Italy is on many people's bucket lists when it comes to travelling, whether that be for the delicious food or the natural beauty spots. There's plenty to see in this European country, so much so that it can be challenging to decide where to go.
Rather than picking one of the main tourist cities, get a glimpse of real Italian life by visiting a smaller - yet equally as beautiful - town or village.
If you need a hand picking your destination, look no further. Here are some of the many gorgeous Italian towns that are well worth visiting.
Montepulciano, Tuscany
The charming village of Montepulciano is the definition of 'picturesque' - or, at least, it should be. Nestled on the hill in which the Val d'Orcia and Val di Chiana meet, it boasts the perfect mixture of natural beauty and a historic town centre.
Montepulciano is famed for its Vino Nobile red wine, which you simply must taste on your travels. Visit one of the many vineyards for an insight into how this famous wine is created, as well as sampling it for yourself.
There's plenty of places to stay and things to do in this specific region, especially if you're looking to set up in a villa in Tuscany or the immediate town of Montepulciano.
Vernazza, Liguria
Mainly recognised as one of the five towns making up the popular Cinque Terre, Vernazza is a beautiful coastal destination. In fact, it is so extraordinary that it, along with the other four towns, has been acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With soft pastel coloured houses nestled between rolling hills and a deep blue coastline, it is the perfect place for a peaceful swim or a bite to eat.
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Often regarded as the Italian food capital, Bologna is a must-visit for foodies all over the world. Sample this town's famous lasagne and tortellini, either by visiting one of the many restaurants dotted along the streets or taking part in a food tour. Either way, you don't want to miss out on the amazingly rich delicacies this city has to offer.
As well as food, there's plenty to see in Bologna. Sitting gracefully on a tree-covered hill, the regal Santuario di Madonna di San Luca is an unmissable sight. This church is renowned for its majestic interior and the view you enjoy of the red brick town you can see below.
Taormina, Messina
With a lovely beach, charming town centre and a fantastic view of Mt. Etna, Taormina is a beautiful part of Sicily. It is ideal for those who like to soak up plenty of history and culture on their adventures, although there is more to do than simply seeing the sights.
First stop should be the famous Ancient Theatre of Taormina to explore the 10,000-seat Greek structure and get a glimpse of the gorgeous sea. If that doesn't take your fancy, there's plenty more to get involved. Enjoy a cooking class to get a taste for local cuisine, take a tour on Mt. Etna and sample the local drinks on a private wine tasting tour on your trip to get the whole experience.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family holiday, Italy is a great destination. There is truly something for everyone, regardless of if they're a major foodie or a history buff.
Originally from South Africa, now living in Australia, Jolene is a wife and a mother to three beautiful daughters. Together with her family, she is embarking on a journey towards changing her current stress-filled life to one focusing on her dreams and her passion for travel. She wants to share her stories in the hope to inspire you to chase your own dreams!
