Looking for a budget European trip? Despite what you may think, depending on where you go, you can find some fantastic budget options in Italy. In this article, I’ll share information about the cheapest destinations in Italy for travel or remote work. My personal expertise and experience traveling Europe on a budget has allowed me travel for 50% less than the average person.
Read on to learn about the cheapest destinations in Italy.
Local Transportation Options
Before I get into detail about the cheapest places in Italy, how do you get around Italy on a budget? Instead of relying on pricey rideshares, you have three main options: high-speed trains, buses and flying.
Taking the Train
Getting around Italy is easy when taking the train. I’ve personally taken high-speed trains in Europe through Italy and have had a great experience. Trains are on time, reliable and relatively cheap (between 20-30 Euros for a one-way ticket) You have several different options when taking the train in Italy:
- Trenitalia network – a major train line connecting large European cities
- La Frecce – another high-speed network connecting Italy
- Italo – a private high-speed network connecting various regions of the country
- Regionale network – a cheaper option that’s slower. No reservations in advance are required.
Buses in Italy
Instead of trains, you can opt to take the bus. Tickets will cost you approximately €1.20 to €1.50. Upon boarding the bus, you’ll need to validate your ticket at one of the machines on the vehicle. Bus terminals are usually in the city square of smaller towns and next to the train station in larger ones.
Flying in Italy
If you’re traveling several hundred kilometres, consider flying. Compare the prices of high-speed train tickets and times. Be sure to factor in all the time getting to the airport and checking in. Domestic airlines in Italy Air Dolomiti, Blue Panorama, Meridiana and Alitalia.
Cheapest Time to Visit
While none of the destinations on this list are overly expensive, when you travel will determine how much you pay for train tickets, hotels and the like. If you can handle damp and cool weather, travel from January to February – when prices are their lowest. Better weather and relatively low prices compared to peak summer travel season are possible during shoulder season (March – May and September – November).
Other Key Budget Tips When Traveling to Italy
While choosing one, two or more destinations on this list will keep your costs a lot lower than if you only traveled to, say, Rome, make your budget travel even more wallet-friendly by undertaking the following steps. These tips have saved me nearly $4000 during multiple trips to Europe. They’re pretty easy to undertake as well – just be sure to plan ahead and you’ll easily save some extra cash!
- Compare flight and hotel prices using apps such as Skyscanner and Trivago
- Opt for accommodation with a kitchen so you prepare many of your own meals – not to say that you shouldn’t sample the local cuisine – don’t go to Italy without trying pizza and tortellini! I personally save money while still enjoying the local food by cooking my own breakfast and dinner and then going out for lunch. Lunch is typically 20-40% cheaper than dinner and you’ll still enjoy large portions.
- Stock up on healthy snacks and carry them with you. Opt for nuts, trail mix and fruit and eat them between meals so you don’t overindulge on baked goods while traveling. You’ll feel fuller longer and will be eating healthier. Win-win!
Shopping and Eating Out When Traveling to the Cheapest Places in Italy
Keep costs down in Italy by shopping at local markets instead of grocery stores. Markets are also a great way to experience to local culture and meet people. Spend an afternoon strolling around the market, pick up some fruit, cheese and wine and enjoy it in a local park.
When dining out, do your best to eat at local establishments. Avoid the mistake I made of ordering from restaurants directly across from major tourist attractions and with signs only in English. Touristy restaurants will typically charge you a lot more and the food won’t be too great! Instead, opt for restaurants that have menus only in Italian. Pro tip: try walking a block or two away from the main tourist strip. Many local restaurants are located in alleyways, so take your time to walk around and find somewhere local.
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The Ultimate List of the Cheapest Places in Italy
The Most Popular Cheapest Places in Italy
Bologna
Bologna has porticos and are best viewed at night when the streetlights illuminate them. Climb up the Asinelli Tower and enjoy beautiful views of the city’s skyline. If you’re feeling like you just want to relax and take in the culture, take a few hours and walk around the Piazza Maggiore where you’ll see historic and architecture and the Basilica Santuario di Santo Stefano.
Liguria
Ever heard of the Cinque Terre? It’s in Liguria! But wait – instead of defaulting to this popular and pricier choice, opt for Portofino, Santa Margherita, Boccadasse and Portovenere instead. Don’t leave Liguria without visiting Genoa.
Naples
Naples is a little rough around the edges but is nonetheless a destination budget travelers shouldn’t miss as it’s one of the top cheap Italian cities on offer. Enjoy various architectural sites such as the Gesu Nuovo Church and the Veiled Christ statue. Don’t leave Naples without eating pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele.
Sicily
Sicily is popular, but despite what you may think, is also a budget-friendly destination. This is an island that you can’t miss! Start in the capital, Palermo and check out the Monreale Cathedral. Afterwards, head over to Siracusa a city that has Baroque architecture and a seaside walkway where you can enjoy taking in the sunset.
After visiting Palermo, head over to Mount Etna, an active volcano. If you want a beautiful view of Mount Etna, visit Taormina. Free activities in Sicily include enjoying Isola Bella’s beaches and walking around Ortigia’s streets. Overall, Sicily is a place that has something to suit every travel style!
Cheapest Places in Italy Off the Popular Tourist Track
Puglia
Puglia has something for everyone – whether you love trying different foods like me or enjoying learning about a region’s history, you won’t be disappointed with Puglia. Start out in Conversano and explore the cobblestone streets and medieval-era castle. Afterwards, head over to the Castel del Monte and take in stunning views of the countryside.
After exploring Conversano, explore Trani’s beaches and harbor. If you aren’t tired of castles and historic buildings, visit the Castello Aragonese and Basilica San Nicola.
Cilento Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a popular and crowded tourist destination, so head to the Cilento Coast instead. Nature lovers will enjoy strolling around Velia and Paestum which have some of the most impressive Greek temples in the world and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Beach lovers will be in heaven relaxing at Marina di Ascea and Cala Bianca Beach.
Matera
Matera is another budget-friendly destination that has many ancient caves and intricate streets. Places to explore where you’ll see ancient caves include the Sasso Barisano and Casa Grotta del Casalnuovo.
Noto
Noto is another Italian destination with Baroque architecture – if you’re like me and enjoy spending time admiring historic buildings, you’ll be in heaven! Buildings are around Via Nicolaci. Don’t leave Noto without visiting the Cathedral of St. Nicolò and Riserva di Vendicari.
Umbria
Umbria is an ideal destination for travelers looking for gorgeous landscapes to take in. Start by exploring Perugia, a city chock full of history and beautiful architecture. Next, take in the castle at Spoleto. If you’re like me and enjoy trying out different wines (I mean, you’re in Italy!), don’t leave Umbria without doing a wine tasting.
Lake Maggiore
Lesser-known Lake Maggiore is a destination that cannot be left out of the cheapest destinations in Italy. It’s a hidden gem full of quaint towns around lake. After exploring Laveno Mombello, visit the Borromean Islands and Santa Caterina del Sasso which is only accessible by taking a boat.
Verona
Verona is a romantic place that’s popular thanks to Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” and you’ll be to glad to know that it’s one of the cheapest destinations in Italy! Take some time to walk around the cobblestone streets and piazzas and visit Juliet’s House.
Aside from Juliet’s House, other highlights include the Castel San Pietro, Casa di Giulietta, Santa Caterina del Sasso and the Castelvecchio Bridge.
Reggio Calabria
Reggio Calabria is another fantastic place where you can explore historic streets and enjoy food and drinks while people-watching after a long day of sightseeing. After a day of travel, I personally love plopping down in a cafe seat, enjoying an Aperol Spritz or glass of wine and watching the various tourists and locals strolling by. Take in beautiful views at the Lungomare Falcomatà and discover the region’s history at Teatro Francesco Cilea.
Ancona
Ancona is a port city and the capital of the Le Marche Region with many historic sites to see including the Museo della città di Ancona and Ancona City Picture Gallery.
Spello
Looking for a quiet and beautiful travel destination? Look no further than Spello, full of medieval streets and attractions like the Collegiata di Santa Maria Maggiore and Porta Consolare.
Urbino
Urbino is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s also a budget travel destination. Art and history lovers can’t miss checking out the Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista, National Gallery of Marche and the Palazzo.
Lecce
Lecce is known as the “Florence of the South” due to its array of Baroque architecture and delicious food. You’ll find your fill of architecture at the Basilica di Santa Croce, Piazza Sant’Oronzo and the Roman amphitheatre.
Mazara del Vallo
Mazara del Vallo has many historic sites such as the Church of San Francesco and the Museum of the Dancing Satyr, a museum centred around a single statue.
Assisi
Assisi is another destination where you can spend many hours walking around the streets and soaking in the culture. Main sites include the Basilica di San Francesco and the Basilica di Santa Chiara.
L’Aquila
L’Aquila is in the Apennine Mountains and is another one of the cheapest places in Italy just waiting to be discovered by you! Admire the Fountain of 99 Sprouts, Santa Maria di Collemaggio and the basilicas of San Bernardino.
Bellagio
Bellagio is another quaint town that nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway should strongly consider as part of their trip! Enjoy Lake Como and the park of Villa Serbelloni.
Calabria
Calabria is dotted with medieval villages and gorgeous beaches. If you’re looking to get away from the other tourists and crowds, look no further than Calabria! For a sandy escape, be sure to visit Tropea Beach. While you’re in Calabria, be sure to check out Tropea’s streets, Pizza and Scilla.
Abruzzo
Abruzzo is another must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet getaway from conventional touristy places. Visitors will be treated to views of stunning mountains, lanscapes in Scanno and Bomba and many medieval towns to explore.
Emilia-Romagna
Emilia-Romagna is another great escape for travelers to Italy. Start by exploring Bologna’s streets. Sit down and enjoy some local food (tortellini) and wine while relaxing after a long day. Key architectural sites to visit include the Piazza Maggiore and the Basilica – Santuario di Santo Stefano.
Marche
Marche is another one of the cheapest destinations in Italy that nature lovers cannot miss! Walk around Ancona and Ascoli Piceno and appreciate the historic streets. Key sites include the Santuario Della Santa Casa and Piazza del Popolo.
A Final Word on the Cheapest Places in Italy to Travel To
There you have it – the cheapest destinations in Italy to travel to or spend an extended period of time working in. Maximize your savings even more by choosing several destinations close to each other so you can take budget-friendly train transport to get you to your destinations. Most of all, have fun on your trip to Italy!
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Janita is a frugal living expert and owner of Frugal Fun Finance. With over five years of personal experience finding and trying out the best ways to make and save more money, she's eager to share her knowledge. Janita's strategies have helped her save thousands of dollars for funding investments and traveling to over 20 countries.
Janita completed training in personal finance at The University of Western Ontario and McGill University, two prestigious Canadian universities. Her expertise has been shared on GoBankingRates, Yahoo Finance, and NASDAQ.com.
