Italy’s famed cities often take the spotlight, but its lesser-known villages hold a quiet charm that’s just as captivating. While places like Venice and Florence contend with overtourism, exploring these beautiful villages offers a more intimate and responsible way to experience the country.
From medieval hilltop hamlets to coastal retreats, these villages are the heart of Italy’s heritage. Recognised by I Borghi più Belli d’Italia (The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy), each location is celebrated for its unique beauty and cultural significance. With 371 destinations now on the list, here are six new additions for 2024 that promise to enrich your Italian adventure.
Rassa, Piedmont
Hidden in the Sesia Valley, Rassa offers a postcard-perfect alpine retreat. Its stone and wooden homes are perched beside a rushing stream, crossed by a medieval footbridge. Winter transforms the village into a snowy wonderland, while warmer months invite hikers to explore the surrounding mountain trails.
Bagolino, Lombardy
High in the Sabbia Valley, Bagolino is a delight for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike. Its signature bagòss cheese, aged with saffron, is a local delicacy. The village’s colourful carnival, held every February, fills the streets with music, costumes, and celebration, making it an unforgettable time to visit.
Bertinoro, Emilia-Romagna
Sitting atop a hill, Bertinoro’s panoramic views extend from the Apennines to the Adriatic. Known for its tradition of hospitality, the village celebrates this legacy with an annual festival that includes music, parades, and warm welcomes for all visitors. The Rocca fortress, now an interreligious museum, offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
Mulazzo, Tuscany
Steeped in literary history, Mulazzo was once a refuge for Dante during his exile. The Via Dantis walking trail brings his Divine Comedy to life, while the village itself offers charming stone streets and historic architecture. Nearby Montereggio, celebrated as the “village of booksellers,” hosts a yearly book festival, keeping the area’s literary tradition alive.
Ripatransone, Marche
Known for its breathtaking views over the Adriatic and the Gran Sasso peaks, Ripatransone is a gem of the Marche region. Visitors can navigate Italy’s narrowest alley before exploring the village’s cathedral and its towering bell tower, which dominates the skyline.
Gravina in Puglia, Apulia
With its dramatic ravines and rock-hewn architecture, Gravina in Puglia is a quieter alternative to nearby Matera. The ancient caves and churches, including the atmospheric Chiesa Rupestre di San Michele delle Grotte, reveal the area’s deep history. The iconic arched bridge, famously featured in No Time to Die, is a must-see for film enthusiasts.
With the Jubilee year meaning the big cities are going to be heaving with increased tourist numbers, 2025 is the time to explore the quieter corners of Italy.
