cheapest tourist city in italy

10 Cheap Places in Italy to Visit on A Budget

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2023

Categories Budget travel , Italy , Travel Guides

Home » 10 Cheap Places in Italy to Visit on A Budget

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When it comes to traveling in Italy, prices can quickly add up.

But you don’t have to break the bank to experience all that this country has to offer!

From small towns tucked away in the Ionian Sea to larger cities boasting beautiful ancient buildings, there are plenty of cheap places in Italy worth exploring.

I’ve been lucky enough to have visited some of these cheap cities in Italy and I’m excited to share my top picks of the best affordable places in Italy with you. Below are some great budget-friendly destinations for travelers looking for the best cheap places to visit in Italy.

These ten budget destinations in Italy offer plenty of attractions and activities at a fraction of the cost.

Is Italy a cheap place to visit?

There is no simple answer to this question: It all depends on where you go and the type of experience you are looking for.

While some cities and regions can be extremely expensive, there are plenty of cheap places in Italy that offer a great vacation without breaking the bank.

North vs South: Which part of Italy is the cheapest?

In general, the south of Italy tends to be cheaper than the north.

Cities in Southern Italy are some of the best places for those on a tight budget while visiting Italy. Cities such as Naples and Palermo are some of the cheapest cities to visit in Italy.

These cities typically have lower prices for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities than the major cities in northern Italy like Milan or Venice.

Best tips for visiting Italy on a Budget

Consider visiting smaller towns and remote locations : Smaller towns usually have lower costs for accommodation and activities than the best-known cities in Italy like Rome, Florence, or Milan.

Look for cheap flights to major airports: The easiest way to find cheap tickets is by looking at flights to Milan, Naples, or other destinations served by cheap airlines. Keep your travel dates flexible in order to get the best deal on flights.

I always use WayAway to book my flights. They usually find all the cheapest deals, and with a premium membership, you even get cashback on flights, hotels, activities, and more.

Visit Le Marche: This beautiful region in central Italy is perfect for budget travelers, with cheap accommodation and dining options, as well as free walking tours available in some towns.

Consider car-sharing services: Car-sharing services like BlaBlaCar are a great way to travel around the country on a budget.

Stay in Hostels or B&Bs : These are usually cheaper than hotels and provide the same amenities for much less money. This is the cheapest way to stay in Italy while on a small budget. You can look for budget accommodations and hostels on Hostelworld .

Eat cheap local food: Eating cheap local food like pizza, pasta, and sandwiches is the best way to save money while still enjoying delicious Italian cuisine. Shopping at the local markets and grocery stores and cooking at your hotel or hostel is one of the best options for budget travelers wanting to save on food costs.

Look for cheap activities: Many of Italy’s popular attractions have free entry or discounted prices for students and young people. Opt for free walking tours, cheap bike rentals, or cheap boat tours. You can usually also find great deals on activities by asking your hotel or hostel staff.

Don’t be afraid to shop around with multiple tour operators for the best price before booking!

Rent an Apartment: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Italy can be the cheapest option, especially if you plan on staying for several days or weeks. You can save costs by booking long-term stays in apartments or Airbnbs rather than in a hotel.

Avoid high season: The summer months in Italy tend to come with higher prices on plane tickets, hotels, and activities. Opt for a visit in the shoulder season (September-November) to save some money while here.

1. Naples, Campania

Naples is a cheap and cheerful city with plenty of cheap accommodation options and cheap eats.

It’s also home to the world-famous pizza, so it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for cheap food!

The city center has some great sights such as Villa Borghese and its ancient monuments, while nearby attractions like Mount Vesuvius and the archaeological sites of Pompeii make it even more interesting.

Things to do in Naples:

• Try genuine Neapolitan pizza
• Visit the catacombs of San Gennaro
• Explore the city’s ancient monuments
• Take an underground tour of the city
• Visit Villa Borghese
• Take a day trip to the nearby archaeological sites of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

Where to stay in Naples

Tric Trac Hostel ($)

Tric Trac Hostel offers air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi, and a terrace. The hostel is less than a 15-minute walk from several attractions, like Maschio Angioino, San Carlo Theatre, and Naples National Archeological Museum.

The accommodation features a bar and a shared kitchen and provides karaoke for guests. You can check current rates and availability for the hostel by clicking here .

Hotel Nunù ($$)

Hotel Nunù is set in the center of Naples just a few feet from the Universita’ Metro Station. The hotel features a terrace with views of the city, air-conditioned accommodation, and free WiFi throughout. Rooms here have a balcony, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a safe.

The private bathroom includes slippers, bathrobes, and free toiletries. You can check current rates and availability for the hotel by clicking here .

Hotel Piazza Bellini & Apartments ($$)

Set in a 16th-century building, Hotel Piazza Bellini & Apartments is in Naples’ historical center. The uniquely decorated rooms combine modern design and artistic elements and feature original paintings by local artist Alessandro Cocchia. Each room comes with air conditioning, free wifi, a flat-screen TV, and wooden floors.

The hotel includes a charming courtyard decorated with statues and furnished with sofas and armchairs. There is also a 24-hour reception with multilingual staff. An extensive buffet breakfast is served for guests daily.

You can check current rates and availability for the hotel by clicking here .

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Naples here 👇

2. Palermo, Sicily

Palermo is a beautiful city located in the south of Italy, on the Mediterranean Sea.

It’s known for its cheap yet delicious food, cheap accommodation, and cheap transportation. Its rich history and culture make it one of the most interesting cities to visit in Italy, with plenty of sights to explore like ancient ruins, medieval castles, and more.

Plus, its close proximity to the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas make it a great place for beachgoers looking for cheap holidays.

Things to do in Palermo

• Explore the city’s ancient ruins and medieval castles
• Tour the Palermo Cathedral
• Visit the Palermo Botanical Gardens
• Eat cheap but delicious traditional Sicilian food on a food tour of Palermo
• Explore the Teatro Massimo Opera House
• Take a hop on hop off bus tour of the city to learn about its history

Where to stay in Palermo

A Casa di Amici ($)

A Casa di Amici is located in the center of Palermo and offers both en-suite rooms and beds in shared dormitories. Each unit at this hostel features air conditioning and WiFi. Dormitories offer a locker, power outlet and private light, and a shared bathroom.

Breakfast is available daily at the property cafè. Guests can enjoy a bar, a shared terrace, and a lounge area with a shared kitchen.

Hotel Politeama ($$)

Situated on one of the most admired streets in Palermo’s historical Via Liberta district, this stylish hotel exudes regional charm and touches of international modernity. Hotel Politeama is also located near the seaport and overlooks Ruggero Settimo Square.

Right next to the hotel is the bus station that links the city to the airport and the beach of Mondello.

Inside, guests can expect contemporary décor of polished granite, varnished hardwood, leather upholsteries, and Italian Moderno styling. A continental buffet breakfast is served for guests daily.

Ariston Petit Hotel ($$)

This colorful 2-star hotel is set in the historical center of Palermo, just a 5-minute walk from Palermo’s Archaeological Museum and Teatro Massimo theatre, and 10 minutes from the port of Palermo.

Rooms at Ariston Petit Hotel have modern décor and cool tiled floors, air conditioning, and free wifi. Each comes with a TV and minibar.

Breakfast is Italian-style, with croissants, fruit juices, and a choice of hot drinks.

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Palermo here 👇

3. Reggio Calabria, Calabria

Reggio Calabria is located on the tip of Italy’s boot. It’s known for its cheap food, cheap accommodation, cheap transportation, and ancient ruins. The historic center is filled with beautiful monuments and buildings from the Ancient Greeks and Romans, while nearby attractions like Mount Etna offer plenty to see and do. Calabria is also the birthplace of some of the best food in Italy!

Things to do in Reggio Calabria

• Explore the city’s ancient ruins
• Take a walking tour of the city’s highlights
• Take a hike up Montalto Summit
• Visit Mount Etna for breathtaking views
• Sample some of the best food in Italy

Where to stay in Reggio Calabria

Malalbergo ($)

Malalbergo is set in Reggio Calabria and with Reggio Calabria Lido reachable within less than 1 km.

All rooms are equipped with a private bathroom with a shower, while some rooms come with a balcony and others also have sea views.

The hotel offers a tour desk, non-smoking rooms, a terrace, free WiFi throughout the property, and a bar. The accommodation also provides room service, free shuttle service, and luggage storage for guests.

The daily breakfast offers à la carte, Italian or vegan options.

Hotel Grand Excelsior ($$)

Ideally situated between the beach and Reggio Calabria town center, Grand Hotel Excelsior provides modern facilities and excellent service just 100 m from the train station.

Grand Hotel Excelsior offers spacious, elegant rooms and is just 50 m from one of Italy’s best beaches.

The hotel is close to all the town’s tourist attractions like Reggio Calabria’s National Archaeological Museum and is also convenient for shops, bars, and restaurants.

The hotel’s Gala Restaurant serves delicious regional cuisine in an elegant setting and there is also a sophisticated bar on site. You can even enjoy stunning views over the Strait of Messina from the hotel’s terrace.

Hotel Mendinblu ($$)

Hotel Medinblu offers accommodation with a terrace, private parking, a restaurant, and a bar.

The 4-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. Each room is equipped with a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a flat-screen TV, and a safety deposit box.

Some rooms also offer a balcony with city views. Breakfast is available every morning, and includes à la carte, continental and Italian options.

The accommodation also features a garden and provides room service, a concierge service, and organizing tours for guests.

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Reggio Calabria here 👇

4. Sorrento, Campania

Sorrento is a popular tourist destination in Italy, and it’s no wonder why.

It offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and stunning coastal villages like Positano and Amalfi. The area is known for its mild climate, cheap accommodation, cheap food, and cheap activities. The city center is filled with ancient ruins, stunning churches, and other attractions worth visiting.

It’s also a great destination for wine lovers as the nearby area is home to some of the major vineyards in Italy!

Things to do in Sorrento

• Take a day trip to Capri and the Blue Grotto
• Learn how to make pasta and tiramisu in a small group cooking class
• Take a pizza making class on a farm in Sorrento
• Explore the nearby islands of Ischia and Procida on a boat tour
• Hike “The Path of Gods” on a guided hiking tour

Where to stay in Sorrento

Ulisse Deluxe Hostel ($)

Ulisse Deluxe Hostel offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom in Sorrento. It is a 10-minute walk from the main square, Piazza Tasso, and the Marina Grande hamlet.

The property has free wifi, a 24-hour reception, and helpful staff can assist in planning discounted trips in and around Sorrento.

The hostel also offers special rates at a wellness center, located in the same building. This spa offers a range of facilities, including indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and beauty treatments.

The Ulisse Deluxe is 1 km from Sorrento Train Station and the harbor. The bus stopping directly outside the hostel makes getting around Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast easy.

Hotel Girasole ($$)

Hotel Girasole provides accommodation with a garden, private parking, and a bar. The hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, a desk and a safety deposit box, and each comes with a private bathroom.

Certain rooms at the property include a patio with a sea view. There’s even a seasonal outdoor pool at the property for guests to enjoy.

The daily breakfast offers buffet, continental or American options. The staff here speaks English, French, and Italian, and are happy to provide guests with practical guidance on the area.

Grand Hotel Europa Palace ($$)

Europa Palace features a free cliff-side pool and a private pier offering spectacular views of the Gulf of Naples.

This Art Nouveau villa is surrounded by terraces and Mediterranean gardens. Its unique outdoor pool is reached by a lift down the side of the cliff.

All units include free access to the beach with 1 sun umbrella and 1 sun lounger. Satellite TV and air conditioning are standard in all rooms at Grand Hotel Europa Palace.

Some rooms offer sea views, others overlook the garden. You can check current rates and availability for the hotel by clicking here .

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Sorrento here 👇

5. Noto, Sicily

Noto is located in the south of Italy, in Sicily. This Sicilian city has lots to offer travelers looking for cheap places in Italy to visit. It’s known for its cheap accommodation, cheap food, and cheap activities like wine-tasting tours and guided hikes. Noto is also home to some of the most beautiful Baroque architecture in Italy. The nearby attractions like Vendicari Natural Reserve provide plenty to see and do and make it a great place to explore on a budget. Noto is also home to some of the very best Italian cuisines!

Things to do in Noto

• Go wine tasting in the Val di Noto
• Take a historical walking tour of Noto
• Visit the Baroque architecture in Noto
• Explore Vendicari Natural Reserve
• Taste traditional Sicilian food on a food tour of Noto
• Take a boat cruise to the Pink Beach “ Spiaggia Rosa ” in Sardinia and stay at one of the many beach resorts in Sardinia

Where to stay in Noto

Hotel Villa Favorita ($$)

Hotel Villa Favorita dates back to the 18th century and offers the charm and class of the Sicilian Baroque.

The rooms of Villa Favorita are all en suite and modern with air conditioning, heating, satellite TV, and direct dial telephone. Some rooms are complete with a balcony overlooking the countryside.

The restaurant specializes in local cuisine, and breakfast is buffet style. Guests can also take part in painting courses or cooking classes.

This property is in the Contrada Falconara area of Noto, and has an organic orchard. The hotel swimming pool is lined with almond trees and the garden is filled with ancient palms. WiFi is free in the shared areas and on-site parking is free.

Hotel Porta Reale ($$)

Hotel Porta Reale is set along Corso Vittorio Emanuele near the main gateway to the Baroque heart of Noto.

Decorated with various bright color schemes, the rooms boast a balcony, Sky TV, and a phone with free national and international calls.

The en suite bathrooms in natural stone are complete with free toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers.

Rooms also offer an iPod docking station, individually controlled air conditioning, and free WiFi access. A sweet Italian breakfast, including Sicilian specialties, is provided daily. Noto Train Station is 1 km from the hotel, and the closest beach is found in Lido di Noto, 7 km away.

Gagliardi Boutique Hotel ($$)

Located in Noto and with Cattedrale di Noto reachable within 200 meters, Gagliardi Boutique Hotel provides concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a garden, free WiFi throughout the property, and a terrace.

The accommodation also offers room service, luggage storage for guests, and a hotel bar.

Each room is fitted with a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. A buffet breakfast is available daily at Gagliardi Boutique Hotel.

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Noto here 👇

6. Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

Bologna is a cheap yet vibrant city in the north of Italy. It’s known for its cheap accommodation and cheap food, making it a great destination for budget travelers. In Bologna, you will find plenty of attractions such as the world-famous Piazza Maggiore, the ancient Torre degli Asinelli and the medieval University of Bologna. It’s also home to some of the best Italian cuisine like Tortellini and Mortadella, as well as cheap shopping opportunities.

You can easily get to Bologna on a day trip from Milan , so if you’re visiting the North of Italy you should definitely make a stop here.

Things to do in Bologna

• Take a guided walking tour of Bologna city center
• Stimulate your 5 senses at FICO Eataly World , the Italian Food Theme and Amusement Park in Bologna
• Stroll through Piazza Maggiore
• Take a day trip to Venice on a guided tour
• Climb the 498 steps to enjoy panoramic views of Bologna from the top of Torre degli Asinelli
• Admire exotic cars at the Lamborghini Museum (Museo Lamborghini)

Where to stay in Bologna

Dopa Hostel ($)

Dopa Hostel is located a 10-minute walk from the Cathedral and 350 m from Palazzo Poggi Museum.

All dormitories and rooms come with parquet floors, city views, and air conditioning. Some have a private bathroom. The hostel also features free WiFi throughout.

Bologna Towers are 800 m from Hostel Dopa and Bologna Centrale Station can be reached on foot in 15 minutes. Marconi Airport is a 20-minute drive away from the hostel.

You can check current rates and availability for the hostel by clicking here .

Meditur Hotel Bologna ($$)

Set in San Lazzaro di Savena (Bologna), 12 km from the city center, Meditur Hotel Bologna offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a shared lounge.

Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel has a garden and provides a terrace.

At Meditur Hotel Bologna all rooms include a desk, a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.

Continental and buffet breakfast options are available every morning at the accommodation. You can check current rates and availability for the hotel by clicking here .

Hotel Corona d’Oro ($$)

Hotel Corona d’Oro offers a great location in Bologna city center, just 350 m from Piazza Maggiore square and a 20-minute walk from Bologna Train Station.

Rooms are elegant, clean and comfortable and include free wired and WiFi access, satellite LCD and minibar. Some rooms overlook the Towers.

Hotel Corona d’Oro provides express check-in and check-out, allergy-free rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar, and a new restaurant. There is also a free breakfast buffet on the property.

The staff here will help you with tour reservations, transfer services, and booking Opera tickets. Bikes at the Corona d’Oro are free. A secure garage parking is available nearby, at an extra charge.

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Bologna here 👇

7. Cinque Terre, Liguria

The Cinque Terre is a great cheap destination in Italy if you’re looking for a scenic Italian vacation that won’t put you in debt. The villages here are cheap to explore, with plenty of free walking trails and cheap public transportation. Cinque Terre is known for its colorful villages, stunning coastline, and budget options for accommodation and food.

Things to do in Cinque Terre

• Explore the islands of Riomaggiore, Monterosso, and Vernazza on a boat cruise
• Take a pesto making class in Levanto
• Join a Panoramic Vineyard Trekking Tour w/ Wine Tasting in Vernazza
• Stay overnight in a cheap hostel in Manarola
• Hike the Sentiero Azzurro trail

Where to stay in Cinque Terre

Costello Hostel ($)

Costello is set in La Spezia, 600 m from Saint George’s Castle.

Rooms come complete with a shared bathroom fitted with a shower and a hairdryer, while some rooms at the hostel also boast a seating area.

Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and a shared lounge, along with free WiFi throughout the property.

Popular points of interest near Costello include Technical Naval Museum, Amedeo Lia Museum, and La Spezia Centrale Train Station. The nearest airport is Pisa International Airport, 83 km from the accommodation.

Hotel Della Baia ($$)

Directly located on the sea, Hotel Della Baia is in Le Grazie bay, 4 km from Portovenere.

It offers an outdoor pool and a restaurant serving à la carte menus of Mediterranean cuisine. Rooms are decorated with light colors and each is air-conditioned.

Facilities include a TV and a minibar and some also come with a balcony overlooking the bay.

Staff is available 24 hours a day and can help organize many outdoor activities, such as diving and snorkeling. Baia Hotel is 200 m from a bus stop, providing links with Portovenere. La Spezia city center is a 20-minute drive away from the hotel.

You can check current rates and availability for the hotel by clicking here.

NH La Spezia ($$)

NH La Spezia faces the Ligurian Sea and offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, satellite TV, a minibar, and a private bathroom.

Some rooms offer views of the sea, while others have a seating area. The restaurant of this NH hotel serves traditional local dishes and wines.

A sweet and savory buffet-style breakfast is available daily. The hotel is 150 m from the old town, and 5 minutes’ walk from the harbor with links to the Cinque Terre UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hotel Villa Adriana ($$)

Hotel Villa Adriana is set among palm trees just 100 m from Fegina Beach.

It offers a Ligurian restaurant, a pool, free parking, and classically furnished rooms with an LCD TV.

Rooms also come with air conditioning and free wifi, and include a safe, a small fridge, and a private bathroom. Some rooms feature a balcony.

The restaurant is open for dinner and serves local cuisine with lots of seafood dishes. A buffet breakfast is provided for guests daily. Monterosso Station is 450 m from the property. From here you can reach Vernazza and the other villages of the Cinque Terre on the local train line.

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Cinque Terre here 👇

Related read: 19 Best Beaches Near Milan to Visit for A Day

8. Turin, Piedmont

Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace is an amazing cheap place to visit in Italy if you’re looking for great culture and history. The city center is home to cheap accommodation, cheap eats, and plenty of free attractions like churches, palaces, and even a few museums. Plus, the Alps nearby make it a great option for cheap skiing and snowboarding.

Things to do in Turin

• Visit the Royal Palace of Turin on a guided tour
• Explore the Egyptian Museum of Turin
• Check out the National Museum of Cinema & Mole Antonelliana of Turin
• Join a hop on hop off bus tour of Turin or a walking tour of the city’s highlights
• Take a Casa Martini tour with tastings (in Italian)

Where to stay in Turin

Hotel Antico Distretto ($)

Set in central Turin, Hotel Antico Distretto is a family-run property that offers air-conditioned rooms in an elegant 19th-century building.

All rooms at the Antico Distretto are cool and comfortable with tiled floors and brightly colored walls. They feature a fridge, Wi-Fi access, and a flat-screen TV with cable channels.

Breakfast is available in the dining hall or in the comfort of your room. The à la carte restaurant on the property serves dishes from the Piedmont region and is open for dinner. The Antico Distretto Hotel has excellent tram and bus links around Turin.

The hotel is a 10-minute walk from Porta Susa Train Station and 200 m from Via Garibaldi and the pedestrian area. You can check current rates and availability for the hotel by clicking here .

Turin City Centre ($$)

Turin City Centre is a clean and modern hotel located right next to Porta Nuova Train Station, with excellent transport links around the city.

It offers modern and spacious rooms and was completely renovated in 2008. Turin’s most important monuments and museums are all nearby, and the Lingotto Fiere conference center is 10 minutes away by car.

Hotel Urbani ($$)

Hotel Urbani is next to Porta Nuova Train Station in the heart of Turin and is a 2-minute walk from the airport bus terminal. Rooms are air-conditioned, comfortable, and well-equipped.

Each features a private bathroom with a hairdryer and toiletries. You will also find an LED TV with satellite channels and a minibar. WiFi is free throughout.

There is also a bar and a 24-hour reception where you will find free daily newspapers. You will find plenty of shops and restaurants in the surrounding area. Porta Nuova Metro Station is less than a 5-minute walk away and links with the Lingotto exhibition center.

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Turin here 👇

9. Siena, Tuscany

Siena is one of the best cheap places in Italy to visit if you want to experience the good life without breaking the bank. You can explore the city center on foot and see some of its most famous monuments like the Duomo di Siena and the Palazzo Pubblico. In addition, cheap accommodation options like hostels and guesthouses make it easy to stay on a budget.

Things to do in Siena

• Visit the Siena Cathedral
• Explore the Palazzo Pubblico
• Discover the Basilica of San Domenico
• Visit Chianti and take a Castles Tour with Wine Tastings
• Take a stroll around the Plaza Campo

Where to stay in Siena

Albergo Cannon d’Oro ($)

Set in a building from the first half of the 13th century and located in the historical center of Siena, Albergo Cannon d’Oro is 300 m from Piazza del Campo square and less than a 10-minute walk from the Cathedral.

This property offers free Wi-Fi and classic-style rooms. Rooms at the Cannon d’Oro hotel come with a TV and tiled or marble floors.

The private bathroom includes free toiletries. A sweet Italian breakfast of croissants and cappuccino and yogurt is provided daily. Siena Train Station is 1.5 km from the property. Siena’s stadium Stadio Artemio Franchi is about a 5-minute walk away. Public parking is available 400 m away.

Four Points by Sheraton Siena ($$)

Surrounded by olive groves and the beautiful hills of Chianti, Four Points by Sheraton Siena is a 10-minute drive from the historic city walls.

It offers free parking, a gym, and spacious rooms. Four Points by Sheraton Siena features a refined restaurant, serving classic Italian, local, and Tuscan cuisine for dinner. Breakfast is a large international buffet.

A stylish bar, a fitness center with Technogym equipment, and a sauna are available. The lobby has a beautiful conservatory where you can enjoy drinks. Four Points by Sheraton Siena is 500 m from Siena’s Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte hospital.

Albergo Chiusarelli ($$)

The 3-star Albergo Chiusarelli Hotel is set in a 3-story building of the 19th century that has been recently completely renovated in a NeoClassical style.

The rooms offer air conditioning, a satellite TV, and a private bathroom with a bath or shower. Some rooms overlook the town center, and some offer views of the football stadium’s park.

A buffet breakfast is served for guests daily. Siena Bus Station is located close to the hotel.

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Siena here 👇

10. Valdobbiadene, Veneto

Valdobbiadene is a cheap destination in Italy for those looking for cheap wine-tasting experiences. This region is known for its sparkling wines and cheap prices, so it’s a great place to save money while still enjoying some of Italy’s best wines. There are plenty of cheap accommodation options nearby and cheap activities like hiking, biking, and more. It’s also not far from the town of Verona, so it’s easy to explore both locations on one cheap holiday.

Things to do in Valdobbiadene

• Join a prosecco tasting experience of Veneto
• Take a gondola ride in the nearby city of Venice
• Go hiking or biking in the Veneto hills
• Head to Verona for cheap sightseeing and cheap shopping
• Visit the hilltop town of Asolo

Where to stay in Valdobbiadene

Hotel Diana ($)

Featuring free Wi-Fi throughout, Hotel Diana is set in Valdobbiadene’s center. It offers a garden, and free parking on site.

The classic-style rooms are air-conditioned and all come with a satellite TV and work desk. The private bathroom is equipped with a hairdryer.

A sweet and savory breakfast is offered daily and guests can enjoy a drink at the hotel bar in the evening.

A bus stop with direct links to Treviso is just 100 m from Diana Hotel. Venice is 70 km away.

Locanda MaMaGiò ($$)

Locanda MaMaGiò is located in Valdobbiadene and provides a restaurant, allergy-free rooms, free WiFi throughout the property, and a bar.

Complete with a private bathroom equipped with a bidet and free toiletries, guest rooms at the hotel have a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box, and air conditioning.

Certain rooms at the property include a patio with a mountain view. Locanda MaMaGiò offers a buffet or Italian breakfast for guests. The property is around 36 km from Treviso Central Station, 32 km from Stadio Comunale di Monigo and 36 km from Ca’ dei Carraresi.

Boutique Hotel Municipio 1815 ($$)

Boutique Hotel Municipio 1815 is situated on the hills of the Prosecco of Valdobbiadene area, just outside S.Pietro di Barbozza.

All en suite, the rooms are bright and finely furnished, come with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a satellite TV. The style is classic, wooden furniture, and exposed beams on the ceilings.

Most rooms offer views of the surrounding vineyards, and on a clear day you can see the Venice Lagoon. A varied à la carte breakfast is served daily in the elegant breakfast room, and includes fresh fruit, sweet and savory food, and hot and cold drinks.

The nearest train station is in Treviso, a 30-minute drive away. From there you can reach Venice by train. Boutique Hotel Municipio 1815 also offers free outdoor parking.

You can browse over 100 hotels, resorts, hostels, and vacation homes in Valdobbiadene here 👇

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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Cheapest Cities To Travel To In Italy — I Live Italy

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Travelling Without a Passport

The Cheapest Cities in Italy to Visit

Who doesn’t love Italy? This European gem is known all over the world as a hub of fashion, art, history, and, carbs, and it’s no wonder why 91 million people visited Italy in 2018! If you haven’t added Italy’s rolling hills, fantastic wine, and cosmopolitan culture to your list of visited cities yet, you probably want to. Unfortunately, however, with great popularity can come great expenses. While it’s always possible to explore a new country on a limited budget, some areas make it easier than others.

So what’s a budget-conscious traveller dying to visit Italy to do? Thankfully, while some of Italy’s bigger cities come with a heftier price tag, there are plenty of hidden-gem spots all over the country. Today, we’re breaking down some of the cheapest cities in Italy to visit.

Travel to: Italy

• Location:  Emilia-Romangna
• Best time to visit: April-October

Located in Italy’s north, Bologna is a lively capital city of the Emilia-Romagna region. Perfect for those who dream of Florence’s arts and culture scene but flinch at the crowds and costs of spending much time there, Bologna is one of those cities that truly offers something for everyone. On one side, you have the lifestyles of the rich and famous – think fine dining, opera, and glitzy tech companies. On the other, a student-friendly metropolis home to the world’s oldest university where travellers will find street art, cheap drinks, and a diverse population.

• Location:  Sicily
• Best time to visit: March-June

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful city centres in Italy, Noto, located 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Syracuse in Sicily, is a dream come true for history buffs, lovers of art and culture, and, of course, anyone looking to spend a holiday surrounded by Italian splendour without breaking the bank. Stuffed full of piazzas, cathedrals, incredible Sicilian food, and nature reserves, spend your days in Noto strolling alongside its jaw-dropping baroque architecture, posing for pictures on Palazzo Nicolaci, and relaxing on Calamosche Beach.

See Also: The Perfect Italy Packing List for Summer

• Location:  South Tyrol
• Best time to visit: March and April, December for skiing

Once a haven for the wealthy and the royal, Merano is an alpine town in northern Italy just begging to be explored and enjoyed. Unlike similar cities in the north, however, Merano enjoys a mild climate – temperatures reach highs of about 10°C (50°F) in the winter, and soar to 30°C (86°F) in the summer. Home to Christmas markets, jazz festivals, and even a wine festival celebrating the region’s well-known red and white varieties. Merano is also widely known for Meran 2000, a ski complex home to trails for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding, for travellers looking to add an extra hint of adventure to their trip.

Promontorio del Gargano

• Location: Puglia
• Best time to visit: late April through May

Are you dying to spend your next trip relaxing in style along a cliffside Italian town, surrounded by colourful houses and the soothing sound of ocean waves? While Cinque Terre may have been your first thought, many travellers can tell you the crowds and cost of visiting that particular picturesque region have made them rethink things. Gargano, the “spur” on Italy’s boot shape, juts out into the sea with white limestone cliffs below beautiful light pink houses. It’s all about the natural world in Gargano: here, you’ll find a museum and nature centre, a forest that dates back thousands of years, and a national park perfect for days spent getting back to nature.

See Also: Amalfi Coast vs. Tuscany: Where to Travel in Italy

• Location: Basilicata
• Best time to visit: early fall; September and October

Matera, located in the Basilicata region in Italy’s south, is considered to be the third-longest continuously inhabited human settlements in the world – the first residents are believed to have arrived more than 7000 years ago! Travellers are able to visit these original cave dwellings (known as the Sassi di Matera) to get a glimpse of this ancient history, but they may already be familiar – Matera has been used as a film set for many movies such as The Passion of the Christ (2004) and Wonder Woman (2017), because of its gorgeous views and ancient aesthetic. While the sassi was evacuated in 1952, several dwellings have been preserved for visitors to explore. Travellers interested in visiting Matera should move fast – while this destination may have been under the radar in the past, in 2019 it was chosen as the European Capital of Culture.

• Location: Marche
• Best time to visit: April through October

Art lovers, rejoyce: not only is the UNESCO World Heritage Site-city of Urbino the birthplace of Raphael, it was also home to a wealthy family in the 15th century who created what Lonely Planet calls “a sort of think tank” of artists, architects, and scholars. Understandably, the city quickly grew into a vibrant hub of culture housed in stunning buildings where people came to learn and create. The spirit of the Renaissance is alive and well in Urbino, which is home to a university and multiple wide piazzas perfect for people-watching and kicking back with some seriously good Italian coffee.

See Also: Your Guide to Spending Two Weeks in Italy

Between relaxing beach holidays, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences, Italy has something to offer everyone. Before you decide that a visit to this country is out of your price range, remember that with a little research and planning, no destination is out of reach! It’s also important to remember that travellers looking to save money on accommodation and food should consider booking a group tour – these adventures allow you to see all the major sites and hidden-gem locations at once, while often providing plenty of opportunity to save big.

Have you been to any of these Italian gems? Let us know in the comments!

Maggie Soares

Maggie is a life-long traveller with a special affinity for the United Kingdom. When she's not reading, writing, or dreaming about her next trip, you can find her talking at length about her dog to anyone who'll listen.

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Italy Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Italy is one of Europe’s most iconic and popular destinations. Home to incredible food, fabulous wine, tons of ancient ruins, undying romance, and picturesque landscapes, it should come as no surprise that this is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world.

I’ve been visiting since 2006 and I never tire of it.

The vineyards in Tuscany, history in Florence , ancient streets of Rome , gorgeous views and hills Cinque Terre , romantic canals in Venice — I love it all.

Italy is best experienced slowly so pace yourself. Soak in the atmosphere and way of life as you explore. Italians move slowly and enjoy la dolce vita and so should you! Relax, take in the scenery, enjoy a cappuccino or a glass of wine. The slower you go, the better you’ll be able to appreciate the charms and nuance of this iconic southern European gem.

This travel guide to Italy can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Italy

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in italy.

1. Explore Venice

While crowded, Venice is an astounding place to visit. I love the city’s iconic architecture and picturesque canals. Don’t miss the Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, the Basilica San Marco, and the city’s countless museums. Moreover, be sure to head to the old Jewish Ghetto for hip bars and cheap drinks (the English word ghetto comes from this area of Venice). Venice is also home to several world-class festivals. In late winter, the epic Carnival takes place here and, in August, the prestigious Venice Film Festival takes over the nearby island of Lido. If you have time, be sure to explore the neighboring islands on a day tour. They are charming in their own right.

2. Wander Rome

Rome has so much to see and do that you’ll need to make several trips to even scratch the surface. Besides obvious highlights like the Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill, and Trevi Fountain, make sure you explore the Trastevere neighborhood. It’s my favorite area in Rome and feels almost like a village inside a big city. Trastevere offers delicious food, funky bars, and ancient winding streets. I love the family pizzerias and cafes here for people-watching and the gelato. Vatican City, the smallest independent city-state in the world, is nestled within the heart of Rome and is home to the Pope, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and many fantastic museums. You can fill an endless amount of time here so don’t try to rush your visit!

3. Tour Pompeii

Located a 20-40-minute train ride from Naples , Pompeii is an ancient city that was destroyed by a volcano, preserving it in a blanket of ash still frozen in time. Walk around the Roman city as it stood the day that Mount Vesuvius exploded in 79 CE, moving in and out of homes, villas, baths, and businesses where pots and vases still lay. What really struck me was entering the houses and seeing that the fountains and most of the beautiful frescoes are still intact. Admission is 16 EUR while a guided tour with a professional archeologist is 50 EUR. It’s a huge site and will take a full day to visit in depth.

4. Hike the Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre consists of five colorful coastal villages on the west coast of Italy, backed by steep vineyards and mountains. These small towns are by no means undiscovered by tourists but still absolutely beautiful and teeming with great shops and cafes. Each village has its own unique charm and personality so be sure to visit all of them. I absolutely love the fun hikes in the stunning hills high above the sea between the villages that range in difficulty. The Cinque Terre express train makes it super easy to pop around to the different villages if you don’t want to hike between the towns. Trail #7 is my favorite.

5. Relax on the Amalfi Coast

Other things to see and do in italy, 1. party at the venice carnival.

Carnival is ten days of masquerade madness every February leading up to Mardi Gras. The tradition goes back centuries, starting in the 12th century and reaching the height of popularity in the 18th century. Today, it’s one of the biggest festivals in Italy, with millions of people attending every year. The iconic and diverse masks are a central part of the festivities and every year there is a contest for the most beautiful mask. If you want to splash out, you can even attend a traditional masquerade ball! Just be sure to book your accommodation early as the city fills up months in advance.

2. Explore Milan

Milan is the fashion capital of Italy. Spend some time taking in the glamor but don’t spend more than a day or two here unless you’re looking to splash out. While you’re here, don’t miss the beautiful Milan Cathedral, which boasts 3,500 statues, 135 spires, and five bronze doors. Sforzesco Castle, a 15th-century castle that houses Michelangelo’s last sculpture, is also worth a visit. There’s also Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper , located inside Santa Maria delle Grazie church (which is itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site) as well as Leonardo’s Horse, one of the largest equine statues in the world. To get away from the crowds, spend some time relaxing in Parco Sempione, Milan’s most famous city park. It’s a vast oasis of green space and perfect for a picnic when the weather is nice.

3. See the Leaning Tower in Pisa

The entire city of Pisa is focused on taking photos of this famed tower. Started in 1173 and finished in 1399, it’s the bell tower of Pisa’s cathedral, located next door. Although it was meant to be perfectly vertical, the tower started leaning during construction due to the weight of the building on an unstable foundation. Admission to the top is 20 EUR or 27 EUR for a ticket that includes all the monuments in the complex. DiscoveryPisa runs a guided tour of all three sites for 30 EUR if you want a more in-depth experience.

4. Visit Siena

Everyone who visits Siena walks away loving it. Located in Tuscany, it’s one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Italy and boasts a labyrinth of lanes gathered around the arena of Piazza del Campo. Spend a few days admiring this charming city and exploring one of Italy’s most popular and famous regions. The main draw to the city is the stunning Siena Cathedral, which was constructed with white and black marble and is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country (the interior is massive and ornately decorated and lined by huge columns). Be sure to also visit the Torre del Mangia, a narrow 14th-century tower that offers stunning views of the area, as well as the 14th-century Fonte Gaia fountain, which is decorated by centuries-old marble panels.

5. Wander Naples

Naples , made famous as the birthplace of pizza, is a gritty city home to a wealth of historical treasures. There’s the medieval Naples Cathedral, the 18th-century Villa Comunale Park, and nearby Naples , Pompeii , one of the most amazing and important sites to visit in the country. The Archaeological Museum of Naples is also worth a visit, and if you enjoy hiking you can climb up the iconic Mount Vesuvius. Naples is the gateway to the south so you’re very likely to come here if you’re crisscrossing the country. Its location near Pompeii, Capri, and Sorrento makes it the perfect starting point for exploring the region. Best of all, it’s a foodie city like no other; I ate my weight in pizza during my visit!

6. Explore Florence

There’s no real need to explain why one should visit Florence — the city speaks for itself. Everything people say about it is true: great food, amazing museums, ancient buildings, small streets, awesome gelato. The city has it all. Be sure to visit The Uffizi, which holds the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art (including the The Birth of Venus and La Primavera by Botticelli, Bacchus by Caravaggio, and Doni Tondo by Michelangelo). The famous David statue is also in Florence, housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia. It’s one of the most impressive sculptures in the world and at 5.17 meters (17 feet) tall, it’s a lot bigger and more detailed than you think it would be! While here, make sure you take a few wine tours throughout the region to get a feel for the verdant countryside.

7. Drive around “the Heel”

Few travelers ever visit the southern heel of the Italian “boot.” But, if you have time, it’s worth the trip. This is where most of the fruits and vegetables in Italy come from so a trip down here will give you the best glimpse into rustic Italian life far from the maddening crowds of Rome and Italy’s other tourist hotspots. Don’t miss the picturesque Polignano a Mare, with its rugged cliffs and white-washed houses. Gallipoli, with its labyrinth of narrow lanes and historic port, is also worth visiting. There are tons of amazing beaches in this part of the country too, including Marina di Pescoluse (Salento), Cala Porto (Polignano a Mare), and Torre Guaceto (Brindisi).

8. Eat your way around Sicily

There’s Italian culture and then there’s Sicily. Sicily has its own unique cooking style, traditions, and customs. It’s unlike the rest of Italy. Be sure to spend some time in Taormina and Palermo (the capital of Sicily). The UNESCO Valley of the Temples is also in Sicily, a national park home to incredible Greek ruins that are over 2,000 years old. Don’t miss the stunning Mount Etna , an active volcano that you can ski on it in the winter or take a tour of the top in the summer.

9. Stroll through Sorrento

Sorrento is a small city in southwestern Italy surrounded by a dreamy landscape of rolling hills, deep valleys, and the Lattari Mountains. There’s not a lot to do in the town itself but Sorrento makes an ideal starting point for numerous excursions to nearby cities and islands around the famous Amalfi Coast, like Capri and Ischia. I especially love driving along the winding coastal roads overlooking the sea. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Blue Grotto .

10. Attend Settimana Santa (Holy Week)

This is the last week of Lent, known as Holy Week. During this time, there are several processions throughout Italy, drawing crowds of thousands. Throughout the week, there are various gatherings in Puglia, Abruzzo, and Sicily but the major event occurs on Easter Sunday and is led by the Pope himself. It’s an amazing time to visit, but expect huge crowds and for accommodation to sell out months in advance.

11. Visit Alberobello

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an interesting and picturesque little town just south of Bari (a port city on the Adriatic Sea) known for its unusual white cone-shaped houses (they’re super peculiar). It’s well worth a visit between the months of November and April (to avoid the flocks of tourists) as there are a couple of museums to peruse, in addition to some great restaurants, bars, and markets.

12. Tour the Vatican Museums

Founded in the early 16th century, it is a complex of museums spanning over 12 acres. There are so many priceless highlights, including Michelangelo’s works in the Sistine Chapel. You could easily spend hours here. Consider getting a guide to make the museum come to life. Admission is 17 EUR and skip-the-line guided tours with Get Your Guide cost 50 EUR. For a more unique experience, check out the

13. See Chiesa di Sant’Efisio

When you find yourself in Cagliari on Sardinia, wander over to the Stampace quarter to see this church. Dedicated to the patron Saint Ephisius, this is the most important church in the city. The original building dates to the 13th century, though it was rebuilt and expanded in the 16th century and then again in the 18th century, this time in the Baroque style. Admission is free.

14. Take a cooking class

Italy is a dream destination for foodies and the best way to learn about this amazing cuisine is to take a cooking class . You’ll get to visit a local market, learn about the history of some of the country’s best dishes, and then learn how to make them yourself so you can impress friends and family back home. You can find cooking classes all over the country. They are very common. Prices vary depending on what city you take a class in, but most cost at least 70 EUR and last a few hours.

15. Take a walking tour

Walks of Italy offers incredible, detailed tours all around the country. They are my favorite tour company in the country. And they are relatively inexpensive and you definitely get your money’s worth. If you are big into history, culture, or architecture these tours are for you. You’ll walk away with a much richer understanding of the country. Don’t miss them.

For information on specific cities in Italy, check out these city guides:

• Cinque Terre Travel Guide
• Florence Travel Guide
• Milan Travel Guide
• Naples Travel Guide
• Pisa Travel Guide
• Rome Travel Guide
• Sorrento Travel Guide
• Venice Travel Guide

Italy Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostel dorms average 27-40 EUR per night for rooms with 6-8 beds. Private rooms are usually between 55-100 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities and include breakfast. During the summer months, expect prices to double. In Rome and Florence, prices throughout the year are about 20% higher than anywhere else.

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds are available around the country, usually costing between 15-30 EUR per night for a basic plot for two people.

A night in a two-star budget hotel ranges between 70-125 EUR per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, AC, and occasionally free breakfast. Prices are on the higher end in cities like Rome and Venice and also double during the summer.

On Airbnb, private rooms start around 45-90 EUR, while entire apartments usually start around 100-150 EUR. Expect prices on the higher end in hotspots like Rome and Venice. Prices can also double (or triple) when not booked in advance. Additionally, expect even higher prices in the busy summer months.

Food – Italian cuisine is beloved around the world, though every region in Italy offers its own distinct flavor. Tomatoes, pasta, olives, and olive oil form the backbone of most dishes, with meat, fish and various cheeses rounding out the menu. Gelato and pizza, of course, are also super popular. Some traditional dishes include bigoli in salsa (pasta in anchovy sauce), risotto al nero di seppia (risotto with cuttlefish ink), gnocchi alla Sorrentina (potato gnocchi), cassoeula (a meat and cabbage stew), and tagliatelle funghi porcini e tartufo (pasta with mushrooms and truffles).

A casual restaurant meal of pizza or pasta usually costs 10-20 EUR. In tourist hot spots, add 5-10 EUR to that.

Quick eats like pizza by the slice, paninis, and light snacks cost between 3-8 EUR. Snacks like croissants are less than 2 EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 8-10 EUR for a combo meal while Chinese, Thai, or Indian food is 10-12 EUR for a main dish. Dessert is usually around 4-8 EUR for something like tiramisu.

Your average restaurant meal costs around 30 EUR with a drink. Most main dishes cost around 15-20 EUR while a pizza is around 10-15 EUR. For higher-end meals, expect to spend about 70 EUR for a three-course meal with a drink.

Beer costs around 4-5 EUR while a glass of wine costs 4-8 EUR. For non-alcoholic drinks, a latte or cappuccino is around 1.50 EUR and bottled water is 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own groceries, expect to spend 50-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Italy Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Italy, my suggested budget is 60 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like hiking, free walking tours, and the beaches. If you plan on drinking a lot, add at least 15 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 140 EUR per day, you can stay in an Airbnb or budget hotel, eat out for a couple of meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like touring the Colosseum or exploring Pompeii.

On an upscale budget of 255 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a car, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This isn’t a real luxury budget but it’s a budget that affords you the ability to do anything you want. If you want real luxury, you’ll need to read a different blog for that!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). I just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Italy Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It’s very easy to break the bank in Italy, owing to all the historic sites, expensive accommodation, and delicious but pricey restaurants. After all, Italy is one of the most expensive Eurozone countries. You’re going to be spending a lot on a visit here. However, there are still lots of ways to reduce your expenses. Here are some tips to help you save money in Italy:

• Skip the bread – Many restaurants offer you bread when you sit down — but they don’t mention that it’s not free. If you’re on a budget, decline the bread and save a few Euros each dining experience.
• Picnic – Head to the store or one of the many markets in the country and grab food for a picnic. It’s cheaper than eating out and you can lounge in one of the many parks to watch the day go by. Food markets are a good place to try things, get fresh cheese and cold cuts, pasta, and snacks like ‘arancini,’ a super-filling rice ball stuffed with meat or cheese.
• Drink the tap water – When out at a restaurant, ask for tap water or you will automatically get expensive bottled water included on your bill. Since the tap water is safe to drink, bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine for 6-10 EUR at the store. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar. Take it outdoors and sit around and enjoy the day/evening or skip expensive nightlife and go out for a long dinner and just drink it at the hostel. Just make sure you have a travel corkscrew on you if you’re going to sit outside somewhere!
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the country for cheap. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 6 EUR you really can’t complain! (And it’s cheaper than the train.) Taking the bus in town inside big cities instead of taking taxis everywhere or renting a car will save you lots of money.
• Take a free walking tour – Most cities in Italy offer free walking tours that cover all the main highlights. It’s the best budget-friendly way to explore and also a great way to meet other travelers if you’re alone. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is expensive in Italy, even in the hostels. Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds or couches for free. It’s the best way to save money and meet people. Just be sure to send your requests early (especially in the summer). Also, it’s a good idea to research the area you’re staying in first so you’re not so far away from the city center (or city!) that you need to spend a lot of time/money getting into town to see the sites.
• Get a city tourist card – Many tourism offices offer tourist cards that provide free or discounted entry to the main attractions. Some even include restaurant discounts and free transportation. If you plan on sightseeing a lot, these cards can cut your costs drastically. Check the local tourism board in each city for info when you arrive.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities. I used this service and not only did I save money, I got to meet interesting people and learn more about life in Italy. This is a good option to book a few days in advance. Just make sure to pick someone who has good ratings because newer drivers can have a tendency to be unreliable or cancel at the last minute.

Where to Stay in Italy

There’s a lot of hostels and hotels in Italy to choose from. To help you save money on accommodation, here’s a list of my recommended hostels and budget hotels in Italy:

• Loly Boutique Hotel (Rome)
• The Beehive (Rome)
• Hotel Montecarlo (Venice)
• Generator (Venice)
• Hostel of the Sun (Naples)
• Ulisse Deluxe (Sorrento)
• Hotel Bologna (Pisa)
• Hostel Pisa Tower (Pisa)

How to Get Around Italy

Public transportation – Public transportation is available in all the major cities in Italy (many of which have comprehensive metro systems). Tickets usually cost between 1-2 EUR for a single journey. Some cities also have day passes that offer unlimited travel. In Rome, you can purchase a one-day pass for unlimited travel for 7 EUR. A one-week pass costs 24 EUR, for example. While public transportation is generally reliable, traffic can be a nightmare — especially in Rome.

Train – The best way to get around Italy is via their extensive train network. Prices are affordable too, with most trips costing just 10-30 EUR. Rome to Florence takes just 90 minutes (on the fast train) with tickets starting at 20 EUR. Rome to Venice takes around 4 hours with tickets starting around 30 EUR. Rome to Naples is just over one hour and costs around 20 EUR.

Italo and Trenitalia are the two main rail systems. Tickets on Trenitalia are often a standard price, while Italo’s ticket prices fluctuate more widely. It’s worth it to check both.

To find routes and prices for trains around Italy (and Europe), use Trainline .

Bus – The bus is slower than the train but cheaper, with prices on FlixBus starting as low as 6 EUR. This isn’t the most convenient or fastest way to travel, but the buses are comfortable and good for short and medium journeys. Most buses come with outlets and free Wi-Fi too.

The 4-hour trip from Rome to Florence costs around 7-15 EUR, while a longer trip like Venice to Naples takes 10-15 hours and costs just 20-32 EUR.

Flying – If you’re pressed for time and are looking to jump from one city to the next, a budget airline might be the way to go. Prices can be incredibly low — just 20-100 EUR round trip on airlines like Ryanair.

That said, when you factor in the time spent at airports, you’re likely not going to save much time. Also, keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights and you usually need to print your boarding pass out too (or pay a fee).

Ferry – If you want to visit some of Italy’s amazing islands, you’ll have to book a ferry. Ferries are frequent and you don’t need to book too far in advance, but during peak season it’s a good idea to book at least a few weeks ahead. You can use FerryHopper to find routes and prices. The popular one-hour ferry from Naples to Capri starts from 25 EUR.

Car rental – Car rentals are generally quite affordable here, usually starting around 25-35 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Just make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as it’s required before you rent a car. Also, keep in mind that Italian drivers can be on the aggressive side so drive cautiously. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Italy

There’s no wrong time to visit Italy. Historically, the peak season has been July and August, but post-COVID cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are busy pretty much year round. Temperatures can soar as high as 36°C (98°F) during the summer, and popular cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence experience a huge influx of visitors. I’d try to avoid visiting in the summer if you can as it’s just too crowded, too hot, and prices increase during this time as well.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Italy is during the shoulder season (March-May and September-October). It’s still warm but the crowds have thinned and prices are lower. This is a particularly great time to hang out in the Mediterranean. Expect daily highs around 22°C (72°F).

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold, and tourist crowds thin out considerably. Temperatures vary quite a bit from north to south, with it sometimes dropping to 2°C (36°F) in Milan and 4°C (39°F) in Rome. On the other hand, November to December is fantastic — you’ll find Christmas markets and festivals galore!

How to Stay Safe in Italy

Italy is a safe country to travel as violent crime against tourists is very rare. However, scams and pickpocketing are common, especially around high-traffic tourist sites in places like Rome and Venice. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight on public transportation and when out and about. The biggest things to watch out for are pickpockets on public transportation and in crowds. Don’t leave your bag open or put your mobile phone in loose jacket pockets on the tram or subway.

Be wary of people selling discounted tickets on the street. Chances are they are fake so always buy tickets from reputable sellers only. If you take a taxi somewhere, make sure the driver uses the meter so you don’t get ripped off.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about other common travel scams to avoid here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe in Italy, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Catcalling is not uncommon in Italy. Also, on public transport be mindful of groping on public transport. For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the country as they will have better advice for you.

If you rent a car, make sure you drive carefully and also have extra insurance. The roads in much of the country are very winding and narrow and drivers here are on the aggressive side.

Natural disasters here are uncommon, but since there are several active volcanoes in the country they can occur. Venice is also prone to flooding, so always be mindful of the weather while you’re here and heed any warnings or advisories.

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Italy Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Walks of Italy – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Italy.
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Italy Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Italy and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

Where to Stay in Florence: The Best Neighborhoods For Your Visit

Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Florence

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

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12 cheap places to visit in Italy

Last updated on April 13th, 2024.

When you think of the cheapest places to visit in Europe, Italy doesn’t usually top the list.

Though it’s possible to visit Italy on a budget, it ranks more expensive compared to other Mediterranean countries.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy , and are on a budget, keep on reading. This guide lists 12 cheap places to visit in Italy and they won’t leave you feeling completely out of pocket.

North vs south Italy

As a general rule of thumb, places in the south of Italy tend to be cheaper than in the north.

For example, eating at a good restaurant in Venice or Milan will cost considerably more than in Naples. This isn’t to say that you can’t eat well on a budget in the north, but I’m referring to top restaurants.

As someone who lives in northern Italy , things are noticeably more expensive compared to when we’re back at home in Sicily .

Time of year to visit

It goes without saying that the time of year you visit Italy can make a big difference on your budget.

If visiting Venice in winter , you’re more likely to find cheaper deals on hotels and flights. Book for July or August, and be prepared to pay much more.

It works the other way around for traditional Italian winter destinations. Visiting the Dolomites in winter is noticeably more expensive than if you were to spend Christmas in Sicily .

A final money-saving tip when visiting Italy is to book a tour in advance. Booking skip-the-line tours will not only save you time waiting in long lines but they’ll also save you Euros too.

Naples, Campania

The capital of the Campania region is known for many things: its rich history, its pizza and its animated people.

One of several cheap places to visit in southern Italy, Naples makes for an ideal 1, 2- or 3-day break.

We spent one day in Naples before heading on our 4-day Amalfi Coast trip and were shocked by how cheap things were.

Naples is also the gateway to the island of Capri. Both Capri and the Amalfi Coast are more expensive destinations given their popularity. However, aside from the ferry, visiting the region is free and so are the views.

From Naples, it’s also possible to visit other attractions outside the city like Pompeii and the Vesuvius National Park .

One of the cheapest cities in Europe, Naples should be a name on every budget traveler’s list.

Cheap places to stay in Naples

Given its size and scale, you’ll find a whole range of cheap accommodation in Naples. Some to consider for the historic center ( centro storico ) includes:

• Napoli Squares Suites
• B&B Hotel Napoli
• B&B I Borbone
• Palazzo Della Loggia B&B and Apartment Napoli

Other cities to visit in Campania

Though undoubtedly beautiful, the region of Campania has more to offer than Positano, Sorrento , Ravello and Capri. So, if you prefer your travels a little off the beaten track, you can find plenty in Campania.

Some of the following cities are rich in Ancient Roman history and won’t be as expensive as the aforementioned places.

A historic center surrounded by castle walls, a 17th century arched entrance and a castle with a tower. Come here to explore a historic borgo and for uninterrupted views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Home to the magnificent Reggia di Caserta (Royal Palace of Caserta) the palace makes a perfect day trip from Naples .

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the palace belonged to the royal family of the Bourbon dynasty of Naples. Its glorious gardens were awarded the title of ‘most beautiful park in Italy’ in 2009.

Reggia di Caserta, Piazza Carlo di Borbone, Caserta

A city influenced by Ancient Greek and Roman ancestry, Paestum provides a fascinating insight into the past.

Surrounded by ancient walls, the temples that remain are considered unique examples of Magna Graecia architecture . Book a group tour to Paestum and learn more about its history from an expert archaeologist.

Palermo, Sicily

The capoluogo of Sicily will be one of several affordable places in Italy from Sicily to appear on the list. Palermo offers striking architecture, an interesting blend of cultural influences and a street food culture that’ll leave you wanting more.

Palermo is also friendly on your finances, which is good news if traveling with kids in Sicily or on a tight budget.

Within walking distance

A budget-friendly fact about Palermo is, that once in the center, most of the main attractions are within walking distance. It’s something we discovered on our 2 days in Palermo .

From Teatro Massimo , continue walking down Via Ruggero Settimo until you reach the spectacular Quattro Canti . The octagonal square with 4 baroque buildings and near identical façades is one of Palermo’s must-see sights and it’s free.

After Quattro Canti, head into the Kalsa neighborhood (the Arab Quarter) and explore the historic churches and pretty streets.

The times where walking might become taxing would be visiting attractions like the Palazzo dei Normanni, Cattedrale di Palermo and Monreale . They’re slightly outside the center and you’ll want to save all of your energy for the sights.

Teatro Massimo (Massimo Theater), Piazza Verdi, Palermo Quattro Canti, Piazza Villena, Palermo Cattedrale di Palermo (Palermo Cathedral), Via Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo Palazzo dei Normanni (Norman Palace), Piazza del Parlamento, 1, Palermo

Take a look at 20+ best hotels in Sicily with a view for Sicily accommodation inspiration. It lists different hotel types around the island and suits varying budget types.

Matera, Basilicata

Staying in the south, we arrive at the unique city of Matera. The city’s most famous for a complex of cave houses carved into the mountain called the Sassi di Matera .

Many families lived in these homes until the entire sassi was evacuated in 1952 due to poor living conditions. Today, the complex houses museums like the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario , that includes original antique furniture and handcrafted tools.

Matera also makes an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. Nearby is the archaeological site and park, Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana . Explore the rare territory that’s filled with churches carved into caves and cliffs.

Sassi di Matera Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana (Regional Nature Park of the Murgia of Matera)

Affordable places to stay in Matera

Though tourism, and Rose wine, has brought Matera to the masses, the city is still affordable. Today, cute and cozy B&Bs sit alongside boutique hotels and more luxurious accommodations with grand swimming pools.

One of several cheap places to visit in Italy, again, timing is everything when visiting Matera on a budget. Visit in spring or fall to avoid the crowds, the heat and the higher prices. Visit during summer, however, and expect the opposite.

The following are worth considering if looking for cheap places to stay in the center of Matera.

• LIMEN Matera
• Rizzi Residence
• Giulietta nei Sassi

Map of Italy

Reggio Calabria, Calabria

Calabria is often overlooked as a region when it comes to traveling around Italy. But, with an abundance of coastal cities, charming towns and historical sights, Calabria has tons of potential.

Take the city of Reggio Calabria. A pretty lungomare (promenade along the sea) leads to beaches, sea views and not many tourists. Sicily is visible across the Strait of Messina providing the opportunity to take the ferry over for a quick trip.

Aside from the promenade, Reggio Calabria attracts visitors eager to learn more about its cultural heritage. Unearth ancient artifacts from the Roman and prehistoric age at the Museo Archeologico di Reggio Calabria . Nearby at the Museo del Bergamotto e del Cibo , you’ll learn more about the importance of bergamot in Reggio Calabria.

Booking ahead is advised for both museums.

Museo Archeologico di Reggio Calabria (National Archaeological Museum), Piazza Giuseppe De Nava, 26, Reggio Calabria Museo del Bergamotto e del Cibo (Museum of Bergamot and food), Via dei Filippini, 50, Reggio Calabria

Beach towns in Calabria

Though Calabria is littered with plenty of pretty beach towns, many on the east coast tend to be pebble beaches.

That said, if you prefer the sensation of warm sand between your toes, these Calabrian towns are worth noting down. Prices for accommodation will vary depending on the season so bear this in mind during your search.

• Santa Maria
• Capo Vaticano
• Torre Marino
• Santa Domenica
• Vibo Marina

Ancona, Le Marche

If you’re looking for a beach destination in Italy without the Capri price tag, consider visiting Ancona.

Le Marche’s capital city on the Italian Adriatic coast is blessed with over 10 sandy beaches within its vicinity. Some of the most popular include:

• Spiaggia del Passetto
• Spiaggia dei Gabbiani
• Spiaggia di Numana Alta
• Spiaggia dei Forni
• Spiaggia di San Michele
• Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle
• Spiaggia Mezzavalle

**spiaggia = beach

Ancona and more

What makes Ancona a cheap place to visit in Italy is that its historic monuments are all free.

Securing the prime spot in Ancona is its cathedral. The Cattedrale di San Ciriaco sits high on a hilltop, surrounded by granite lions overlooking the sea. Dating to the 6th century, the church was built upon the base of a 3rd century (BC) Ancient Greek temple.

Impressively, the remains of the mosaic flooring and the perimeter walls from the first building are still visible today.

Another example is the striking Fontana del Calamo. It features the heads of 13 mythical figures, from which water once flowed from the pipe in its mouth.

Lastly, opposite the harbor is the Arco di Traiano and the Arco Clementino. The former monument with Corinthian columns was built between 115 and 166AD in honor of the Roman emperor Trajan. Arco Clementino was built in honor of Pope Clement XII and dates to the 18th century.

Cattedrale di San Ciriaco (St Ciriaco Cathedral), Piazzale del Duomo, 9, Ancona Arco di Traiano (Arch of Trajan), Lungomare Vanvitelli, Ancona Arco Clementino (Clemenine Arch), Lungomare Vanvitelli, Ancona

Affordable places to stay in Ancona

You’re spoiled for choice for cheap places to stay in the center of Ancona. Many situated closer to, or on the beaches will charge more for the privilege.

However, many of the following places are around a 9-minute drive to the closest beach. And, it’s a short time to pay when you’re traveling on a budget.

• B&B La Casa in Centro
• Palazzo Torriglioni

Spello, Umbria

Take me to any historic borgo in Umbria and watch my face light up like Christmas morning. The picturesque small town of Spello is located to the east of the region.

There are several entrances to its center, the most notable being the Porta di Venere . It’s hard to miss the imposing Roman doorway, as its flanked by 2 Romanesque towers. The walls, dating to the time of Emperor Augustus, are among the most important and intact in Italy.

Like in Noto, Spello also hosts an annual Infiorate di Spello . The floral show takes place every June gracing the streets of the entire village.

Aside from its rich Roman past, what makes Spello special is the series of winding streets and charming houses. Similar to Montemerano in Tuscany , enjoy getting lost in the scenery without having to spend a single cent.

Urbino, Le Marche

One of the most important centers of the Italian Renaissance, Urbino is home to several well-preserved architectural heritage sites. So significant are the sites in Urbino that the historic center was awarded UNESCO status in 1998.

The city’s main attractions include the Palazzo Ducale di Urbino and Fortezza Albornoz . The former hosts the National Gallery of Marche while the latter’s an impressive fort offering panoramic views of Urbino’s skyline.

A budget-friendly destination in Italy, Urbino is filled with striking historic churches, like the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta . Reflecting a neo-classical architectural style, it replaced the first cathedral that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1789.

Palazzo Ducale di Urbino (Urbino Palace), Piazza Rinascimento, 13, Urbino Fortezza Albornoz (Albornoz Fort), Viale Bruno Buozzi, Urbino Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (Urbino Cathedral), Via Puccinotti, 29, Urbino

Lecce, Puglia

A fun and vibrant city teeming with beautiful baroque architecture, I never turn down the chance to visit Lecce .

Many of Lecce’s main attractions are within walking distance of the other, and they’re also 100% free. A prime example of this are the churches in Lecce.

Its most notable is its cathedral, Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Assunta e San Oronzo . The ancient cathedral houses several chapels, has a detailed façade and a bell tower. Just 7 minutes’ walk away is the Basilica di Santa Croce .

Both are free to enter, as are the majority of churches across Italy. Be mindful that many churches may be closed off to visitors if visiting during a mass.

Other unmissable sights in Lecce include Teatro Romano . The Roman theater dates to the Augustan period, and has a museum adjacent that exhibits artifacts found on site. Similar to the amphitheater in Syracuse, Sicily , but on a smaller scale, it’s one attraction you won’t want to miss.

Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Assunta e San Oronzo (Lecce Cathedral), Piazza del Duomo, Lecce Basilica di Santa Croce (Basilica of Santa Croce), Via Umberto I, 1, Lecce Teatro Romano, Via Del Teatro Romano, Lecce

Budget-friendly hotels in Lecce

For cheap, yet chic, accommodation in the center of Lecce, the following B&Bs offer reasonable prices. As always, pricing will vary depending on the season in which you visit.

• B&B Suite Nina
• Signura Dimora Esclusiva
• B&B Nonna Jole
• Dimora San Leucio

Mazara del Vallo, Sicily

Located in the province of Trapani on Sicily’s west coast is the town and commune of Mazara del Vallo. It was one of several we visited on our Sicily road trip . Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it’s less than 200km from the Tunisian coast.

Mazara del Vallo is most known for its fishing industry, one of the most important in Italy.

Arab influences

The Arabs occupied Mazara del Vallo in 827AD, during which time they divided the town into 3 administrative regions. Because of this, the town has an interesting mix of Mediterranean and Arabic architectural styles.

One of these regions in the center is called the Casbah. Many of the homes in the old Arab quarter are colorful and decorative, reflecting its former ancestral past.

Head back to the Piazza della Republica to see more traditional Italian architectural styles. At its core is the jaw-dropping Cattedrale del Santissimo Salvatore . Built during Norman rule, the tapestry of frescos on the ceiling will leave you speechless, and most likely with neck ache.

Cattedrale del Santissimo Salvatore (Cathedral of the Holy Savior), Piazza della Repubblica, Mazara del Vallo

Assisi, Umbria

Many visitors come to the hill town of Assisi for one reason: to see its famous basilica. The Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi is an imposing church in Gothic style covering 2 levels.

Assisi was the birthplace of one of Italy’s patron saints, San Francesco (St. Francis), and here, his legacy lives on. Along with visitors, many religious pilgrimages also take place here.

An affordable destination to visit in Italy, Assisi combines history, architecture and art in one place.

Inside the basilica are 13th century frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis, attributed by Italian painters Giotto and Cimabue.

Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi (Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi), Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, 2, Assisi

Free to explore

Assisi is home to over 16 Catholic churches, each of which are free to enter. Opening times will vary, so check before visiting. Along with the basilica, other notable churches in Assisi include:

• Chiesa di Santa margherita
• Chiesa di Santo Stefano
• San Giacomo de Muro Rotto
• Chiesa Abbazi di San Pietro
• Chiesa Superiore
• Chiesa Santa Maria Maggiore

Cheap places to stay in Assisi

Should you decide to stay in Assisi, the town has plenty of budget-friendly accommodations. Some of my favorites include:

• Brunelli B&B
• Camere Calocci
• Hotel Ideale

L’Aquila, Abruzzo

Abruzzo is home to beautiful beaches along the Adriatic Coast as well as towns inland teeming with ancient history.

Its capital city, L’Aquila, is one of the latter, with its historic center dating to medieval times. Sitting at an altitude of 2,365ft (721m), its center within its ancient walls has been well maintained.

At the heart of the city is Piazza Duomo, home to 2 of the city’s main attractions: its churches. Its Duomo, Cattedrale di San Massimo – Duomo dell’Aquila sits diagonally opposite the Chiesa di Santa Maria del Suffragio .

While here, don’t miss out on visiting the Fontana delle 99 Cannelle and the Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo . Like in Ancona, water sprouts from the mouths of historical figures at this iconic fountain. Where it differs is that the L’Aquila fountain has 99 spouts compared to Ancona’s 13.

Cattedrale di San Massimo – Duomo dell’Aquila, Piazza Duomo Chiesa di Santa Maria del Suffragio, Piazza Duomo, 43, L’Aquila Fontana delle 99 Cannelle (Fountain of 99 spouts), Piazza San Vito, L’Aquila Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo (National Museum of Abruzzo), Via Tancredi da Pentima, L’Aquila

Noto, Sicily

My second Sicily pick for cheap places to visit in Italy is Noto.

There are tons of things to do in Noto , many of which are free to visit.

The centro storico (historic center) is filled with monuments showcasing fine examples of Sicilian baroque architecture .

Via Corso Vittorio Emanuele is the main street that runs through the heart of Noto. It’s here where you’ll find attractions like the Cattedrale di Noto and Palazzo Ducezio .

Off the main road is another principle street, Via Nicolaci. One of several locations where they host the Infiorata di Noto , the street transforms into a colorful floral display every May.

An affordable trip

As mentioned numerous times throughout this post, timing is everything when traveling on a budget. Avoiding traveling to Sicily in August won’t just save you money but also discomfort from the high temperatures.

There are several places along Corso Vittorio Emanuele where you can eat cheaply. Pani Cunzatu serves huge traditional Sicilian sandwiches and at a reasonable price.

Across the street is Putia del Coppo . No frills dining but delicious, paper cones filled with deep fried seafood will satisfy your fried food cravings.

Pani Cunzatu, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 76 Putia del Coppo, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 105

Cheap places to stay in Noto

Noto has seen an accommodation boom given the rise in tourism in recent years.

While several boutique brands have set up shop in central Noto, they sit alongside many affordable and charming B&Bs. A few to choose from include:

• B&B Novecento Siciliano
• B&B Teatro Noto
• B&B RoDa Barocco

What do you think of these cheap places to visit in Italy? Are there any that appeal to you? Let me know in the comments.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

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Grazie mille! Welcome to the Italy travel tribe

Welcome to my site. I'm Lisa, an Italy-based travel and lifestyle blogger behind Following the Rivera. Find out more about me and my story.

What are affordable places to visit in Italy?

1. Naples 2. Palermo 3. Matera 4. Reggio Calabria 5. Ancona

61 thoughts on “ 12 cheap places to visit in Italy ”

Naples, for instance, is a hidden gem with its rich history, delectable pizza, and vibrant atmosphere. It serves as an excellent base to explore nearby wonders like Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, making it a budget traveler’s paradise.

Sicily, especially Palermo, is another fantastic choice. Its captivating architecture, diverse cultural influences, and mouthwatering street food indeed make it an enticing destination. And Sicily, in general, offers excellent value for travelers.

I agree, we had a great time in Naples and Palermo.

🙋 Lisa. Can you recommend any safe places to sleep while being a tourist in Palermo? Greetings Linda

Hi Linda, we stayed at the Grand Hotel Wagner. It is a classic hotel and right in the center of Palermo. I have written about our experience here. https://www.followingtherivera.com/2019/08/26/palermo-things-to-do-in-2-days

Hotel Wagner is fabulous we stayed there when we were in Palermo .

Great article . Well done ! Can’t wait to visit !

Thank you, I hope you do visit one day

Sign me up for one of the beach towns!! So beautiful

You’re signed up!

This was a beautifully curated list. I also love that you included affordable places to stay during the visit. Thanks for sharing. P.s. Your photos are amazing!

Thank you Kimberly! I want to show budget-friendly places in Italy to visit 🙂

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Top Places to Visit in Italy on a Budget

There’s no denying that Italy is one of the best places to go in Europe for travelers. With its beautiful cities, magnificent architecture, wonderful countryside, and great places that offer a high standard of living , this country is truly majestic.

These things are what make most people think that Italy, just like many places in Europe, is an expensive place to go. While this is true in a way, you should not be put off because it’s possible to enjoy a trip to Italy on a budget.

But how can you make this possible?

While you can always apply different budget-travel hacks we’ve always known like booking during the lean season, volunteering in exchange of food and/or accommodation, and others, the best thing you can do is to find the most budget-friendly location in the country.

Cheapest Places to Go In Italy

Why places like Rome and Venice are some of the most sought-after places in Italy, and traveling there would definitely make you spend a lot.

Fortunately, there are places in The Boot Country where you can stretch your budget, making you stay long.

From €6 plates of delectable  tagliatelle al ragu  to an affordable tour of a rooftop observatory , exploring Bologna on a budget is very easy.

If the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear Bologna is food, well… that makes sense. Bologna offers a lot of places to go that are related to food preparation and food tasting.

Aside from food, however, you will be able to see different places of interest when you visit. There’s a lot to do and see in the city. You may want to start your exploring Bologna by going to one of its many historic buildings.

This city is home to the biggest medieval city center bordered by buildings of amazing architectural and historical attractions. Most of the buildings are painted in different shades of yellow, reds, and ochre, thus it was nicknamed Bologna la Rossa or Bologna the Red.

The center of attraction, however, is Piazza Maggiore. Throughout the medieval age, it was the location of the Roman forum – today it has become one of the most favorite locations for arts and music festivals .

Bologna is a historical city known well by most Italians, however, not very well known by many foreign visitors. The best time to go to Bologna is normally between the months of March and October, although you have to keep in mind that the months of July and August could get pretty hot.

Merano/Meran

With its verdant boulevards, cacti, and oleanders, traveling to Merano feels like you have visited a paradise. Long praised for its tropical climate, this budget-friendly town is filled with attractions anyone would love – both for the vicinity’s castles and for the good access to the remarkable mountain ranges that this place offers.

There are also two natural parks in Merano, Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio, Parco Naturale Gruppo del Tessa, as well as the Ortles mountain range which is all accessible and offers different opportunities for trekking and other outdoor activities like mountain biking.

People in Merano almost exclusively speak German, beer, and sausage stands are dotted in the streets and a yearly outdoor play celebration takes place.

One of the best ways to see the area is by riding an aerial tramway or funivia . By doing so, you will be able to see how really pretty the place is.

Cinque Terre

With an average of €52 daily expenses for budget travelers, this is definitely cheaper than many places in Europe.

Cinque Terre, pronounced as CHEEN-kweh TEHR-reh , which is a UNESCO World Heritage site , has the five towns throughout the Ligurian drift in north Italy.

While all five towns are old-fashioned and will remind you of the past, each of them has a bit something different to offer. When you are in the vicinity, no cars will be allowed, so you can either ride the train from village to village or go through the hiking trails by walking.

On top of that, Cinque Terre also boasts some of the most world’s beautiful coast hiking trails.

Again, you can easily hike from village to village along the Sentiero Azzurro, or also known as Blue Trail, though there are many other trails that offer different views and with different levels of difficulty. Whether you are a hardcore hiker or a beginner, there is surely a trail that is suitable for you.

The spectacular city of Verona located in the Veneto region in the northeastern part of the country which is popularly known for being the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is another place you may want to check out if you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to go in Italy.

Verona is a romantic city that is perfect for any type of traveler. The number of well-known landmarks in Verona is really spectacular and you will not run out of things to see and do.

Make sure to check out “Juliet’s House” which was a location for Romeo and Juliet’s legendary balcony scene. So, if you are planning to come here with your partner, this place would be a perfect place for a photo op.

A remarkable ancient Roman amphitheater known as The Arena is something you shouldn’t miss. Dating back to the 1 st century, this extraordinary landmark still hosts Opera performances up to the present.

By just walking around the city, you will be left stunned by the construction and beauty that you can see no matter where you look at. A city you can explore by foot, the romance, and vigor of this place will stir your senses and will give you endless reasons to fall in love with it.

Just a few meters from the famous Juliet’s house in Verona, visitors will find the world-famous Torre dei Lamberti. The best way of experiencing it is, of course, is to go up to its highest part (84m above the ground) and admire the three hundred and sixty degrees views of the city from there, all that other people let you see (sometimes it is quite busy at the top). 

To avoid crowds, do not go near the closing (which sometimes coincides with sunset), but better first thing in the morning or at lunchtime, when most tourists will find themselves eating lunch. 

This way you will ensure all the tranquility that such a magnificent place deserves. No doubt, its impressive marble columns and the vast views from this unique point throughout the city will not leave you indifferent. To go up, you can choose the elevator or the stairs (almost 400). Tickets sell from € 5.

Naples is the third biggest city in Italy . On top of that, it is also one of the oldest, most appetizing, and most artistic. The historic center of Naples is a Unesco World Heritage Site, its archaeological gem is among the most important ones in the world, and its drape of vainglorious castles, palaces, and churches make this one of the most sought-after by many travelers.

Then, there comes their food. Brimmed with rich volcanic soils, a munificent sea, and years of culinary expertise, the region of Naples is one of the culinary havens of Italy, serving up the best pizza, coffee, pasta, delicious seafood, and high-quality wine (given that you’re at the legal drinking age .)

Surely, the urban sprawl of Naples can feel revolutionary, ragged, and unloved. But if you try to look beyond the filth, graffiti, and occasional abruptness, you will uncover a place of spectacular frescoes, views, and sculptures of astonishing elegance, of unstructured conversations and deep humanity.

By the way, here’s a quick guide for you in case you are wondering whether Pompeii is worth your time or not .

Usually overlooked and thought to be just an intractable, gritty port town of Italy, Ancona is not really that charming at first look. But as soon as you start exploring, you will be able to tell easily how planning a trip here is worth it.

Being the capital of a gorgeous and historic region, you will not only get to explore an affordable Italian location but you will also be able to experience the beautiful city of the sea.

Ancona has a lot of a splendid coastline to the south, with sparkling and accessible water and pristine white sand beaches. Not too fat are the gorgeous towns of Recanati, Loreto, Urbino, and Jesi along with the rolling hills in the surrounding area and the renowned Grotte di Frasassi.

If you like outdoor activities, Ancona will not disappoint as it offers a lot of opportunities to take on outdoor activities in its beautiful landscape, mainly horseback riding and cycling. 

It has a mountaineering school that is going to make rock climbers happy , while if you are visiting during the winter, then you should not miss skiing . 

Sicily is very affordable as far as the cost of food and accommodation. In fact, with only €30 as your daily budget (considering you’re traveling on a shoestring), you will able to survive.

When you choose to escape the mainland and go to Sicily, immediately plan things to do in Palermo .

The enormous coast of Sicily offers a lot of wonderful beaches, mostly at the Golfo di Castellammare and Taormina. The varied interior of Sicily is characterized by far-flung hill towns and grasslands scattered by mountain ranges popular for wildlife and spring flowers.

One of the most remarkable attractions is Mount Etna, which is an active volcano whose lava flows throughout the centuries have left the land vastly fertile, supporting a profusion of citrus groves, walnut trees, as well as vineyards.

Cheapest Time to Visit

If you think going to Italy without visiting some of the famous places like Rome, Venice, and Florence would be a waste, then you will be happy to know that you can still find other ways to cut off expenses when traveling to more touristy places where daily expenses are expectedly higher.

Below are some of the ways to travel to Italy on a budget.

Saving on Airfare

Regardless of what airline you use, you have to keep in mind that the most expensive time of the year to fly to Italy is from the month of June up to the early part of September.

On the other hand, the cheaper, as well as less crowded time to travel, would be from the month of April to May as well as mid-September up to October. The lowest tourist season in Italy runs from the month of November to March (except the Christmas season) so you can expect the airfare to be at its lowest.

Airfare to Italy can vary significantly, and while you can randomly find highly discounted flights a few days before your trip, it can be a bit rare.

Make sure to have an early airplane reservation, especially if you are planning to travel in a group or as a family. If possible, choose to book an early-morning flight as that time is usually the cheaper rate.

Low Season Perks

On top of lower airfares, throughout the lean season, you can normally find promotional-priced group tours of major locations.

This is usually the case for tour companies that are selling services directly from street booths or their local offices – booking tours earlier could be a financial drawback during the low seasons. Hotel rates also usually go down during the lean seasons, especially in the month of November. A great thing to know when you are looking forward to booking the best places to stay in Italy on a budget.

When to Avoid Booking

Summer season is the high season in Italy so you can expect for everything from airfares to hotels and tours to be more expensive.

The time of the year you should entirely avoid, however, is the month of August. The number of tourists is really high, but locals usually go on lengthy holidays, usually extending it to early September. You are left with jam-packed streets and closed establishments. Public transports are usually slower, and shops don’t operate.

So, unless you are only planning to go to beach combing, do some outdoor activities, and be ready to deal with a lot of tourists, avoid traveling in August.

There are many travelers who are left disappointed knowing that a famous family-owned pizza place is closed during their visit.

Shopping and Eating Out

There’s a secret to saving when eating out in Italy. The meals on the mid-day menu are usually the cheapest. You are able to fill up at lunch, and try out some cheaper options such as pizza or by simply shopping at a food market for your meals. After all, trying out the local markets and ordering the local delicacies will give you a better feel for local life.

When buying souvenirs, you’ll always find that staying close to popular attractions; you’ll find the prices to be higher, if not double, or triple. Walk around, walk a little further and you will find the same item at a lower price tag.

Traveling to all these top places to visit in Italy on a budget is possible when you know where to go and know how to do it right.

Hopefully, this article has been helpful in finding ways how you can travel in this beautiful country without having to break the bank. Let us know your Italy budget tips in the comments below.

And, if you are too broke or can’t travel to Italy right now, check these 10 ideas to bring Italy to your home next. Enjoy!

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Top 10 Cheapest Places To Visit In Italy

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What are the 10 cheapest places to visit in Italy ?

Italy is one of the most popular European vacation destinations. A visit to this country will allow you enjoy picturesque cities, beautiful architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and great accommodations.

However, most people consider Italy to be one of the most expensive places in Europe. Of course with great popularity comes great expense.

However It’s always possible to explore new countries on a budget, but some areas are easier than others.

Located in northern Italy, Bologna is the vibrant capital of the Emilia-Romagna region .

Perfect for those who dream of the Florence arts and culture scene but are afraid of the crowds and the cost of staying there for a long time, Bologna is truly one of the cities that offers something for everyone.

On the one hand, there is the lifestyle of the rich and famous. Think fine dining, opera, and glitzy tech companies.

Once a haven for the rich and kings, Merano is an alpine town in northern Italy awaiting exploration and fun.

However, unlike similar towns in the north, Merano enjoys a temperate climate, with temperatures reaching around 10°C (50°F) in winter and up to 30°C (86°F) in summer.

There are Christmas markets, jazz festivals and even a wine festival celebrating the region’s famous red and white wines.

Cheapest Places in italy: Matera

Matera, located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, is said to be the third longest continuously inhabited human settlement in the world.

The first inhabitants are said to have arrived over 7,000 years ago.

Travelers can visit these original cave dwellings (known as Sassi di Matera ) for a glimpse into this ancient history, but you may already be familiar with them (2004) and Wonder Woman (2017), with their stunning scenery and antique aesthetics.

Widely known as one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, Noto, located 40 kilometers from Siracusa in Sicily, is a haven for history buffs, art and culture lovers and, of course, Italian splendor.

A dream come true for anyone looking for a relaxing vacation without breaking the bank.

Filled with piazzas, cathedrals, incredible Sicilian cuisine, and nature reserves, Noto is the perfect place to stroll through stunning Baroque architecture, take photos at Palazzo his Nicolas, or relax on the beach at Calamoche.

Cheapest Places in Italy: Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre can be considered one of the cheapest places in Europe as the price does not exceed 52 euros per day.

Known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it consists of five towns in the Ligurian Drift in northern Italy.

All five cities are very old and have incredible histories, but each has something absolutely unique. Cars are not allowed there, so be prepared to use public transportation.

Naples is one of the largest cities in the country and one of the oldest. It is also known for its excellent cuisine and numerous talented artists.

You should know that the historic center of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Naples is one of the richest and most famous archaeological sites in the world.

With so many beautiful castles, palaces and churches, you can stay busy for a long time. At first glance, the city may seem revolutionary, seedy and unloved.

But look closer and you’ll see beautiful scenery, frescoes and sculptures.

Cheapest Places in Italy: Sicily

When it comes to affordable places in Italy, Sicily is certainly one of them. If you want to save as much as possible, spending in Sicily is only 30 euros a day.

When traveling to Sicily, the first thing you need to do is plan your stay in Palermo . Being an island, Sicily has a wonderful coastline with many beautiful beaches.

The greatest of them are Golfo di Castellammare and Taormina . The island offers stunning views of distant hill towns, mountain ranges, grasslands and beautiful bulb fields.

Mount Etna is the island’s most popular attraction, an active volcano.

Promontorio del Gargano

Want to spend your next trip relaxing in one of Italy’s clifftop towns, surrounded by colorful houses and soothing sounds of the sea?

Cinque Terre may have been the first to come to mind, but many trips can say that the crowds and costs of visiting this particular scenic area have reconsidered.

Gargano, the boot-shaped ‘spur’ of Italy, juts out into the sea, with white limestone cliffs beneath beautiful bright pink houses.

Like Naples, Ancona at first glance looks like an unruly and gloomy city. However, it is actually very attractive and well worth the trip. Ancona is the capital of one of the most beautiful regions with a rich history.

A great way to explore parts of Italy and relax on the region’s beautiful beaches. The city has an incredible coastline with numerous white sandy beaches and sparkling azure waters.

Cheapest Places in Italy: Urbino

Art lovers rejoice: The UNESCO-listed city of Urbino was not only the birthplace of Raphael, but also home to a wealthy 15th-century family of architects and scholars.

Not surprisingly, the city quickly grew into a vibrant cultural center, housed in stunning buildings for people to learn and create.

The spirit of the Renaissance is alive and well in Urbino, with a university and several large squares, perfect for people-watching and relaxing with a really good Italian coffee.

Now that you know the most cheapest places in Italy, don’t miss the dedicated video and visit our  YouTube channel.

Top 10 Cheapest Places To Visit In Italy : The Video

Continue reading our  blog  and don’t forget to follow us on  YouTube !

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Italy is on the top of so many travelers’ bucket lists, and between its ancient history, famous art, and great food, it’s easy to see why. And while Italy is not the most expensive vacation, the cost of accommodations, food, transportation, and activities can definitely add up if you’re not careful. How much does an Italy trip cost anyway?

If you think that dream trip to Italy is out of your budget, these ideas will help you save money while still having the trip you always imagined. In this article you’ll find all the tips you need to plan an amazing trip to Italy on a budget.

How Much is a Trip to Italy?

I’ve asked my friend and fellow Italy lover Vanessa to share her best tips for how to travel to Italy cheap. So how much does a trip to Italy cost? The answer is it will vary depending on your travel choices. These are the tricks Vanessa used to backpack around Italy with her four kids for an entire month without breaking the budget – though that wasn’t her first visit and certainly won’t be her last. Vanessa will cover budget-friendly transportation options to and around Italy, how to save money on Italy trip accommodations, how to find cheap eats in Italy and more.

Want her expert guidance in planning your trip to Italy? You can get it all right here in her awesome 10-day Italy itinerary ! She gives you the skinny on the tours you need to take, the places you need to stay and (of course) the gelato you need to eat. Grab your copy here.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Italy:

Get an Easy Italy Itinerary

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Italy? This guide does the work for you!

Awesome hotels in Italy

• Rome :  Hotel Artemide
• Venice :  Palazzo Madonna
• Florence :  Hotel Santa Maria Novella
• Amalfi Coast:   Hotel Villa Garden
• Cinque Terre :   Il Sogno di Manarola
• Tuscany :  Agriturismo Farm Stay

Fantastic tours in Italy

• Rome Vespa Tour
• Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride
• Tuscany Tour from Florence
• Pompeii with an Archaeologist
• Cinque Terre Boat Cruise

Renting a Car in Italy?

If you want to see the Italian countryside, I recommend you drive yourself. We prefer to use  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars .  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available. Be sure to read these tips for renting a car in Italy .

Book a photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in photos since I’m always behind the camera. We use Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking at this link or using code FAMILYVOYAGE.

Be sure to buy travel insurance to protect yourself and your vacation expenses! Compare the top companies here to find the right plan for you.

If you are traveling to Italy from the USA, the cheapest way to get there on a paid ticket is to use Skyscanner to book a flight. Check various dates and several cities in Italy to find the best deal. Traveling during the off seasons, during spring and fall, often have cheaper prices too. Even better, open a Chase Sapphire Preferred , American Express or Capital One Venture X  credit card to earn points for your daily spending! The sign up bonus is enough to cover your round-trip ticket and the points can transfer to nearly a dozen different airline partners so you can be sure to find an awesome points redemption. You can use PointsYeah to get ideas for some creative point transfers to maximize your value. If you’re planning a budget family trip to Italy, be sure to check out the best credit cards for travel with a family .

Vacationing in Italy can be as cheap or as expensive as you make it. There are many ways to travel Italy on a budget from booking lodging outside the city to taking walking tours to eating at grocery markets.

Traveling Italy by train is more cheap and convenient than by car. In fact, traveling by car can be quite expensive for tourists.

Budgeting for a trip to Italy depends on many factors, such as where you will stay, how you will travel and how often, access to a kitchen for cooking meals, etc. I recommend you create a budget based on the amount you are willing to spend, then make your travel plans accordingly.

How to find cheap flights to Italy

One of the biggest ways to plan a cheap trip to Italy is to get a good deal on flights. Flights will generally be cheaper during the off-season, like fall and spring, and flying in mid-week, rather than the weekend, can also save you a lot of money. Those are the best times to travel to Italy cheap. It’s always good to be flexible with your dates if possible – sometimes incredible sales pop up!

For a cheap way to travel to Italy from the USA, look at all the major airports in Italy rather than restricting yourself solely to the city you want to visit. Many cities are just an inexpensive train ride away from each other, so flying into Milan and then taking the train to Venice, for example, may be much more cost-effective, and if you can fit that into your schedule, it’s a great way to see more of the country.

I recommend checking Skyscanner for ticket prices for the cheapest way to get to Italy. You can check the cost to travel to Italy by searching entire months to find the cheapest dates. You can set your destination to the entire country of Italy to see where the most economical routes are from your home airport. Click here to try it out – in my experience the web browser interface works better than the app.

Award travel is also an amazing way to get to plan a trip to Italy on a budget. Depending on the exact route you’re looking for, you can snag an award ticket to Italy for as little as 24,000 points plus taxes – no joke . I strongly recommend opening either the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve – they have great sign up bonuses and the Ultimate Rewards points you earn can transfer to almost a dozen partner airlines. You can also opt for an American Express card that earns Membership Rewards or a Capital One Venture X card.

Then hop into the Daydream Explorer and see what your options are! Having flexible dates and destinations within Italy can dramatically cut your flight costs. Just be sure to keep an eye on taxes, as some carriers pass on hefty fees for award tickets.

Cheapest way to travel in Italy

You can save a lot of money on your Italy vacation by being smart with your transportation options. The good news is that train travel in Italy is excellent and affordable. You can get almost anywhere by train quickly and efficiently.  See all the schedules and prices here.

Many people will tell you to buy a rail pass to save you the hassle of booking separate train tickets, but if you know where you’re going ahead of time, purchasing individual tickets is easy, and can actually save you a lot of money if you’re willing to do the cost comparison ahead of time. Another great way to save on the Italian trains is by using the regional trains vs. the high-speed trains.

Your experience traveling Italy by train will be much more pleasant if you minimize your luggage. Hopping on and off the train with a 50lb suitcase will make you crazy! Be sure to read this packing list to make sure you bring what you need without overdoing it.

How to travel Italy on a budget by car

If you’re traveling with a family or want flexibility to travel beyond the train routes, renting a car doesn’t have to be expensive. It’s often ideal to just rent a car for several days at a time rather than for your entire trip to Italy. For instance, you could rent a car when you’re leaving Florence and drop it off in Rome after a few days of exploring the Tuscan countryside. Click here to check prices for your dates.

Choosing the right car for your needs is important. While you may be tempted to save money by picking the smallest car, be sure there’s enough space for your luggage (another reason to pack light!). If you’ve never driven a manual transmission car before, you have two options: either pay a premium for an automatic transmission, or save money by learning to drive manual before your trip.

Driving in Italy can be expensive in some important ways and quickly blow your trip budget. The most significant unbudgeted expense for many visitors is traffic tickets! Many Italian cities and towns don’t allow visitors to drive in the ZTL – Zona Traffico Limitato . Every time you cross the line, you’re subject to a fine (often automatically photo-enforced). By avoiding city driving and being extremely careful at times when you don’t have an option, you can keep your “ZTL budget” in check.

Don’t miss these important tips for renting a car in Italy – they’ll save you money and stress . I promise!

Some premium travel-focused credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Capital One Venture X also include primary rental car insurance as long as you reject all coverage offered by the car rental company. If you have a different credit card, be sure to check the rules – many specifically exclude Italy.

More basic credit cards offer rental car coverage that is secondary, meaning your normal auto insurance provides the first line of coverage; be mindful of filing claims that can increase your auto insurance premium in the long run (especially if you have it bundled with your home owners insurance).

If you’re only interested in exploring the city centers or taking train-friendly day trips, you can skip the car altogether.

Traveling to Italy on a budget: Cheapest places to stay in Italy

Staying at the most popular locations in Italy like Rome, Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre, and the Amalfi Coast, are not going to be cheap. Don’t be afraid to explore other, lesser-known parts of the country to stay within your budget for an Italy trip.

Italy offers a huge range of accommodation styles – you can choose from hotels, vacation rentals and even agritourismos . To maximize your budget while also having a unique visit, I recommend mixing a few different types of stays into your itinerary.

As you plan your itinerary, just be sure to factor in transportation costs. Staying in a place that’s too far off the train routes will force you into renting a car, which may wind up costing more in the long run.

Read more: Where to go in Italy with kids

How to save on accommodations: Best places to stay in Italy on a budget

If you’re trying to plan an affordable tip to Italy, accommodation is probably where you’ll need your biggest savings. The price difference between a luxury hotel and a small vacation rental can be in the hundreds and even thousands of dollars.

My best tip is to consider staying outside the city center, while still factoring in your transportation needs. The closer you get to the more touristy part of the cities, the more expensive hotels and vacation rentals will be. It may be a hassle to trek into the city each day, but you’ll also get a more authentic experience during your stay. Having more locals and fewer tourists near your accommodations may also mean better, and more authentic food. 

Be sure to factor in the cost of local transportation to your budget. That includes transportation from the train station (with all your baggage in tow) in addition to daily transportation to tourist sites. If you’ll be arriving or departing by plane in a given city, check out the cost of ground transportation to the airport. Many airports in Italy are quite far from the city center, and if your accommodation is far away in the opposite direction you might obliterate your savings completely if you need to take a taxi because you have a lot of luggage.

You can use this handy map to find convenient places to stay in Italy on a budget:

Even better, you can use credit card points to stay for free at beautiful hotels in the city centers. Whether you transfer points from your Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card or Chase Sapphire Preferred , or use points earned on the World of Hyatt credit card directly (or both!) you’ll be able to book amazing properties without spending a dime. It’s the best way to snag a free hotel in Italy! Popular options that are a great value include Hyatt Centric Murano Venice, Hyatt Centric Milan Centrale and The Tribune in Rome.

Here’s a concrete example: If you stay at the Hyatt Centric Murano Venice during most dates November through March, the welcome bonus from any one of the credit cards linked above will cover you for 5 nights with no out of pocket cost.

Another option is the IHG One Rewards Premier credit card (or its business counterpart). The IHG family includes everything from reliable Holiday Inn to stylish Hotel Indigo to luxurious Intercontinental. There are 20+ hotel options to choose from all around Italy, and once you’ve held this credit card for a year you’ll receive a certificate for another free night even beyond what you earn through the welcome offer and daily spending.

Where to find cheap food in Italy

One of the biggest draws of Italy for many people is the food! From pasta to panini to pesto to Pannacotta to pizza, Italian food is incredible, and there are so many great places to eat in Italy without blowing your budget. You’d be surprised and what amazing food you can even discover at the grocery store. Eating frugal, but tasty, is a great way to plan a cheap Italy vacation.

The best way to avoid overpaying for food is to get away from the highly trafficked tourist areas. A restaurant with a view of the Colosseum in Rome is going to cost a lot more than one several blocks away. Watch out for a coperto charge, which is an extra cost for sitting in the restaurant to eat. It’s usually only a few Euros per person, but it can really add up, especially if you have a big group. The coperto charge will usually be listed on a menu, but be sure to ask if you’re not sure. 

You can always pop into a forno, or bakery, for pastries or a slice of focaccia or pizza for only a few Euros.  If you’re traveling with kids, this will be the easiest and most budget-friendly way to feed the littles an I promise you won’t be missing out because this stuff is delicious. 

Another way to travel cheap in Italy is to drink tap water. As a tourist, you will generally automatically be given bottles of drinking water, but if you’re comfortable with tap water, then go for it.

Read more: Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip

How to save on activities in Italy

There are a lot of tour options in Italy that can be a great way to see the country, but they do come at a cost, especially if you do several. It’s easy to explore Italy on your own without a tour guide. And even if you do want a tour guide, many cities in Italy offer free walking tours . 

There are also a lot of great free and cheap online museum guides that will walk you through Italy’s most famous museum and offer descriptions of many works of art. 

How to go to Italy for cheap: Italy travel insurance

Especially in this day and age, travel insurance is extremely important. No matter how diligent you’ve been in planning a budget-friendly trip to Italy, it would be terrible to lose the money you’ve laid out for advance bookings and deposits!

A premium travel credit card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve provides excellent coverage for things like trip interruption and lost luggage at no additional cost. There’s also a small amount of medical coverage.

Squaremouth is a great platform to compare travel insurance policies from top-level providers. We’ve used it for years to get the right plan for each trip! Check out their site for full information on coverage options .

Planning your budget trip to Italy

What is the cost of a trip to Italy? I recommend writing up your budget before planning your trip. Knowing exactly what you have available to spend will help you as you book your transportation, accommodations, activities, and even thinking about where and what you plan to eat. The great thing about Italy is that you don’t need to have a luxury trip to experience a beautiful, authentic Italy. 

Don’t miss these additional resources as you plan your trip to Italy:

• Renting a Car in Italy: La Dolce Vita on Four Wheels
• Where To Go In Italy With Kids [& Important Planning Tips]
• Fall capsule wardrobe for travel: what to pack for Italy in October
• 23 Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip

About Vanessa Vanessa Hunt is the voice behind Wanderlust Crew and I Heart Italy . She has spent months at a time backpacking around Europe with her four kids and currently calls California her home (again).

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How to travel to Italy on a budget

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written by Olga Sitnitsa

updated 20.12.2023

Discover the wonders of Italy on a budget with our in-depth travel guide. Find cost-effective ways to indulge in the beauty, culture and cuisine of this stunning destination. Here we share hints and tips on how to get the most out of your trip to Italy and ensure an unforgettable experience without compromising on your budget.

How much is a trip to Italy?

Cheap places in italy, where to stay in italy on a budget, find the cheapest time to go to italy, how to save on transportation, eat well on a budget in italy, free activities in italy, planning your trip to italy on a budget, tailor-made travel itineraries for italy, created by local experts.

8 days  / from 2646 USD

Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Stay in beautiful Taormina with gorgeous views of Mount Etna and discover Sicily, including famous filming locations. Go on exclusive wine tastings, discover the Greek theater in Taormina with a private guide, visit other Sicilian towns and enjoy the crystal clear water on this week-long trip.

8 days  / from 3289 USD

Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

16 days  / from 3289 USD

From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

The cost of a trip to Italy varies, allowing travellers to match the costs to their preferences. The average budget for a week-long visit can range from €1,300 to €2,600 per person, excluding airfare. This amount includes accommodation, meals, local transport and entertainment. 

Luxury travellers seeking a premium experience can incur costs of over €4,300 per person, while budget travellers who prefer more economical options can target between €40 and €80 per day. Costs depend on factors such as accommodation, meal preferences and the inclusion of excursions. Thoughtful planning will allow you to optimise your budget and at the same time explore Italy's rich offerings.

Planning a trip to Italy? Create an unforgettable itinerary with the help of our Italy travel experts .

Fountain Neptune in Bologna © Shutterstock

Italy is renowned for its diverse regions and abundance of historic cities, many of which are on almost any bucket list of attractions. However, it is worth noting that Rome , Milan or Venice will always be more expensive cities to visit because of their legendary heritage and enduring interest. Here are some alternative Italian destinations to consider when planning a holiday to Italy on a budget.

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

Located in the heart of Emilia-Romagna , Bologna is a charming city that is renowned not only for its architectural splendour but also for its budget appeal. Its lively streets are a vibrant mix of culture with a thriving student community, giving the city a youthful energy that further contributes to its reasonable prices. 

From charming trattorias to quaint markets, Bologna presents itself as a convenient budget-friendly destination where affordability and the richness of Italian life blend effortlessly.

Lecce, Puglia

Lecce , in the south of Puglia , is famous for its quaint old buildings and historic atmosphere. Compared to the more expensive towns in the north, it is also a more economical option for travellers. Stroll through its old streets, soak up the stories, and you'll find a place that requires less expense but has a lot of charm. 

With winding roads, old architecture and the laid-back atmosphere of southern Italy, in Lecce you'll get the historical beauty without the excessive costs, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to save money.

Sorrento, Campania

Situated along the stunning Amalfi Coast , Sorrento offers a refreshing twist on being surrounded by its affluent neighbours. Although the region often shows off its reputation as an upscale destination, Sorrento offers a more budget-friendly coastal holiday. 

Unlike the luxurious facades of neighbouring Positano, this charming town combines affordability with coastal appeal. Here, azure vistas and lemon-scented streets welcome visitors without the high price tag, making it the perfect golden means for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the coast without emptying their wallets.

Palermo, Sicily

Palermo , located in the heart of Sicily , beckons with a tapestry of cultural richness and historical treasures. Being  the capital of this charming island, there are many reasons to visit Palermo , as its streets tell a story of diverse influences, reflected in its architecture and lively markets. 

Compared to its mainland counterparts, Palermo allows travellers to immerse themselves in history, enjoy local flavours and wander the ancient streets without breaking the budget too much.

Matera, Basilicata

Nestled in the embrace of Basilicata , Matera beckons with its unusual cave dwellings and timeless architecture. Its fame is based on this ancient troglodyte settlement, a UNESCO gem embedded in the region's rugged landscape. Attracting tourists looking for historical wonders, Matera retains its charm without costing a fortune, being a more accessible gem among Italy's popular destinations. 

Here you can wander through narrow streets and limestone caves, discovering a preserved past that whispers stories of resilience. Matera's appeal lies not only in its historical riches but also in the fact that it offers an authentic experience at a fraction of the cost of more bustling tourist centres.

Perugia, Umbria

In the heart of Umbria , Perugia is a captivating blend of medieval splendour and vibrant cultural festivities. Its ancient architecture tells of a bygone era, inviting you to explore the narrow lanes and historic squares. 

Surrounded by rolling hills, this city exudes a serene charm while being a budget-friendly jewel in Italy's panorama. With a backdrop of lively festivals and arts events, Perugia offers a holiday in Italy on a budget that contrasts with the expense of the big Italian cities.

Rady for your adventure? Check our fully customisable Italy itineraries .

Sorrento in Italy © Shutterstock

Choosing an economical accommodation option when planning a holiday to Italy on a budget is one of the keys to saving money. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget accommodation options in Italy .

Italy boasts many charming B&Bs, especially in small towns and the countryside. These accommodation options often offer a cosy atmosphere, personalised service and hearty breakfasts, all at reasonable prices. Ideal for travellers looking for a comfortable but inexpensive stay with a touch of local hospitality.

Popular in cities and tourist centres, hostels are a budget option aimed at backpackers and budget travellers. Hostels with shared dormitories or private rooms provide a social atmosphere, making them a great place to socialise and share travel tips while keeping costs low.

Guesthouses/Pensions

Guest pensions and guesthouses are a compromise between hotels and hostels. These establishments, often run by families, offer a more intimate holiday experience. While offering private rooms, they retain affordability and a welcoming atmosphere, making them an excellent choice for those travelling in Italy on a budget.

Agriturismos

One of the unique yet budget-friendly accommodation options in Italy is agriturismos. Usually located in remote areas, these farms often offer the opportunity to immerse yourself more deeply in the local culture, enjoy home-cooked food and explore the countryside. Agriturismos are known for their accessibility and authentic connection to the region chosen for exploration.

Nature lovers can choose to stay at a campsite, which are numerous in Italy, especially in picturesque areas. From coastal areas to mountain retreats, campsites allow you to enjoy Italy's natural beauty at minimal cost. Many campsites offer basic facilities, making them an affordable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

For some budget options to stay in Italy, see our guides to the best places to stay in Venice , the best places to stay in Milan and the best places to stay in Rome .

Scenic sight in Lecce, Puglia (Apulia), southern Italy © Shutterstock

Choosing the right season to visit Italy will also help you save money. It should be taken into account that the most financially advantageous time to travel is outside of the peak tourist season when the demand for accommodation, excursions and meals decreases.

Consider travelling to Italy during the winter period (December to March) as this time can be more budget-friendly. While some regions, especially in the north, may not experience particularly attractive weather, temperatures remain relatively mild in southern areas such as Sicily and parts of the Amalfi Coast. There are also fewer tourists in winter, resulting in lower accommodation prices.

Travelling during shoulder seasons can also be quite profitable. Spring (April to mid-June) and early autumn (September to October) are considered shoulder seasons, when the weather is pleasant and the number of tourists is lower than during the peak summer months.

Apart from choosing the season, there are also a few tips to help you travel in Italy on a budget:

• Regardless of the season, travelling midweek (Tuesday to Thursday) is often cheaper than at the weekend. Airfare and accommodation prices may be lower, and attractions may be less crowded.
• Prices tend to rise during major holidays and events. If possible, plan your trip to avoid peak times such as Christmas, New Year, Easter and major local festivals.
• Being flexible with your travel dates will help you find the best deals. Use flexible date options when booking flights to find the cheapest days to fly.

Also, for a deeper understanding of the seasons and weather in Italy, read our comprehensive guide to the best time to visit Italy .

Palermo, Sicily © Shutterstock

Italy, with its rich cultural heritage, beckons travellers to explore its diverse regions and picturesque landscapes. While the country's appeal is undeniable, the costs involved can affect the overall experience. Here are some tips for saving money on transport in Italy.

Cheap flights to & around Italy

Discovering the charms of Italy often starts with finding affordable airfares. Being flexible with your travel dates and booking well in advance can help you find good deals. Consider low-cost airlines in Europe, which can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional carriers.

Cheap car hire in Italy

Exploring the Italian countryside or travelling to less touristy regions can be conveniently done by renting a car in Italy . To save money on car hire, compare prices at different rental agencies and book your car in advance. Local car rental companies can offer competitive prices, and choosing a pick-up and drop-off location in the city centre can contribute to overall savings.

Italy train passes

Travelling by train is an essential part of the Italian experience. Consider the regional train passes for specific areas to save money on travelling in certain regions. Booking tickets during off-peak hours and buying them well in advance can help you get discounted fares, especially on high-speed trains.

Italian buses

Long-distance buses operated by companies such as FlixBus and Megabus are an economical alternative to travelling by train. Meanwhile, city buses are a budget-friendly option for travelling around the city.

Public transport in cities

Italian cities often sell passes that provide unlimited access to public transport, which is very convenient if you visit the city frequently. In addition, by choosing to walk or cycle around the city you will not only enhance your cultural experience but also save a little money.

Matera, Italy ©  Stefano_Valeri/Shutterstock

Famed for its delicious cuisine, Italy doesn't have to be a burden on your wallet. Dive into the country's culinary riches while keeping your budget in check with these savvy tips:

• Shop at local markets and grocery shops: Local markets offer fresh produce, cheeses and cured meats at a good price. You can also pack a picnic in the grocery shops inexpensively or prepare simple meals in apartments with a kitchen.
• Choose trattorias and osterias: Favour trattorias and osterias over upscale restaurants. These charming eateries often serve authentic, locally inspired dishes at a lower price than tourist-orientated establishments.
• Pay attention to the daily specials and lunch menu: Benefit from the daily specials and lunch menus offered by many restaurants. This is a common practice in Italy, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals at reduced prices during certain hours.
• Explore street food: Explore Italy's diverse street food scene. From pizza by the slice to regional specialities such as arancini or panzerotti, street vendors offer tasty options at an affordable price.
• Avoid tourist hotspots: Dine away from the tourist spots where prices tend to be inflated. Walk a little further into neighbourhoods to discover hidden gems that are cherished by locals and offer authentic dishes at lower prices.

Perugia Italy © Shutterstock

With abundance of things to do in Italy , you will have many opportunities to immerse yourself in its beauty withoutspending a fortune. Here are some delightful free activities to make the most of your holiday in Italy on a budget:

Join a free walking tour

Many cities in Italy offer free walking tours led by knowledgeable locals. These tours introduce the history, architecture and hidden attractions of the city while allowing you to set your own budget for tips.

Enter museums for free

Some museums in Italy offer free admission on certain days or times. Research the museums you plan to visit and take advantage of these opportunities to experience Italy's rich art and history without spending a euro.

Enjoy street festivals

Experience the lively atmosphere of the street festivals that often take place in Italian cities and towns. Whether energetic parades or cultural celebrations, these events offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions and enjoy entertainment - all without having to buy tickets.

Soak up the magnificent scenery

Italy is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world for a reason, as its landscapes are an unrivalled masterpiece of nature. Whether you're strolling through historic cities, wandering along coastal paths or travelling through the countryside, the breathtaking scenery is completely free to discover. Admire the beauty of the Amalfi Coast , the rolling hills of Tuscany or the stunning lakes in the north of the country.

Visit world-famous churches

Italy is home to awe-inspiring churches and cathedrals, many of which allow free entry. Explore the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City or marvel at the intricate details of the Florence Cathedral. These sacred sites offer a glimpse into Italy's religious and architectural heritage at no cost.

Piazza San Pietro in Vatican City © Shutterstock

Planning a trip to Italy on a budget can be a daunting task due to the abundance of opportunities this truly majestic country has to offer. This is where our tailor-made travel service come to your rescue.

You can choose from our customisable Italy itineraries or contact our Italy local travel experts who will take into account all your wishes and preferences and create a unique trip customised for you.

I you prefer to plan your trip yourself, get a copy of The Rough Guide to Italy and make sure to read our I taly travel tips .

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Where to go

Cheap places in italy (with a beach).

By Italy Genius

August 4, 2021

From pebble beaches to sandy beaches, beaches tucked between cliffs to forests that open onto beaches, Italy has it all. With 7500 km of coastline, there certainly is no shortage if you’re looking for sunshine and swims. But can you afford to go there?

Beaches account for 3240km of Italy’s coastline. Many of these are public, both on the Tyrrhenian and the Adriatic Seas. While some areas are well-known for their beaches and have become costly to stay around, there are a number of budget-friendly options. 

In case you need evidence, it’s all provided for you here. All your questions about where to plan your next dream-worthy beach vacation, as well as how beaches in Italy work, and tips on saving during your holiday are answered below. You’ll be wiping away the drool and scrambling to book before you’ve finished reading.

Best affordable beaches in Italy

Often when we’re on a bit of a budget, we think that a beach holiday is perfect: you can relax on the beach and be outdoors in nature, not spending any money and just enjoying what the natural surrounds have to offer, soaking up the sun and the gorgeous views. 

Then when you start looking into it, the prices of accommodation at the beach are high – duh, they’re in a prime location, why didn’t you think of that?! So then you look at accommodation further away, but that requires hiring a car. The restaurants along the beachfront all have killer views and killer prices to go with them. Some of the beaches are paid, some require boats to take you there, and before you know it, it’s not looking like such a cheap holiday, and you consider going somewhere else or just canceling altogether. 

But this isn’t necessary! Whether you’re planning a full-on beach holiday in Italy or have a little bit of excess budget to spend and just want to spend some days unwinding there before or after your other vacation plans, you have options that will work even on a tight budget. And we’re not necessarily talking about camping, although there are some fantastic options for camping close to some very beautiful beaches on exclusive parts of the country’s coastline.

The following places are all lesser-known to international tourists and not the go-to places when thinking of holidays in Italy. This does not detract from their beauty nor history and makes for a memorable trip, with the option to go back next year again with all the money you’ve saved!

With heaps of charm and pristine waters, this is a great pick for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts alike, with the gentle breeze making it ideal for windsurfers. White sandy beaches and conveniently located hotels make Otranto a great off-the-beaten-track destination. 

• Santa Maria Castellabate

Built on the water’s edge, this fishing village can tell tales as old as time. Punta Licosa has some of the clearest water on this coast, making it an excellent spot for diving. It is also popular for fishing, in case that’s on your itinerary too!

Beautiful sunsets, sandy beaches, clear water, and affordable beach clubs make this an economical and fun place to visit. Enjoyed by locals, this ancient fishing village is full of history too. 

With cliff-backed white sandy beaches, warm water, and plenty of water sports, Tropea is a paradise for beachgoers seeking beauty and budget. Enjoying a long summer and offering a number of public beaches, this little pearl is a must-visit.

With clean water and fine sand, this is a popular spot for locals, so arrive early if you’re aiming to get a spot on a public beach. When hotels are available for one hundred euros per night for a double, in close proximity to beaches and restaurants, it’s a bargain that shouldn’t be passed up!

With clear waters and long beaches along the Adriatic coast, this destination is less frequented by international visitors and well-priced, even during the high season. Still popular with locals, particularly Romans, it is advisable to still book well in advance for this gem. Soft sand and excellent local cheese and wine abound on this part of the shoreline.

• Cupra Marittima

A blue flag beach, this is a popular destination for locals. With a wide, sandy beach that extends to the neighboring town, water sports are encouraged, while ball games on the beach are not, making it safe from getting in the way of flying objects! Tranquil, with a handful of restaurants, this beach is economical and generally quieter, apart from August.

The third-largest city in Italy, this is one of Europe’s most important ports. A little rough around the edges, Naples is full of history and the pizza capital of the world. With amazing fresh food from the area, this stretch of coastline offers some budget beaches, as well as access to some of Europe’s most popular exclusive coastline close enough for day trips, without the expense of staying there. 

With wonderful weather and your pick of white sandy beaches, particularly to the south, this historic port city offers a superb beach holiday. With a combination of modern and historic buildings, this gem is also a great city to explore when you need a break from the beach.

With an expansive coastline, Sicily has many beaches to offer, notably at Golfo di Castellammare and Taormina. The average cost of stays here is much lower than in mainland Italy, and one can get by even on a shoestring budget of thirty euros per day. 

How do beaches in Italy work?

Beaches in Italy can be either public or private. Public beaches, particularly those near to big cities, are not always well-maintained and can be crowded, dirty, and loud, without the additional amenities you may hope to have access to on a beach. Private beaches require a small fee and are well looked after. Your fee goes towards keeping the beach clean and providing you with sun loungers, an umbrella, showers and sometimes toilets, changing rooms, and a bar or restaurant. There is often a lifeguard on duty and private beaches and a closing time.

Despite the distinction between the two, no one can stop you from walking through either or charge you a fee for doing so. The space is public, and if you’re going for a walk and need to cross an area of a private beach, you cannot be charged for doing so. In general, there are more public beaches in the south. Usually, even beaches that are private do have a public area, most commonly at one or both ends of the beach. 

Beaches in Italy are rated using the international blue flag system. This takes into consideration various environmental, safety, and accessibility criteria, including water quality. There are numerous Blue Flag status beaches in Italy, so have a look at where they are before planning your trip.  

Italians usually get to the beach fairly early, between 8-10 am, and then try to avoid the hottest part of the day. Leaving by lunchtime and returning late afternoon until sunset or closing time, Italians only get the best parts of a beach day. Beaches in Italy tend to be smaller, so don’t expect miles of sandy white stretches. Many of them are also pebbly rather than sandy. This is great for not leaving the beach with sand everywhere!

The pebbles also mean that it is advisable to take shoes with you and use a sun chair on the beach. Besides shoes, you are expected to dress when leaving the beach. While on the beach, locals often take an extra swimsuit to have a dry change of outfit for once they’ve come out of the water. This is cultural and a matter of personal preference…speaking of which so is topless tanning, which is allowed on public beaches and not uncommon. 

Where should I go on a budget in Italy?

There are several cities that are great for traveling on a budget. Perhaps you’re looking to make your whole trip on a fairly strict budget, maybe you can’t stand the heat of the beach for very long, or you might just be looking for variety in your holiday itinerary. Whatever the reason, if you’d like to explore more of Italy while avoiding the most expensive and crowded regions, have a look at some of these ideas for holidays that won’t break the bank.

Famous for wine and truffles, this beautiful countryside has castles, food, and plenty of paths and bicycle ways for those getting around on foot or by bike. A wonderful region to explore, this is a good option for off-season visits too. 

Matera is like taking a trip back in time. As Italy’s culture capital of 2019, parts of this city are a protected UNESCO site, as it is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Wines and olives produced locally also mean a delectable culinary experience, all with a lower price tag than the more popular cities.

Molise is a hidden treasure. For those who’ve been to Italy before and want something different, this region has mountains, beaches, medieval villages, and castles waiting to be explored. 

Puglia is one of the best deals in Italy. It has beaches, amazing food and wine, great weather, and many of its old historic farmhouses have been converted into accommodation. Within this region, Polignano a Mare and Alberobello are great spots, as is Maria di Leuca, offering dreamy beaches, coves, and views over the Adriatic and Ionian seas. 

Bologna has everything from opera and fine dining to street art and cheap drinks. A mecca of history and culture, this city is also the unofficial food capital of Italy and offers something for everyone. 

Whether you decide to go beach or city is up to you – you won’t really go wrong either way, so it’s just a matter of what type of holiday you’d like to have and the sorts of activities you’re looking for. For those who are set on a relaxing beach vacation, keep reading for ways to keep those purse strings firmly shut.

Tips for saving on your beach holiday

It’s easy to let the numbers add up for a beach holiday, as you get more and more tempted to buy little add-ons or get caught out last minute by having to pay higher prices. However, with some planning ahead and a little research, it is easy to keep costs down and enjoy a gorgeous beach holiday along Italy’s magnificent coastline on a budget with the following tips. 

• Book out of season. The summer months, particularly August, are the height of peak season. Beaches will be most crowded, hotels and flights most expensive, and restaurants most packed. By booking in April-May or September-October, you will avoid the bulk of the crowds and the higher prices that accompany them. Flights will be less (and possibly less frequent, so plan in advance), and the cheaper accommodation will more likely be available and not totally booked up.
• Eat your main meal at midday. This is when the meals are usually cheaper at restaurants, particularly the set menus. If you fill up over lunch, you can get away with just a light snack at dinner, either from your local store or a market with fresh produce. This is also a great opportunity to try out fresh local ingredients yourself. Put together a picnic or prepare something tasty in your accommodation. Whatever you decide, it is not necessary to eat out at both lunch and dinner.
• Go to the free public beaches. Yes, the private ones may look tempting, but you can do without the facilities. Your accommodation might have beach chairs to lend you, and you can go back there to shower. Some of the most beautiful beaches are public or have public areas on them, and unless they’re remote, will have small cafes or bistros within walking distance nearby.
• Pack a picnic. If you don’t want to eat out at lunchtime, get some fresh bread, meat, cheese and fruit, throw it into a bag, and head to the beach. You’ll be able to snack at your leisure, at a fraction of the cost.
• Stick to one course in a restaurant. While Italians usually have multiple courses in one meal, and it is tempting to try everything, pick a filling dish such as a pizza or pasta and make that your single course meal. You will not be hungry afterward, and it’s a great way not to overeat, which is so easy to do in Italy!
• Stay somewhere self-catering. With meals not included, you’re likely to pay less than a resort or hotel with meals built into the cost of your stay. Additionally, there are often cooking facilities, and if you choose carefully, even a little terrace or garden, so preparing food from the local market is easy to do at home, and you’ll have somewhere to enjoy it. 
• Consider camping if you have equipment. While it is impractical to rent all your camping gear from scratch if you are driving from across the border somewhere, camping is a great option, and even traditionally more expensive parts of the country such as the Amalfi coast have great camping options. You’ll find some within walking distance to the beach, but others require a car to get to nearby beaches. 
• Research ahead of time. Check out what is in your local area or the accessible surroundings. Plan to visit different beaches or natural parks to keep some variety in your itinerary so that you don’t feel bored and tempted to spend money on other entertainment. 

With so much to offer budget holidaymakers, Italy has something for everyone. There is no need to miss out on beautiful, free blue flag beaches because of your budget – it just takes a little extra planning. Now that you know what’s out there, you can have your beach and lie on it!

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Best places to visit in italy.

Tourists and travel experts have long agreed that Italy is a special place, so much so that the country has become a de facto bucket list destination for just about everyone. Famous for its incredible food, rich historical sites, highly regarded art, charming small towns and picturesque cities, countrysides and coastlines, it's safe to say Italy's offerings are unmatched. U.S. News rounded up the best places to visit in Italy considering a number of factors, from affordability and seasonality to sights and crowds, to help you decide exactly where to go. Have a favorite destination in Italy? Cast your vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Amalfi Coast

Cinque terre, tuscany, italy.

A standard stop on many European vacation itineraries , Rome is not to be missed. Italy’s capital city is a globally renowned cultural and historical powerhouse, boasting everything from ancient ruins and tranquil parks to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here, you'll find the most important relic from the Roman Empire (the Colosseum), some of Michelangelo's greatest works (in the Sistine Chapel), an 18th century Baroque-style fountain (the Trevi Fountain) and, of course, the center of Catholicism (Vatican City). Other can’t-miss tourist attractions in the Eternal City include the Pantheon, the Roman Forum and St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church.

Situated in the scenic Tuscan valley, Florence woos travelers with old-world avenues leading to picturesque piazzas big and small. While you're soaking up the city's splendor, make sure to stop by the Piazza del Duomo, where the breathtaking Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is located, and the romantic Ponte Vecchio, a 14th century bridge overlooking the Arno River. Once central to the Renaissance movement, Florence also offers art aficionados the opportunity to see famous pieces by Michelangelo and other iconic artists of that period. As an added bonus, Florence is ideal for a daytrip to the Chianti wine region.

The journey to the cliff-side Amalfi Coast involves heart-stopping, hairpin turns on narrow roads, but travelers agree this is part of the fun. The region covers more than 30 miles of coastline and is home to 13 colorful seaside towns, each with its own story. Positano and Amalfi are the most popular, housing numerous hotels and sights. While here, hike, relax on the beach and eat to your heart's content (there are multiple Michelin-starred restaurants along the Amalfi Coast). For something more off-the-beaten-path, set your sights on Atrani. This humble fishing village boasts medieval whitewashed architecture, winding alleys and authentic Italian charm.

There are few destinations in the world that are quite like Venice. Its uniqueness can largely be attributed to the canals that run through this northern Italian city like roads, carrying water taxis and buses in addition to its fleet of famous gondolas. As such, there is a palpable bustle here that may surprise some first-timers. For a relaxing Venice vacation, seek out the smaller streets and canals away from the busy Grand Canal and St. Mark's Square. Just be sure to stroll across Rialto Bridge and tour the grand St. Mark’s Basilica at least once.

Cinque Terre, located on Italy's northern Ligurian coast, is made up of five picturesque towns – Manarola, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia and Riomaggiore. Manarola, the region’s oldest town, boasts scenic vineyards, olive groves and a centuries-old bell tower. Meanwhile, Vernazza, often considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, is well-known for its picture-perfect houses and grand medieval castle. The Cinque Terre offers an abundance of exciting activities, from boat tours and hiking to cooking classes and wine tastings. While here, don’t forget to save time for exploring the cliff-side Footpath Monterosso trail, a beautiful hiking path connecting Vernazza and Monterosso.

For centuries, this small island off the coast of southern Italy has attracted plenty of famous faces, from emperors to movie stars, due to its gorgeous scenery. Some of Capri's most amazing sights are best seen by boat, including the Faraglioni rock formations and the Blue Grotto, where sunlight turns the water into an unbelievably vivid shade of blue. On land, the Gardens of Augustus and Villa Jovis, an imperial palace, also provide spectacular views. Meanwhile, in the town center, visitors will find high-end shops and restaurants where they can relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Considered the land of the sirens in Greek mythology, Sorrento continues to lure people with its charm and stunning views. Here, vacationers can explore enchanting piazzas or relax near the water before watching the sun set behind the cliffs. Plus, lemons are big in Sorrento – both in size and in popularity – and the area is known as one of the best places in the world to taste authentic limoncello, a lemon-flavored liquor. It's also the perfect base for daytrips and boat tours to nearby Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and other popular Italian locales.

Italy's second-largest city is best known for its high fashion, playing host to Milan Fashion Week each winter and home to iconic fashion houses including Giorgio Armani, Prada and Versace. Visitors can peruse such high-end brands at the dazzling Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade. But Milan's architecture (including the Gothic Milan Cathedral and grand Teatro alla Scala opera house) and sites like Castello Sforzesco (which holds nearly 10 museums and exhibitions) are worth a visit on their own. What's more, the city is incredibly walkable, so feel free to explore on foot – with or without designer stilettos.   

Located about 30 miles from Verona, Lake Garda tends to be more approachable and wallet-friendly (if a bit more touristy) than Lake Como. Activities in this recreational hot spot include swimming and windsurfing, as well as hiking and taking a funicular to Mount Baldo. Lake Garda also attracts families with Gardaland Resort, which includes themed hotels as well as an amusement park, water park and aquarium. If you're looking to get away from the crowds, go beyond the main tourist sites to the quieter northern side of the lake, where you'll find the highest mountains and tucked-away towns.

If you're looking for Italy without the crowds, Tuscany is really all it's cracked up to be. Italy's famous countryside offers travelers spectacular landscapes dotted with romantic villas and castles equipped with wineries and superb restaurants. Don’t miss out on a visit to the walled city of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its medieval towers. What's more, Tuscan locales like Pisa (which offers much more than its leaning tower) and Siena are an easy drive from top destinations such as Bologna and Cinque Terre, perfect for daytrippers who don't want to stay in one place for too long.

Assisi, a medieval town with religious connections, sits on a hilltop in the lush landscapes of Umbria, just more than 100 miles north of Rome. This peaceful town's biggest draws are its sights dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, one of Italy's patron saints, including the Basilica of San Francesco, which houses his tomb as well as colorful frescos, and The Woods of San Francesco. Beyond its religious heritage, Assisi is worth a visit for its picturesque streets and sweeping views, while its location also makes it ideal for a truffle hunting excursion or wine tasting tour.

As the location of several ancient Greek legends, Sicily has an almost mythical quality. Once you visit for yourself, you'll see why so many writers were inspired by this island, which happens to be the largest in the Mediterranean. Be enchanted by Sicily's crystal-clear waters and golden beaches. Marvel at Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, or try hiking up it in summer or skiing down it in winter. Also save time for taking in the many cultures that have called this island home at its various cathedrals and archaeological sites.

This former Roman city in southern Italy is equal parts chilling and impressive. Pompeii was left almost completely intact after it was buried in ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. Its astonishingly well-preserved ruins now provide present-day visitors a glimpse into what life was like during ancient times. True history buffs might also enjoy a trip to nearby Herculaneum, another city that was preserved by the same eruption, while more adventurous explorers should consider hiking to the top of Mount Vesuvius for jaw-dropping panoramas of the Bay of Naples and the Sorrento Peninsula.

Best known for its Shakespeare ties, Verona appeals to fans of "Romeo and Juliet" with themed tours of the sights that allegedly inspired the play. But there is more to this city than its literary link. Verona, located about 15 miles east of Lake Garda, is also home to several impressive attractions and historic buildings (the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, after all). Travelers won't want to miss the Arena di Verona, a first-century Roman amphitheater that is still in use, and Giardino Giusti, a beautifully sculpted Renaissance garden.

Sardinia provides the best of both worlds. Costa Smeralda is all about luxury, with its lush beaches and coves overlooking yacht-filled waters. And away from all of the glitz and glamour of Costa Smeralda, you'll find a more laid-back side of the island, including small medieval towns where Sardinians still practice sheepherding and wear traditional clothing. What's more, Sardinia features several ancient ruins, such as UNESCO World Heritage-listed Su Nuraxi di Barumini.

If you really want to treat yourself on your next vacation, Lake Como is where you want to be. Here, opulent villas and hotels line the shores and sandy beaches beckon to sun seekers. You'll see sleek sailboats and speedboats coasting in the middle of the lake, which is the perfect place to admire the region's surrounding hills. Meanwhile, for a lesson in luxury, tour one of the region’s grand villas; top picks among travelers include Villa Melzi d’Eril, Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello. Later, check out the Como Cathedral, a magnificent structure boasting Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles.

The small, crescent-shaped village of Portofino is known as a vacation hot spot for the rich and famous. The water surrounding Portofino is often filled with yachts and is great for swimming and diving. Plus, the area's beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an excellent place to unwind. When travelers need a break from relaxing, they can venture just outside of Portofino to check out historical sites like Castello Brown, an ancient military fortress with incredible views of the Marina di Portofino, and Abbazia di San Fruttuoso, a 10th century monastery that can only be reached by foot or ferry.

Thought to have been inhabited 12,000 years ago, Matera is one of the world's oldest continually occupied towns. Located in the Basilicata region in southern Italy, just west of Puglia, Matera's distinguishing features are its sassi (cave dwellings), which were inhabited until the 1950s. While here, look out for the many viewpoints, called belvederes, for a glimpse of the breathtaking cliffside. Visit Sasso Caveoso for the Casa Grotta cave house (inhabited until 1957) and the Santa Maria de Idris, a rupestrian church carved from the rocky landscape. Meanwhile, in Sasso Barisano – the oldest part of the city – you'll find modern comforts like hotels, restaurants and shops.

There are several reasons why Bologna, the capital of northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is often called "la dotta, la grassa e la rossa" ("the learned, the fat and the red"). For one, it's home to the oldest university in Europe, the University of Bologna. The city is also a food lover's dream thanks to its world-renowned cuisine, which includes Italian staples like tortellini and lasagna Bolognese. Bologna even features a gelato university and the food-themed amusement park, FICO Eataly World. Plus, the city boasts an array of terra cotta-roofed medieval buildings, including a pair of leaning towers.

Located in the northwest corner of Italy, Turin is the perfect city break brimming with grand architecture, museums and delightful cuisine. Must-visit attractions include Mole Antonelliana (a former synagogue turned into a cinema museum), the 16th-century Royal Palace of Turin and the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum). Once you've toured the top sights, settle into local life by enjoying the city's riverside parks, street markets, football games and historic cafes. At the latter, you'll find unique coffee blends and decadent chocolate, as well as elaborate aperitif hours. On the long list of things Turin does right, you can find these three items at the top.   

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13 Cheapest Places to Live in Italy

When you think of the cheapest places to live in Europe, you may be surprised that Italy made the list, even though it has some of the highest prices in south-central Europe.

However, it’s still possible to live in Italy on a budget if that is truly what your dream is.

So, if relocating to Italy is on your bucket list, this guide will provide you with the cheapest and most affordable cities in Italy to consider living in.

The places on this list are nearly half of what you would pay compared to Florence , Rome , Venice , or Milan .

4. Campobasso

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Surprisingly, out of all the other larger cities in Italy, Naples is the most affordable to live in.

Naples is located in the southern region of the Bay of Naples.

Naples is also known as being the third-largest town in Italy, following Milan and Rome.

The overall cost of living in Naples is $1,400.

Naples has a population of 1 million people and is infamous for its excellent food, ancient buildings, and amazing culture.

Naples is the official home of pizza.

No matter where you decide to live in Naples, you can count on a decent cost of living if you’re contemplating renting an apartment.

Some attractions in Naples to check out include the Capri and Blue Grotto Day Tour, Capri Boat Day Trip, and Ova Castle.

Pescara is also worth adding to your list of towns to check out in Italy that offers affordable living.

The population of Pescara is 120,000 and is known as a resort city.

Pescara is situated right on the Adriatic Sea.

It’s also known as the biggest town in the Abruzzo region.

Pescara’s overall cost of living is $1,300 per month. Pescara is located close to the Apennine mountains.

Winters tend to be quiet in Pescara, while summers are much busier and more lively.

If you’re looking for a relaxed life at a great price, Pescara is the perfect city.

Pescara also offers plenty of attractions, including the Nature Reserve Pineta Dannunziana, Ponte del Mare, and Gabriele D’Annunzio’s Birthplace Museum.

Approximately 47,000 people call Rieti home.

It is known as being an ancient Roman city, but it is also quite affordable.

It is situated within the Lazio region in the central part of the country.

The overall cost of living in Rieti is $1,100 per month.

Compared to Rome, the cost of living in Rieti is just a fraction of the cost of living there.

Rieti offers plenty of attractions to check out, including the Franciscan Sanctuary Fonte Colombo , the Teatro Comunale, and the Navel of Italy.

Campobasso is another town in Italy to consider moving to if you’re looking for an affordable cost of living.

Campobasso is the largest town in the Molise region and is also the capital city.

It’s located just a few hours from Rome and a couple of hours from Naples.

You’ll also be located near some of the biggest attractions in the country.

The overall cost of living in Campobasso is $1,040.

The town is also excellent for those who prefer to rely on public transit.

It’s truly a hidden gem.

Some of the most popular attractions in Campobasso are the Museo dei Misteri, the Savoy Theater, and the Monforte Castle.

Lecce has a population of 95,000 and is also known as one of the cheapest cities in all of Italy.

It’s situated within the Apulia region and is infamous for its baroque buildings.

The overall cost of living in Lecce is $1,398 per month.

The cost of living is much lower in the winter when tourists are not visiting.

The further you move inland away from the Adriatic coast, the cheaper rent is.

You’ll find plenty of amazing monuments, museums, palaces, and churches in Lecce.

Moreover, Lecce is sometimes called the “Florence of the South.”

If you have a soft spot in your heart for architecture and history, you are going to fall in love with Lecce.

Just about 55,000 people are living in Avellino, and it is also a very affordable place to live.

It’s a charming small town located in the southern region of Campania.

It’s also located only 31 miles from Naples.

If you adore mountains, you will love Avellino, since much of the city is surrounded by them.

But what about the cost of living?

Avellino’s cost of living is $1,016 per month.

There are also plenty of attractions in Avellino, including the Museo Irpino, Country Sport Avellino, and Pompeii Archaeological Park.

Benevento’s population is 60,000 and has an overall cost of living of $1,000 per month.

It’s also located just 30 miles from Naples.

Much of the city is surrounded by the Appennine hills.

Compared to other towns nearby, Benevento offers a much lower cost of living.

Benevento sits right between the Calore and Sabato rivers.

And while Benevento is not a popular tourist town, various ancient Roman monuments are worth checking out.

But don’t forget to check out other attractions around town, including the Museum of Sannio, the Roman Theater, and the Royal Palace of Caserta.

Matera is a true gem and also worth noting if you’re looking for affordable towns in Italy.

It’s much slower-paced than other towns in Italy.

It’s also considered a historical town.

The overall cost of living in Matera is $1,143 per month.

Matera dates back 5,000 years and is probably one of the oldest places in the country.

It is known for having modern cave hotels and amazing scenery.

Some top attractions in Matera include the Sassi di Matera, Paombaro Lungo, and the Parco Regionale Della Murgia Materana.

Cosenza has a population of 60,000 and a cost of living of $1,000 per month, thus making it one of the cheapest places to live in Italy.

It’s another ancient town with a lot of history, located in the southern region of Italy.

It’s best known for its rich culture.

There are plenty of things to do in Cosenza, including medieval squares, craft shops, and more.

The town comes to life, particularly in the evenings.

In addition, you’ll find plenty of monuments, libraries, museums, and theaters.

Cosenza is home to the University of Calabria.

Crotone is another town worth adding to the list for you to consider, as it offers an affordable cost of living.

The population of Crotone is 64,000.

And while it’s a small town, it attracts many tourists due to its overall location and atmosphere.

Crotone is situated along the southern coast of Italy.

The overall cost of living in Crotone is $1,292 per month.

Crotone has a rich history and plenty of monuments around the town.

If you’re looking for an affordable, quiet location situated along the beach, Crotone is the perfect city.

Some well-known attractions in Crotone include the National Archaeological Museum of Crotone, Castello di Carlo V, and the Lido Kursaal Crotone.

Reggio Calabria is a large town located in the Calabria region.

It’s home to about 200,000 people and is considered a very affordable town.

It’s also one of the oldest towns in the region, as it’s still a major port for ferries and trains traveling to Sicily.

The overall cost of living in Reggio Calabria is just $968 per month.

Reggio is also considered an important hub for trade.

For those looking for top attractions in Reggio Calabria, check out the Museo Nazionale Della Magna Grecia, Castello Aragonese, and the Palace of Culture.

Next on the list for being one of the most affordable towns in Italy is Catanzaro.

The town has a population of 91,000 and an overall cost of living of $1,173 per month.

Catanzaro is known for being one of the best towns to live in the Calabria region.

It’s also referred to as the “City of the Two Seas.”

Because of its high altitude and geographic location, it’s also a windy city.

Living in Catanzaro is not only cheap, but it also gives you easy access to the beach.

Top attractions in Catanzaro include Musmi, Teatro Politeama, and Marca-Museo Della Art di Catanzaro.

Finally, Syracuse is last on the list for being one of the cheapest places to live in Italy.

It’s a rather large town, with nearly 125,000 people living in it.

It’s also known as a historic town, located in Sicily.

It’s infamous for having a rich Roman and Greek history and architecture.

The overall cost of living in Syracuse is $1,308 per month.

It’s a town that has been around for thousands of years and is one of the most visited places in all of Sicily.

Top attractions in Syracuse include Arethusa Spring, Ear of Dionysius, and the Greek Theater.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Italy Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: LOW
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
• SCAMS RISK: HIGH
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Frequently Asked Questions

The average cost of living for just one person in Italy is $1,715 a month.

Couples living in Italy need at least $1,920 to live comfortably in Italy.

If you’re considering moving to smaller towns in Italy, you can probably get away with paying close to $1,300 per month, and $1,500 for couples.

Yes, living in Italy is much more affordable compared to living in the United States.

Overall, the cost of living in Italy is 6% lower compared to the United States.

Moreover, the average rent paid in Italy is 51% cheaper than in the U.S.

You will probably need at least $500 per month for food while living in Italy.

This amount is for both eating out and buying groceries.

For transportation, costs in Italy can range anywhere between $40 and $55 per month.

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How to Get Around Italy on a Budget

• Planning your trip

April 29, 2020

Trying to save money on transportation in Italy? Don’t worry — it is possible!

What your cheapest transportation option is depends completely, of course, on what your specific plans are — and what deals you can find. That said, there are some general things to keep in mind when you’re weighing your options.

This will be the first post in a series on how to save money while traveling in Italy, so stay tuned for more!

Table of Contents

Renting a car in Italy

Should you rent a car in italy.

When it comes to getting around Italy, many travelers’ first instinct is to rent a car. And there are some significant pluses to having your own wheels: You can explore out-of-the-way areas (including in the beautiful countryside), and you have the freedom to go when you wish.

Want to see beautiful countryside like this (in Tuscany)? Renting a car might be your best bet

As far as cost goes, though, driving is only the cheapest option if you’re planning to cover a lot of ground and make many stops. Renting a car generally costs €40-60 per day, if you book the car in advance. And if you can’t drive stick, beware: Automatic-transmission vehicles are rare in Italy, so renting one will cost you. (It’s not uncommon to see them costing €60-80 or more per day, when booked in advance). If you want a GPS, highly recommended if you’ll be doing any driving in the countryside or to, say, find out-of-the-way agriturismi, that’s another €15 per day.

Then, of course, there’s the cost of gas. Think prices in the U.S. are a joke? In Italy in July, the average gas price was €1.55… per liter. (That comes out to €5.87 per gallon). Say your car gets 35 miles per gallon. That means that to drive from Florence to Rome, for example, a distance of some 165 miles, you’re looking at almost €30 in gas, one way. Plus, don’t kid yourself that renting a car is the fast way to get from Point A to Point B: Most of the time, the train or plane is faster.

Even so, there are some situations when you just can’t beat driving to get a real sense of Italy. So don’t discount renting a car… and keep in mind the following price-saving tips.

Renting a car might be the cheapest and best option for you if : You’re a family or a small group; you plan on visiting many different towns and cities; you want to explore the countryside or stay in off-road agriturismi; you’re a comfortable driver; you have more luggage than you’d want to carry with you

Renting a car might be one of the more expensive and difficult options for you if: You’re an individual or a couple; you’re going from one well-connected city or town directly to another; you can’t drive stick; you’re not super-comfortable driving in different situations; you expect a large, American-sized car (without specifying one!); you’re easily frustrated by getting lost

How to save on renting a car in Italy

The best way to save on renting a car in Italy: Don’t wait until you get here! Book in advance, on the web, always. By reserving in advance, you can get 20 to 60% off what the price would be if you waited. Some sites to check out include Autoeurope , Maggiore Rent , EuropCar , Sixt , Autoeuropa , and Targarent .

If driving down this looks a little scary, then consider buying extra insurance… or avoiding town centers, or not renting a car at all!

If you’re not a very experienced driver with stick or with a smaller, European-model car, purchase insurance for  “dani e furti.” Although this will cost you a little more out of pocket in the short run, in the case of an accident, it can definitely save you money. While insurance is part of the package when you rent a car, it’s limited-liability insurance—so if you accidentally scrape the side of a wall while driving down one of those extraordinarily-narrow medieval streets and scratch up the car, for example, you’ll have to pay for the damage. Ouch.

Consider car pick-up points other than where you’re starting your Italy trip. In fact, that’s often the most expensive way to do it! Often, it’s cheaper (and faster) to combine the train with the car. If you’re leaving from Rome and want to explore the Tuscan countryside, for example, the smarter thing to do is usually to take the train from Rome to Florence and rent a car there. Even if the best launching-point for your car trip isn’t a big city, consider renting a car there: You’d be surprised at how many of Italy’s off-the-beaten-path towns have rental car agencies.

There’s nothing quite like the open road… but it can cost you!

Don’t always drop the car off where you picked it up. It depends on your particular itinerary, but if it would be more convenient for you to drop the car off in another city than where you first hired it, then book it in advance. When you pre-reserve this option, it can cost you as little as €50 in extra fees—sometimes cheaper than the cost of gas back to your starting point, and often cheaper than the train would be to your next destination, if you’re continuing your travels in Italy. (We recently picked up a car in Piacenza, drove around northern Italy, and ended in Venice. Being able to drop the car off in Venice cost €60, while the cost to take a train from Piacenza to Venice after finishing our driving would have cost €27 to €50… per person).

Know the rules of the road. Nothing can be more costly than a nasty accident, and yes, Italian street signs and road etiquette are different from back home. But also make sure you know the rules when it comes to where you’re allowed to drive: In city centers like Florence, for example, you need a special permit to enter, and not having one can get you a fine. Make sure you know exactly where non-resident access is allowed before you get off the highway.

When getting gas, do it yourself. Many Italian gas stations have the option for full service, so when you pull in, you’ll see one sign for “ servito” and the other for “ fai da te.” Go for fai da te, which means “do it yourself.” The full service includes extras like washing the windshield, and costs more per gallon.

Flying in Italy

Should you take planes within italy.

With so many budget airlines, one of the cheapest ways to get from point A to point B in Italy can be by flying. The caveat, of course, is that both destinations have to be big enough to have airports. And you also have to calculate in how you’re going to get out to the airport.

Sometimes, flying can be the cheapest way to get between cities in Italy

Even so, it’s worth doing a comparison, even of the non-budget airlines. Right now, for example, you can fly round-trip from Rome to Florence for €115 with Alitalia in August. Go in November, and the price falls to €100. Then there are the budget airlines: You can fly round-trip from Milan-Bergamo to Rome airport for €46 round-trip on RyanAir, or Naples to Venice round-trip for €99  on EasyJet. That’s not to mention the many other cheap airlines that have cropped up lately.

Just remember to always read the fine print when booking a flight. You can only take a certain amount of baggage, and even to check anything at all costs on lines like Ryanair. There are also hefty fines you have to pay at the airport if you don’t comply.

Flying might be the cheapest and best option for you if : You pack light; your destinations have airports that are economic to reach from the city center; you read the fine print; you’re traveling off-season

Flying might be one of the most expensive and difficult options for you if: You get stung by oversized baggage fees or by having to check bags at all; the airport is far away from your actual destination, and there aren’t cheap transport options running when you’ll need them (for example, late at night); you have a number of destinations on your list

How to save on flying in Italy

Look at a variety of websites, including consolidators, budget, and non-budget airlines. Don’t just look at Expedia. Check out other consolidator sites, like KAYAK and SkyScanner , as well as the Italian sites Vayama and Mobissimo .

Since these websites generally search non-budget airlines, make sure you look at specific cheap airlines’ sites, too. Although you get what you pay for, Ryanair often has some of the cheapest flights around; you can get a little more comfort, sometimes at the same prices, at EasyJet . And don’t miss the Italian carriers: Blu-Express , AirOne , Wind Jet , and Alitalia .

Make sure you read the fine print. Ryanair’s notorious extra fees, for example, include €12 round-trip in “administration fees” and €50 round-trip to check a bag in peak season, plus €20 per kilo the bag is overweight. If you’re planning on checking a bag, it’s often cheaper to book with a non-budget airline that actually lets you do so for free! And Ryanair’s not alone. Always, always make sure you know what you’re allowed to check or carry on, and what you have to do to avoid penalties at the airport.

Plan how to get from the airport to your final destination… before you book your flight . Nothing blows the benefit of that cheap airfare ticket (other than getting dinged €60 euros for a slightly-overweight bag) more than shelling out €45 for a last-minute cab ride. Make sure there are other, cheaper transport options, and that they’ll still be running when you land.

Pack your lunch . Some of the budget airlines get you when you’re actually on board, charging high amounts for a bottle of water or a sandwich. Pick up a panino before you even get to the airport, grab that water bottle before you board, and you’ll save even more.

Taking the train in Italy

Should you take the train in italy.

In many ways, using Italy’s vast rail system is the happy medium between renting a car and taking a plane. It gives you the freedom to explore more than if you were tied to airports (but not as much as if you had a car) and it’s usually faster than driving (and sometimes, if you include transportation to airports and check-in time, faster than flying). Plus, since so many people in Italy depend on the train system, it’s fairly reliable — and, depending on where you’re going and there’s a deal running, can be cheap.

Want to visit Assisi? Then know that, as for many Italian hill towns, the train station is way outside of the town… at the bottom of the hill

That said, strikes always represent a possibility that can foul up the most best-laid plans. While they’re not quite as common with the trains as some would have you believe (we encounter a strike perhaps every 40 or 50 times we take the train), they can still be frustrating, canceling many or all routes at the last minute.

Also be aware that train stations are rarely smack in the center of Italy’s cities: It might take a 10- to 15-minute walk, or a couple of metro stops, to get from the main station to the tourist sites or historic center. And in hill towns like those in Umbria or Tuscany, stations are usually at the base of the hill, and buses might not run very often — meaning a little bit of a hike! If you have lots of luggage or limited mobility, plan ahead.

The train might be the cheapest and best option for you if : You don’t have tons of luggage; you have only a few cities or towns on your itinerary

The train might be one of the most expensive and difficult options for you if: You’re exploring many cities or towns and have to make a number of stops; you want to explore the countryside; you have a lot of luggage, and no easy way to get from the station to your final destination

How to save on taking the train in Italy

Don’t forget to look at  step-by-step guide to how to travel Italy by train . The important things to remember when it comes to how to save money:

Look for promotional fares and discounts in advance. Trenitalia’s usually running a few great train ticket deals and promotions , and no, you don’t have to be an Italy resident or citizen to take advantage! Currently, one fantastic promotion is the MINI offer , where you can get up to 60% off of normal fares, including Milan to Venice for €9 and Rome to Verona for €29. Another is the Sabato Italiano offer , where two people traveling on a Saturday pay the cost of just one ticket. Children under 12, traveling with an adult, travel free until August 31. And if you’re day-tripping, the Same-Day Return offer  lets you save on a round-trip ticket (with return on the same day as departure).

Found a discount? Read the fine print — and book ahead of time. The MINI fare, for example, has to be booked at least two days in advance… and on popular routes, all the MINI fares often have run out even before that.

If you’re not traveling with a promotional fare, only get  your ticket once you’re pretty sure what your exact travel plans are. That’s because, while a “Flexible” ticket lets you change your reservation an unlimited number of times, it costs you 25% more than “Base” fare tickets. But with “Base” tickets, you can change your reservation only once — and it can be a hassle to do so. It’s often better to get your ticket that morning, or when you arrive at the station, particularly if you think you might be cutting it close and there’s a possibility you might not make your train.

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Italy Budget Travel Guide: 11 simple ways to save (2023 Update)

Apr 6, 2023

Rebecca Holland

Planning a trip to Italy this year and looking for ways to save? While traveling in Italy is usually more affordable than in other countries (we’re looking at you Sweden, Denmark, and Switzerland!), trip expenses can add up quickly.

This is especially true if you’re planning to visit the most popular destinations, like Rome , Venice , Florence , and Milan during the peak tourist season.

Happily, we’re here with some advice on how to save while planning your trip to Italy and once you’re on the ground. Here are 11 budget tips to help you live la dolce vita without breaking the bank.

Note: This guide was edited and updated in 2023 by Carlotta Mazzoli in Florence, Italy.

Italy budget travel tips

1. book early and consider shoulder seasons.

It’s no surprise that summer is the busiest tourist season in Italy. Whether you want to book one of our favorite cheap hotels, or find a great deal for cheap flights, make sure to book as early as possible.

For even better rates (and fewer crowds!), visit in the spring or fall. For the absolute best deals, take your Italian holiday in winter. Christmas in Italy is a treat, and  Rome  is especially beautiful this time of year and never gets too cold.

On the other hand, there are a few advantages to going to Italy’s big cities in the heat of August. Throngs of Italians go on vacation, so even though there may be still plenty of tourists in Rome, Florence, and Venice, the crowds can be a little thinner and the hotel rates take a tumble. Here are some tips on going to  Florence in August .

For cheap flights , we recommend shoulder or off-peak season, but also booking your flights during the week, as opposed to during the weekend. Budget airlines, like  Ryanair , moreover, usually offer discounts for early morning and late night flights. Take advantage of the extra time, and book one of those options to save even more.

Consider visiting Urbino, Italy. Photo: Gareth Williams

2. Consider visiting less touristy parts of Italy

We get it, you have been dreaming about this trip to Italy for years, and now you want to see absolutely the best (and most famous) attractions in Italy. You can picture yourself on a gondola in Venice, visiting the Colosseum in Rome, or the Uffizi in Florence.

But have you ever considered visiting Turin ? Or perhaps the beautiful beaches of Calabria and Basilicata ? And what about Urbino , the birthplace of Raffaello and one of the best-preserved Renaissance cities in Italy?

Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, it is packed with artistic, natural, and historic sites, and everywhere you go, you are guaranteed to find something worth visiting. Just get off the beaten track, and try visiting less popular areas. Here you will find authentic gems, friendly people, and much cheaper prices.

Panda Hotel in Rome is a budget operation right in the center of it all near the Spanish Steps. Photo: EuroCheapo

3. Sleep small and central…

Large chain hotels are among the most expensive accommodation options in Italy. These familiar brands usually come with lots of perks — and a very high price. Luckily for budget travelers, Italy is full of affordable hotels and pensions (family-run guesthouses) that not only offer low rates but also plenty of charm and character. Take advantage of these boutique hotels, family-run pensions, and even religious accommodations like convents  to get the best deals.

Also, make sure to double check the location of the hotel before you book. You may find a hotel or bed and breakfast that offers a great rate, but if it is so far away from the sites, you might end up spending all of that money you saved on extra taxis at night.

Want some small and budget-friendly hotel recommendations? Check out our favorites in Florence , Milan , Rome , and Venice , or click to search more than 80,000 hotels in Italy .

Related: Best budget hotels in Rome

4. …or sleep outside the most popular cities

If you can’t find a great place right in the city center, you might want to consider the complete opposite option and sleep in a small town nearby.

A prime example here is Mestre  and Venice . While Venice is usually really expensive and good accommodation options are quite difficult to find for a reasonable price, neighboring Mestre is always cheaper and there are plenty of options. Plus Mestre is only a short 10 minute train ride from Venice, and you can also jump on a local bus or tram. In addition, Mestre itself is a nice small town, with plenty of restaurants and bars, and its train and bus stations connect with all the major cities in Italy and Europe.

And this rule applies to every city in Italy.

• When visiting Milan , you might want to consider Monza or Como for your accommodation.
• In Florence , you could stay in an agriturismo in the countryside, instead of an overpriced hotel in the suburbs of the city.
• If visiting Cinqueterre , you can stay in La Spezia .
• If you are going to the Amalfi Coast , you can opt for Sorrento or one of the smaller villages on the hills, instead of Capri and Positano .

Just think smart and you might end up in a quaint little village that will steal your heart.

Related: 10 Ways to save when visiting Lake Como

Book your own train tickets on the Trenitalia website.

5. Use trains and buses instead of renting a car

Now that you have booked your trip and found an accommodation, you might think you will need a car to move around Italy. Do not make this mistake! Italy has an extensive train system, with both fast trains and local commuter trains, that can take you basically everywhere. In addition, several private companies are operating long-route buses, which are usually even cheaper than trains, and that connect all the bigger (and not so big) cities in Italy.

Using trains and buses will help you save time and money. Trains (especially fast trains like  Italo  and  Frecciarossa ) are a much faster way to reach a destination, and renting a car and paying for gas and parking spots can become quite expensive. Moreover, with trains you will get right to the center of a city, as the main train stations are usually centrally located, and you won’t have to worry about permits to enter the city, fees, fines, or any other expense that might occur when renting and driving a car in Italy.

Just remember to book those train and bus tickets well in advance if you want to save even more. All the train and bus companies usually have discounted tickets, and prices tend to go up the closer you get to the date of your trip. (This tip only applies to longer journeys, as ticket prices for shorter jaunts on commuter trains are fixed.)

Get ready to walk in Florence!

6. When visiting a city, use public transport or just walk around

Another great way to save while visiting Italy is to take full advantage of public transportation or just walk around. After all, there is nothing better than wandering around an Italian city and just getting lost in its beautiful streets and piazzas.

Most of the places you will visit in Italy are likely to be small, so you won’t really need a car or taxi to move around. Remember to pack a comfy pair of shoes and download a map on your phone, and I can guarantee you will be able to visit most of the major attractions just by walking.

If you’re visiting a larger city, like Milan or Rome, or if you are tired of walking, familiarize yourself with the local public transportation system and use this instead of calling a taxi. Note that Uber or Lyft are not used in Italy and local taxis can be quite expensive. On the contrary, a ticket for a bus or subway ride, or any other means of public transportation, usually costs around €1.50 to €2 and they are safe and reliable.

If you are unsure of what lines to take, just use Google maps, as it has all the different options. Remember to stamp the ticket when you hop on the bus, tram, or train, otherwise you can get slapped with a fine if stopped by a controller.

7. Take advantage of free museum days

When visiting Italy, museums, palaces, and archeological sites are a real must, as they’re home to some of the world’s most beautiful and famous works of art. But all those tickets can be expensive, especially when planning multiple visits throughout your entire trip.

But don’t fret! Most of the larger tourist attractions and museums in Italy offer free entrance days throughout the week or at least once a month. Do some research ahead of time and maybe you can sync up your trip to a few of the free days. With prices soaring towards €20 for some museums now , a few free days can really help out.

Also, hit up attractions that are always free, like parks, churches, and some beaches. Be sure to check out this list of free things to do in Rome , free things in Florence and free activities in Venice .

8. If you want to go on guided tours, research free options

If you would like to take a guided tour, chances are it will be quite pricey. After all, the guys showing you around are professionals and they had to study for many years to learn their craft.

And while we’re all for supporting these professionals, there are options that can come at a much cheaper price or even for free. In particular, all major cities offer some sort of free walking tour. These are usually organized by local associations, or even hotels and hostels, as well as schools and museums. They are either free, or included in the ticket price, or you will just be asked for an optional tip at the end of the tour (remember, tips are not mandatory in Italy, although always appreciated!). And many museums offer free tours of their collections, especially on weekends.

For example, if you look on  Eventbrite , you can easily find free walking tours around many Italian cities. And be sure to check out the official tourism websites for the cities you’re visiting, including the official sites for Florence , Milan , Rome , Venice .

Ahhhh, what a romantic (and very expensive!) scene. Photo: Chen Kirin

9. Don’t fall for tourist traps!

When visiting a foreign country, we all look for great experiences and we generally have an idea of what these experiences will look like. But some things that seem “quintessentially Italian” can also be a “quintessential tourist rip-off”. These come in all shapes and sizes. Some favorites:

• A big meal at one of the restaurants lining Rome’s Piazza Navona? Hmmm — better pick wisely, as most will overcharge you for the view.
• A Roman walking tour with someone dressed as a gladiator? It might be a funny and kitschy experience, but the tour will probably be better with a regular guide.
• Being shuttled down Venice’s Grand Canal in a gondola by a singing gondolier? That’ll be at least $100 for a 40-minute ride. Take a  water bus (vaporetto)  instead, and save heaps of money. Venice is beautiful from any kind of boat.

Having said that, if you want to dine on the Piazza, pose with a gladiator, or shell out serious cash for a gondola ride, go for it, and have fun! Just remember these might not be the cheaper (and best) options.

Related: Avoid these tourist traps in Italy

10. Shop the markets for fresh (and super cheap) food

Italy is famous for its outdoor and indoor markets full of incredibly fresh produce, aged cheeses, handcrafted salami, homemade bread… hungry yet? It’s a rite of passage in Rome to shop at these  mercato all’aperti (open-air markets), and we’ve compiled some food shopping tips to help you get the tastiest deal.

Rather than always dining out, save money on meals by shopping local and then throwing a picnic. Supermarkets, bakeries, and delis make excellent culinary destinations for your wallet. This will also require you to make a stop at the wine shop (of course!) where you can pick out your favorite bottle or even fill up your own with tap wine ( like they do in Florence ).

Related: The best supermarkets, bakeries, and delis in Venice

11. Go for an aperitivo

Have you ever heard of Aperol Spitz? Aperitivo is more than a meal, and definitely more than just a quick way to share a drink with friends. It is a rite, almost a religious ceremony for Italians, which they enjoy in the late afternoon and before dinner.

In a country that is so proud of its food, and whose social activities often revolve around eating and drinking, aperitivo is a definitive experience that you really don’t want to miss.

An aperitivo is usually enjoyed in the late afternoon, it involves a glass of wine or a Spritz cocktail (or even a beer or any other types of cocktails really), and some canapés or finger foods. It is a great way to sit down and people-watch, while trying some local wines and beverages, and taste some food before a well-earned dinner.

The best part? Usually, the food is included in the price, and you will be served some chips, peanuts, and possibly some “crostini” (bread with sauces and dips). Some places also have different options of pasta and cold cuts you can choose from. In some other places, you can choose to add a “tagliere” (a charcuterie board) for an additional price.

Your budget tips?

Have some budget tips for Italy to add to our list? Share with us in the comments section below!

Search Hotels in Rome

Search hotels in venice, about the author.

Rebecca Holland has worked as a journalist for print, radio and television, and currently freelances for a number of travel and development publications. Bit by the travel bug after college, she's backpacked through Asia, lived in the Middle East, and now lives and works in Italy, but explores the rest of Europe whenever she can. Read more about her travel adventures at curiosityandacarryon.com , or follow her on twitter at @globalmusings, and Instagram @curiosityandacarryon.

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4 thoughts on “Italy Budget Travel Guide: 11 simple ways to save (2023 Update)”

Thank you for sharing all these wonderful tips

Hi, I’m going to travel around Sicily in a few weeks. I noted that delicious picture in your post was taken at a restaurant in Palermo. What’s it’s name? Can you do a post on touring Sicily and the “heel of the boot” soon please? I’ll be there for a month, with a week in Palermo and Siracusa and Catania. Your advice appreciated!

Great site with excellent advice. Thank you, Rebecca. (I am a UK citizen.)

Hi Rebecca, your blog is really helpful for me to plan on my trip to Italy. Would you pleas assist me on this few things, If Im coming to Venice from Vienna, then I want go to Milan, Pisa and Rome just to have few pictures with the main attractions like, Coleseum in Rome, Pisa leaning tower, the Duomo cathedral and riding gondola in Venice, Is there any local bus for me to move around as Im on budget travel. Hope you can assist me on this. Looking forward to hear from you.

Thank you and have a great day!

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How to travel around Italy: everything you need to know about driving, cycling and public transport

May 30, 2023 • 14 min read

A rented scooter can help you cut through traffic in Italy's busy cities © Ben Pipe Photography / Cultura RM Exclusive / Getty Images

Italy has more must-see sights than you could squeeze into a lifetime. From the exceptionally well-preserved Roman ruins of the capital to the blissful Mediterranean landscapes of Sicily and Sardinia, roaming around the boot-shaped peninsula is a journey of discovery that never fails to astonish.

With so much to see and do, it’s only natural to think that Italy must have set up an optimally functioning public-transportation system to make roaming around easy for the millions of visitors that travel to the country each year. Think twice. While major hotspots are well connected, getting off the beaten track can be tricky without your own vehicle and some planning.

With this article, we’ll guide you through all there is to know to get around Italy, from navigating the twisting roads of the rural countryside to booking a high-speed train ticket at the cheapest price. Whether you have your heart set on touring Tuscany , time-traveling in Rome or eating your way around Emilia-Romagna , here's what you need to know about touring Italy independently.

How to get around Italy without a car: understanding the public transport system

Ranging from snow-capped Alpine peaks surpassing 4,000m in altitude to wild Mediterranean archipelagos, the diverse geography of the Italian peninsula doesn’t allow for one single mode of transport to move people around the country. Trains, buses, ships and ferries all contribute to helping you reach your destination.

Travel by train for views of the stunning Italian countryside

Italy boasts an extensive rail network spanning the length of the country, meaning most major cities – including Rome , Florence , Naples , Bologna and Palermo – are connected by regular train services. Best of all, you can sit back and soak in the gorgeous scenery in between them.

The vast majority of trains are run by Trenitalia , Italy's national train operator, while a handful of high-velocity services are handled by privately owned Italo . Routes are well integrated into the Europe-wide Interrail and Eurail rail-pass system. Trains in Italy broadly fall into three main categories:

• Regionale: the slowest and cheapest trains, generally stopping at all or most stations en route
• InterCity (IC): faster services operating between major cities (their international counterparts are called EuroCity)
• Alta Velocità (AV): modern, high-velocity Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca (operated by Trenitalia) and Italo trains, with speeds of up to 300km/h and good connections between major cities.

How do you book tickets? 

Tickets can be reserved on the Trenitalia and Italo websites (which are now available in English as well as Italian), at railway station counters and at self-service ticketing machines, as well as through travel agents.

Note that when buying a paper ticket for regional and Intercity trains directly at the station – either at the ticket office or at the ticketing machines – it should be validated before entering the train, as these types of tickets are not date specific. When buying online, you can just jump on board without worrying about validation.

Do you have to book in advance? 

You don’t need to worry about booking regional trains in advance – the price doesn’t change and seats are not numbered. While regional trains traveling to and from major cities can be packed during peak hours (from 7am to 9am and 5pm to 7pm) as commuters travel to and from work, outside such times they hardly fill up and allow for spontaneous adventures.

Tickets for high-speed trains can also be purchased on the same day of travel, although it is well worth booking in advance to get access to offers and discounts.

How much does it cost? 

Ticket prices in Italy tend to be in line, if not slightly cheaper than, other Western European nations, and vary depending on train type and class. Most Italian trains have 1st- and 2nd-class seating, with a 1st-class ticket typically costing from a third to half more than 2nd-class.

How do you find discount fares?

Both Trenitalia and Italo offer decent discounts on advance purchases. Generally, the earlier you book, the greater the savings – though refunds and changes on such tickets are highly restricted. By signing up to Italo’s newsletter you’ll receive discount codes in your inbox when special offers are available (which happens frequently).

Trenitalia regularly offers discounts on its tickets to tourists. For instance, if you plan to travel over the weekend it is worth considering the Weekend Return Offer , which grants you a 40% discount on Intercity tickets. The Italia in Tour ticket allows for unlimited travel on regional trains for three or five consecutive days at a fixed price of €29 or €49.

Are you allowed to bring bikes onboard?

It is possible to take bicycles on many Italian trains by paying a small surcharge. When booking your ticket online, look out for the bicycle icon to know whether the train has a dedicated carriage for bikes.

Which trains offer the best views?

If it's classic Italian scenery you're after, plan your trip around some of Italy's dramatic mountain railway journeys.

The trip on the cute red Bernina Express train between Tirano and Chur, St Moritz or Davos in Switzerland is one of the best rail rides in the Alps. The “ Italian Trans-Siberian ” is a historic railway running from Sulmona to Isernia across the lower Apennines in Abruzzo and Molise, through spectacular mountainous landscapes. If you’d like to match nature with history and literature, you can travel on the Treno di Dante between Florence and Ravenna, in the footsteps of the great Tuscan poet.

Buses are the inexpensive way to explore Italy

Italy’s rail network does reach far and wide, but many areas are still not accessible by train. Suburban buses cover the distance between towns that are either too small or too remote to have a train station.

The public suburban bus network is typically managed on a regional level, meaning that there is no centralized website for purchasing tickets. Google is fairly reliable these days when it comes to schedules, together with the Moovit app. Intercity bus tickets can be bought in advance at newsagents and tobacconists.

Long-distance coaches are mostly managed by private companies, such as Flixbus , Itabus , Marinobus and Marozzi . Though slower than trains, coaches are a cheaper form of transport in Italy, with a web of routes that stretches to all corners of the country. Tickets can be purchased online through bus company websites.

Alternatively, in larger cities, most intercity bus companies have ticket offices (usually at or near the main bus station) or sell tickets through travel agencies. In villages and smaller towns, tickets are sold in bars or on the bus. Advanced booking is not generally required, though it is advisable for overnight or long-haul trips in high season.

Boats zip along the coast and out to the islands

Navi (large ferries) sail to Sicily and Sardinia, while traghetti (smaller ferries) and aliscafi (hydrofoils) serve the smaller islands. Most ferries carry vehicles, but hydrofoils do not. On long-haul ferries, travelers can usually book a two- to four-person cabin or a poltrona , an airline-style armchair. Deck class (which allows you to sit/sleep in lounge areas or on deck) is available only on some ferries.

The primary embarkation points for Sicily and Sardinia are Genoa , Livorno , Civitavecchia (near Rome) and Naples and involve a comfortable overnight trip across the Tyrrhenian Sea. Passenger tickets are cheap during the low season – a trip from Livorno to Olbia can cost as little as €25 – but rise in the summer. Taking your car onboard can be costly during the holiday season.

Ferries for Sicily also leave from Villa San Giovanni and Reggio Calabria . Main arrival points in Sardinia are Cagliari , Arbatax, Olbia and Porto Torres; in Sicily, Palermo, Catania , Trapani and Messina .

Local transport is inexpensive and efficient in urban areas

Most towns and cities have efficient local bus services, and some larger cities, such as Milan, Rome, and Naples, also have extensive metro networks. In Venice , water taxis, gondolas and vaporetti (small passenger ferries) perform the same role.

It's usually possible to reach nearby villages fairly easily by local bus. Bus tickets are sold at newsagents and tobacconists (stores marked with a T sign) and usually cost under €2. Buying tickets directly from the driver is possible, but it will incur a surcharge.

Taxis can be found around bus and train stations. If you call for a radio taxi by phone, the meter will usually start running when you place the call, not when you are picked up. Taxi drivers in major tourist destinations do not have a great reputation; make sure to ask in advance about the price and whether you can pay by card, and check that the meter is turned on.

Rideshares are limited in Italy. At the moment, services like Uber cannot legally operate in Italy as they do in many other European countries. Uber Black, used by licenced taxi drivers only, works in major cities.

Getting around by car, motorcycle or Vespa means maximum freedom

Unless you are planning to stick to art cities, having a private vehicle in Italy means you can travel at your own pace and visit regions with minimal public transport. This is particularly handy in the mountains, on the islands and in the rural countryside, where running buses are few and far between.

Driving your own car will allow you to sleep in isolated agriturismi (farm houses) and take all the time you need to admire the hilly scenery of the country’s interior. Car-hire companies operate throughout the country, allowing you to pick up and drop off vehicles in most major cities. Operators include Avis , Europcar , Hertz and Italy by Car , among others. Consider hiring a small compact car, as doing so will reduce your fuel expenses and make it easier to negotiate narrow city lanes and tight parking spaces.

In the past couple of years some of the regions that see a large influx of tourists during the summer – Sardinia and Tuscany, for instance – have experienced a shortage of rental cars. Much of that is a result of the pandemic: rental companies sold many of their vehicles as travel stopped, while people got increasingly used to relying on private rather than public transportation. As a consequence, prices skyrocket in the high season, so if you're planning to rent a car in the summer, book one in advance.

Who can rent a vehicle in Italy? 

Renters must generally be 21 or over, with a credit card and home-country driving license or International Driving Permit. To drive a vehicle in Italy you must have insurance against personal and material damage. All car rental companies offer optional (but recommended) “kasko” coverage, a comprehensive insurance that covers all forms of damage, regardless of who caused it.

How much does it cost to rent a scooter? 

Agencies throughout Italy rent motorcycles and scooters, ranging from small Vespas to large touring bikes. Prices start at around €35/150 per day/week for a small 50cc scooter and rise to more than €80/400 per day/week for a 650cc motorcycle. A license is required to ride a scooter – a car license will do for bikes up to 125cc; for anything over 125cc, you'll need a motorcycle license.

What rules do you need to know?  

It's obligatory to wear seat belts (front and rear), to drive with your headlights on outside built-up areas, and to carry a warning triangle and fluorescent waistcoat in case of breakdown. Wearing a helmet is compulsory on all two-wheeled vehicles.

How are the driving conditions in Italy?

Road conditions are generally good, but lax maintenance in some areas means you should be prepared for potholes and rough, bumpy surfaces, particularly on smaller secondary roads. Local driving conditions can also take some getting used to. Roads can be narrow and traffic congestion is common. Parking can also be hard to find in urban areas (one reason for the huge popularity of scooters), and local drivers have a reputation for being impatient and quick to use their horns.

What do you need to know about the roads? 

It is important to know where you can and cannot drive. Roads in Italy are split into three main categories: roads referred to as strada normale are those that run through urban centers and have a speed limit ranging between 30 and 70km/h. All vehicles can drive here.

A superstrada is a free, multi-lane state road marked by blue signs, with a speed limit of 90km/h. Scooters and bicycles are not allowed to enter such roads and doing so by mistake can be dangerous. The same goes for the autostrada, a toll motorway connecting major centers, where the speed limit reaches 130km/h.

When driving in historic centers you should also keep an eye out for the ZTL signs. A zona a traffico limitato is an area where non-residents are not allowed to enter with a car. Such areas are common, although typically only active during the day. Entering a ZTL translates into a guaranteed fine.

Internal flights are best reserved for longer trips

With Italy’s train and bus network being both cheap and reliable (and much more environmentally friendly) , flying is usually not the most convenient way to travel domestically in Italy. However, if you need to get from one part of the country to the other as quickly as possible, then air services are available, and most major cities have airports.

Italy's beleaguered flag carrier, Alitalia, was replaced in 2021 by a new state-backed airline called ITA Airways , with flights to cities across the Italian mainland and to Sardinia and Sicily . Several low-cost airlines also operate domestic flights, including easyJet and Ryanair . It’s cheaper to buy tickets in advance of travel.

Cycling is a great way to explore the countryside in Italy

Road cycling has long been a popular sport in Italy, but in recent years many regions have invested in building bike paths and itineraries to make this form of sustainable travel accessible to more people. The spread of electric bikes has also contributed to getting people to tour on two wheels – Italy’s hilly and mountainous countryside is no longer an obstacle, thanks to technology.

Northern Italy, especially the Alps and Dolomites , is at the forefront of this shift toward green mobility, offering endless routes for every level of fitness that can be tackled during summer months. But the rest of the country is catching up quickly.

Flat, enjoyable cycling paths run through much of the coast of Liguria . Abruzzo has recently inaugurated its Via Verde – a 40km green lane running parallel to its Costa dei Trabocchi – and the 60km path encircling Umbria’s Lago Trasimeno was completed in 2023. In various parts of Italy, discontinued rail tracks have been converted into mountain-biking routes.

River banks offer the perfect conditions for cycling. Rome, known for its infamous traffic, has a 32km-long path for cyclists, running along the Tiber river through the city center. Tuscany is slowly completing its Ciclovia dell’Arno, which will follow the region’s largest river East to West across 270km, and the VENTO project – aiming to connect Venice with Turin via a 705km path along the Po river – has been in the works for more than a decade.

Bikes are prohibited on motorways, but they can be carried on some ferries and on regional trains displaying the bicycle logo, where you'll need to purchase a separate ticket known as a supplemento bici . Bikes are available for hire in most Italian towns from €12 per day. E-bikes start around €35 per day.

Accessible transportation in Italy

Italy is not an easy country for travelers with disabilities. Cobblestone streets and pavements blocked by parked cars and scooters make getting around difficult for wheelchair users. And while many buildings have lifts, they are not always wide enough for wheelchairs. Not a lot has been done to make life easier for hearing- or vision-impaired travelers either, though awareness of accessibility issues and a culture of inclusion are steadily growing.

If traveling by train, you can arrange assistance through SalaBlu online or by calling 800 90 60 60 (from a landline) or 02 32 32 32 (from a landline or mobile). You can also see the full list of services and details of barrier-free stations on the Rete Ferroviaria Italiana ’s accessible travel information page.

Many urban buses are wheelchair-accessible, though some of the stops may not be – check before you board. Some taxis are equipped to carry passengers in wheelchairs; ask for a taxi for a sedia a rotelle (wheelchair).

Two good online resources for disabled travelers are Village for All , which performs on-site audits of tourist facilities (namely accommodation providers) in Italy and San Marino, and Fondazione Cesare Serono , which provides a list (in Italian) of accessible beaches. For more information, download Lonely Planet's free Accessible Travel guide .

This article was first published May 20, 2021 and updated May 30, 2023.

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7 Of Italy’s Affordable Beach Towns – A Budget-Friendly Mediterranean Escape

Categories Affordable Beach Towns

Are you yearning for a Mediterranean escape that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the sun-kissed shores of Italy’s affordable beach towns.

Picture yourself strolling along the golden sands, the gentle waves caressing your feet, as the warm Mediterranean breeze whispers tales of ancient civilizations. These budget-friendly havens offer you the perfect opportunity to unwind, soak up the sun, and embrace the freedom of the open sea.

From the enchanting Amalfi in Campania, with its colorful cliffside villages, to the picturesque Cinque Terre in Liguria, where pastel-colored houses cling to the rugged coastline, each town holds its own unique charm.

Explore the historic streets of Tropea in Calabria, bask in the splendor of Taormina in Sicily, or lose yourself in the captivating beauty of Otranto in Puglia. Whether you choose the vibrant Cagliari in Sardinia or the laid-back Salerno in Campania, these coastal gems promise you an unforgettable, budget-friendly adventure in the heart of the Mediterranean.

Key Takeaways

• Amalfi in Campania, Cinque Terre in Liguria, Tropea in Calabria, Taormina in Sicily, Otranto in Puglia, Cagliari in Sardinia, and Salerno in Campania are affordable beach towns in Italy that offer a budget-friendly Mediterranean escape.
• These towns offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty , with attractions such as charming old towns, historic cathedrals, stunning beaches, and ancient ruins.
• Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, as well as indulge in delicious seafood dishes and local wines.

– The towns provide a vibrant atmosphere, with lively streets, colorful buildings, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea .

Amalfi, Campania

Amalfi, nestled on the picturesque coast of Campania, offers a charming and wallet-friendly Mediterranean getaway.

This coastal town is a hidden gem that boasts not only stunning views but also a range of activities that won’t break the bank.

One of the highlights of Amalfi is its delectable gelato. Indulge your taste buds in the best gelato spots in town, serving up creamy, flavorful scoops that will transport you to gelato heaven. Whether you prefer classic flavors like pistachio and stracciatella or unique creations like lemon basil, you’re sure to find a gelateria that suits your palate.

For those who crave adventure, Amalfi has a plethora of hidden hiking trails waiting to be explored. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a journey through lush forests and rugged cliffs, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. These trails offer a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.

So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly Mediterranean escape, Amalfi in Campania is the place to be. With its best gelato spots and hidden hiking trails, you’ll have the freedom to indulge your senses and explore all that this charming town has to offer.

Cinque Terre, Liguria

One of the highlights of Cinque Terre is its extensive network of hiking trails, which wind their way through the stunning landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there is a trail for every level of adventurer. From the famous Via dell’Amore to the challenging Sentiero Azzurro, each path offers panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the charming villages that dot the coastline.

But it’s not just the hiking trails that make Cinque Terre a must-visit destination. The town itself is a sight to behold, with its colorful houses perched precariously on the cliffs. As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll be enchanted by the vibrant hues and the charming atmosphere that permeates every corner. Take a moment to sit on a terrace overlooking the sea, sipping a glass of local wine and watching the world go by.

In Cinque Terre, freedom is not just found on the trails, but in the spirit of the town itself. It’s a place where you can escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, where you can explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems around every corner. So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Cinque Terre, Liguria’s gem on the Italian Riviera .

Tropea, Calabria

Tropea, located in the region of Calabria, is a hidden gem that offers a budget-friendly Mediterranean escape with its stunning coastline and authentic Italian charm.

Tropea boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in Italy, with golden sand and turquoise waters that will take your breath away. Whether you prefer lounging on the beach, taking a refreshing dip in the sea, or exploring hidden coves, Tropea has it all.

You can spend your days basking in the sun, sipping on a refreshing limoncello, and enjoying the breathtaking views of the coastline.

But Tropea is not just about the stunning beaches. The town itself is a charming blend of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and historic churches. As you stroll through the town, you’ll come across quaint shops selling local crafts and delicious gelaterias tempting you with their mouthwatering flavors. Don’t forget to try the local specialty, red onions, which are famous in this region.

Overall, Tropea offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and authentic Italian culture. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a budget-friendly Mediterranean escape, Tropea in Calabria is the place to be.

So pack your bags and get ready to experience the stunning coastline and authentic Italian charm of Tropea.

Taormina, Sicily

• Taormina’s rich history: Immerse yourself in the ancient Greek and Roman ruins that dot the town. Visit the famous Teatro Greco, a well-preserved Greek theater with panoramic views. Explore the medieval streets and discover charming churches and palaces.
• The best time to visit: Taormina is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. Avoid the summer months if you prefer a quieter experience.
• Local cuisine: Indulge in Sicily’s culinary delights. Taormina is known for its delicious seafood dishes, such as spaghetti alle vongole (clams) and pesce spada (swordfish). Don’t forget to try the famous cannoli for dessert!
• Outdoor adventures: Taormina offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking on Mount Etna to exploring the nearby Isola Bella nature reserve. Take a boat trip along the coast and discover hidden coves and crystal-clear waters .

Taormina is a haven for those seeking freedom and a taste of authentic Italian coastal living. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this Mediterranean gem.

Otranto, Puglia

As you wander through the charming old town, you’ll be captivated by its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere.

And don’t forget to take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Baia dei Turchi, a beach known for its pristine beauty.

Visit the Historic Otranto Cathedral

Located in the charming town of Otranto, the historic Otranto Cathedral boasts an impressive mosaic floor that covers a staggering 6,000 square feet. As you visit the historic Otranto Cathedral, you’ll be captivated by its fascinating history and amazed by its beautiful architecture.

This magnificent cathedral dates back to the 11th century and has seen centuries of rich history unfold within its walls. Step inside and immerse yourself in the stories of the past, as you admire the intricate details of the mosaic floor, depicting scenes from the Old Testament.

The cathedral’s architecture is a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with its imposing bell tower reaching for the sky. It’s a place where history comes alive, inviting you to explore and appreciate the freedom of expression through art and architecture.

Explore the Charming Old Town

Immerse yourself in the charm of the Old Town and explore the local cuisine. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and be captivated by the enchanting atmosphere. The Old Town of Otranto offers a plethora of culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds. From fresh seafood to traditional Italian dishes, there’s something for every palate.

Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the flavors of the region. For wine enthusiasts, a visit to the nearby vineyards is a must. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque countryside, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards as far as the eye can see. Learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the finest wines that the region has to offer. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, there’s a wine for every preference.

Immerse yourself in the charm of the Old Town, explore the local cuisine, and visit nearby vineyards for a truly unforgettable experience in Otranto.

Swim in the Crystal Clear Waters of Baia dei Turchi

Now that you’ve had a chance to explore the charming old town, it’s time to take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Baia dei Turchi. This stunning beach is the perfect spot for swimming activities and beachside relaxation. As you step onto the soft, golden sand, you’ll be greeted by the gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore. The turquoise water beckons you to dive in and cool off from the warm Italian sun. And with the beach being one of Italy’s affordable options, you can enjoy this slice of paradise without breaking the bank. Imagine yourself floating in the calm waters, feeling the sun on your skin, and forgetting all your worries. Baia dei Turchi truly offers an idyllic escape for those seeking freedom and relaxation.

So grab your swimsuit, a good book, and soak up the beauty of Baia dei Turchi.

Cagliari, Sardinia

Immerse yourself in the local cuisine, where the flavors of the Mediterranean come alive on your palate. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes, such as spaghetti alle vongole, and pair it with a glass of local Vermentino wine. The vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas will transport you to a world of culinary delight.

But Cagliari offers more than just a feast for the taste buds. Outdoor activities abound in this picturesque town. Take a hike up to the ancient hilltop fortress of Castello, where panoramic views of the city and the sparkling turquoise waters await. Or, if you prefer to feel the sand between your toes, head to Poetto Beach, a long stretch of golden sand where you can relax under the warm sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

In Cagliari, freedom is the name of the game. Whether you choose to explore the winding streets of the old town, indulge in the local cuisine, or soak up the sun on the beach, this captivating coastal town offers a budget-friendly Mediterranean escape like no other. So pack your bags, embrace the freedom, and let Cagliari enchant you with its irresistible charm.

Salerno, Campania

As you explore this charming town, you’ll be delighted by the array of local cuisine available. From fresh seafood caught daily to mouthwatering pasta dishes, Salerno is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in some of the region’s specialties, such as the famous buffalo mozzarella and limoncello liqueur.

When it comes to outdoor activities, Salerno has plenty to offer. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Lungomare Trieste promenade and soak in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to the nearby Amalfi Coast and embark on a hike along the famous Path of the Gods. This scenic trail offers panoramic views of the coastline and is a must-do for nature enthusiasts.

For those seeking a bit of relaxation, Salerno boasts beautiful sandy beaches where you can soak up the sun and unwind. Whether you prefer lounging by the shore or taking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, Salerno’s beaches provide the perfect setting for a day of tranquility.

So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly Mediterranean escape that offers a mix of delicious cuisine and outdoor adventures, Salerno in Campania is the place to be. Immerse yourself in the local culture, indulge in mouthwatering dishes , and explore the natural beauty that surrounds this enchanting town.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i get to these beach towns from major cities in italy.

To reach these stunning beach towns from major cities in Italy, you have a variety of transportation options. Whether you prefer trains, buses, or ferries, you’ll find convenient ways to embark on your budget-friendly Mediterranean escape. Avoid crowds by visiting during the off-peak seasons.

Are there any popular tourist attractions or landmarks near these beach towns?

Popular tourist attractions near these beach towns include the stunning Amalfi Coast, the historical ruins of Pompeii, and the charming town of Sorrento. Don’t miss the hidden gems of Positano and Capri for a truly unforgettable experience.

Are these beach towns crowded during peak tourist seasons?

The best times to visit these beach towns to avoid crowds are during the shoulder seasons, such as spring or fall. Compared to other popular Mediterranean destinations, these towns offer more affordable options for budget-conscious travelers. Enjoy the freedom of uncrowded beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.

Can you recommend any budget-friendly accommodations in these beach towns?

Looking for budget-friendly accommodations in Italy’s beach towns ? You’ll be thrilled to know that 75% of the hotels in these towns offer affordable rates. The best time to visit for a budget-friendly vacation is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

What are some local delicacies or must-try dishes in these beach towns?

Try delicious traditional seafood dishes like spaghetti alle vongole or fritto misto in these Italian beach towns . Don’t forget to pair them with local wine and indulge in coastal Italy’s cheese specialties like pecorino or mozzarella. Enjoy the freedom of culinary exploration!

As you bid farewell to the enchanting shores of Italy’s affordable beach towns, a sense of contentment washes over you like the gentle waves lapping at the sandy beaches.

These coastal gems, with their vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes, and wallet-friendly prices, have left an indelible mark on your soul.

Like a seashell carried by the tides, you too have been transformed by the beauty and serenity of these Mediterranean escapes.

As you depart, a part of you remains forever intertwined with the essence of Italy’s coastal paradise .

Cheapest Places To Live In Italy (21 Cities to Consider)

Want to know how to affordably live in Italy? Some cities in Europe can be really expensive!

But Italy is an affordable country with some of the most beautiful cities. But you need to know how to maintain quality of life on a budget.

Let’s talk about budget-friendly cities in Italy.

Table of Contents

What Are The Cheapest Cities To Live In Italy?

The cheapest cities are found in Southern Italy. The cost of living increases in the Northern region as you get closer to Rome, the capital city.

Italy is the 4th most affordable country in Europe. That means even the popular cities are affordable cities.

Let’s learn about some affordable Italian cities to decide which one is a good fit for you.

One can live in Avellino for $1,000 a month.

Located about 50km from Naples, Avellino is quite affordable.

However, it has had many earthquakes in the past. This has destroyed many historical buildings and may destroy buildings in the future.

Reggio Calabria

Most people in Reggio Calabria spend less than $1,000 a month.

Reggio is located in the Calabria region. Since it is a major port city, it has great economic success.

It is also the second oldest city in the country. This means you will find a lot of history and culture here.

The Calabria region is quite rural. You won’t find many tourists even though there are miles of beaches.

Campobasso is a good place to live if you’re hoping to spend around $1,000 each month.

This hidden gem hasn’t been discovered by tourists yet. But it has many fun attractions to explore!

It’s easily accessible to main Italian cities such as Rome and Naples. This is perfect for weekend getaways.

The average monthly cost of living in Benevento is $1,000.

While it is close to the mountains and the Sabato and Calore rivers, it isn’t a tourist destination yet. This means you have the beauty of a tourist town without the traffic.

You’ll be able to find gorgeous real estate in this city. It’s perfect for anyone who loves to relax outdoors.

The average cost of living in Cosenza is $1,000.

This city is rich in culture. You can find monuments, museums, and theaters throughout Cosenza.

Visit the historical city center to find craft shops and medieval squares. There’s always something to do in the urban centers of this Italian town.

Most people spend about $1,100 a month in Rieti.

While Rieti is a lesser-known city in Italy, it has a lot to offer. There are many sights to see for locals and tourists!

It is full of history. You can learn about it as you visit historical buildings throughout the city.

There are many churches as well as other examples of historical architecture.

The average cost of living in Palermo is $1,100 each month.

Palermo, located on the island of Sicily, is the 5th largest city in Italy. This is great for anyone who loves the pace of life in the city, but can’t afford to live in Rome.

Since it’s one of the biggest cities in the country, it has a lot to offer, including great public transport.

Alessandria

You can expect to spend $1,100 a month in Alessandria.

Alessandria is pretty close to Turin, Milan, and Genoa. Since it has good railway connections, it is easy to travel to other places.

It is also very easy to access both the French and Swiss Alps from this city. This will be perfect for anyone who loves winter sports.

You can live on a budget of less than $1,200 in Matera.

Matera has a slow pace of life and a great sense of community.

It is a hill town with several caves. Some of its Paleolithic cave dwellings are UNESCO sites.

This ancient city has a history dating back 5,000 years ago.

You can live on less than $1,200 in Catanzaro.

Catanzaro is known as the “city of the two seas.” This is because it is located between the Ionian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

It is quite a windy city with a history of major earthquakes. The earthquakes have destroyed the historic buildings in Catanzaro.

However, it is an affordable city with access to miles of coastline!

Padova (Padua)

You could expect to spend $1,200 a month in Padova, also known as Padua.

Padova is fewer than 30 minutes away from Venice. However, it has so much to offer you won’t need to leave!

This small city is full of history. It is a good option for someone who would like to avoid the chaos of a major city.

Most people spend less than $1,200 a month in Catania.

Catania is a city full of historic relics from many cultures and civilizations. The Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, Italians, and Sicilians have all claimed Catania.

The history and culture are still vibrant today. After years here, you’ll still be finding new hidden gems.

Pisa has an average cost of living of $1,250.

With a population of 100,000, Pisa is a sizeable city. It is also known for its rich culture and history.

People travel from all over the world to visit this city. If you move here, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a popular destination.

There are many museums and historical sites to visit. You’ll be able to spend years here without actually seeing everything.

The average cost of living in Treviso is $1,250.

This historic city is full of friendly people. You’ll find a strong sense of community as you integrate into the city.

The food and drink scene is strong. You’ll find lots of fresh prosecco and Cicchetti bars. It’s also the birthplace of tiramisu.

You’ll be close to Venice, but you won’t need to visit. Treviso has great shopping and beautiful canals. Plus the tourists all go to Venice instead.

Monthly expenses in Crotone are just under $1,300.

This coastal town has plenty of beautiful beaches. This draws in many tourists.

However, it’s worth dealing with the traffic because the panoramic views are gorgeous! During the off-season, you’ll be able to enjoy a quiet and relaxing home.

The average person spends $1,300 monthly in Syracuse.

Syracuse is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Its long history is full of many cultures and civilizations. The culture is still strong today for anyone who lives there.

Verona costs about $1,300 a month for the average person.

This charming city is surrounded by beautiful vineyards. That means you’ll be able to taste fresh wine all the time.

In addition to the wine, you can also find lots of delicious foods around Verona. This would be perfect for a foodie!

You’ll be able to burn all those calories by hiking, biking, or strolling around the nature trails.

The average cost of living in Parma is $1,300.

Parma is a small city. This makes it easy to walk or cycle everywhere.

You’ll need to eat a lot of food to keep up your energy with all this walking. Fortunately, Parma is one of the best foodie destinations in Italy.

Home to Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, it also has a lot of other delicacies to offer.

Aside from food, it’s easy to find art and history everywhere. It is present in the architecture and the people.

You can expect to pay about $1,300 a month in Trieste.

In addition to its miles of coastline, you can find grasslands, forests, and caves in this city.

Since Trieste has a long and rich history, you can also find many historic sites. Castles, archaeological remains, and places of worship are easy to find.

Rimini costs about $1,300 a month to live in.

This artistic city is popular with students. International students help to increase the liveliness of Rimini.

There is a lot to do during the school year, but even more during the summer.

If you enjoy the hustle and bustle of college life, you will enjoy living in Rimini.

How Much Does It Cost To Live In Italy?

Several factors determine the cost of living in Italy.

You’ll have to pay property taxes, utilities, and transportation costs. These prices vary by location.

If you live in Italy, you’ll be able to pay $400 for public healthcare. However, there are more expensive options if you choose private health insurance.

Grocery bills and eating out can add up. Fortunately, food prices are fairly low in most of Italy.

Don’t forget the cost of entertainment and recreation! Digital nomads will want to visit the popular destinations Italy has to offer.

All of this can add up, but fortunately, it is easy to maintain a small budget. The cost of living is 6% lower in Italy than in the US.

Now that you’re familiar with these cities in Italy, you can start deciding which one is best for you.

Hopefully moving to Italy will be one of the best choices you make!

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The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Through house sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters, and Trusted House Sitters, I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters. This unique way of living has not only allowed me to save money on accommodation but also offered a plethora of cultural exchange opportunities.

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14 Best Non-Touristy Cities and Towns in Italy You Must Visit Before They’re Crowded

Traveling to Italy and want to escape the notorious crowds in most famous Italian destinations? We’ve got a list of the best non-touristy cities and towns in Italy you should visit before they’re crowded.

Given that Italy is one of the most popular countries for tourists across the globe, the excessive numbers of attactions here are seriously overwhelming. Every destination is better than the last, what with its powerhouse cities such as Rome , Florence , Venice, and Milan – and there’s also the fabulous Italian Riviera.

All these popular destinations are nice to visit – after all, they’re popular for a reason! – but it’s so much nicer to have a destination all to yourself. This allows for seeing a bit more of the “real” side of Italy.

While these major destinations are all must-visits on your grand Italian vacation, many other great points of interest get overlooked. Know that Italy is a perfect place for lucky finds – you just gotta know where to look!

Let’s guide you to these perfect finds – the best non-touristy cities and towns in Italy.

Table of Contents

14 Best Non-Touristy Cities and Towns in Italy

From the advantages of art, architecture, and history to great food and wonders of nature, here are 14 of the best non-touristy cities and towns in Italy you must visit before they get too crowded.

1. Pitigliano, Tuscany

This quaint old Tuscan town is built on a mountain of lava. As it literally clings to the cliff face of the tuffaceous rock, Pitigliano is truly a paradise for vloggers and photographers.

There are plenty of lanes and labyrinth vicoli to explore, with houses in most improbable positions. And although a bit steep, the historical center of this non-touristy Italian town is an easy walk. You can relax and enjoy the views of the valley below in the terrace of one of the restaurants.

There is nothing quite like the experience you can get from visiting Pitigliano. A real treat for those who prefer the non-touristy cities and towns in Italy.

2. Tropea, Calabria

Legend says that Hercules founded the non-touristy Italian town of Tropea, an area on Italy’s west coast that’s noted for producing the prized red onions called cipolle di Tropea (Tropea onions) that are well-known in Italy.

Tropea is an old fortified town that is perched on the cliffs overlooking splendid beaches and the stunning Tyrrhenian Sea. The sea alone is a great reason to visit Tropea. However, the place offers so much more.

Like all the other towns on the Amalfi Coast, beautiful sandy beaches await you beneath the picturesque cliffs. It’s the best place to enjoy sunset with calzone or cipolla gelato . That’s right, it’s onion gelato – one of the not-to-be-missed when visiting Tropea and its top restaurants .

You also shouldn’t miss Cattedrale di Maria Santissima di Romania, a 12th-century cathedral built on a former Byzantine cemetery. It features marble sarcophagi and a painting of the Madonna of Romania.

3. Bergamo, Lombardy

Situated in the alpine region of Lombardy , Bergamo is just about 30 km. from the Swiss border and some 40 km. northeast of Milan. This stunning city is a treasure of Northern Italy.

Its upper town, the Città Alta, is encompassed by a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the massive Venetian defensive systems . The view from high up is fantastic. The old town offers ample opportunity to dander through the old narrow streets. It’s connected to the lower city, the Bassa, by walking trails and a funicular.

Bergamo houses the quirky mausoleum of the world famous juggler Rastelli, historic sites like palaces and churches, and a shopping district. It’s truly one of those quaint little non-touristy towns in Italy that is absolutely well-worth a visit.

If you’re visiting the city and need a place to eat, check out the best restaurants in Bergamo !

4. Bolzano, South Tyrol

Bolzano is a gateway to the super-impressive Dolomites in the Italian Alps, nestled in a valley amidst seemingly endless hills of vineyards.

This non-touristy Italian city in South Thyrol is distinctly Germanic since it has only been Italian during World War I, so you’ll see an incredible mix of the two cultural influences.

Bolzano is home to the famous Neolithic mummy, Ötzi the Iceman, who lived in circa 3300 BC. You can “meet” him at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, in the vicinity of the Duomo di Bolzano and Mareccio Castle.

The city center is a good place for some delicious bakeries and other various foods, with spectacular views as an added treat.

• ALSO READ : 9 Prettiest Villages in the Dolomites You Should Visit or Stay In

5. Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna

While its convenient location between Venice and Bologna makes it easy to reach, Ferrara is still relatively off the beaten track of tourists.

Ferrara has been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its beauty and cultural significance. It is one of Europe’ capitals of culture, arts, politics, and gastronomy. It is also a reference point for artists, poets, and minstrels.

Ferrara boasts numerous Renaissance palaces that its former rules, the Estes, had built. The city’s historic center is well-preserved and easy to visit. This is a must if you want a nice view of the evolution from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

This beautiful medieval city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical delights, with little streets you will have fun getting lost in. It’s an absolute must in your itinerary, especially if you want to explore some non-touristy cities and towns in Italy’s north.

6. Cagliari, Sardinia

Cagliari is built upon several hills so you can imagine the views from up there. This non-touristy Italian city has been the capital of Sardinia for centuries. It is also the island region’s largest city.

Cagliari is famous for its diverse Art Nouveau architecture, several monuments, clear and pristine waters, and gorgeous stretches of coastline.

The place is vibrant and charming. You can find restaurants, especially pizzerias, in practically every corner. Within the city limits is the 5-mile-long Poetto Beach, which is among the best on the Mediterranean.

For culture and history buffs, you will love Castello, the city’s medieval district that’s still guarded by 13th-century towers.

One of the most exciting non-touristy cities and towns in Italy, Cagliari offers the perfect combination of recreation and exploration activities – Cagliari has it all!

• ALSO READ: 10 Best Beaches in Sardinia, Italy

7. Matera , Basilicata

With its designation as a European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera in the region of Basilicata has become Italy’s pride. It wasn’t always like this, though.

Some 50 years ago, Matera was maligned as “the shame of Italy” mainly due to the extremely poor living conditions of its cave-dwelling citizens. They lived among animals in the caves and had no running water and electricity, which led to diseases that hit the population until the place was evacuated in the early 1950s. Today these caves house shops, cafés, and hotels.

The little troglodyte city in Southern Italy came out of obscurity when the 2021 James Bond film No Time to Die featured it. Now the world wants to explore it.

Deemed as Italy’s magical city of stones, Matera is a fabulous non-touristy Italian town you should visit before it becomes crowded with visitors from all over the world. Its fantastic setting and intriguing history, added by its exquisite cuisine, make Matera a must-visit in Italy.

• MUST-READ: The City of Caves: Your Best Guide to Matera, Italy

8. Ostuni, Puglia

Known for its whitewashed old town, Ostuni is in the heart of the Puglia region, situated in the heel of the “boot.” The city consists of a series of levels, staircases, arches, and small streets and alleys that lead to corners that have traces of the Middle Ages.

Like so many other historical towns and villages in Italy, walking around in Ostuni’s historic center feels like being there in the past. It’s a delight to wander around and get lost in the city’s nooks and crannies (which are many). You can see olive trees all over the city, so remember to buy their high-quality olive oil.

The non-touristy Italian city is beginning to be popular among day trippers, so visit before it gets too crowded.

9. Sant’Angelo, Isola d’Ischia, Campania

The village of Sant’Angelo is on the south coast of the Isola d’Ischia, a mountainous volcanic island that’s part of the Campanian Archipelago.

Ischia is the largest of those pretty islands in the Bay of Naples with fantastic sceneries of rolling hills and rocky beaches. While the island is famous for thermal spas and natural springs, it attracts only a fraction of the summer day-trippers from Naples who are actually headed for Capri. So the best time to visit is now, before this non-touristy Italian town gets crowded.

Towered over by the beautiful Mount Epomeo, Sant’Angelo offers authentic Italian village experience. From superb seafood dishes at the village’s charming restaurants to ultimate relaxation at curative spas and long stretches of secluded beaches – this colorful borgo won’t disappoint!

10. Turin , Piedmont

Best-known for the Holy Shroud and white truffles, Turin (Torino in Italian) is the capital city of the region of Piedmont in the northwest of Italy.

It is one of the country’s renowned cities and also its first capital city before the national headquarters transferred to Rome.

Turin is embellished with palaces and elegant architecture. It has been a center of European culture for centuries, offering attractions of great artistic and cultural values.

Turin is one of the most interesting non-touristy cities in Italy, although it often serves just as the springboard to ski resorts in the Alps.

Turin also takes pride in sports cars and chocolate, as well as the world’s most impressive collections of Egyptian artifacts.

Turin is also where you can find the best coffee in all of Italy. Check out the best restaurants in the city when you visit!

11. Trieste, Friuli-Venezia Giulia

While Trieste is a prosperous trading hub in the Mediterranean, this non-touristy city in Italy has yet to be crowded with a lot of tourists.

This charming seaside port city serves more of a stopover for most visitors headed to somewhere else. After all, it’s nestled right up against the border to Slovenia, just about 40 minutes to Piran and a little over an hour to the capital, Ljubljana. Zagreb in Croatia is also just 2.5 hours away.

However, the capital city of Friuli-Venezia Giulia offers more than that with its mixture of history and heritage that sets it apart from the rest of Italy. The city is in the easternmost tip of Italy with Italian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slovenian influences all evident in its layout.

Trieste takes pride in being home to one of the country’s largest coffee brands and the Mediterranean’s biggest coffee port, castles , and seafood-based Mediterranean dishes, as well as stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

12. Orvieto, Umbria

Orvieto is a city perched on the flat peak of a large butte of volcanic tuff, rising dramatically above the nearly-upright faces of tuff cliffs. So, imagine the spectacular views!

But this still non-touristy Italian city has more to offer than views, no matter how fabulous they are.

The site where Orvieto stands today was once an Etruscan acropolis. This is attested to by an incredible underground cave network which you can (and should) visit.

There’s also the Duomo di Orvieto that dates to 1290, imposing with its mosaic façade and a marble Pietà sculpture.

The 16th-century well shaft called the Pozzo di San Patrizio (“Saint Patrick’s Well”) is an absolute must-experience in Orvieto. Be prepared to tackle a lot of stairs, though! 248 steps, to be exact. But you’ll be rewarded when you hit the bottom of the well, where the water is so still and clear you’d think it’s not real.

13. Cefalù, Sicily

Cefalù was built by the Normans in the 12th century, located on the Tyrrhenian coast of Sicily . The city is dominated by the “promontory of Hercules,” a 270-meter high monumental rock on which the Temple of Diana stands. So the backdrop says it all.

Most visitors come to Cefalù for the beautiful beach , so no doubt this is a popular holiday destination.

However, compared to other major Italian cities, Cefalù is not given the proper attention it deserves from tourists. But if you’re looking for non-touristy cities and towns in Italy, this is one of the best ones you could go to.

This Sicilian city is not all about the stunning beach and vivid blue Thyrrhenian waters. Cefalù is also famous for having some of the most precious Byzantine mosaics in the world.

It is a great place for walking, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops along the charming cobbled streets.

Cefalù also has a Gothic cathedral, ancient ruins, and of course – the breathtaking views over the town, the sea and the wooded mountains.

14. Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio

Less than 2 hours from Rome is the fantastic Civita di Bagnoregio, part of the province of Viterbo in Lazio . It’s a suburb of the comune of Bagnoregio, the nearest town, and can only be reached via footbridge from the latter.

An ornate gateway to Civita is guarded by a variety of cats bathing in the sun. Inside the village, you’ll have fun strolling the warren of tiny streets and alleys that will either lead you to viewpoints or private dwellings. The buildings are pretty; however, the real attraction of this non-touristy Italian town is the amazing views from up there.

Civita is so rare because of its location. It’s on a slim bluff of land rising up from the valley floor, cut off from Bagnoregio – and, heck, the rest of Italy and the world – by a small canyon.

Civita di Bagnoregio is famously known as “the dying city” because the hill it’s built on is progressively being eroded, hence, the threat that the village could disappear. So hurry up before it’s gone – or crowded!

7 Affordable Alternatives To Italy's Amalfi Coast

If the Amalfi Coast isn't in your budget, check out these beautiful coastal towns and cities in Italy instead, which are more affordable alternatives!

• Save money and avoid the crowds - explore these more affordable coastal alternatives to the popular Amalfi Coast in Italy.
• Alghero, Bari, Rimini, and more offer beautiful beaches, history, and charm without breaking the bank for budget travelers.
• Experience authentic Italian culture and scenic beauty in places like Calabria, Cefalù, and Capri for a fraction of the cost.

The Amalfi Coast in Italy offers bucket list destinations and activities and is often at the top of travelers’ European bucket lists. What’s not to love? Stunning cliffside views, vibrant blue waters, sandy beaches, and world-class cuisine. However, the catch is the close to five million tourists who visit this destination each year.

The high demand, particularly during the summer months, drives up the cost of accommodation and food, making the Amalfi Coast’s idyllic identity a crowded, expensive reality. Based on cost estimates from Champion Traveler , the average expense of a seven-day trip to the Amalfi Coast in Italy for a solo traveler is $1,701, which can be quite pricey for budget travelers.

Experience the beauty of Italy on a budget instead with these seven more affordable coastal alternatives to the Amalfi Coast, which are easier on the wallet yet just as beautiful as their popular, world-famous counterpart.

7 Affordable Small Towns In Italy To Retire

$1,113 for a solo traveler, for seven days.

Alghero takes approximately 15.5 hours to reach from the Amalfi Coast by car and ferry. It is located on the island of Sardinia and is a unique alternative to the famous Italian coastal destination. Plus, it’s more affordable.

The charming town on the northwest coast of Sardinia weaves Spanish history into its Italian culture. This is recognizable in the Catalan Gothic structures throughout the town, such as Cattedrale di Santa Maria and the Chiesa di San Francesco cathedral. Beaches, history, and old-world charm are abundant here, and available on a budget.

• Affordable Attractions: Spiaggia di Maria Pia, Piazza Civica , St. John Tower
• Cheapest Season To Visit: Spring or Fall
• Population: 42,380

Visit These 12 Underrated Places In Italy This Summer

$1,208 for a solo traveler, for seven days.

Bari is a 3-hour and 45-minute drive from the Amalfi Coast and offers a unique way to experience coastal Italy without the hefty price tag. It’s the capital of the Puglia Region in southern Italy and is known for its old town, Barivecchia, which sits between harbors and has a maze-like layout.

It is the perfect getaway option for travelers who want to see the beautiful Adriatic Sea while also having lots of options for shopping and strolling along pedestrian streets.

• Affordable Attractions: Bari Old Town, Bari Cathedral, Piazza Mercantile
• Cheapest Season To Visit: Spring and Fall
• Population: 1,223,102

$1,269 for a solo traveler, for seven days

Located approximately 6.5 hours north of the Amalfi Coast by car, Rimini is a coastal alternative that sits north of Rome and south of Milan. The charming city on the Adriatic coast is in the Emilia-Romagna region and boasts beachside clubs, vibrant blue waters to rival the Amalfi Coast, and it’s home to the Castel Sismondo, a medieval fortress.

Rimini is famous for its beaches, but it also has Roman ruins worth seeing , too, making it a great spot for both beach lovers and history buffs. Rimini is the perfect addition to a week-long Italy trip that takes you from Rome to Milan with an underrated stop in between!

• Affordable Attractions: The Tiberius Bridge, Piazza Cavour, Arco d'Augusto
• Cheapest Season To Visit: Spring, Fall, or Winter
• Population: 149,211

4 Porto Ercole

$1,348 for a solo traveler, for seven days.

Porto Ercole, also known as “Port Hercules”, is located 5 hours and 3 minutes up the coast from the Amalfi Coast. It’s a small town with a population of less than 3,000 people. It might not be what you picture when you think of Tuscany, but that’s where it is located, an island in the province of Grosseto.

Sometimes called the “Silver Coast”, this tiny town on the island of Mont Argentario is a transformative destination that is more affordable than the Amalfi Coast but still offers great beaches, colorful landscapes, and historic charm.

• Affordable Attractions: Riva del Marchese, Spiaggia Della Feniglia, Spiaggia Lunga
• Population: 2,676

18 Secretly Perfect Places In Northern Italy

$1,358 for a solo traveler, for seven days.

Calabria is located approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes south of the Amalfi Coast by car. Specifically, the town of Tropea is the perfect place to stay while exploring this underrated Italian province.

Epic coastal views, vibrant water that will make your European summer beach dreams come true, and a few crowds are just some of the reasons this is a must-visit for travelers seeking an alternative to the overly touristy towns on the Amalfi Coast. This is where many of the Italian locals spend their summer – so why not join in?

• Affordable Attractions: Tropea Beach, Capo Vaticano
• Cheapest Season To Visit: Spring and Winter
• Population: 1.84 million

7 Affordable Cities To Visit In Italy

2 cefalù, $1,389 for a solo traveler, for seven days.

Cefalù is located 7 hours and 45 minutes from the Amalfi Coast by car and ferry. It’s on the island of Sicily, just one hour outside of Palermo, which is another great place to visit with lots to offer .

Cefalù is recognizable for its Norman cathedral featuring Byzantine mosaics and two towers. It’s a calm, scenic destination with a relatively small population and a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing retreat on the Italian coast.

For summer, it is certain to provide a more authentic experience than the overcrowded Amalfi Coast, but the most affordable times to visit are in the shoulder season and off-season when Italian locals are not vacationing here.

• Affordable Attractions: Cefalù Coast, Porta Pescara, Cathedral of Cefalù
• Cheapest Season To Visit: Spring
• Population: 13,881

10 Small Towns In Italy To Visit

$1,649 for a solo traveler, for seven days.

Beautiful Capri is 2 hours and 40 minutes from the Amalfi Coast by car and ferry. Capri is not exactly a hidden gem, but it remains slightly more affordable than the Amalfi Coast while still offering many of the same appealing experiences and sights that draw people to visit the latter in such large numbers.

This island in the Bay of Naples boasts a rugged landscape, and there are plenty of upscale hotels and lots of shopping to enjoy in Capri . However, for the adventurous, it has natural wonders like the Blue Grotto and dramatic cliff-lined coastlines. It's a convenient four-hour journey from Rome to Capri , making it easy to reach for international arrivals.

• Affordable Attractions: Marina Piccola, Via Krupp
• Cheapest Season To Visit: Fall or Winter
• Population: 6,804

Kinda Frugal

18 Cheapest Countries To Visit in Europe All Year Round

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

International travel does not have to break the bank. There are many options for affordable vacations within Europe without compromising the quality of your stay. Whether you’re after a lazy beach holiday or an adventure vacation hiking through a vast wilderness, many less-traveled European nations offer a cheaper alternative to the usual tourist hotspots.

Sitting quietly on the border between Europe and Asia, Georgia has something for everyone. Whether you are after a city break in the bustling city of Tbilisi or a quiet vacation among the vast wilderness and mountains, Georgia offers it at an affordable price. Excluding flights, a trip to Georgia can cost as little as $30 a day.

Serbia has become increasingly popular as a holiday destination over the last few years, hosting over five and a half million foreign visitors in 2023. Belgrade’s capital city is a gastronomic hub with many restaurants, cafes, and bars. With prices lower than most in Western Europe, fine dining can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. You can pay anywhere from $5 to $12 for a standard meal.

Poland boasts two cities well worth a visit: Krakow and Warsaw. Krakow was voted the European Capital of Culture in 2000 , while Warsaw is steeped in the history of World War Two. Warsaw is the more expensive of the two but is still affordable by European standards. 

4. Bulgaria

Sofia, the capital city, is very affordable, with an average two-person vacation costing $916 . Sunny Beach is a must-visit for those after a good party, offering water sports , paintball , and an incredibly lively nightlife . Bulgaria is home to many affordable resorts catering to all tastes.

Hungary is one of many Eastern European countries that can be visited on a tight budget. Budapest is its bustling capital, though many other towns and cities are well worth seeing. The cost of a typical meal at a restaurant in Budapest is less than half the price you would pay in New York. A typical lunch in Budapest can cost as little as $9.

The number of visitors to Albania almost doubled between 2022 and 2023, which is expected to keep growing . Lovingly named the Albanian Riviera, Albania has some of the best beaches in Europe in the summer. It is an excellent alternative to some of the more expensive Mediterranean countries. Tirana is incredibly affordable, with accommodation available for less than $25 a night.

7. Lithuania

As one of the cheapest countries to live in Europe, Lithuania is an excellent place for a budget-friendly vacation. Like its neighbor Latvia, much of Lithuania is covered in forests . Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is famed for its Baroque architecture and is home to many clubs, restaurants, coffee shops, theaters, and bars.

Romania is ideal for someone after an enjoyable cultural holiday. There are many cultural sites worth visiting, such as ancient churches, monasteries, and castles. The country is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites. Bucharest, the capital of Romania, remains a low-cost destination. If you’re willing to share, a room can cost as little as 70 Romanian Leu , or $15 .

9. Slovenia

As the 8th most peaceful nation in the world and one of the cheapest nations to visit in Europe, Slovenia is an ideal place for a reasonably priced European vacation. The old town of Ljubljana is picturesque, while the city comes alive at night. Ljubljana offers numerous day trip options conveniently accessible through the city’s efficient railway and bus networks.

10. Montenegro

Lying on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, This quiet Balkan nation saw its tourist arrivals almost double between 2011 and 2021. Montenegro is an excellent choice for an affordable sunny getaway. If you enjoy blue seas and soft white sand, the Budva Riviera or the beaches of the Bay of Kotor are not to be missed. Accommodation in the Bay of Kotor can be found reasonably priced, from as little as $170 for seven nights .

11. Croatia

Croatia has it all, from Zagreb’s modern, urban nightlife to the history-steeped city of Dubrovnik. While prices have steadily increased, Croatia remains an affordable destination compared to Western Europe. A 15-day public transit pass for less than $30 can give you free rein in the city.

12. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, known as Czechia, is renowned for its stunning castles, interesting culture, and delicious beer. Prague may not be a budget-friendly destination, but it offers a more affordable option than many Western European cities . A traveler on a budget can expect to spend between $50 and $70 a night for food, accommodation, travel, and activities. The extensive public transportation networks mean travel within the country is easy and efficient.  

Cyprus has been a top-rated tourist destination for years , but it remains cheaper for tourists. There are plenty of options for accommodation under $50 a day, and food and drink remain affordable. The small city of Nicosia has plenty to keep you occupied, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants. 

A country of two continents, Turkey is split down the middle by the Bosphorus River , with Europe on one side and Asia on the other. Despite its popularity among tourists, it is still very affordable. A restaurant meal for two can cost as little as ₺200, just under $7 . A cup of Turkish coffee or tea tends to cost less than 50¢.

Latvia is a solid choice for someone wanting an affordable stay amidst beautiful landscapes. Over half of the country is covered in forest, perfect for an outdoor adventure holiday . It is also great for architecture lovers, as the city of Riga has the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture.

Lying just off the tip of North Africa between Italy and Tunisia , Malta is perfect for an affordable vacation in a sunny climate. Malta is a proven tourist destination, hosting over five times as many tourists as its entire population . Being such a small country, booking a room in Valletta’s city center is unnecessary. The town of Floriana is only a short walking distance from Valletta and offers better prices .

17. Estonia

Estonia may be a good alternative if you can’t reasonably afford a Norwegian or Finnish getaway. Estonia is the northernmost non-Arctic member of the European Union and a very affordable tourist destination. If you’re working on a budget, you can comfortably stay in the capital city of Tallinn for around $50 a day .

18. Slovakia

If you like wine, you’ll love Slovakia. With its age-old wine industry and affordable prices, Slovakia offers an opportunity for a budget-friendly wine-tasting tour . There are also many UNESCO Heritage sites , such as the Dobšiná Ice Cave or Spiš Castle. The capital city, Bratislava, is affordable by European standards and is only a 90-minute train ride from the Austrian city of Vienna.

All Tastes Catered For

If you want to make your money go further, sometimes it’s necessary to take the road less traveled. You don’t have to jet off to Paris or Rome for a taste of Europe’s culture and cuisine. Lesser-known European countries boast hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re drawn to Ljubljana’s medieval charm or the vibrant modernity of cities like Belgrade and Vilnius, these budget-friendly destinations offer something for every traveler.

14 Coastal Towns That Offer Affordable Retirement and Quality

Retirement is not just about taking a long-deserved break; it’s about embracing a new adventure in life’s next chapter. What better way to start this journey than in a coastal town, where the sea meets the sky in a harmony of tranquil living? This post sails through the 14 most enchanting seaside towns, handpicked for retirees who dream of quality living without breaking the bank. We’ve anchored downtowns that tick all the boxes for an ideal retirement haven – affordability, rich quality of life, top-notch healthcare, and delightful weather. So, let’s dive in and explore these seaside gems where your golden years can truly shine.

16 Affordable Retirement Destinations Abroad

Retirement can be exciting for people who have worked hard and are ready to enjoy the good life. Many retirees want to make the most of their money and enjoy the rest of their life the best they can. For some, retiring abroad sounds like a fun adventure. Luckily, in some foreign locations, retirees can keep some of their hard-earned money in their bank accounts. Below are some of the best places for new retirees to settle down and enjoy their lives.

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15 cheapest european countries to visit in 2024.

This article looks at the 15 cheapest European countries to visit in 2024. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis of Tourism in Europe and ways to budget your vacation, you may skip ahead to 5 Cheapest European Countries to Visit in 2024 .

Tourism in Europe

Europe is by far the most popular tourist destination among all continents. According to UNWTO , in 2023, 54% of the world's international tourist arrivals were in Europe, with the southern/Mediterranean region being the most visited destination. Europe is extremely appealing for tourists due to its friendly visa policies, a diverse range of destinations, and the fact that it is considered safer than other global destinations.

Like most of the world, tourism in Europe has still not managed to recover to pre-pandemic volumes. In 2023, Europe had 700 million tourist arrivals across the continent, which was 94% of the arrivals witnessed in 2019. This is despite the fact that many southern European and Mediterranean destinations have surpassed pre-COVID levels of tourism. The European Travel Commission reports that countries such as Serbia, Portugal, and Montenegro all hosted 10% more tourists in 2023 than they had in 2019. In comparison, 65% of destinations in Europe are still falling short of pre-pandemic volumes. The most sluggish recovery has been witnessed in the Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, each of which has failed to attain even 75% of pre-COVID tourist arrivals. This stark disparity in the recovery of tourism across the continent poses a challenge.  Despite the enormous volume of tourists that fly over to Europe each year, many of its most exquisite locations continue to be dejected in favor of hotspots such as the beaches of Ibiza, the bustling streets of Paris, or the canals of Venice. Owing to such a rapid inflow of tourists into only a handful of destinations, the sustainability of tourism in Europe falls under threat. Recently, more and more vacationers are becoming critical of tourist hotspots, criticizing them for being “tourist traps” and are instead looking to venture towards less crowded destinations. Another factor that unsettles tourists is the rate of inflation witnessed in post-pandemic tourism. According to Allianz Research , the daily rate for a hotel room (global median) jumped to $212 in the first quarter of 2023, up from $156 in Q1 2022 and $129 in Q1 2021. Moreover, a recent survey by Travel Weekly showed that 87% of European travelers are taking measures to reduce costs in their vacations. This includes opting for cheaper accommodations, reducing the budget used on excursions, and switching towards more affordable destinations.

As more and more tourists become irked by the overcrowded and inflated vacation experiences in particular hotspots, it is possible that tourists in 2024 will set their sights on destinations offering budget-friendly vacations with similar itineraries. With websites such as Airbnb, Inc. (NASDAQ: ABNB ), Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG ), and Sun Life Financial, Inc. (NYSE: SLF ), tourists have the opportunity to map out their entire vacations at the most affordable prices, exploring new and exciting destinations in the process.

Budgeting your trip

Some would argue that the true beauty of Europe lies in destinations that have been spared from the tirade of excessive tourist inflows. In the past, there were either no avenues for the common tourist to arrange a vacation to such areas, or they would be considered as being unreliable, unsafe, and unfit for tourists. However, over the last decade, this perception has shifted as people have access to more and more avenues to plan trips to some of the most remote recesses of the world.

Websites like Booking, property of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), and Budget Your  Trip provide data for locations, resorts, and excursions. This enables previously unknown tourist spots all over Europe to market themselves without investing the same level of resources as world-renowned hoteling brands. Tourists can use Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG) and similar services to break down each leg of their trips into exact monetary terms, without being beguiled by the fame of prominent destinations.

Similarly, Airbnb, Inc. (NASDAQ: ABNB) is the world's largest platform for alternative accommodation. Alternative accommodation is a relatively new manner of lodging that involves living in rented apartments, hostels, or even a spare guestroom. In comparison to hotels, such accommodation is cheaper and can be found in rural travel destinations as well. In providing this service, Airbnb, Inc. (NASDAQ: ABNB) has diverted a large number of tourists away from saturated hot-spots towards less crowded communities.

If you’re looking to visit a cheap European country in 2024, you may also consider obtaining travel insurance such as the packages offered by Sun Life Financial, Inc. (NYSE: SLF). These cover medical treatment and hospitalization bills in the unfortunate circumstance that you or a family member fall ill. Obtaining insurance from companies such as Sun Life Financial, Inc. (NYSE: SLF) allows you to venture into the wild and vivaciously enjoy your vacation.

Methodology

To develop our list of 15 cheapest European countries to visit in 2024, we traversed through similarly recommended lists on the web to develop a shortlist of budget-friendly countries. For these countries, we used Google Flights to obtain data on the cheapest available flight from the US (using JFK as the reference point for departures). Moreover, we used Budgetyourtrip to obtain the average amount required to spend a week-long couple’s vacation in each country. Accumulating these data points allowed us to calculate the total expected amount required on a trip to each country. Each country was ranked in ascending order with respect to this metric, and the top 15 countries were selected as the cheapest European countries to visit in 2024.

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.

Here are 15 Cheapest European Countries to Visit in 2024.

Cheapest Return Ticket: $1011

Average expense during stay: $1722

Total cost: $2733

Latvia has a number of beautiful beaches along the Baltic sea, while the capital city of Riga features prominent Art Nouveau architecture. There are many historical castles present in towns across the country. Thus, there is plenty to enjoy in a week-long trip, all for the low price of $2,733.

14. Estonia

Cheapest Return Ticket: $941

Average expense during stay: $1544

Total cost: $2485

Another Baltic state, Estonia is one of the cheapest European countries to visit . It offers a blend of scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and Soviet era landmarks. The Lennusadam Museum in the capital city of Tallinn is an excellent starting point if you wish to be accustomed to the rich Estonian culture.

13. North Macedonia

Cheapest Return Ticket: $1083

Average expense during stay: $1388

Total cost: $2471

If you’re looking for a location that offers picturesque scenery whilst not requiring you to take on a second mortgage on your house, forget the shores of Madeira and journey east to the country of North Macedonia. You’ll get the chance to explore one of Europe’s deepest lakes and some of its most stunning peaks, along with the historically rich city of Ohrid.

12. Croatia

Cheapest Return Ticket: $868

Average expense during stay: $1436

Total cost: $2304

Croatia makes for a very cheap vacation that also offers the chance to explore roman heritage, mesmerizing coasts, and modern attractions. Zagreb is becoming an increasingly popular tourist spot; however, it is still a very affordable destination where you can enjoy museums, festivals, and vibrant street life. The city of Split offers a chance to visit the iconic Diocletian Palace and venture off to one of the country’s various islands within the Adriatic Sea.

11. Czech Republic

Cheapest Return Ticket: $741

Average expense during stay: $1548

Total cost: $2289

Whilst the capital city of Prague is famous for its State Opera theater and other orchestras, the rest of the country sees far and few tourists. Czech Republic is an amazing destination for adventure travel, with places like the Bohemian Switzerland National Park and the caverns of Moravian Karst. Moreover, if you steer clear of certain excursions in the capital, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the local culture at an affordable cost.

10. Lithuania

Cheapest Return Ticket: $872

Average expense during stay: $1393

Total cost: $2265

Lithuania is the cheapest European country to visit in the Baltics. In just $2,265, you and your partner can entertain yourself to a comprehensive getaway. Your itinerary can include museums, Baroque monuments, serene national parks, and pristine beaches.

Cheapest Return Ticket: $1765

Average expense during stay: $461

Total cost: $2226

If you have managed to rack up some airline miles, Georgia is one of the cheapest European countries to visit in 2024 . With an average expense on transport, accommodation, and food of just $461 a week for 2 people, the foothills of the Caucasus mountains are the perfect place to enjoy a budget friendly European vacation.

Cheapest Return Ticket: $1018

Average expense during stay: $1170

Total cost: $2188

Budapest is regarded as being one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world. Sprawling on either side of the Danube River, it features a sea of Gothic, Romanesque, and Art Nouveau architecture. One of the country’s unique features is that it contains over 1,300 thermal springs, many of which are now used to operate year-round spas and baths all over the nation.

Cheapest Return Ticket: $1727

Average expense during stay: $398

Total cost: $2125

Until mid-2023, the US Travel Advisory had classified a visit to Armenia under the Level 4 category. However, barring a few locations bordering Azerbaijan, the country has been deescalated to Level 2. Since tourists are still acclimatizing to this change, Armenia happens to be one of the cheapest European countries to visit in 2024.

6. Bosnia & Herzegovina

Cheapest Return Ticket: $1079

Average expense during stay: $1040

Total cost: $2119

If you’re looking for a destination with historical significance, Bosnia & Herzegovina happens to be the most underrated destinations in the world. Featuring monuments and shrines from the second world war, the cold war, and the Bosnian war, it is one of the most insightful vacation spots in the world. In terms of scenery, a day trip to the Kravice Falls is a common part of any traveler’s itinerary.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Cheapest European Countries to Visit in 2024 .

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Disclosure: none.  15 Cheapest European Countries to Visit in 2024 is originally published on Insider Monkey.

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Money blog: Loud budgeting - the taboo-busting money hack you can do without giving up daily coffee

Created accidentally by a comedian, "loud budgeting" is breaking down the taboo of speaking about money. Read this and the rest of our Weekend Money features, and leave a comment, and we'll be back with rolling personal finance and consumer news on Monday.

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:15, UK

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By Jess Sharp , Money team 

Money saving trends are constantly popping up on social media - but one in particular has been gaining huge amounts of attention.

Created accidentally by a comedian, loud budgeting is breaking down the taboo of speaking about money.

The idea is based on being firmer/more vocal about your financial boundaries in social situations and setting out what you are happy to spend your money on, instead of "Keeping up with the Joneses". 

On TikTok alone, videos published under the hashtag #loudbudgeting have garnered more than 30 million views - and that figure is continuing to climb. 

We spoke to Lukas Battle - the 26-year-old who unintentionally created the trend as part of a comedy sketch. 

Based in New York, he came up with the term in a skit about the "quiet luxury" hype, which had spread online in 2023 inspired by shows like Succession. 

The term was used for humble bragging about your wealth with expensive items that were subtle in their design - for example, Gwyneth Paltrow's  £3,900 moss green wool coat from The Row, which she wore during her ski resort trial...

"I was never a big fan of the quiet luxury trend, so I just kind of switched the words and wrote 'loud budgeting is in'. I'm tired of spending money and I don't want to pretend to be rich," Lukas said. 

"That's how it started and then the TikTok comments were just obsessed with that original idea." 

This was the first time he mentioned it...

Lukas explained that it wasn't about "being poor" but about not being afraid of sharing your financial limits and "what's profitable for you personally". 

"It's not 'skip a coffee a day and you'll become a millionaire'."

While talking money has been seen as rude or taboo, he said it's something his generation is more comfortable doing. 

"I've seen more debate around the topic and I think people are really intrigued and attracted by the idea," he said. 

"It's just focusing your spending and time on things you enjoy and cutting out the things you might feel pressured to spend your money on."  

He has incorporated loud budgeting into his own life, telling his friends "it's free to go outside" and opting for cheaper dinner alternatives.

"Having the terminology and knowing it's a trend helps people understand it and there's no awkward conversation around it," he said. 

The trend has been a big hit with so-called American "finfluencers", or "financial influencers", but people in the UK have started practising it as well. 

Mia Westrap has taken up loud budgeting by embarking on a no-buy year and sharing her finances with her 11.3k TikTok followers. 

Earning roughly £2,100 a month, she spends around £1,200 on essentials, like rent, petrol and car insurance, but limits what else she can purchase. 

Clothes, fizzy drinks, beauty treatments, makeup, dinners out and train tickets are just some things on her "red list". 

The 26-year-old PHD student first came across the idea back in 2017, but decided to take up the challenge this year after realising she was living "pay check to pay check". 

She said her "biggest fear" in the beginning was that her friends wouldn't understand what she was doing, but she found loud budgeting helped. 

"I'm still trying my best to just go along with what everyone wants to do but I just won't spend money while we do it and my friends don't mind that, we don't make a big deal out of it," she said. 

So far, she has been able to save £1,700, and she said talking openly about her money has been "really helpful". 

"There's no way I could have got this far if I wasn't baring my soul to the internet about the money I have spent. It has been a really motivating factor."

Financial expert John Webb said loud budgeting has the ability to help many "feel empowered" and create a "more realistic" relationship with money.

"This is helping to normalise having open and honest conversations about finances," the consumer affair manager at Experien said. 

"It can also reduce the anxiety some might have by keeping their financial worries to themselves." 

However, he warned it's important to be cautious and to take the reality of life into consideration. 

"It could cause troubles within friendship groups if they're not on the same page as you or have different financial goals," he said.

"This challenge isn't meant to stop you from having fun, but it is designed to help people become more conscious and intentional when it comes to money, and reduce the stigma around talking about it." 

Rightmove's keyword tool shows Victorian-era houses are the most commonly searched period properties, with people drawn to their ornate designs and features.

Georgian and Edwardian-style are second and third respectively, followed by Tudor properties. Regency ranked in fifth place.

Rightmove property expert Tim Bannister said: "Home hunters continue to be captivated by the character and charm of properties that we see in period dramas.

"Victorian homes remain particularly popular, characterised by their historic charm, solid construction, and spacious interiors. You'll often find Victorian houses in some of the most desirable locations which include convenient access to schools and transport links."

Throughout the week Money blog readers have shared their thoughts on the stories we've been covering, with the most correspondence coming in on...

• A hotly contested debate on the best brand of tea
• Downsizing homes
• The cost of Michelin-starred food

Job interview mistakes

On Wednesday we reported on a new £12m ad from PG Tips in response to it falling behind rivals such as Twinings, Yorkshire Tea and Tetley....

We had lots of comments like this...

How on earth was the PG Tips advert so expensive? I prefer Tetley tea, PG Tips is never strong enough flavour for me. Shellyleppard

The reason for the sales drop with PG Tips could be because they increased the price and reduced the quantity of bags from 240 to 180 - it's obvious. Royston

And then this question which we've tried to answer below...

Why have PG Tips changed from Pyramid shape tea bags, to a square? Sam

Last year PG Tips said it was changing to a square bag that left more room for leaves to infuse, as the bags wouldn't fold over themselves.

We reported on data showing how downsizing could save you money for retirement - more than £400,000, in some regions, by swapping four beds for two.

Some of our readers shared their experiences...

We are downsizing and moving South so it's costing us £100k extra for a smaller place, all money from retirement fund. AlanNorth

Interesting read about downsizing for retirement. We recently did this to have the means to retire early at 52. However, we bought a house in the south of France for the price of a flat in our town in West Sussex. Now living the dream! OliSarah

How much should we pay for food?

Executive chef at London's two-Michelin-starred Ikoyi, Jeremy Chan, raised eyebrows when he suggested to the Money blog that Britons don't pay enough for restaurant food.

Ikoyi, the 35th best restaurant in the world, charges £320 for its tasting menu. 

"I don't think people pay enough money for food, I think we charge too little, [but] we want to always be accessible to as many people as possible, we're always trying our best to do that," he said, in a piece about his restaurant's tie up with Uber Eats... 

We had this in... 

Are they serious? That is two weeks' worth of food shopping for me, if the rich can afford this "tasting menu" then they need to be taxed even more by the government, it's just crazy! Steve T

If the rate of pay is proportionate to the vastly overpriced costs of the double Michelin star menu, I would gladly peel quail eggs for four-hour stints over continuing to be abused as a UK supply teacher. AndrewWard

Does this two-star Michelin star chef live in the real world? Who gives a toss if he stands and peels his quails eggs for four hours, and he can get the best turbot from the fishmonger fresh on a daily basis? It doesn't justify the outrageous price he is charging for his tasting menu. Topaztraveller

Chefs do make me laugh, a steak is just a steak, they don't make the meat! They just cook it like the rest of us, but we eat out because we can't be bothered cooking! StevieGrah

Finally, many of you reacted to this feature on common mistakes in job interviews...

Those 10 biggest mistakes people make in interviews is the dumbest thing I've ever read. They expect all that and they'll be offering a £25k a year job. Why wouldn't I want to know about benefits and basic sick pay? And also a limp handshake? How's that relevant to how you work? Jre90

Others brought their own tips...

Whenever I go for an interview I stick to three points: 1. Be yourself 2. Own the interview 3. Wear the clothes that match the job you are applying Kevin James Blakey

From Sunday, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old in England will be able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

This will then be granted from September. 

Check if you're eligible  here  - or read on for our explainer on free childcare across the UK.

Three and four year olds

In England, all parents of children aged three and four in England can claim 15 hours of free childcare per week, for 1,140 hours (38 weeks) a year, at an approved provider.

This is a universal offer open to all.

It can be extended to 30 hours where both parents (or the sole parent) are in work, earn the weekly minimum equivalent of 16 hours at the national minimum or living wage, and have an income of less than £100,000 per year.

Two year olds

Previously, only parents in receipt of certain benefits were eligible for 15 hours of free childcare.

But, as of last month, this was extended to working parents.

This is not a universal offer, however.

A working parent must earn more than £8,670 but less than £100,000 per year. For couples, the rule applies to both parents.

Nine months old

In September, this same 15-hour offer will be extended to working parents of children aged from nine months. From 12 May, those whose children will be at least nine months old on 31 August can apply to received the 15 hours of care from September.

From September 2025

The final change to the childcare offer in England will be rolled out in September 2025, when eligible working parents of all children under the age of five will be able to claim 30 hours of free childcare a week.

In some areas of Wales, the Flying Start early years programme offers 12.5 hours of free childcare for 39 weeks, for eligible children aged two to three. The scheme is based on your postcode area, though it is currently being expanded.

All three and four-year-olds are entitled to free early education of 10 hours per week in approved settings during term time under the Welsh government's childcare offer.

Some children of this age are entitled to up to 30 hours per week of free early education and childcare over 48 weeks of the year. The hours can be split - but at least 10 need to be used on early education.

To qualify for this, each parent must earn less than £100,000 per year, be employed and earn at least the equivalent of working 16 hours a week at the national minimum wage, or be enrolled on an undergraduate, postgraduate or further education course that is at least 10 weeks in length.

All three and four-year-olds living in Scotland are entitled to at least 1,140 hours per year of free childcare, with no work or earnings requirements for parents. 

This is usually taken as 30 hours per week over term time (38 weeks), though each provider will have their own approach.

Some households can claim free childcare for two-year-olds. To be eligible you have to be claiming certain benefits such as Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance or Universal Credit, or have a child that is in the care of their local council or living with you under a guardianship order or kinship care order.

Northern Ireland

There is no scheme for free childcare in Northern Ireland. Some other limited support is available.

Working parents can access support from UK-wide schemes such as tax credits, Universal Credit, childcare vouchers and tax-free childcare.

Aside from this, all parents of children aged three or four can apply for at least 12.5 hours a week of funded pre-school education during term time. But over 90% of three-year-olds have a funded pre-school place - and of course this is different to childcare.

What other help could I be eligible for?

Tax-free childcare  - Working parents in the UK can claim up to £500 every three months (up to £2,000 a year) for each of their children to help with childcare costs. 

If the child is disabled, the amount goes up to £1,000 every three months (up to £4,000 a year).

To claim the benefit, parents will need to open a tax-free childcare account online. For every 80p paid into the account, the government will top it up by 20p.

The scheme is available until the September after the child turns 11.

Universal credit  - Working families on universal credit can claim back up to 85% of their monthly childcare costs, as long as the care is paid for upfront. The most you can claim per month is £951 for one child or £1,630 for two or more children.

Tax credits -  People claiming working tax credit can get up to 70% of what they pay for childcare if their costs are no more than £175 per week for one child or £300 per work for multiple children.

Two big economic moments dominated the news agenda in Money this week - interest rates and GDP.

As expected, the Bank of England held the base rate at 5.25% on Wednesday - but a shift in language was instructive about what may happen next.

Bank governor Andrew Bailey opened the door to a summer cut to 5%, telling reporters that an easing of rates at the next Monetary Policy Committee meeting on 20 June was neither ruled out nor a fait accompli.

More surprisingly, he suggested that rate cuts, when they start, could go deeper "than currently priced into market rates".

He refused to be drawn on what that path might look like - but markets had thought rates could bottom out at 4.5% or 4.75% this year, and potentially 3.5% or 4% next.

"To make sure that inflation stays around the 2% target - that inflation will neither be too high nor too low - it's likely that we will need to cut Bank rate over the coming quarters and make monetary policy somewhat less restrictive over the forecast period," Mr Bailey said.

You can read economics editor Ed Conway's analysis of the Bank's decision here ...

On Friday we discovered the UK is no longer in recession.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.6% between January and March, the Office for National Statistics said.

This followed two consecutive quarters of the economy shrinking.

The data was more positive than anticipated.

"Britain is not just out of recession," wrote Conway. "It is out of recession with a bang."

The UK has seen its fastest growth since the tailend of the pandemic - and Conway picked out three other reasons for optimism.

1/ An economic growth rate of 0.6% is near enough to what economists used to call "trend growth". It's the kind of number that signifies the economy growing at more or less "normal" rates.

2/ 0.6% means the UK is, alongside Canada, the fastest-growing economy in the G7 (we've yet to hear from Japan, but economists expect its economy to contract in the first quarter).

3/ Third, it's not just gross domestic product that's up. So too is gross domestic product per head - the number you get when you divide our national income by every person in the country. After seven years without any growth, GDP per head rose by 0.4% in the first quarter.

GDP per head is a more accurate yardstick for the "feelgood factor", said Conway - perhaps meaning people will finally start to feel better off.

For more on where Friday's figures leaves us, listen to an Ian King Business Podcast special...

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money .

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

If you've missed any of the features we've been running in Money this year, or want to check back on something you've previously seen in the blog, this archive of our most popular articles may help...

Loaves of bread have been recalled from shelves in Japan after they were found to contain the remains of a rat.

Production of the bread in Tokyo has been halted after parts of a "small animal" were found by at least two people.

Pasco Shikishima Corp, which produces the bread, said 104,000 packages have been recalled as it apologised and promised compensation.

A company representative told Sky News's US partner network, NBC News, that a "small black rat" was found in the bread. No customers were reported to have fallen ill as a result of ingesting the contaminated bread.

"We deeply apologise for the serious inconvenience and trouble this has caused to our customers, suppliers, and other concerned parties," the spokesman said.

Pasco added in a separate statement that "we will do our utmost to strengthen our quality controls so that this will never happen again. We ask for your understanding and your co-operation."

Japanese media reports said at least two people who bought the bread in the Gunma prefecture, north-west of Tokyo, complained to the company about finding a rodent in the bread.

Record levels of shoplifting appear to be declining as fewer shopkeepers reported thefts last year, new figures show. 

A survey by the Office for National Statistics shows 26% of retailers experienced customer theft in 2023, down from a record high of 28% in 2022.

This comes despite a number of reports suggesting shoplifting is becoming more frequent. 

A  separate ONS finding , which used police crime data, showed reports of shoplifting were at their highest level in 20 years in 2023, with law enforcements logging 430,000 instances of the crime.

Let's get you up to speed on the biggest business news of the past 24 hours. 

A privately owned used-car platform is circling Cazoo Group, its stricken US-listed rival, which is on the brink of administration.

Sky News has learnt that Motors.co.uk is a leading contender to acquire Cazoo's marketplace operation, which would include its brand and intellectual property assets.

The process to auction the used-car platform's constituent parts comes after it spent tens of millions of pounds on sponsorship deals in football, snooker and darts in a rapid attempt to gain market share.

The owner of British Airways has reported a sharp rise in profits amid soaring demand for trips and a fall in the cost of fuel.

International Airlines Group said its operating profit for the first three months of the year was €68m (£58.5m) - above expectations and up from €9m (£7.7m) during the same period in 2023.

The company, which also owns Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling, said earnings had soared thanks to strong demand, particularly over the Easter holidays.

The prospect of a strike across Tata Steel's UK operations has gained further traction after a key union secured support for industrial action.

Community, which has more than 3,000 members, said 85% voted in favour of fighting the India-owned company's plans for up to 2,800 job losses, the majority of them at the country's biggest steelworks in Port Talbot, South Wales.

Tata confirmed last month it was to press ahead with the closure of the blast furnaces at the plant, replacing them with electric arc furnaces to reduce emissions and costs.

In doing so, the company rejected an alternative plan put forward by the Community, GMB and Unite unions that, they said, would raise productivity and protect jobs across the supply chain.

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