Cheap Places in Italy for Solo Female Travel
1, Trieste
Located in the northeastern corner of Italy, squeezed into a slender strip of land between the Adriatic Sea and Slovenia's border, Trieste is a hidden gem filled with enchanting spectacles. Known for its delightful mix of Italian, Austrian, and Slovenian cultures, it boasts iconic landmarks like the Piazza Unità d'Italia, which is said to be Europe's largest square located next to the sea, and the beautifully preserved Roman Amphitheatre. This richly historical city is also home to the stunning Miramare Castle, offering panoramic sea views, and the Grotta Gigante, one of the world's largest accessible caves. Influenced by Central European traditions, Trieste allure is further magnified with its astronomical observatory and the famous Illy Coffee factory, promising a compelling destination for both history and coffee enthusiasts alike.
2, Cremona
Cremona is a charming city in northern Italy, nestled within the Lombardy region, known worldwide for its stringed instrument making heritage. It is the birthplace of the renowned violin maker Antonio Stradivari, making it a point of pilgrimage for music and history lovers. Visitors can stroll through the historic city center, lines by medieval buildings, and check out the Violin Museum along with the 800-year old Torrazzo, the third tallest brickwork bell tower in the world. The city also offers a rich gastronomic experience, where visitors can taste local specialties like the famous nougat candy "Torrone." With a blend of history, music, and food, Cremona is a hidden gem in the heart of Italy, waiting to be discovered.
3, Viterbo
Located in the heart of the picturesque Italian region of Lazio, north of Rome, Viterbo is a treasure trove of history, culture, and Italian charm. Known for its well-preserved medieval town center, Viterbo is a true gem worth visiting, boasting a maze of narrow, winding streets, abundant in decorative architecture and quaint local shops. A stunning example of medieval architecture is Palazzo dei Papi, the papal palace which stands out for its enchanting Gothic grace. The town is also famous for the historic district of San Pellegrino and its natural thermal springs, offering a unique blend of history and relaxation. Be sure to indulge in local delicacies, as Viterbo is renowned for its culinary tradition, including Lombrichelli alla Viterbese, a local pasta dish. Its blend of history, wellness, and gastronomy make Viterbo a truly unique and charming Italian destination.
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4, Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore, Italy, is a picturesque coastal village found in the northern region of Liguria, beautifully nestled in the heart of the iconic Cinque Terre National Park. Known for its vibrant, colorful houses perched along towering cliffs, it offers panoramic views of pristine waters of the Ligurian Sea. Riomaggiore is famous for its labyrinthine network of narrow lanes and steep stairways, charmingly linking the village's entirety. Visitors from around the world are drawn here to wander through the tranquil vineyards, savor the local delight of freshly caught seafood, and experience the mesmerizing sunset. Riomaggiore also prides itself on the locally produced wine, particularly the aromatic sciacchetrà, making it an essential hub in Italy's rich gastronomic scene.
5, Tarvisio
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Italy, Tarvisio is a charming alpine town known for its natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. Situated amidst the tri-border region of Italy, Austria, and Slovenia, Tarvisio not only offers breathtaking mountainous views of the Julian Alps but also a unique blend of cultures. The town is renowned for its pristine ski slopes, profound hiking trails, and enchanting woodland, making it a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. Moreover, the area boasts significant historical attractions such as the Parish Church of Saints Peter and Paul, the Sanctuary of Mount Lussari, and the old Fusine Tarvisio Forest, each telling its own tale of the rich Tarvisian heritage. Whether it's skiing, hiking or simply soaking up the beauty of nature, Tarvisio is an idyllic destination that effortlessly merges adventure with tranquility.
6, Cortina d'Ampezzo
Cortina d'Ampezzo, affectionately known as the 'Queen of the Dolomites', is a picturesque gem nestled in the heart of the Northern Italian Alps, in the Veneto region. Its striking beauty owes much to its prime location, surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks and verdant alpine forests. Visitors are drawn to this elite winter sports haven not only for its extensive high-quality skiing routes - which once served as the scenic backdrop to the 1956 Winter Olympics - but also for its luxurious offering of high-end shops, charming cafes, and much sought-after Italian gastronomic experiences. Summertime reveals a different facet to its charm, attracting outdoor enthusiasts for hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking, all awash in a panorama akin to a master artist's canvas. The town's old-world charm is reflected in its traditional Tyrolean-style wood-and-stone architecture, making Cortina d'Ampezzo a quintessentially romantic alpine getaway.
7, Brunico
Brunico, also known as Bruneck, is a charming town located in the northern part of Italy in the region of South Tyrol. Known for its captivating combination of Italian and Austrian influences, this Alpine town is perfect for history buffs with its medieval city walls, Brunico Castle, and War Museum. Its location at the gateway to the Puster Valley, near the kronplatz - the number one skiing mountain in South Tyrol, makes it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts as well. Whether you prefer hiking through Dolomites or skiing down pristine pistes, Brunico is a perfect getaway destination for all seasons. The town's cobbled streets are also lined with quaint shops, cafes, and traditional Tyrolean restaurants, offering a delightful gastronomic experience.
8, Bressanone
Bressanone, also known as Brixen, is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, in northern Italy's South Tyrol region. This picturesque destination is renowned for its intriguing blend of Italian and Austrian cultures, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and local traditions. Bressanone boasts a rich history, evidenced by its well-preserved bishop's palace, magnificent cathedral, and a series of remarkable cloisters. Being the oldest town in Tyrol, it offers visitors an amalgamation of medieval and Baroque influences, from frescoed houses to beautifully cobbled streets. Within easy reach of hiking trails and ski resorts, Bressanone carries the dual charms of cultural history and mesmerizing natural beauty which attract tourists worldwide.
9, Ortisei
Ortisei, located in the heart of the Italian Dolomites, is a charming village loaded with cultural heritage and renowned for its enchanting beauty. Situated in South Tyrol's Val Gardena valley, this idyllic location is best recognized for its winter sports, including some of the world’s most exquisite skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing facilities. During the warmer months, hiking, rock climbing, and biking are the favourite pastimes, as the lush valleys and towering peaks offer an irresistible call to nature enthusiasts. The town is best known for its traditional woodcarving crafts, vibrant folklore, and stunning Alpine architecture. Adding to this allure, are a rich arts scene, numerous boutiques, and exceptional dining that offers the gastronomic delights of a unique blend of Italian and Austrian cuisines.
10, Canazei
Canazei is a charming town nestled in the majestic Dolomites of Northern Italy. It is located in the scenic Val di Fassa, and is renowned for its idyllic alpine beauty and excellent skiing conditions. Lively with traditional Tyrolean architecture, Canazei is known as a sport-lover's paradise, offering not only a range of winter sports but also exciting summer activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Moreover, the town's rich Ladin culture, distinctive cuisine, and the warm hospitality of its people give you an authentically Italian mountain experience. With its perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, Canazei is the ideal destination for all seasons.
11, Bolzano
Bolzano is a charming city nestled in the Dolomite Mountains of northern Italy, renowned for offering an enchanting fusion of Italian and Austrian cultures. Known locally as the Gateway to the Dolomites, this picturesque city boasts an appealing blend of picturesque landscapes, architectural wonders, and historical sites. Be it wandering through the city's bustling markets, tasting authentic local cuisine, visiting the iconic medieval castle - Castle Runkelstein, or gazing at the 5,300-year old frozen mummy at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, Bolzano offers a plethora of experiences for ardent travelers. Its convenient location also serves as a perfect base for skiing, tracking, mountain biking, and other outdoor adventures in the surrounding alpine landscapes.
12, Udine
Udine, a captivating city located in the northeastern part of Italy, is the historical capital of Friuli Venezia Giulia region, nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Alps. Known for its rich cultural and architectural heritage, Udine offers an impressive array of attractions for visitors. It showcases a stunning blend of Venetian, Austrian, and ancient Roman influences, evident in the beautifully preserved castles, cathedrals, and piazzas. The city features the iconic Piazza della Libertà, considered one of the most beautiful Venetian squares outside Venice, and the majestic Castle of Udine that provides fantastic panoramic views. It's also well regarded for its culinary scene which is influenced by nearby regions and countries, producing a unique and delicious blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slavic flavors.
13, Palmanova
Palmanova is a picturesque and historic town located in northeastern Italy, in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. Constructed by the Venetians in the 16th century in the shape of a star, Palmanova is renowned worldwide for its unique, star-shaped fortress layout, making it a remarkable example of military architecture. Within its impressively well-preserved walls, you'll find a charming town square and various venetian-style palaces. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Venetian Works of Defense, the town is also home to multiple fascinating museums and delightful eateries serving sumptuous local cuisine. Palmanova presents a unique journey through intensive history, inviting architecture, and irresistible Italian charm.
14, Grado
Grado, a captivating island paradise located in the northern area of the Adriatic Sea in Italy, is a treasured retreat in the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia. Fondly known as the 'Island of the Sun,' it boasts a labyrinth of picturesque canals, sandy beaches, Venetian-style historic center, and lagoon landscapes that showcase the perfect fusion of natural beauty and cultural richness. Grado is also revered for its succulent seafood cuisine, grandeur of ancient Roman archaeological remains, early Christian architectures, and 'century-old' thermal baths with therapeutic seawater and sand. It promises an enchanting tour to its visitors, proving it as an ideal choice for both historic exploration and coastal relaxation.
15, Lignano Sabbiadoro
Lignano Sabbiadoro is a charming coastal town located on the Adriatic Sea in the northeastern region of Italy, specifically in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. Renowned for its eight kilometers of soft, golden sand beaches, the town is an iconic summer tourist hotspot, offering a robust variety of water sports and leisure facilities like golf courses, a theme park, and trendy nightclubs. Lignano Sabbiadoro is also acclaimed for its unique “Frecce Tricolori” air show put on by the Italian Air Force and its proximity to the Marano Lagoon, a picturesque natural oasis where visitors can enjoy birdwatching and fishing. The town aptly carries the sobriquet "Sabbiadoro" which signifies "Golden Sand" in Italian, indicating its strongest asset – its delightful sandy shores.
16, Bibione
Bibione, a popular tourist hotspot, is a captivating coastal town situated in the northeast of Italy, sandwiched between the romantic city of Venice and the Slovenian borders. Famous for its eight kilometers long golden sandy beach, Bibione offers a uniquely tranquil holiday experience draped with the colors of the Adriatic Sea. Known for its thermal baths, 'Bibione Thermae', the resort town is a perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation surrounded by a lush green environment. Besides, it offers outdoor activities like bird-watching inside the Val Grande and Vallesina nature reserves and mouthwatering seafood in local restaurants, adding rich flavour to your Italian vacation.
17, Belluno
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites in Northern Italy, Belluno is a picturesque city that radiates charm and tranquility. This extraordinary city is known for its rich blend of history, sculpture, and vibrant landscapes. From the snow-capped peaks that dominate the city's skyline to the palpable history that permeates its medieval architecture, Belluno offers a wealth of attractions. The city's most renowned features include the iconic Belluno Cathedral, the stately Palazzo dei Rettori, and the ancient city walls. Not to mention, its close proximity to Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes it an ideal hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Local cuisine is another gem of Belluno, with Polenta being a must-try dish. Visiting Belluno is undoubtedly an immersive journey through awe-inspiring beauty, culture, and Italian flair.
18, Pordenone
Nestled in the heart of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Northern Italy, Pordenone is a charming city that beautifully reflects Italy's rich past. Renowned for its vibrant culture and ancient history, this quaint city is adorned with medieval architecture, Gothic churches, and eye-catching frescoes that draw the attention of both history buffs and art enthusiasts. Pordenone is particularly famous for its annual 'Pordenone Silent Film Festival,' attracting aficionados of classic cinema from across the globe. With its splendid beauty, this Italian city also houses the impressive Piazza della Motta, known for its weekly market, and the Corso Vittorio Emanuele, a popular area for shopping and leisurely strolls. Each corner of Pordenone unravels a layer of history, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking an alluring blend of past and present.
19, Feltre
Feltre is a thrilling, picturesque commune nestled in the Province of Belluno, in the Veneto region of Northern Italy. Renowned for its beautifully preserved medieval walls, Feltre is a historical gem just waiting to be explored. Highlights include the charming Piazza Maggiore, the imposing Feltre Cathedral, and the Panorama Theatre, each showcasing a different angle of the town’s rich past. Additionally characterized by stunning panoramas of the Dolomites and hosting the annual Palio di Feltre, an event filled with traditional competitions and a medieval procession, Feltre stands out as a unique blend of nature and culture. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or seeking an authentic Italian experience, Feltre provides a captivating backdrop for an immersive journey.
20, Burano
Burano, located in the northern Venetian Lagoon in Italy, is a vibrant and captivating island, renowned for its array of brightly colored fishermen's houses that bedazzle under the Italian sun. Known for its centuries-old tradition of lace-making, tourists flock to Burano's lace museum and many local shops that meticulously uphold this art form. The island's whimsical atmosphere is accentuated by the charming, leaning Bell Tower, offering spectacular views of the town and beyond. Renowned for its seafood, Burano's numerous inviting trattorias serve delicacies freshly caught from the surrounding lagoon, completing your delightful visit with a culinary feast.
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