Benevento sits in Campania with a population just over 60,000. The city is perched on rolling hills inland from the Tyrrhenian coast, surrounded by a patchwork of vineyards, olive groves and farmland. Its layout spreads gently across the slopes, with narrow streets and stone buildings that reflect a quiet, unhurried way of life. It’s a spot that isn’t as crowded or noisy as nearby Naples but still offers a solid mix of everyday Italian life and interesting quirks.
The city’s reputation for witches still prevails today, giving Benevento a bit of a mystique, too. Living in Benevento means keeping things low-key while enjoying authentic Italian culture.
What is life like in Benevento?
Life in Benevento moves at a steady pace, offering a mix of practical benefits and a relaxed atmosphere. The town’s location in the heart of Campania means you’re well connected to other parts of southern Italy, so travelling around for work or leisure isn’t a hassle.
One of the perks here is the cost of living, which tends to be lower than in bigger Italian cities. Rent, everyday bills and groceries usually don’t put too much strain on the budget, which helps keep things manageable.
Green spaces are easy to come by, with several parks and tree-lined streets where locals unwind. Combine that with the town’s historic sites and a handful of cultural events, and you have a place that feels both comfortable for day-to-day life and interesting enough to explore on your days off.
What is Benevento famous for?
Benevento is most famously known for its Roman-era Arch of Trajan, an impressive monument that celebrates the reputation and achievements of Emperor Trajan. Alongside this, the town is recognised for the Rocca dei Rettori, a medieval fortress that reflects its long history as a strategic stronghold.
But beyond these landmarks, Benevento’s unique claim to fame lies in its association with witchcraft folklore. The legend of witches gathering under the ancient walnut tree just outside the town has earned Benevento the nickname “city of witches,” setting it apart culturally from many other Italian towns. So, while its historical monuments attract those interested in Italy’s past, it’s this intriguing blend of history and folklore that truly defines what Benevento is famous for.
Where to live in Benevento: the best areas
Deciding where to live in Benevento can seem a challenging task, as each area has its advantages and disadvantages.
Historic Centre
This is where much of the town’s past is still visible in the streets and buildings. Narrow cobbled lanes wind past old churches, Roman ruins and centuries-old squares, creating a backdrop that’s ideal if you want to be surrounded by the city’s cultural heartbeat. It’s a lively area where daily life carries on alongside quiet spots to pause and take in the local atmosphere.
Rione Libertà
If you’re after something a bit more low-key, the Libertà district offers a calmer pace away from the busier historic centre. It’s mainly residential, with tree-lined streets and local shops. Despite its quieter vibe, you’re still within easy reach of Benevento’s main services and social spots, striking a nice balance between calm and convenience.
San Vitale
San Vitale provides a mix of modern living and easy access to green spaces, making it a good fit for people wanting a bit of both worlds. The neighbourhood features contemporary homes alongside parks where locals can relax or exercise. Shops, cafes and eateries are scattered around, so day-to-day needs are covered without having to head into the centre.
Price comparison: Benevento, Naples, Rome
Looking at property prices as of May 2025, Benevento clearly offers more value for money. Here, you can expect to pay around €1,091 per square metre, which is significantly cheaper than Naples at €2,714 per square metre and Rome at €3,191 per square metre. So, if you’re after space without breaking the bank, Benevento gives you a lot more bang for your buck.
Rental prices follow a similar pattern. In Benevento, rent averages about €6.7 per square metre, which is less than half the €15.5 per square metre you’d pay in Naples. Rental prices in Rome are even higher, at €18.5 per square metre. Considering Naples is just about an hour’s drive away, Benevento makes for an attractive, more affordable option for those who want to be close to the coast and city life while keeping living costs down.
What to do in Benevento: leisure tips
Knowing the main attractions around Benevento can help you decide where to spend your downtime after work or studies. The Arch of Trajan stands out as one of the city's most notable landmarks—a Roman arch that’s remarkably well preserved and offers a real glimpse into Benevento’s ancient past. Not far from there, the Roman Theatre, still largely intact, provides another fascinating spot to explore and imagine what the town was like centuries ago.
But there’s more to Benevento than just its history. As an Italian university town, it has a steady buzz of activity, with plenty of cafés and restaurants where you can sample local dishes or enjoy a coffee. The markets and small shops scattered around offer local crafts and fresh produce, adding to the everyday charm.
If you’re into the outdoors, Benevento’s surroundings don’t disappoint. The nearby Taburno Regional Park and Matese Natural Park offer plenty of walking and hiking options through countryside that changes with the seasons. These green spaces are perfect for weekend getaways, whether you’re up for a short stroll or a longer trek, and provide picnic spots for relaxing in nature without straying far from the town.
What is the economy of Benevento?
Benevento’s economy leans heavily on agriculture, with vineyards and olive groves playing a central role in the local landscape and employment. Food production, especially linked to these local crops, helps sustain the town’s traditional businesses. There’s also some light manufacturing and small-scale industry, but the economy retains a largely regional and relaxed feel. While it’s not buzzing with big corporate activity, Benevento benefits from its location as a hub connecting surrounding towns and from a steady flow of small businesses that keep the local economy ticking along.
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