The warm season is just around the corner, and the countdown to Italy’s most popular destinations has already begun. Yet there is another side to the country: small villages that still preserve their scents, views and atmosphere, capable of surprising even in high season, if you arrive just a little earlier than everyone else.
Here are ten villages chosen for summer, set between the sea, lakes and mountains, linked by a common thread: authenticity, striking scenery and a welcoming spirit that encourages you to slow down.
Seaside villages to discover before the summer rush
Between headlands, golden beaches and houses overlooking the water, these places capture some of the country’s most recognisable views. Summer brings crowds and nightlife, but arriving early means finding space and that everyday harbour life that tells the story of local tradition better than any guidebook.
Tropea
Set along the Costa degli Dei, Tropea combines a historic centre perched on cliffs with clear water that draws you straight in for a swim. Panoramic terraces frame dramatic sunsets, while a solitary religious building stands on a rocky outcrop just off the town.
The first beaches can be reached on foot from the old town, down stairways and through scenic corners. A few kilometres south, Capo Vaticano offers one of the most powerful coastal viewpoints on the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Marzamemi
An old fishing village in the province of Syracuse, Sicily, Marzamemi grew around a historic tuna fishery and still retains a simple, pared-back character. Piazza Regina Margherita is its heart, lined with low houses, sea-coloured shutters and an old bakery steeped in history.
The Balata, a natural harbour, fills with events and outdoor tables overlooking the boats on summer evenings. Life here centres on simplicity: soft lights, salty air and straightforward seafood cooking.
Grottammare
Overlooking the Adriatic coast of the Marche region, Grottammare pairs a hilltop old town with sea views and a lively promenade below.
Medieval lanes reveal old wash houses, stepped streets and a quiet viewpoint. Along the seafront, palm trees, Liberty-style villas and gardens of oleander and orange trees line the walk.
Bosa
On Sardinia’s west coast, a cascade of colourful houses climbs towards Serravalle Castle and the historic Sa Costa district. Former tanneries hint at its artisan past, while nearby coves such as s'Abba Druche, Portu Managu, Turas and Compoltitu provide clear water for swimming.
To the north, the Capo Marrargiu marine park draws visitors out into nature, while inland stretches the Badde Aggiosu and Monte Mannu reserve.
Talamone
Perched on the headland overlooking Monte Argentario in Tuscany, Talamone looks out across the Tuscan archipelago. The medieval village shares space with a strong seaside sports scene, thanks to steady winds that attract windsurfers, kitesurfers and sailing boats.
Sandy beaches are backed by cool pine woods that provide shade during the hottest hours. Behind the town, the Parco dell’Uccellina has walking trails and wildlife within Mediterranean scrubland.
Peschici
On the Gargano peninsula in Puglia, this whitewashed village stands above a dramatic bay. Narrow lanes carved into the rock lead past workshops and stairways down to the sea, with the Belvedere del Recinto Baronale acting as a balcony over the Adriatic.
The coastline stretches for around 20 kilometres of beaches, ranging from the wide Baia di Peschici to the more rugged Manacora. Exploring at the right time of day makes all the difference.
Tellaro
A hamlet of Lerici, just beyond Portovenere, Tellaro is a small harbour settlement where life unfolds around a painted waterfront. The compact historic centre winds between pastel-coloured houses and rocky corners at the water’s edge.
In August, the village celebrates the Sagra del Polpo, a festival dedicated to octopus. Coastal trails begin here, running through the Montemarcello-Magra park with open views over the sea.
Termoli
A fishing town with a striking layout in Molise, Termoli has a medieval centre set on a promontory and a marina edged with golden sand. The fortress and churches tell its story, while the beach below the old walls brings together slow living and sea bathing.
In August, the sea procession of the statue of San Basso takes place among fishing boats and traditional lamps, a ritual that reinforces the town’s identity and sense of belonging.
Mountains and hills: cooler air and high-altitude views
When the plains become too hot, higher ground provides relief. Stone and wood shape landscapes that feel rooted in the past, suited to those seeking trails, waterfalls and villages that move with the rhythm of the seasons.
Canale di Tenno
A few hairpin bends above Lake Garda, this medieval stone village encourages a slower pace. Cobbled alleys, tightly packed houses and artisan workshops host cultural events that bring life to the old layout.
Just above lies Lake Tenno, small and turquoise, and one of the area’s most photographed spots. It also serves as a base for exploring peaks and valleys in the Trentino Dolomites.
Pacentro
Located within the Majella National Park in Abruzzo, Pacentro safeguards historic palaces, churches, towers and a dense network of lanes and arches.
Nearby are shaded paths and the Vallone waterfall, surrounded by woodland rich in springs and ancient trees. It reveals a deeply rooted side of Abruzzo, shaped by nature and memory.
Villages between lakes and inland waters
Away from the salt air, summer here revolves around grassy shores, cliffside castles and walking routes.
Castiglione del Lago
Overlooking the western shore of Lake Trasimeno in Umbria, Castiglione del Lago preserves an intact historic centre within its defensive walls. The view stretches across the lake towards Cortona, Panicale and Città della Pieve, as far as Mount Amiata.
Equipped grassy beaches encourage slow days by the water, reading or enjoying a picnic. The Lake Trasimeno Regional Park completes the setting with nature walks through the Umbrian countryside.
Based on an article originally published on The Wom Travel under the title “I borghi italiani dove andare questa estate prima che arrivino tutti”.
