Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio
Often called “the dying city,” Civita di Bagnoregio is perched dramatically on a hilltop, surrounded by crumbling cliffs and ravines. Accessible only by a long pedestrian bridge, this village has an air of mystery, with its medieval architecture, narrow alleys, and cobbled streets. With fewer than 10 residents, it’s one of the most peaceful and captivating places in Italy.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: The village’s precarious position and its stunning views over the surrounding valley give it an almost magical quality. Its quiet and abandoned feel, paired with stunning ancient architecture, makes it seem like a scene from a fantasy novel.
Manarola, Cinque Terre, Liguria
One of the five towns of Cinque Terre, Manarola is a colorful jewel perched on cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea. The houses, painted in vibrant hues, cascade down toward the blue water, creating a postcard-perfect image. The narrow streets, steep staircases, and terraced vineyards complete the picture of a picturesque, storybook village.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: The dramatic cliffs, vibrant colors, and serene atmosphere make Manarola look like something straight out of a children’s fairytale. The tranquil views of the sea at sunset only add to its magical allure.
Pienza, Tuscany
Pienza is a small hilltop town in the Val d’Orcia region of Tuscany, known for its perfect Renaissance planning and idyllic scenery. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding rolling hills. Pienza’s charming streets are lined with honey-colored stone buildings, churches, and quaint little shops.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: The harmonious architecture and peaceful landscape make Pienza feel like stepping back in time. Its rural setting, combined with its well-preserved beauty, gives it the feeling of an untouched fairytale village.
San Gimignano, Tuscany
Known as the “Medieval Manhattan” due to its skyline of towering medieval towers, San Gimignano is one of Tuscany’s most famous and magical towns. The town’s cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and ancient town walls make it feel like a living medieval fairytale. The town is also famous for its white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: The skyline of ancient towers rising above the town, combined with the rustic charm of its cobbled streets, creates a romantic and timeless atmosphere that seems straight out of a medieval fairytale.
Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Liguria
Another gem in the Cinque Terre National Park, Vernazza is an incredibly charming village on the Ligurian coast. With its vibrant homes, narrow streets, and small harbor filled with colorful boats, Vernazza’s atmosphere is as serene as it is stunning. The medieval castle and church perched above the sea provide excellent views of the coastline.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: Vernazza’s dramatic cliffside position, rich colors, and tranquil harbor feel like something straight out of a painting. The combination of the sea breeze, quaint streets, and ancient structures adds to its enchanting, magical feel.
Castelluccio di Norcia, Umbria
Located in the Sibillini Mountains, Castelluccio di Norcia is a stunning village surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of the Piano Grande, a high plateau that blooms with colorful wildflowers each spring. The village itself is a mix of rustic stone buildings and a simple, yet picturesque, atmosphere.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: Surrounded by mountains and fields of wildflowers, Castelluccio di Norcia feels like a hidden paradise. The village’s remote location and natural beauty make it a dreamy and peaceful retreat straight from the pages of a fairytale.
Bosa, Sardinia
Bosa is a charming town located on the west coast of Sardinia, sitting on the banks of the Temo River. The colorful houses along the river, with the medieval Castello Malaspina perched above, give the town a quaint and romantic vibe. Its cobbled streets and peaceful atmosphere make it an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: Bosa’s blend of colorful buildings, medieval ruins, and riverside beauty give it a whimsical charm. The setting between the hills and the river creates a fairytale-like atmosphere that is both serene and captivating.
Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Campania
Perched high above the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is a stunning village known for its gardens, grand villas, and incredible panoramic views. With its narrow alleys, ornate churches, and dramatic cliffs, Ravello offers a peaceful yet elegant escape. It’s a favorite destination for lovers and artists, often considered one of the most romantic places in Italy.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: The lush gardens, the impressive architecture of Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, and the panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea create a fairytale atmosphere. The serenity and beauty of Ravello make it feel like an artist’s dream come to life.
Castelmezzano, Basilicata
Located in the rugged mountains of Basilicata, Castelmezzano is a small village set against dramatic rock formations. The stone houses of Castelmezzano are nestled between two soaring peaks, creating a picturesque and almost surreal scene. The town is famous for its winding streets and the breathtaking views that can be seen from the mountain trails.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: The village’s mountain setting and striking architecture make it look like a mystical place. The surreal landscape, combined with the feeling of being suspended in time, makes Castelmezzano feel like a living fairytale.
Orvieto, Umbria
Orvieto, perched atop a dramatic cliff in Umbria, is one of the most picturesque towns in central Italy. With its medieval cathedral, ancient buildings, and stunning views over the surrounding valley, Orvieto seems like something out of a fairytale. The village is also famous for its underground caves, which add a layer of mystery to its historical charm.
Why It’s Fairytale-Like: Orvieto’s location on a cliff and its grand cathedral make it feel like a place from another world. The beautiful views and rich history combine to create a sense of wonder that’s truly fairytale-esque.
