1. Portofino, Liguria
Elegant and intimate, Portofino is one of Italy’s most recognisable seaside towns. Its harbour curves into a natural half-moon framed by pastel houses and bobbing yachts, creating one of the most photographed coastal views in the country. The narrow lanes are lined with boutiques, trattorias and small piazzas that invite slow wandering, relaxed meals and long afternoons by the water.
Castello Brown sits above the town and offers sweeping panoramas across the Ligurian Sea. Guests can explore its museum rooms, terraced gardens and historic pathways that once protected the harbour. The walk up is gentle and rewarding, and the lookout points at the top provide a beautiful vantage over Portofino’s colourful waterfront.
"We walked up to Castello Brown just before sunset. The colours over the harbour were unforgettable." – Sarah P., 2023
2. Manarola, Liguria
One of the oldest villages in Cinque Terre, Manarola is famed for its terraced vineyards, coastal cliffs and brightly coloured homes perched above the sea. The village has a gentle rhythm that feels both lively and timeless, especially at dusk when the pastel buildings begin to glow and the coastline turns golden. Its waterfront lookout paths, small fishing boats and hillside gardens create a picture-perfect atmosphere that draws travellers back again and again.
Hamlets like Manarola are best explored on foot. Wander the narrow lanes at your own pace, pause for gelato or a glass of local Sciacchetrà and enjoy the scent of citrus drifting through the village. Continue up to the Church of San Lorenzo for a sweeping view over the town, the harbour and the surrounding vineyards that define this part of Liguria.
3. Vernazza, Liguria
Often considered one of Cinque Terre’s most photogenic towns, Vernazza features a sheltered harbour, colourful facades and winding alleys that lead to small cafés, wine bars and cliffside viewpoints. Its waterfront piazza is one of the most atmospheric spots in the region, framed by fishing boats, stone arches and the gentle sounds of waves against the breakwater. Many travellers begin the famous Cinque Terre hiking trail here, as Vernazza offers one of the most spectacular stretches between villages with sweeping views across the coastline.
The small swimming cove is ideal for a refreshing dip, especially on warm summer days. After a swim, wander through the local shops selling handmade goods, regional wines and Ligurian specialities. Whether you visit for a few hours or settle in for the afternoon, Vernazza captures the timeless charm of Italy’s Riviera.
4. Rimini, Emilia-Romagna
Rimini blends seaside charm with ancient Roman history, creating a destination that appeals to both culture seekers and beach lovers. The town is known for its long stretch of sandy coastline, lively promenade and well-preserved monuments such as the Arco d’Augusto and the Tiberius Bridge, both of which reflect its deep historical roots. Its old town is surprisingly rich in heritage, offering museums, medieval streets and spacious piazzas that invite slow wandering.
Food lovers will find plenty of trattorias serving handmade pasta, local seafood and traditional Romagna dishes, often paired with regional wines. Meanwhile, sunseekers can enjoy kilometres of organised beachfront with umbrellas, lounges and water activities suitable for families and couples alike. As day turns to evening, Rimini’s seafront comes alive with bars, gelaterias and casual dining spots, making it an ideal place to unwind after exploring the coast.
5. Positano, Campania
Positano is the jewel of the Amalfi Coast, loved for its steep stairways, chic boutiques and cliffside hotels draped in bougainvillea. The village tumbles down the mountain in layers of pastel homes, creating one of the most recognisable coastal views in Italy. Its two main beaches, Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo, offer clear waters, dark pebbled shores and sweeping vistas of the coastline that feel magical at sunrise and sunset.
Days in Positano tend to unfold at a relaxed pace. Browse small artisan shops, stop for a granita on the walk down to the water or enjoy a long lunch overlooking the bay. The village is also an ideal base for boat trips along the Amalfi Coast, where you can swim in hidden coves and visit sea grottoes, or for easy day trips to neighbouring towns such as Amalfi, Ravello and Praiano. Whether you are exploring on foot or taking in the view from a terrace, Positano captures the romance and charm of southern Italy.
6. Sperlonga, Lazio
Once the seaside escape of Roman emperors, Sperlonga retains a special elegance today. Its whitewashed houses, winding stairways and quiet piazzas create a relaxed atmosphere that feels a world away from the busier coastal hubs. The town sits on a rocky promontory with stunning views over the Tyrrhenian Sea, making it ideal for travellers who want somewhere calm, scenic and steeped in history.
A visit to the Museo Archeologico di Sperlonga offers a fascinating look at artefacts from Emperor Tiberius’ ancient villa, including sculptures that once decorated his lavish grotto dining room. After exploring the museum, make your way up to Torre Truglia, the town’s iconic watchtower. From the top, you’ll have uninterrupted panoramas across the coastline and golden beaches that stretch along the Lazio shore. It is a lovely spot for taking photos or simply enjoying the Mediterranean breeze.
7. Atrani, Campania
Often described as the Amalfi Coast’s best-kept secret, Atrani is a tiny village tucked into a steep valley where pastel houses seem to spill down towards the shoreline. Its medieval lanes open onto charming piazzas shaded by citrus trees, and the sound of church bells often echoes through the village. Wander a little further and the coastal path rewards you with dramatic viewpoints overlooking the glittering Tyrrhenian Sea.
Atrani offers a quieter alternative to Positano and Amalfi, making it ideal for travellers who want local character with easy access to major sites. Traditional trattorias serve homemade dishes, fishermen still bring in their daily catch and the village’s compact layout makes it perfect for slow, scenic wandering. It is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of the Amalfi Coast without the crowds, yet remain only a short walk from bustling Amalfi next door.
8. Sorrento, Campania
Sorrento overlooks the Bay of Naples with sweeping views that stretch all the way to Mount Vesuvius. Its historic centre is a maze of narrow lanes lined with lemon groves, artisan workshops and elegant palazzi that reflect centuries of Mediterranean charm. The town blends seaside relaxation with cultural appeal, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for every type of traveller.
Visitors enjoy strolling through lively piazzas, stopping at family-run cafés or exploring landmarks such as the Basilica di Sant’Antonino and the Cloister of San Francesco. Down by the marina, restaurants serve fresh seafood with front-row views of the sea. Thanks to its strategic location, Sorrento also serves as a convenient gateway to Capri, Pompeii and the rest of the Amalfi Coast, making it an ideal base for a wider Italian adventure.
9. Polignano a Mare, Puglia
Perched on limestone cliffs above sparkling waters, Polignano a Mare is one of Puglia’s most dramatic and beloved coastal towns. Its historic centre is a maze of whitewashed cottages, stone archways and narrow laneways that open onto terraces overlooking the deep blue Adriatic. As you wander through, you will find small cafés, artisan shops and hidden lookout points perfect for capturing the coastline from above.
The town’s iconic cliff-side beach, Lama Monachile, is famous for its crystal-clear water and the striking rocky gorge that frames it. Swimmers and sunseekers love its sheltered setting, while cliffside balconies offer some of the most memorable views in southern Italy. Polignano a Mare is also celebrated for its culinary scene, particularly fresh seafood and traditional Puglian dishes served with a backdrop of the sea.
10. Scilla, Calabria
Steeped in Greek myth, Scilla is famously associated with the sea creature Scylla from Homer’s Odyssey. Today, it is anything but fearsome. Instead, travellers discover a picturesque fishing village where pastel houses rise above a sparkling shoreline and fishing boats bob gently in the bay. The scenery blends dramatic cliffs with calm, clear waters, creating an idyllic setting for a slow-paced coastal escape.
The historic Chianalea district is especially charming. Often called the “Little Venice of Calabria,” its houses are built directly at the water’s edge, with narrow laneways that open onto tiny coves and views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Restaurants sit perched above the rocks, offering some of the region’s freshest seafood accompanied by unforgettable coastal vistas.
11. Cefalù, Sicily
Cefalù combines sandy beaches, mountain backdrops and Mediterranean architecture. The old town’s lanes lead to the majestic Cefalù Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Norman design and glittering mosaics.
Locals and visitors gather on the beach each evening to watch the sun set behind the cliffs.
12. Levanzo, Sicily
The smallest of the Aegadian Islands, Levanzo is peaceful and untouched. Its walking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints, while the waters surrounding the island are perfect for snorkelling.
The island’s most famous attraction is the Grotta del Genovese, home to prehistoric cave paintings.
13. Castelsardo, Sardinia
Located on northern Sardinia’s coast, Castelsardo is known for its medieval walls, historic citadel and narrow streets. The town showcases Bronze Age heritage through its ancient Nuragic sites and archaeological displays.
Climb to the fortress for breathtaking ocean views and wander through artisan workshops selling traditional woven baskets.
14. Cagliari, Sardinia
Sardinia’s capital is a vibrant seaside city with something for every traveller. Enjoy long walks along Poetto Beach, explore the historic Castello district and visit the San Saturnino Basilica, one of the oldest churches on the island.
Cagliari is also a great base for day trips to hidden coves and nature reserves nearby.
