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.
12 cheap places to visit in Italy
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:
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.
Agropoli
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.
Caserta
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
Paestum
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.
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
- Tropea
- 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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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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
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 🙂