Big cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice might be the obvious weekend trip destinations, but if you are planning budget-friendly weekend getaways in Italy, these seven are the best destinations. The cities and the microstate of San Marino are located all around the country, so you will find a great location wherever you want to go.
While the cities on this list do have touristic features, most of them do not have a focus on tourism. Therefore, venturing through the streets will allow you a glimpse of the real Italy without large crowds.
I absolutely love Italy and it just might be my favorite country in Europe. There are so many rather unknown cities in Italy that will take your breath away and that will make you want to return there again and again. I genuinely believe that these often overlooked destinations are the perfect weekend getaways in Italy. While exploring them you can find anything from medieval architecture to incredible viewpoints with the added bonus of amazing Italian food.
The Best Weekend Getaways in Italy
Some of these weekend getaways in Italy are inland, while others are located right at the ocean. Therefore, you will be able to find the perfect destination for you regardless of what you are looking for. My favorite Italian city, Bergamo, is also on this list and I couldn’t recommend a weekend trip there or to one of the other locations more.
All of these destinations are perfect for a weekend trip to Italy, and you are bound to have a great time whether you only plan to stay one night or are planning an extended weekend.
Of course, they also make great additions to a longer Italy trip. If you have more time, you can also use this selection of affordable and fantastic cities to plan an incredible road trip through Italy. Be sure to include the more popular cities like Milan and Venice when you plan a road trip and do not forget to eat at least one of the ten best pizzas in Italy while there.
1. Bergamo
When traveling in Europe, I particularly love the less-known towns or neighbors of big cities, as they feature more treasures to explore and are not overrun by tourists. One of those examples is Bergamo, which is an hour away from the famous Milan. Oftentimes, it is often overlooked by visitors coming to Italy.
Bergamo is a small city with just a bit more than 100.000 inhabitants, featuring an impressive old walled city center. The Citta Alta, as the historic old town is called, is a small labyrinth of cozy squares, winding alleyways, pretty houses, and small shops.
Everything is a bit calmer here and if you are just strolling through the cobblestone streets, you will discover many hidden gems of Bergamo and authentic experiences of Italy.
Every now and then you can stop for a pizza, an ice cream, or other snacks, which are considerably cheaper than in Milan.
Furthermore, thanks to its elevated location, the old town features a UNESCO-inscribed Venetian defensive system, and offers marvelous views of the surroundings, among them the lower part of Bergamo and the Bergamo Alps.
Another unique thing to do in Bergamo is to use the two historic funiculars – one of them is heading to the old town, another one is bound to San Vigilio, which is even higher than the Citta Alta of Bergamo. Both are very affordable – tickets are available for less than 2€.
Thanks to Milan-Bergamo airport which is located next to the town and frequented by various low-cost carriers, Bergamo is a perfect budget-friendly weekend getaway in Italy. Flights are usually cheap, and the airport has a direct bus connection with the town center, available for less than 3€.
2. Montepulciano
Montepulciano is one of those Italian towns worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. It is situated in the most picturesque areas of Italy, in Tuscany, in the province of Siena. Montepulciano is only an hour away from the famous Duomo of Siena. Therefore, it is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway in Italy.
It is a small town with 14 thousand inhabitants and offers those that venture there fabulous medieval architecture. Around the historic Montepulciano, you can admire idyllic landscapes and hills with vineyards. Furthermore, breathtaking are avenues surrounded by cypress trees and golden fields.
The town itself is famous for its unique cuisine and delicious ice cream. Moreover, it offers world-renowned wine. You can taste excellent wine in lots of wineries, restaurants, and shops in town. The most famous local wine is Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
Montepulciano’s center is built on top of a hill, about 600 meters above sea level. When you enter the cobblestone alleys of the old town, you can feel as if you have stepped back in time.
Strolling in main streets, it is worth paying attention to the palaces and tenement houses from the 15th and 16th centuries. In small shops, you can buy fresh local products, including cold cuts, cheese, truffles, olive oil, and, above all, wine.
Life revolves around Piazza Grande, which is the heart of the city and its showcase. Various types of events, performances, and shows take place there. Lots of restaurants and bars invite for delicious food or a glass of wine.
At the end of your walk around Montepulciano, it is worth visiting Piazza di San Francesco. This square is the most beautiful viewpoint in the town. Furthermore, it is an excellent place for photos.
From here, you can admire stone buildings and hills of fairy-tale Tuscany. In the distance, you can see cypresses, vineyards, and olive groves.
Furthermore, it is a city for fans of Twilight Saga, as Montepulciano is where parts of the movie Twilight: New Moon were shot. If you have seen the movie, you are bound to recognize places!
3. Bari
The capital of Puglia, Bari is an easy and budget-friendly getaway from many cities in Europe. You can fly straight into Bari and head straight to its bustling port famous for some of the best seafood restaurants in the country.
Thanks to its position on the Adriatic Sea, Bari has an abundance of fresh seafood and you can also visit some of Italy’s best beaches. Polignano a Mare, famous for its Cala Porto beach with dramatic limestone cliffs overlooking impossibly azure blue waters, is just a 30-minute drive away.
For a culture fix, head to Castelo Normanno-Svevo. This imposing 12th century Norman fort is home to several art and archaeological exhibits. Bari is home to many interesting archeological finds and you can view some of the best at the San Sabino cathedral museum.
Or visit the Basilica San Nicola where Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus, is said to be buried. Afterward, take a stroll through the old town and historic Murat and simply soak up the atmosphere of the city.
In the evenings take a stroll along Bari’s romantic lungomare or seaside promenade or if you like to party then you have the pick of the city’s renowned nightclubs and bars. Don’t stay up too late though. One of the best things to do in Bari is watching the fishermen bring in their catch at the pretty Porto Vecchia in the mornings.
4. Matera
Matera is a hidden gem located in southern Italy, known for its fascinating architecture and ancient Sassi cave dwellings you can call home for the weekend. In 2019 it was named the European Capital of Culture by the EU and is recognized as the third-oldest continually lived-in city in the world.Â
When you arrive in the old city, it feels like you have stepped back into Biblical times. It is no surprise it was the setting for Hollywood movies, Ben-Hur and Passion of the Christ!
The 9000-year-old city has transformed over time from an ancient civilization to a city of poverty, and now to one of the most historic and unique places to visit in Europe. You can stay in a private authentic cave home in the Sassi di Matera for around €80 per night with Airbnb.
Spend your weekend exploring and getting lost in the tiny medieval stone streets throughout the old city, and hike to the Palaeolithic caves across the La Gravina ravine to enjoy the panoramic view of Sassi di Matera.
If you want to sip cocktails while people watching Monkey Drink House is the place to go.
The easiest way to get to Matera is by flying to the Bari International Airport. From there you can either take a 1.5-hour bus to Matera (€6 one way) or rent a car, which is a 45-minute drive.
5. Sorrento
With its charm, style, and wonderful landscapes, Sorrento is one of the best weekend getaways in Italy. Compared to other places on this list, it is an expensive destination, but with a little bit of effort and calculation, you can make it the ideal budget-friendly destination. The additional effort is well worth it, as Sorrento is one of the best cities in Italy.
There are many interesting things that you can do for little or no money, including visiting Chiesa di San Francesco, one of the most beautiful churches in the area and the place where many British and local couples get married.
You will also want to visit the Baths of Regina Giovanna, which are among the most dramatic pools in the area.
If you are looking for a different experience and memorable landscapes, hiking in the Sorrento area is the perfect addition to your Italy weekend trip.
Another activity not to be missed is visiting the Sorrento Market to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. And of course, you should also head to the beach for a relaxing time at the sea.
If you are coming from abroad, it is best to fly to Naples. Once there, catch a bus to Naples railway station by exiting the arrival terminal and looking for a bus with the Alibus logo. The ride from the airport to the central station costs 5€. Once you get to the Naples railway station, you can take the train to Sorrento. For a one-way ticket, you’ll have to pay around 5 euros and in less than an hour, you will reach the magnificent city of Sorrento!
6. Cagliari
As one of the best Italian cities on the coast, Cagliari is the perfect holiday destination for those looking for amazing beaches, perfect sun, good food, and friendly people. The town of Cagliari is the capital city of Sardinia, a beautiful island located on the Mediterranean Sea.
While Cagliari is one of the most frequented cruise ports in the Mediterranean, it is not as touristy as Rome or Milan. A weekend getaway to Cagliari is the best opportunity to get in touch with local cuisine and to admire the beauty of the place.
There are a lot of things you can do in Cagliari including visiting the Bastion Saint Remy, the the13th century Roman Cathedral, or the medieval Torre dell’Elefante.
If you want to visit a museum during your weekend getaway in Italy, you can explore the collections of the Museo Archeologico Nazionale. Alternatively, you can relax at marvelous beaches like Calamosra Beach or Poetto.
7. San Marino Weekend Trip
A great getaway in Italy is the tiny micro-country of San Marino. The oldest country in the world boasts breathtaking views of the Italian countryside while being home to an impressive castle. Traveling to San Marino is a must for anyone visiting Italy. Located three hours south of Venice, or two hours away from Bologna, it is easy to get there. Â
You will recognize San Marino by the towering castle on the peak of Monte Titano. There are three towers to explore, dating back to the 11th century!
The First Tower, Guaita is the oldest tower built in the 11th century and most famous. The Second Tower, Cesta, is on the highest peak and is home to a museum holding over 1500 weapons dating back to the Medieval Era. The Montale, the third tower, is on the smallest summit and is not open to the public.
If you still have time to explore, visit the National Museum, the Basilica de San Marino, or for something a bit different – the Torture Museum.
Visit Ristorante Il Beccafico for a delicious meal. Hand-tossed, fire-grilled pizza with local wine overlooking the countryside? What’s not to love?
If you’re able to stay in San Marino, then I recommend staying at the Hotel Cesare. It is located at the top of the mountain and has a patio overlooking the hillside. Many other hotels are located at the bottom of the mountain, which means you’d miss out on the views.
Is a Weekend Getaways in Italy worth it?
Italy is an incredible country with a rich history and culture that is reflected in everything ranging from architecture to food. As such, a trip there is always worth it. Of course, you should ensure the destination offers the kind of experiences you are looking for, but in the case of Italy that is certainly no hardship. There is an ideal weekend trip destination in Italy regardless of what you want to do during your vacation, so all that is left to do is to pick your next destination and to book your flights!
Further Weekend Getaways in Europe
Looking for more adventures in Europe? Discover your next destination by reading the posts below.
Affordable Weekend Trips in Europe
Budget-friendly Short Trips in Portugal
Great Weekend Trips in Spain
Amazing Short Trips in the Balkans
Did these weekend getaway destinations in Italy Make you want to plan a trip?
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Such a great list! My family heritage is to Italy so guess I found a new excuse to make a trip there!
Also nice to have options to see besides the big hits like Milan and Rome.
Being able to do any Europe destinations in a budget is impressive enough, but to find places so beautiful is amazing. I’m totally lusting after Sorrento, it looks gorgeous. Great travel tips too. I can’t wait to visit Italy again one day
Ah, beautiful Italy. One of my favourite countries to holiday. I would love to visit every square inch of it! A couple of these are on my list, like Matera. I’ve been to Montepulciano, and any village in Tuscany is easy to fall in love with. After seeing and reading your post gives me some serious wanderlust.
Ah I love this list! I’ve always dreamed of spending a month or more in Italy to see as much of the country as possible. San Marino is definitely on my list – would be so cool to visit another country.
On this list I’ve only heard of Sorrento, so now you have me looking up all these other places. They all look incredible! Italy looks so dreamy and I love the history.
These places all look great! I already have so many places on my Italy list that I don’t need any more but had to add all of these – I’m especially excited about the caves in Matera as that looks great and it’s jumped to near the top of my list.
San Marino has been on my to-visit list for years, and I’ve almost gone a couple times so I’m determined to visit next time I go back to Italy!
Very well researched and written post about Italy- I shall save it for when I make a plan to visit this country!
I cannot wait to get back to Italy when it is safe to do so. All of these weekend getaways look amazing. Matera is so beautiful! 🙂
I’ve only seen Rome in Italy, so I can’t wait to be able to visit these places one day post-pandemic!
I hope you get to explore ever single city on this list! I love Rome, but it was one of the places on this list that made me fall in love with the entire country. I just love the charm of the non-touristic cities in Italy!
This is a great list! For some time, I have wanted to visit Matera. The place looks out of this world. I have watched several videos about it. Cagliari looks wonderful too. I like the mix of architecture (old town feeling) and beach vibe.
I actually went to Milan and only when I was leaving realized that Bergamo was so close!
Too bad… be sure to visit Bergamo when you are in the area again. It’s such a lovely city and I think it’s so much better than Milan.
Bari looks really interesting! I love exploring places that aren’t really tourist hotspots. Thanks for sharing
This is so perfect since tourism is rising again in Italy!! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Now Italy is opening up to tourism again I was considering a trip, so great timing with the post! It all sounds so good, I don’t know where to head! Heard amazing things about Sorrento and I’m also tempted by Cagliari. Was Bergamo your favourite destination in Italy?
It is! Bergamo is just amazing. So far I’ve been there twice and I’m already looking forward to my next trip there
You should definitely check it out. It is such a charming town and the view from Saint Vigilio is the best