island is restricted to locals and registered visitors.
RECOMMENDED STAY | Alla Giudecca
LUXURY PICK | Grand Hotel Ortigia
SUSTAINABLE PICK | Aretusa Vacanze B&B
BEST LOCATION | Maison Ortigia
4. Riserva dello Zingaro
Tucked along Sicily’s northwestern coast, between Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo, the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro is one of the island’s last untouched stretches of coastline. A protected nature reserve where dramatic cliffs meet crystal-clear coves and the hum of cicadas is broken only by the splash of swimmers below.
Just a 15-minute drive from Castellammare del Golfo, the southern entrance of the reserve offers easy access for a day trip. But don’t expect beach bars or loungers here—this is raw, wild beauty. Bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and prepare to walk before you can lay your towel down.
There are seven small beaches scattered along the trail, the first just 15 minutes in. It’s the most popular, but those who wander further are rewarded with quieter coves, perfect for a swim and a moment of solitude beneath the sun-drenched cliffs.
Entry is €5 per person, cash only, payable at either entrance. The main coastal trail runs 7 km one way (14 km return), with no shuttle between the two gates. Allow around 4 hours for a full hike, not including swims and photo stops.
Facilities are minimal, but water fountains are available along the path. Please carry out any rubbish and skip the drone—the cliffs and falcons deserve the silence.
BOOK A TOUR | The waters and coastline of the reserve are some of the most breathtaking you will see in Sicily. They can only be accessed by boat, however. Book a boat tour to take you around San Vito Lo Capo.
5. Panarea
Among the most beautiful spots in Sicily is the Aeolian Island of Panarea. With its whitewashed villas, lush gardens, and a harbor dotted with private yachts, it has long been a retreat for the Italian elite—Stefano Gabbana and even the former King of Belgium own homes here.
The first time I visited, I never ever wanted to leave. Stepping off the ferry into the lively port of San Pietro, we were immediately met by fishermen selling the day’s catch and sun-kissed visitors sipping espresso in shaded cafés. True to its elite status, hotels on the island tend to be on the pricy end.
To explore the island’s stunning coastline, we rent a gozzo (small boat) from the piers around San Pietro. Our days were spent floating between hidden coves, swimming in impossibly clear waters, and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
As night falls, Panarea comes alive. For dinner with a view, book a table at Hotel Raya’s rooftop bar. On summer Saturdays, it transforms into Europe’s most exclusive open-air nightclub, drawing revelers from across Sicily.
GETTING THERE | To get to Panarea, take a ferry from Milazzo (Messina) or Palermo or take a tour from Taormina to both Panarea and Stromboli Island.
RECOMMENDED STAY | Villa Il Galeone
LUXURY PICK | Hotel Lisca Bianca
SUSTAINABLE PICK | B&B da Luca
BEST VIEWS | Dependance La Caletta
6. Scala dei Turchi
Perched along Sicily’s southern coast, near Realmonte in the Agrigento province, Scala dei Turchi (Stairs of the Turks) is one of the most striking natural wonders in Italy. This dazzling white limestone cliff, sculpted by wind and waves over centuries, forms a series of smooth, stair-like terraces that seem to cascade into the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea.
Once open to the public, the site has been off-limits since 2019 to protect its delicate surface. That however does not mean it is not worth visiting. For a great view, head to the surrounding sandy beaches (Lido Rossello Beach or Punta Grande Beach); alternatively, head to the scenic Belvedere Scala dei Turchi. In 2022, vandals defaced the cliffs with red paint, but thankfully, the local authorities came together and were able to clean the damage.
My favorite time to visit is around sunset. Many of the day-trippers and sun worshipers have left by then, and the limestone turns various shades of pink and gold.
PRACTICAL | If you do not fancy driving, book a day tour from Catania combining both the Scala dei Turchi with the Valley of Temples.
GOOD TO KNOW | If visiting by car, plan ahead—parking is limited. Various pop-up car parks are dotted around the main entrance and cost a few euros (cash only). Arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy one of Sicily’s most beautiful places.
7. Cala Rossa, Favignana
Favignana is part of the Egadi islands, a clustering of three islets floating off Sicily’s western coast. Neighboring Marettimo and Levanzo are the other two musketeers in this archipelago. Higher prices and limited accommodations translate into less tourism on the islets compared to the Aeolian islands. I was lucky enough to go last year, and it is, without a doubt, my personal favorite place to visit in Southern Italy.
Less does not equal none. Favigana is a popular day trip for Sicilians, who hop on a ferry from either Marsala or Trapani. We opted for the latter in sunny June, catching the direct bus from Palermo to Trapani before hopping on the ferry. Faviganan is, without a doubt, my all-time favorite place in Sicily, and I am anything but a fervent beachgoer.
Life moves at an island pace here—slow, sun-drenched, and in tune with the rhythms of the sea. What I love is that everyone explores the island by bike. Bike rentals can be found dotted around the Porto di Favignana! The island can be traversed in one hour by e-bike, so there is absolutely no need for a car or a scooter, for that matter.
One thing you cannot miss is taking a dip in the majestic turquoise waters of Cala Rossa. I have seen a lot of beaches in Sicily, but none even come close to the beauty of Cala Rossa. This is in no way a hidden gem; however, for many a visitor, this beach is the very first stop. You might want to come a little earlier in the day to ensure you get a spot.
Typical local dishes are busiati pasta with tuna bottarga or, for fellow vegetarians, the pane cunzato, a rustic sandwich topped with olive oil, anchovies, and cheese
PRACTICAL | Book a direct bus from Palermo via Omio. Ferries need to be booked online and in advance.
WHERE TO STAY | La Casa Dell’Arancio
WHERE WE STAYED | Cave Garden Rooms
BEST VIEWS | Casa VistAmare
8. Spiaggia di Tuerredda (Sardinia)
On the southern tip of Sardinia, between Chia and Teulada, lies a crescent of sand so perfectly shaped, it almost feels imagined. Spiaggia di Tuerredda is where Caribbean-blue waters meet soft, powdery shores—and where time seems to drift as lazily as the waves.
Sheltered by headlands and framed by fragrant Mediterranean maquis, Tuerredda’s beauty is no secret. In summer, it draws beach lovers from all over the island, and for good reason. The sea here is clear, calm, and impossibly blue, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating beneath the sun. A small islet lies just offshore, close enough to swim to when the waters are calm.
You’ll find parking nearby, along with beach bars, umbrellas for rent, and basic facilities. Arrive early in the high season as access is regulated to protect the delicate ecosystem, and spaces fill up quickly. Entry is free, but parking costs around €8–10 per day, and the beach is usually open from 8:00 AM until early evening.
9. Ravello
A few years back, I found myself drawn to the Amalfi Coast. Like so many others, I had seen images of colorful Positano and Amalfi on social media. But when I finally arrived, something felt off. The beauty was there, yes, but the crowds, the prices, and the lack of authenticity did not make me feel like I was in Italy at all. Then, I discovered Ravello.
Perched high above the coast, Ravello is quieter, slower, and far less staged. Perhaps because it requires a car to get there, or we were simply lucky, but it felt a lot more authentic. No packed beaches or flashy boutiques here, just cobbled streets, crumbling stone walls, and palaces filled with gardens overflowing with flowers.
The town is best known for its panoramic views, and they are, quite simply, the best I saw anywhere along the coast. Stand at the edge of Villa Rufolo’s gardens or wander through Villa Cimbrone, and you’ll understand why artists and poets have been coming here for centuries. Or why the affluent book Villa Rufalo for their lavish wedding receptions (the dream!).
Getting here requires a bit of effort; Ravello sits above Amalfi, a winding 20-minute drive inland. If you suffer from motion sickness (like yours truly), make sure to sit in the front of the car. If you are not confident driving up, look into booking a boat trip combining Positano, Amalfi and Ravello from Naples.
RECOMMENDED STAY | La Dolce Vita Ravello
LUXURY PICK | Gala Residence Villa Giovanna
BEST VIEWS | Villa Piedimonte
SUSTAINABLE PICK | Da Salvatore B&B
10. Capri
I first heard about Capri when my best friend in high school went there on a trip with her mother. I distinctly remember her gushing over the views and lamenting the prices in the same breath. In those 20-odd years, not much has changed on either front.
Perched off the coast of southern Italy, this small island in the Bay of Naples has seduced emperors, poets, and modern-day travellers alike for centuries. Arrive early by ferry from Sorrento or Naples, and take the funicular up to Capri Town, where cobbled lanes wind past lemon-scented courtyards and whitewashed buildings. From here, skip the high-end boutiques and head for the walking trails.
The Via Krupp is a masterpiece of switchbacks carved into the cliffs, while the hike to Villa Jovis, the ruins of Emperor Tiberius’s palace, offers sweeping views with fewer crowds. Don’t miss the Giardini di Augusto for the iconic view over the Faraglioni rock formations (pictured here).
For a slower, more local feel, take a bus or open-top taxi to Anacapri, the island’s sleepier side. Ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island, for views that stretch all the way to the Amalfi Coast.
RECOMMENDED STAY | Regina Cristina
LUXURY PICK | Hotel Weber Ambassador
BEST VIEWS | Villa Le Monachelle Capri
SUSTAINABLE PICK | Capri Magic House on the Beach
11. Praiano
Praiano managed to escape my radar for a very long time. Wedged between Positano and Amalfi, the village often gets overlooked. That is precisely why it’s worth visiting! This sun-soaked fishing village offers the same dramatic cliffside views but with fewer crowds and lower prices. However, that is steadily changing as it slowly makes its way on the beaten path.
Praiano is ideal for slow, sustainable travel. Start your day with a stroll along the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods), one of Italy’s most breathtaking hiking trails. It passes just above town and offers jaw-dropping coastal views, so make sure you bring your camera.
Spend your afternoon at Marina di Praia, a narrow beach tucked into the cliffs where local fishermen still bring in the day’s catch. There’s no flashy beach club or facilities, just a few boats, a tiny chapel, and the chance to swim in clear, calm waters. Make sure to bring your own towel and plenty of water.
TIP| Skip the taxi and take the local SITA bus or ferries to explore nearby towns—it’s cheaper, scenic, and far better for the coastline. Better yet? Stay a few nights to unwind and hide from the flocks of tourists.
BEST LOCATION | Hotel Alfonso A Mare
LUXURY PICK | Hotel Margherita
BEST VIEWS | Locanda Degli Dei
SUSTAINABLE PICK | Hotel Piccolo Sant’Andrea
12. Pompeii
I visited Pompeii years ago with my mum, catching the direct Circumvesuviana train from Naples. I’ll be honest: I’ve always admired grand monuments, but when it comes to ruins, my imagination sometimes needs a nudge. That day, we got lucky.
We joined a guide who didn’t just recite dates and emperors, he invited us to live a day in the life of a Pompeian. We began at “the bank” to collect our coins, wandered to “the market” to pick out figs and bread, and ended, somewhat cheekily, at “the local brothel”. With each stop, the stones came to life. We weren’t just looking at walls, we were inside someone’s world.
Pompeii is vast and often overwhelming, but that human thread—those everyday moments—turned it into one of the most unforgettable places I’ve visited. Details stay with me still: the grooves in the streets left by carts, the charcoal graffiti, and the propaganda carved into the rim of the public baths urging people to vote for a specific senator.
Entry is €16, and the site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and, if budget permits it, splurge and get the skip the line tickets and a local guide.
13. Napoli
I first visited Napoli, the vibrant capital of southern Italy’s Campania region, on the same trip I went to Pompeii. We stayed four days, and it was not enough! Napoli doesn’t charm in a postcard kind of way. It’s chaotic, loud, a little rough around the edges, but utterly, unapologetically real. In many ways, it reminds me of my beloved Palermo (but let’s keep that to ourselves).
There’s plenty to discover. Start with a free walking tour. Trust me on this one! The city is enormous, and a walking tour will help you get your bearings, get a good workout, and tons of local tips. Next, head to the Napoli Sotterranea, where you can descend into ancient Greek and Roman tunnels beneath the city. Not for the claustrophobic, but hauntingly fascinating.
Then head above ground to the National Archaeological Museum, home to many of Pompeii’s original treasures and mosaics. Climb the hill to Castel Sant’Elmo for panoramic views or wander the atmospheric Spaccanapoli district—a narrow, lively artery that slices through the heart of the old town. Stop for a flaky sfogliatella, browse the artisan shops, and take your time.
And of course, eat pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. Yes, it is tourist central. No, I did not care at all that it was. It’s simple, legendary, and utterly satisfying.
Napoli is well-connected by train from Rome and is the gateway to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. But don’t rush through—it’s messy, marvellous, and beautifully real. Just give it a little time.
TIP | Before going, make sure you read My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. It is set in Napoli, and after reading it, I felt like I saw the city in a whole new light. The emotion, grit, and intensity are all beautifully described.
BEST LOCATION | Foro Carolino S&B
LUXURY PICK | Grand Hotel Parker’s
BEST VIEWS | Duomo 152 Napoli
SUSTAINABLE PICK | B&B Federico II
14. Reggia di Caserta
While most travellers rush south for the coastlines and volcanoes, they miss the spectacular Reggia di Caserta just 40 minutes away from Naples by train. It is absolutely one of the prettiest places to explore in Southern Italy. Commissioned in the mid 18th-century by King VII of Naples, the palace was supposed to rival (or surpass) the grandeur of Versailles.
It is, to dat,e one of the largest royal residences in de world. With over 1,200 rooms, marble staircases, gilded ballrooms, and lavish frescoes, it’s a place that feels designed to impress, if only by the number of steps you will get in. Make sure to count one full day to explore.
Once you have had your fill of opulent interiors, make your way out to the gardens. Sprawling across 120 hectares, the grounds contain terraced pools, waterfalls, hidden sculptures, and long, tree-lined avenues. Rent a bike or hop on the shuttle to reach the farthest corners, including the beautifully romantic English Garden, filled with rare plants and winding footpaths.
Inside, highlights include the grand Palatine Chapel, the Throne Room, and the intricate royal apartments that whisper of past lives lived in silk and ceremony. Tickets cost €15 (get them online), and the palace is open most days from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
15. Matera
READ MORE: 15 Towns to visit in Puglia
I visited Matera during a road trip through Puglia—even though it technically sits just across the border in Basilicata, this ancient city is only a short detour away. So if you happen to be in the neighborhood, add it to your itinerary!
Carved into soft limestone cliffs, the ancient cave dwellings—known as the Sassi—tumble down the hillside in a maze of arches, stairways, and shadowed doorways. Once abandoned and overlooked, these homes have been beautifully restored, and today, the entire area is UNESCO-listed. It is one of the oldest, continously inhabited, cities in the world!
We made the mistake of visiting in the high season (hello, August). I will not lie; it was very busy and very pricy. Staying in those beautiful family-run cave hotels I had seen online was not an option. I strongly recommend visiting in June or September to still get that unique Mediteranean summer vibe, without the hordes of selfiesticks and tourbusses.
My favorite districts were the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano as they have dozens of rock churches and cave homes. Wander around and head up to the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario for a glimpse of daily life carved into stone. You can take a guided tour of the Sassi, which includes entry to various houses and Sassi churches.
Walk across the ravine to Belvedere Murgia Timone for one of the best views of the city—especially at the golden hour. You might want to bring a bottle of wine with you with some pane di Matera for a sunset picnic.
BEST LOCATION | La Dimora di Metello
LUXURY PICK | Sant’Angelo, Matera
BEST VIEWS | Il Belvedere // Palazzo Degli Abati
SUSTAINABLE PICK | Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae
16. Procida
While Capri draws the crowds and Ischia attracts spa-goers, Procida has remained blissfully under the radar. quietly waits, just a short ferry ride from Naples (under one hour). It’s the smallest of the Bay of Naples islands and just a short ferry ride away from the city, perfect for a day trip.
Arriving in Marina di Corricella, grab your camera as the cascade of pastel-coloured houses tumbling down to the sea will have you snapping away. The little fishing boats bobbing in the harbor complete the picture.
Climb to Terra Murata, the island’s oldest village, for panoramic views of the colorful coastline and the crystalline Tyrrhenian Sea. Mare sure to try a linguine al limone or a tangy granita di limone, made from the island’s famously fragrant lemons.
There are no luxury boutiques or mega yachts here. Instead, find black-sand beaches tucked into volcanic coves, family-run trattorie, and time-worn buildings full of charm. It is truly one of the most magical places in Southern Italy. This is one of the few places on this extensive list I have not personally been to, but goodness, is it right at the top of my bucket list.
RECOMMENDED STAY | Hotel La Corricella
BEST LOCATION | Calilla House by Procida Reserve
LUXURY PICK | Albergo La Vigna
BEST VIEWS | L’Isola Del Postino Rooms
17. Alberobello
We stopped in Alberobello during a road trip through Puglia, drawn, like so many others, by the fairytale charm of its Trulli. And while it was every bit as magical as we had hoped, it was also incredibly busy. By 8 AM, the narrow lanes were already buzzing with tour groups and selfie sticks.
Don’t get me wrong: Alberobello is an absolute must-visit. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason, with hundreds of whitewashed, cone-roofed Trulli clustered together like something from a children’s book. The Rione Monti district is the most iconic, with shops and cafés nestled inside the Trulli themselves. It’s enchanting, just best enjoyed before the tour buses arrive.
The secret? Arrive early. Just after sunrise, when the town is still quiet and golden light spills over the rooftops, it feels like you have the place to yourself. Which we actually did for about an hour. Alternatively, visit in the off-season and book a guided tour of the trulli with a local.
But here’s something most visitors don’t realise: Alberobello isn’t the only place with Trulli. The entire Valle d’Itria is dotted with them. After exploring the town, hop back in the car and wind your way through the countryside. Villages like Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Martina Franca are equally worth visiting and slightly less overrun by tourists.
RECOMMENDED STAY | Trulli Antichi Mestieri
BEST LOCATION | Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso
LUXURY PICK | Masseria Pentima Vetrana Resort (nearby)
BEST VIEWS | Le Dieci Porte
18. Polignano a Mare
Clinging to limestone cliffs above the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare is one of the most iconic places to explore in Southern Italy. Whitewashed buildings perch above impossibly blue water, and a network of stone streets winds down toward a dramatic pebble cove, Lama Monachile, the town’s signature beach.
It’s a place that looks like it was made for postcards, which is what attracts the millions of tourists each year. We spent only a few hours in the city, opting to come around sunset to catch the beautiful light and to grab a delicious meal in town. It turned out to be one of the most romantic nights of our entire Puglia road trip.
Polignano is best explored by boat or on foot. Along the cliffs, you’ll find terraces that open up to breathtaking panoramas, where the sea stretches endlessly and the aperitivo is marked up by at least 20%, but with those views, I doubt you will care. If you want to get on the water, book a boat tour with an aperitivo to explore the various caves around the craggy shoreline.
You’ve probably seen the famous cave restaurant, Grotta Palazzese, on social media before. This restaurant is carved dramatically into the cliffside above the water. It’s a showstopper in terms of setting—but worth knowing that many Italians consider it overpriced, with food that rarely lives up to the view. Save your pennies and go elsewhere. if there is one country where it’s not worth overpaying for mediocre food, it’s Italy.
RECOMMENDED STAY | B&B Relais del Senatore
BEST LOCATION | Lamare cucina e dimore
LUXURY PICK | Villa Torre Bianca
BEST VIEWS | Malu Bed & Breakfast
19. Tropea
Tucked along the Tyrrhenian coast in Calabria, Tropea feels like the kind of place you stumble upon and can’t believe isn’t in every travel guide. Perched high on a cliff above a curve of white sand and electric blue sea, it’s long been loved by Italians—but still flies under the radar for most foreign visitors.
And that’s what makes it such a hidden gem in Italy. The town itself is small but full of character. Worn facades, tangled alleyways, and sea-facing balconies draped in laundry give it that sun-faded charm that only southern Italy does so well. It’s relaxed, unpretentious, and wonderfully real.
Below, the beach is what draws most people here, Spiaggia della Rotonda, a stretch of powdery sand nestled beneath the iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola, a monastery perched dramatically on its own rocky outcrop. The water is startlingly clear, perfect for a long swim or just floating as the cliffs rise behind you.
Tropea is also home to one of Calabria’s culinary icons: the Tropea red onion—sweet, delicate, and celebrated in everything from pasta sauces to marmalade. Pair it with local seafood and a chilled glass of Cirò white wine at a seaside trattoria.
BEST LOCATION | B&B Island Vista Mare
LUXURY PICK | La Dolce Vita a Tropea
SUSTAINABLE PICK | B&B Rivellini
BEST VIEWS | Sunset Tropea
20. Castelmezzano
Tucked away in the mountains of Basilicata, southern Italy, Castelmezzano is one of those places that feels quietly untouched. Perched among the jagged peaks of the Lucanian Dolomites, this hilltop village is a little out of the way, and that is exactly why you should visit.
Getting here involves winding mountain roads, about two hours from Naples. As the road rounds its final bend and the stone houses come into view, clinging to the cliffs for dear life, it’s easy to see why Castelmezzano was named one of the most beautiful places in Italy.
If you’re feeling bold, the Volo dell’Angelo zipline sends you soaring from Castelmezzano to nearby Pietrapertosa, high above the valley floor. I was anything but bold, so I decided to admire the views with my two feet firmly planted on the floor.
Wander up to the old Norman castle for the best panorama, or simply linger in a local osteria over peperoni cruschi, caciocavallo cheese, and a glass of Aglianico wine—all regional staples.
Most Beautiful Places in Southern Italy Map
Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where all the most beautiful places in Southern Italy are located.
Responsible & Sustainable Travel in Italy
SHOP LOCALLY AND SEASONALLY: Look for locally made ceramics, textiles, and olive oil when buying souvenirs. Try and find DOP / IGP labels on food (certifying origin and traditional production methods) and visit the Mercati contadini (farmer’s markets) for fresh, seasonal goods
RESPECT WATER AND ENERGY USE: Sicily and other parts of Southern Italy have had to deal with drought in the last few years. January and February used to be the rainy months. In recent years, climate change has meant that rain is very scarce. Take short showers, reuse towels, and avoid excessive laundry requests to minimize water consumption.
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES: Seek out agriturismi, B&Bs, and small family-run guesthouses instead of chain hotels. Many agriturismi also serve home-cooked meals using ingredients from their own gardens or neighbouring farms. Some even offer workshops: cheese-making, foraging, or pasta classes. These help support local traditions and rural economies.
SUPPORT THE SLOW FOOD MOVEMENT: Founded in Italy, the Slow Food movement champions local ingredients, traditional recipes, and small-scale producers. Restaurants affiliated with Slow Food are committed to seasonal, regional cooking and ethical sourcing. Look for signs of affiliation with Slow Food Italia or ask if the place supports presìdi—protected local food products (e.g., Caciocavallo Podolico, Pane di Matera, Tropea onions).
Practical Tips for Visiting Italy
Essential information for a trip to Southern Italy
MEAL TIMES: Lunch is usually 12:30–2:30 PM, and dinner rarely starts before 7:30 PM. If you get hungry before dinner, try and catch aperito (06.00 PM – 08.00 PM) when a drink is usually served with a portion of nibbles.
SUNDAY IS THE DAY OF REST: Most shops, little bakeries, and even some restaurants will be closed on Sunday.
TIPPING IN ITALY: Not mandatory, but appreciated, not expected.
PAYMENT BY CARD: While allowing customers to use a (credit) card for payment is mandatory by law, this is far from always the case in Southern Italy. Make sure to always carry a little cash with you, just in case.
What is the most beautiful part of Southern Italy
My favorite part of Southern Italy is, without a doubt, Sicily. However, as my partner is Sicilian, there is an element of bias, of course. The island has so much to offer, from Greek temples to pristine beaches and a lot of fingerlicking Sicilian food.
How to get around Southern Italy
Public transport in Southern Italy is currently still under development. If you are using public transport, make sure to check the most up-to-date schedule on Trenitalia, Italo, or my favorite, Omio. Despite it being the non-sustainable way to travel, I would highly recommend renting a car if you plan to visit the smaller villages in the area.
What is Southern Italy known for
Southern Italy is known for the Amalfi Coast’s cliffside villages, the cave city of Matera, the cyrstaline waters of Sicily, and the volcanic power of Mount Vesuvius looming over Naples. The food in this part of the country is something else: arancini in Sicily, fresh orecchiette in Puglia, and the original Margherita pizza in Naples. The best beaches in Italy can be found in this part of the country.
Where to stay in Southern Italy
That depends on what you are looking to visit. If you are keen to see the Amalfi Coast, I would base myself outside of Ravello. If Sicily is where your heart is content, book your stay in Palermo or Catania. And, of course, Matera is an absolute must. Stay in one of the many beautiful Sassi.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING ITALY
ITALY: Vegetarian food in Italy by region
PUGLIA: 15 Towns to visit in Puglia
SICILY: Most beautiful places in Sicily
SICILY: One to three days Palermo itinerary
SICILY: Where to stay in Sicily
SICILY: Pretty villages in Sicily you need to visit
ROME: 40 Lesser known places to visit in Rome
Beautiful Places in Southern Italy: Pin it
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