Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, where millions of tourists flock every year to admire scenic hotspots such as Florence, Rome, Venice, and Amalfi. For those who prefer to venture away from the beaten path, Italy has a plethora of smaller towns to discover which are just as stunning as its major cities.
Here are four of the most photogenic towns that Italy has to offer.
1. Atrani in Campania
There are more UNESCO World Heritage sites in Italy than anywhere else in the world, but the pretty medieval village of Atrani on the Amalfi Coast is one of the most scenic. It’s perched right on the edge of the rugged coastline, looking out across the rich blue Tyrrhenian Sea.
The winding streets are lined with elegant whitewashed and pastel-painted houses, and at night you’ll notice the sea sparkling with fishermen’s lamps. It’s a serene place for any romantic and relaxing getaway, where you’re guaranteed to take some breathtaking photographs.
2. Sappada in The Dolomites
The spectacular Dolomites Mountains are beautiful from all angles, but there’s something extra special about the view in Sappada. Nestled at the bottom of the valley, when the sun sets it casts the town in shadow while lighting up the surrounding granite peaks in pale pink hues.
There aren’t any major attractions to visit in Sappada because the mountains do all the talking, but you’re bound to enjoy wandering around the town’s craft shops and boutiques. You’ll also find some charming places to grab a coffee or bite to eat, and plenty of inst-worthy scenery to capture.
3. Pienza in Tuscany
The rolling hills of Tuscany are dotted with gorgeous medieval towns, but Pienza is one of the very best. Set in the historical region of Val d’Orcia, Pienza’s construction was heavily influenced by Pope Pius II soon after his papacy began in 1458. Since then, Pienza’s looks have changed very little, and the town retains its quaint atmosphere.
Don’t miss out on a tour of the town’s grand cathedral, officially called the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which is one of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance architecture in all of Italy.
4. Alberobello in Puglia
Trulli, which are small, whitewashed dry stone huts with iconic conical roofs, are a trademark of the Puglia region; and some of the finest are found in Alberobello. This innovative building technique dates back to prehistoric times, and it’s still used to build new structures in this region of Italy.
With plenty of charming trulli souvenir shops, bars, restaurants and even a trilli church, this small town is a lovely place for a whimsical daytrip into a fairytale-esque world of rugged, unique architecture. To fully immerse yourself in this enchanting town, you can spend the night in a trullo and relax into the slow, laid-back pace of life here.
Italy is ready for its close-up
No matter which of these photogenic Italian regions you plan to explore, you’re sure to stumble across plenty of fantastic photo opportunities. With some of the best weather to be found in late spring and summer, be sure to book early to secure your spot in these rare hidden gems of Italy.