Italy possesses numerous charming coastal towns, each with its own distinctive character and attractions.
The beauty of Italy has sparked thousands of soul searches to seek their very own EAT PRAY LOVE moment. And your trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the Italian coastal towns. From cliffside villages to underwater museums, these beach towns offer delectable seafood, clear blue seas, and fun diving. So spend a few days in Rome and then head to the ocean! The western side of Italy has the most beautiful beaches, but there are plenty of options.
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Here are some of the top Italian coastal towns:
Positano
Did you know that Positano is home to the Black Madonna? Legend has it that pirates stole a canvas of the Black Madonna, but one day, the painting yelled out to them to lay her down. Afraid, the pirates threw her overboard, and she later washed ashore on the beach of Positano. The locals saw it as a miracle, and became a symbol of protection for the entire town.
Colorful cliffside buildings and local artisan shops surround Positano’s beautiful waters. I recommend buying leather handmade slippers while you’re there.
*Pro tip: take the ferry from Naples to Positano if you need a break from the big city.*
Check out the best oceanfront hotels in Positano here.
Check out fun things to do in Positano here.
Amalfi: The Most Famous Italian Coastal Town
Amalfi is one of the most infamous Italian coastal towns. Considered the jewel of the Amalfi Coast, Amalfi is known for its dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and lemon terraces.
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Siracusa (Syracuse):
Siracusa is located on the Ionian coast of Sicily. Visitors come here It’s known for its ancient ruins. The central Archaeological Park Neapolis comprises the Roman Amphitheater, the Teatro Greco and the Orecchio di Dionisio, a limestone cave shaped like a human ear. The Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi exhibits terracotta artifacts, Roman portraits and Old Testament scenes carved into white marble. ― GoogleOn the southeastern coast of Sicily, Siracusa boasts ancient Greek ruins, Baroque architecture, and beautiful beaches along its coastline.
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Atrani:
A small fishing village on the Amalfi Coast, Atrani is less crowded than its neighbors but offers equally stunning views and a more authentic Italian experience.
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Polignano a Mare: Most Instagrammable Beach Town in Italy
Situated on Italy’s Adriatic coast, Polignano a Mare is famous for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming historic center.
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Cinque Terre: The Ultimate Italian Coastal Towns
When I think of the most magical destination I’ve been to, Cinque Terre is at the top of that list. Cinque Terre is made up of five colorful villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. I stayed at Monterosso al Mare and enjoyed taking long hikes to see the other villages. Don’t leave without trying the fried fish, calamari, and anchovies. It’s served in a paper cone or box and perfect for a snack on the beach.
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Portovenere: Where the Church Meets the Ocean
Nestled on the Ligurian coast near Cinque Terre, Portovenere is known for its historic ruins, an ancient castle, and stunning views of the Gulf of Poets.
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Santa Margherita Ligure: Romantic Italian Coastal Town
Santa Margherita Ligure is one of the many Italian coastal towns near Portofino. Enjoy a hike to San Fruttuoso Abbey, take romantic photos at Villa Durazzo, or scuba dive with the underwater Jesus statue at Christ of the Abyss. Between it’s graceful architecture, majestic castles, and beautiful oceanfront. you may want to extend your trip.
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Check out fun things to do in Santa Margherita Ligure here.
Taormina: Historical Italian Coastal Towns
Taormina is called the Pearl of the Ionian Sea. It’s Located on the eastern coast of Sicily. It’s most known for being the first colony of the Greeks in present-day Italy. There’s also some Arab influence, as the Duomo di Taormina was initially built as a mosque. Taormina offers gorgeous views of the Ionian Sea and historical ruins.
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Check out fun things to do in Taormina here.
Sorrento:
Sorrento is known as the land of the mermaids. It’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot day with a cup of mocktail limoncello. Overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is known for its stunning cliffs, citrus groves, and panoramic views of Mount Vesuvius and the Isle of Capri.
Don’t leave without tasting Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, their namesake dish.
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Check out fun things to do in Sorrento here.
Tropea:
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea in Calabria, Tropea is known for its stunning beaches, ancient buildings, and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola.
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Cefalù:
Most visitors come to Cefalù to visit the Temple of Diana, an ancient spiritual monument. Cefalù is known for its extraordinary beaches, archaic architecture, and the Rocca di Cefalù mountain.
Check out the best hotel deals for Cefalù here.
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Gallipoli:
Situated on the Ionian coast of Puglia, Gallipoli is famed for its historic old town, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere. Gallipoli is known for stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and the Aragonese Castle.
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Camogli: Picturesque Italian Coastal Towns
Camogli is a charming town located in Portofino. Camogli is characterized by its vibrant homes, beautiful sunsets, and fresh seafood. Adventerous travelers love to like the San Fruttuosa Hiking trail, which takes about 2.5 hours.
Check out the best hotel deals for Camogli here.
Check out fun things to do in Camogli here.
Alghero: Italian Coastal Towns
Alghero is famous for Neptune’s Grotto, a cave and common scuba diving destination. is a charming city located on the northwest coast of Sardinia. Alghero is known for its spectacular seafood, golden sea walls, and coral jewelry.
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Check out fun things to do in Alghero here.
Portofino:
This small fishing village on the Italian Riviera is known for being a luxurious escape. You’ll find upscale boutiques, Michelin restaurants, and the picturesque harbor seen in travel magazines worldwide.
Check out the best hotel deals for Portofino here.
Check out fun things to do in Portofino here.
Coastal towns in Italy present a captivating blend of the country’s vibrant cultural legacy, breathtaking scenery, and delectable cuisine, where will you go?
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Italy is amazing. I have been to some of them adding others to my list too