Italy – the cradle of culture, arts, cuisine, wine and incredible nature. The whole country juts out into the sea, providing numerous pristine beaches. Italy and its islands drop into the Mediterranean climate zone, which ensures pleasant weather all year round. Scroll down to see these incredible coastal towns and sites, that you might want to consider visiting.
1. Capri
The island has been a favorite holiday destination since the Roman times. Its dramatic rocky coastline and blue sea attract vacationers, luxurious villas and boutiques – celebrities, while ancient heritage – historians.
Why to go there?: Capri has great views, is an iconic island, providing various hiking trails, boat trips and shops.
Photo: Michael Bazinet
Photo: Antonella Taranto
2. Sardinia
Being the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia has a very long coast and numerous sandy beaches. Nature is versatile and provides all year round activities: horseback riding, sailing, even skiing in winter.
Why to go there?: Various activities, beautiful nature, long coastline, great cuisine.
3. Polignano a Mare
A picturesque fishing village on the Adriatic Sea has become a popular destination among the tourists. It has everything you need for an unforgettable holiday: a stunning coastline, sea, historic town, fresh food and incredible cave restaurant Grotta Palazzese, which is an impressive attraction on itw own.
Why to go there?: Beautiful coastal town, popular holiday destination, fresh food and local olive oil.
Photo: Ciro Santopietro
Photo: Giovanni Carrieri
Photo: Vito Muolo
4. Capo Vaticano
The white granite cape is a popular bathing spot in Calabria. White sandy beach, crystal clear and warm water of the Tyrrhenian Sea make it a perfect holiday destination. The cliff is indeed a magnificent natural wonder.
Why to go there?: The site is very picturesque and a popular bathing spot.
Photo: Bartuccio Antonino
Photo: Francesco Serravalle Cocollo
Photo: Salvatore Mazzeo
5. Positano
Found on the iconic Amalfi Coast, Positano was already loved by the Ancient Romans. Today it is a favorite holiday destination, attracting even the celebrities from all around the world. It is quiet, beautiful retreat, with great hotels and cuisine.
Why to go there?: A beautiful coastal town, a popular holiday destination. It has the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast.
Photo: dukeofbooks
Photo: Roberto Costanzo
Photo: Ricky Uz
6. Otranto
One of the most beautiful towns of Apulia, Otranto attracts visitors for its historic buildings and turquoise water. It has been a harbor town for the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Turks. There are various sandy beaches around and even within the town.
Why to go there?: Rich historic heritage, great beaches, crystal clear water, popular tourist destination
Photo: Davide Tornese
Photo: Davide Tornese
7. Manarola
One of the smallest, but the most famous villages in Italy. Manarola is one of the Cinque Terre towns on the Italian Riviera. The Love’s Trail provide a romantic saunter, followed by a nice dinner at the local restaurants, that offer fresh fish and a variety of wines.
Why to go there?: Visit on a trip to the Cinque Terre – one of the most picturesque sites in the country.
Photo: Mirko Saviane
Photo: Charles Tewes
8. Scilla
Located in the Calabria region – at the finger tip of the boot – Scilla is a historic fishing village. Among various fresh fish, swordfish is its speciality. Tourists usually choose to visit Scilla on a day trip from Calabria.
Why to go there?: Try the local dishes, visit a great beach and the old town.
Photo: Tomáš Kulich
Photo: holle22
9. Levanzo
The tiny Aegadian Island west of Sicily fascinates with crystal clear turquoise water. It is a typical old fishing village, with the harbor being the busiest part of the island. Tourists come here to explore ancient cave paintings, go diving, hiking, swimming and on fishing tours.
Why to go there?: Visit this nice coast of Levanzo on a day trip from Favignana or Trapani.
Photo: Przemek Czaicki
10. Camogli
A small fishing village in the province of Genoa is a popular holiday destination among the locals, situated on the Italian Riviera, only a two-hour drive from Milan. There is a great beach, beautiful colored houses and hiking trails, meandering up the hills.
Why to go there?: Quite an undiscovered place among the foreign tourists, very romantic and cosy spot.
Photo: Pietro Consigliere
Photo: DARIO BARUZZI
Photo: Marco Verdina
Source: Places to See in Your Lifetime
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