19 Surprisingly Romantic Places in Italy for Any Occasion

If you are looking for unexpectedly romantic places in Italy for honeymoon, Valentine’s, anniversary, or weekend getaways, you came to the right place. This list of less touristy yet most romantic places in Italy collaborates with other travel bloggers to help you decide where to go for the perfect Italian romance. 

The most Romantic cities in Italy

Verona

Verona is one of the most romantic places in Italy that you can visit. The setting for Shakespeare’s ultimate romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet (guided tour available here), Verona is the perfect place for a cozy couples’ weekend trip when looking for romantic places in Europe!

One of the fascinating things to do in Verona is to wander the Centro Storico streets, admiring the beautiful architecture and cobblestone alleys. While a visit to Juliet’s balcony for a photo is a must, there are pretty balconies in Verona no matter where you look! Some of them are decorated with greenery or even scented jasmine, making for the perfect romantic stroll.

Climb to the top of the Torre dei Lamberti for magnificent views over the rooftops of Verona. Or, cross the beautiful Ponte Pietra over the Adige River and take the funicular to the Castello San Pietro at the top of the hill for fabulous views of the river and the city.

Verona’s main squares are lively and great for enjoying a drink or gelato as you people watch. You can take in the gorgeous Roman Arena at Piazza Bra and even attend a concert inside! The streets radiating from this square are great for shopping.

Verona has some must-visit restaurants: Saporè is excellent for pizza, and Santa Felicita not only has fantastic food, but it is also inside an old church (now deconsecrated). For gelato, don’t miss L’Arte del Gelato!

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Recommended by It’s Not About the Miles

Taormina 

Taormina belongs to one of the prettiest romantic places in Italy, located an hour’s drive away from Catania.

There are so many different things to do in Taormina that the list can get quite long. Therefore, make sure to have a romantic stroll in the main boulevard, Corso Umberto, holding hands and taking photos of beautiful churches, and venture away to any smaller streets for the authentic charm.

It would be best not to leave out the famous spot – the ancient Greek theater. It’s not only a monument of immense historical value, but it also provides magnificent views of the Ionian Sea. Find a quiet spot and enjoy the vistas together. The entrance fee is 10 Euros for adults.

Splashing around on a lovely beach is another fun activity to engage in with your sweetheart. Take a cable car down to the seaside area, skip the beautiful but small Mazzaro beach and walk to Isola Bella. The beach is terrific – whether you prefer renting a sun umbrella and getting a fancy drink, or if you’re happy just putting a towel down on the pebbles.

Don’t miss crossing over to the tiny Isola Bella island. There’s a small entrance fee (currently 4 Euros), but it’s well worth it. You can walk around the eerie house of a local merchant family who once lived there and admire the Isola Bella beach from another angle. 

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Recommended by Travel Geekery

Ginosa

Graciously lying on the southernmost point of the Italian boot, the region of Puglia is one of those lesser-known destinations which hides some of the most romantic places in Italy. 

The small delicate historic city of Ginosa lies where Puglia meets Basilicata, no longer than an hour’s drive from Bari. Sea and ravines, meadows and cliffs, vineyards, and olive plantations surround the area, making the perfect scenery combination for a relaxing honeymoon in Italy. 

The size of Ginosa is a privilege as you can visit the sites and monuments by walking from one place to another, avoiding the hassle of busier cities, and allowing yourself to enjoy a smooth holiday. 

Cave houses – casa grotta –  embrace the city, which sprawl across the sides of the abyss in the area of Rione di Rivolta, called the Troglodyte Village. Another notable landmark is the Norman Castle, constructed in 1080, and the Chiesa Madre, a catholic church of the 16th century built in Madonna del Rosario’s honor. Among other notable sites are the city’s many churches decorated with frescoes from the Byzantine age. 

Ginosa is also home to the famous artisan shirt maker Angelo Inglese, an acclaimed designer who has sewed apparel for Prince William and ex-President Donald Trump – pay a visit to the shop. 

Ginosa is rich in restaurants and bars, which offer pleasant environments, and you can experience mouth-watering Italian food and local wine from vineyards of the region. Make sure to try the region’s spectacular red – Primitivo. The famous stone-oven bakeries of Ginosa are also something to bear in mind. 

Although more hotels are located in the neighboring area of Ginosa, the few hotels in the center offer warm hospitality and luxurious experiences. Like the Albergo Diffuso Il Casale, few boutique hotels are tucked in the city’s narrow streets, hidden in cave-dwellings. 

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Recommended by Passion for Hospitality

Bologna

Bologna is an absolutely stunning city! Its beauty and charm make the city a fabulous romantic place in Italy. Bologna’s pretty narrow streets are perfect for exploring with a loved one, along with the porticoes. Bologna is the city with the most arcades globally – and they definitely add to its romantic atmosphere!

A romantic getaway to this beautiful Italian city won’t be complete without the Bologna In Love Walking Tour. Designed specifically for couples, this 2 hours and a half long tour follows the love stories of young maidens and noble youths divided by warring families. You’ll see some of the most romantic spots around the city, so it’s one of the most romantic things to do in Italy. 

Hike to San Luca – a church on a hill to enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Just make sure to head there early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Bologna can be very hot, especially in the summer, so reaching the top of the hill all covered in sweat might not be the most romantic thing in the world.

Bologna is in the Emilia Romagna region, which produces 15% of Italian wine and has seen a steady increase in exports. With this in mind, it’s a must to include a trip to one of the nearby wineries on your romantic Italy getaway. Alternatively, you can do a wine bar hopping and try as many wines as possible.

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Recommended by Owl Over The World 

San Marino

A fantastic hidden gem and another romantic place in Italy is the tiny micro-country (and city) of San Marino. It boasts breathtaking views of the Italian countryside while being home to an impressive castle. Travel to San Marino for an idyllic honeymoon in Italy and break away from the crowds of the famous cities in Italy. 

Renting a car from Venice or Bologna is the most convenient way to visit. You can drive right to the top of the mountain – just be careful with hairpin turns. Before climbing up the hill, stop at the Visitor’s Center for a stamp in your passport. Not many people can say they have visited the oldest country in the world! 

The first thing you’ll notice about San Marino is the towering castle on the peak of Monte Titano. There are three towers to explore, dating back to the 11th century! The First Tower, Guaita, is the oldest (and most famous) tower. The Second Tower, Cesta, is on the highest peak and is home to a museum holding over 1500 weapons dating back to the Medieval Era. The Montale, the third tower, is on the smallest summit and, unfortunately, not open to the public. 

There are also plenty of museums to intrigue you. The National Museum dives into the rich history of San Marino. The beautiful Basilica de San Marino is a step back in time, or for travelers who prefer more unusual items – visit the Torture Museum. 

For a delicious hand-tossed fire-grilled pizza – head to Ristorante II Beccafico. Enjoy local wine while taking in the views of the Italian countryside.

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Recommended by The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Noto

Noto is a little city on the Southeastern coast of Sicily in the Syracuse province. The little town is sleepy in the winter but absolutely brimming with couples in the summer. The city holds Sicily’s baroque capital title and has many swoon-worthy buildings dotted across the small streets. It has even received a UNESCO World Heritage Site title.

The town is relatively small so you can take a leisurely walk down the towns’ two main arteries – Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Via Cavour. When walking through the streets, make sure to turn your gaze upwards. Beautifully carved stuccos adorn the balconies and façades of most buildings. Make sure to visit the Noto Cathedral, Palazzo Ducezio, and the Palazzo Castello to get a good feel of the Sicilian architecture.

After an afternoon of strolling around, you might like to take a little break and satisfy your sweet tooth. There is one particular spot that you might want to try. Noto is well known for its almonds and specifically for the Almond Granita – it was even featured on the Netflix show Chef’s table and is one of the must-try regional specialties. 

Head over to Caffe Siciliano, right opposite the main basilica, to try the most delicious granite of your life for a mere 2,5 Euros. The portions are not huge, so perhaps you and your love want to skip sharing this one and order two pieces!

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Recommended by Veggie Wayfarer

Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is another hidden gem that makes a perfect destination for your honeymoon in Italy. Most tourists never get to this part of Italy, in beautiful Puglia. Polignano a Mare is about 30 minutes south of Bari. It sits perched on high cliffs above the Adriatic Sea, and it is one of the most romantic places in Italy.

It’s an old town founded by the Greeks and later developed under the Roman Empire. Via Traiana (ancient Roman road) passed through ancient Polignano a Mare, and you can still see a Roman bridge behind Lama Monachile. The old town is very charming with old churches, white-washed houses, a maze of narrow streets, and quaint balconies.

Polignano a Mare is a perfect place to spend a romantic weekend, honeymoon, or anniversary. Wherever you are in the old town, you are minutes away from one of the panoramic terraces and some fantastic coastline views. Taking a cruise along the coast to visit some of its caves adds an adventure to your days here.

Lama Monachile is an incredible pebbled beach tucked away between the limestone cliffs, just under the old town. It’s a romantic spot where you can take many beautiful pictures. 

Another place you might want to visit is the Grotta Pallazzese Restaurant. It has the most fantastic location in a cave above the sea and under the old town. It isn’t a cheap restaurant, but it is unique and perfect for a romantic evening.

The locals and Italian tourists stop in cute coffee shops, small bars, and family restaurants in the small piazzas. Time here slows down, so enjoy a taste of La Dolce Vita.

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Recommended by Travel for a while

Cagliari

Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, is often overlooked for more famous romantic cities in Italy. It’s a pity because it’s the perfect city for a quick weekend break, as a base to explore southern Sardinia, and as romantic getaways in Italy. Whatever kind of trip you are on, you will undoubtedly find many great things to do in Cagliari. 

The city is packed with beautiful archeological sites; churches and well-curated museums; narrow alleys, airy plazas, and colorful buildings. You can easily reach several beaches from the center – Poetto is a locals’ favorite and a great place for a sunset walk and an evening drink. 

Yet, what makes Cagliari strike out for romance compared to other cities is the vistas you can get from many places in the city. The best sunset spot – the one you should keep for a proposal or renewing your vows – is by far Via Santa Croce’s terrace in the historic quarter of Castello. The view over Stampace historic quarter and the Sette Fratelli mountains in the back is breathtaking. 

When sunset is over, pop into Libarium, right on the terrace, for one of the best cocktails in Cagliari – then walk to La Marina or Stampace for a lovely dinner in one of the many excellent restaurants. Opt to stay at Villa Fanny for a perfect romantic setting – just outside the historical center, close to the Botanical Gardens, located in a historic building, and features cozy rooms with beautiful decor. 

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Recommended by Strictly Sardinia

Perugia

Perugia is the capital of the province of Umbria, making it one of the most fascinating romantic places in Italy. Although much lesser known than Tuscany, Umbria is the quintessential poster child for a romantic getaway. Winding roads lined with endless cypress trees leading up to sweeping vistas, ubiquitous vineyards producing a never-ending supply of delicious wine, tiny medieval Umbrian villages, and castles whose moats have kept the secrets of many veiled love affairs.

The city of Perugia has been extraordinarily well preserved. A romantic stroll through the historical center will transport you right back to Medieval Europe. 

Walk through the Arco d’Augusto, established in the 3rd century BC, visit the 11th-century church and monastery complex of San Pietro, and marvel at the façade of the Oratorio di San Bernardino. Alternatively, sit on the steps of the Palazzo dei Priori in the Piazza IV November and listen to the sweet music played by local musicians.

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Recommended by Veggie Wayfarer

Bolzano

Bolzano, or Bozen in German, is another romantic place in Italy. Almost everything in this part of Italy has two names and reflects the unique multi-cultural landscape of northern Italy.

The best way to get to Bolzano is by train — it’s an easy 2-hour ride from Venice and even closer from Milan and the Italian Lakes.

Surrounded by green alpine meadows and the stunning Italian Alps, Bolzano is the perfect point for exploring Italy’s Dolomites. The city also lies in one of Italy’s premier wine regions and produces the famous Amarone wine. 

The city has several unique museums to visit and some fantastic restaurants serving local food specialties, including the best strudel in northern Italy.

Take a romantic cable car high above Bolzano to Soprabolzano on Renon’s Cable Car for a bird’s eye view of the city. The gondolas glide gently between the two places and offer a fantastic panoramic view.

As for where to stay, one of the most romantic hotels in Bolzano is the Parkhotel Laurin, where couples can dine at a Michelin star restaurant on site and wind down with a cocktail at the speakeasy-style Laurin Bar.

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Recommended by ItalyFoodies

Orvieto

Orvieto is one of the best day trips from Rome, only a 1hr 45min train ride north, a charming hilltop town overlooking three provinces; Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany. 

The old town is jam-packed with romantic restaurants and cafes where you can snuggle up in between sightseeing. The tufa beneath Orvieto has been used to build the existing houses, which means there is an entire human-made cave system beneath today’s city. Some of them date all the way back to Etruscan times. Make sure you take a tour of the underground city; it is incredibly fascinating. But there are many other things to do in Orvieto, and romance is carved in every corner. The Duomo is one of its kind with a fascinating facade!

Climb up Torre del Moro for sweeping views and walk the many steps down one of the famous wells. 

You also find Etruscan remains when walking a romantic walk outside the old city gates. Enjoy the sunset from one of the many viewpoints before strolling through the rustic lit-up streets. It can hardly be more romantic than that. 

Ensure you get the Orvieto card at the train station, which gives you entry to most of the main attractions for only 19 Euros.

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Recommended by Brainy Backpackers

Matera

Located in the Basilicata region, Matera is one of the most beautiful and romantic places in Italy you will ever see. From being considered the “Shame of Italy” to the European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera has come a long way.

The easiest way to get to Matera is to fly to Bari, which you can reach from any major Italian airport, and then get the public bus. This costs between 6 – 8 EUR and takes around 1 hour.

Matera is famous for its iconic “Sassi”; ancient cave dwellings inhabited since the Paleolithic period. The town then developed over the caves, with even the more modern houses built with the same distinctive white rocks to give it all a matching appearance.

There are many romantic things to do in Matera, perfect for any couples trip. The most famous activity is, without a doubt exploring the Sassi di Matera on foot. You can also do a tuk-tuk tour, but since many of the tiny winding streets are pedestrian, you would miss out on seeing them if you only explore on wheels.

Wandering around the narrow cobbled streets of Matera will feel like stepping back in time. The whole city is imbued with a romantic and timeless feel, but the magic happens at night when all the lights of the Sassi lits up.

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Recommended by Greta’s Travels

Alberobello

Alberobello is a fairytale village in the Puglia region of Italy. It is a magical destination to spend a honeymoon or any romantic occasion as it is full of cone-shaped homes called Trullo. 

The town is split into two areas, Rione Monti quarter and the Rione Aia Piccola. The first is a bit more touristy, full of shops and cafes. The latter is more residential but also worth exploring so you can feel the authentic neighborhood feel and get away onto some quiet streets for some beautiful photos. 

Orecchiette is a local ear-shaped pasta dish that you should try while in the area. You can visit Casa Nova Il Ristorante to try it. Also worth visiting is the Trullo church in Alberobello! 

The fun fact is that Alberobello is known to have over 1,000 Trullo! You can even stay in one, and it is a super unique experience. Many farm stays have Trullo on the property. These farm stays are known as masserie in Italian, and the best ones to stay in can be found here. It is truly one of the most memorable stays you will have! When visiting the region, part of the experience is staying in a masseria as the service and hospitality are top-notch!

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Recommended by Jou Jou Travels

Pienza 

If there is the most romantic hilltop town in Tuscany, it would be Pienza. This Tuscan town is surrounded by the rolling hills of the Val d’Orcia region. The beautiful setting is truly magical, but that’s not all that makes this town ooze with charm.

Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was transformed in 1458 into the ideal Renaissance town and has remained unchanged ever since. Start your tour of this town at the historical center or piazza, where you’ll find all the main buildings – a cathedral, town hall, and three palaces. Stroll the maze of delightful narrow cobblestone streets. With the romantic names of Via dell’Amore (Love Street) and Via del Bacio (Kiss Street), you can’t help but fall in love with this Renaissance town.

With all this beauty, it’s no surprise that Pienza is the town for lovers, and film director Franco Zeffirelli even set his 1968 movie ‘Romeo and Juliet’ here.

Pienza is wonderfully remote, making this the perfect destination for a romantic weekend away. A car rental is a must so that you can visit other nearby Tuscan towns.

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Recommended by Dream Plan Experience 

Siena

Siena in Tuscany is definitely one of the most romantic places in Italy. You can expect a whole range of beautiful highlights and attractions during a city break. Impressive is the Piazza del Campo, one of the most famous and beautiful historical squares in Italy. 

There you will also find the Palazzo Pubblico, the town hall, and the imposing Torre del Mangia, the 102-meter-high tower from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the Tuscan hinterland. Truly romantic, on top of all this, is the Fonte Gaia fountain with its many decorations and details.

Around the dreamlike main square, numerous pretty restaurants invite you to enjoy a romantic dinner in a fairytale atmosphere. Couples love to enjoy the unique Italian flair and watch the lively hustle and bustle.

Another highlight in Siena is the Cathedral, also called Duomo Santa Maria della Scala, one of the region’s most important sacred buildings. A visit to the cathedral complex with its many museums is a must on any trip!

Siena is so famous as the Palio di Siena horse race, held in the main square since the Middle Ages. This unique event takes place twice a year, on July 2 and August 16.

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Recommended by PlacesofJuma

Trieste

Trieste has an enviable position between the Adriatic Sea and the Slovenia mountains located in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. It is an Italian city where food, architecture, and history are in an oriental soul. With castles overlooking the coast to sunny resorts near the beach and delicious restaurants, it is praised as one of the most romantic cities in Italy.

Among the things to visit, Piazza Unita d’Italia, is the symbol of the city, the largest square open to the sea, and the largest in Europe. Elegant by day and evocative by night. A short distance from the square is the Molo Audace, a long walkway over the sea, the ideal place for romantic walks. Not to be missed outside the city is the Miramare Castle, which stands on a promontory overlooking the sea, built by Maximilian of Habsburg, where Princess Sissi also stayed.

But Trieste is also famous for its historic cafes where many writers have found refuge to create their works, including James Joyce and Umberto Saba. You can drink a coffee at the famous Caffè degli Specchi or at Caffè Tommaseo or Caffè Torinese you are spoiled for choice. As far as restaurants are concerned, being a border town, it is strongly influenced by Slovenian, Austrian, and Croatian cuisine, but you will undoubtedly find something that satisfies you.

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Recommended by Miry Giramondo

Sorrento

Sorrento is a gorgeous coastal town situated in the Bay of Naples on the Italian South Coast. The easiest way to get there is through renting a car or a train from Naples. Because of its central location, it is a preferred destination for travelers who wish to explore the Amalfi Coast close by. It’s also close enough to visit the Mount Vesuvius volcano, or nearby ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, or even take a day trip to Capri island.

But Sorrento itself is one of the most romantic cities in Italy. Set against the stunning cliffs of the azure sea, Sorrento has brilliant views of the marina and quaint streets you will happily get lost in together. Go to the romantic cafes and restaurants on the central plaza, Piazza Tasso. Or why not take a tour of the famous olive and lemon fields. 

The city is illuminated with soft light at night, and the lively streets are offset with a sophisticated Italian appeal. The harbourfront is a dreamy location to enjoy a meal with stunning panoramas as the sun sets down. There certainly are many things to do in Sorrento for couples on a romantic holiday.

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Recommended by VeggTravel

Erice

The first step into a hilltop village of Erice, near Trapani in the Western part of Sicily, will leave you speechless. It is like stepping back into the medieval era while surrounded by spectacular views of Trapani and the coastline. 

You can reach this gem by driving up with a car or taking a cable ride. The latter is recommended if you are not driving through narrow and zigzags roads. 

The medieval Castello di Venere will bring out the romantic vibes even in the people who are not naturally moved. The charm of the labyrinth center will make you forget that time exists and create a magical experience for you and your loved one. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Balio Towers, English style Balio Gardens, and gothic style Chiesa Madre di Erice. 

Ameliorate the evening by indulging in what is known as the best pastries in Sicily by stopping at Maria Grammatico pastry. If you are interested in extending your stay, here is one of the best itineraries of things to do around Erice. 

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Recommended by The Travel Momento

Trento

Trento is one of the most underrated towns in Italy. Located in the north, in the autonomous Trentino region, Trento is nestled between the high peaks of the Dolomites mountains. The town is relatively compact, with an old historical center distinguished by the beautiful frescos decorated palaces and the medieval Cathedral of San Vigilio. 

There are many romantic things to do in Trento. Start with visiting the Buonconsiglio Castle. The palace inside the castle is built in a Renaissance style and has gorgeous frescos painted on the walls and the ceiling. The view from the castle is pretty unique as well.

Another romantic thing to do in Trento is to take the cable car to the hill on the other side of the river. The cable car costs 5 Euros and takes only a few minutes to climb up. The panorama from the top is stunning, especially on a sunny day. There is a little restaurant on top where you can get an Aperol spritz or a glass of prosecco while admiring the view.

Trento is also famous for its wine, and if you want to do a tasting with your loved one, head over to Valle dei Laghi where the local Nosiola grapes are grown. 

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Recommended by The World in My Pocket

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