Time to go on your next vacation. This time, your heart is set on Italy. However, you’re on a budget – is it possible to visit this beautiful country without breaking the bank? Absolutely. In this article, I’ll review the cheapest places in Italy for travel or working remotely and the top free activities you can do in each area. I’ve personally visited many of these destinations and have saved nearly $3,000 on European travels by traveling frugally and choosing cheaper destinations. From beach destinations to cities loaded with tons of cultural attractions, there is something for everyone!
Read on to learn about the cheapest places in Italy for travel or remote work.
Local Transportation Options
The Italian Train Network
Getting around Italy is easy as there is an extensive rail network that is one of the cheapest systems in all of Europe. Instead of relying on pricey ride shares and taxis, opt for one of the many trains available. When I visited Italy, I took the Trenitalia night train from Vienna to Venice. The train was reliable and fast. Plus, I got a good night’s sleep. Taking the night train was ideal as I didn’t waste any time during my travels – I was sleeping anyway!
Intercity and Eurocity Trains
Intercity and Eurocity trains run across Europe and connect different European cities. These trains are generally more expensive than the regional Italian train network.
Trenitalia Network
The Trenitalia is a large network that also connects to other major European cities such as Barcelona, Hamburg, Vienna and Paris via night trains.
Le Frecce
Italy also has a high-speed train network called Le Frecce. You’ll need to book tickets in advance and seat reservations are required.
Regionale Network
In addition to Intercity and Eurocity trains, the Trenitalia and Le Frecce, the Regionale trains are another efficient way of getting around Italy. Regionale trains are cheaper and do not require a reservation. However, they are slower. Decide on whether you value convenience or price more. Personally, I’m happy to pay a little bit more money on a faster ticket as I have a finite amount of time in each place I visit. Remember, there is a difference between being cheap and frugal. Don’t try and pinch pennies too much!
Italo Trains
Italo trains are another option for getting around the country. They’re a private high-speed network that connect regions such as Campania and Alto Adige.
Buses in Italy
Aside from trains, you may need to rely on bus transport to get you from point A to point B. Bus terminals (autostazione in Italian) are typically located near the train station or in the city square.
You can either buy tickets from the ticket station or when you board the bus. Tickets typically run around €1.20 to €1.50 and can be purchased at newsstands and convenience stores. Be sure to validate your ticket after boarding the bus to avoid paying high fines.
Flying in Italy
If you’re traveling a large distance, consider flying instead of taking the bus or train. Intercountry flights may be cheaper than of taking the train. Before you travel, compare the price of a couple train companies and a few flight options to determine the best deal. Be sure to factor in time spent getting to and from the airport or train station.
Going to the airport and going through security can cost you hours of time, so make a decision as to whether or not it’s worth it for you. Night trains are a great option for traveling large distances without wasting travel time as you’ll spend the travel time sleeping.
Domestic airlines in Italy include Meridiana, Blue Panorama, Alitalia and Air Dolomiti.
Cheapest Time to Visit
If you’re truly looking to travel on a budget and are flexible with your time, consider traveling during the winter (January to February). Temperatures can be cold and the weather is quite damp throughout the country, so also consider traveling during shoulder season (March – May and September – November). The weather is mild around the country, ranging from the mid to high 70s during March to May and around the high 60s in October and you’ll pay much lower prices than during peka travle season.
Shopping and Eating Out When Traveling to the Cheapest Places in Italy
You’ll be pleased to know that cooking and eating out on a budget is possible in Italy. If you plan on cooking, keep costs down by visiting local markets instead of large grocery stores.
Regarding eating out, you’ll want to avoid the tourist traps which typically overcharge you on mediocre dishes. When I first arrived in Rome, I was tired and dehydrated. All I wanted was a pizza! After I checked into my hotel and rehydrated, I took a bus straight to a restaurant across from the Vatican. Big mistake! I ended up spending nearly twice as much on a mediocre pizza as I could have at a more local place with much better food.
Instead, try to find places that are more local. Indicators that a place is local include:
- Signs only in Italian
- A mostly local clientele
- Restaurants on side streets and a couple blocks away from major tourist attractions
If you have time and aren’t too hungry (like I was!), be sure to check out the restaurant’s reviews on Tripadvisor and Google before ordering.
In addition to cooking and dining out, another one of my favorite ways to save money is picnicking in a park or the city square. Pick up some local cheese, wine, fruit, crackers and, of course, a bottle of wine and enjoy it in a park. When I traveled to Florence, I enjoyed climbing up the Piazzale Michelangelo and viewing the sunset while enjoying tasty food and wine for only a few Euros!
General Cost-Saving Travel Tips to Use When Traveling to Italy on a Budget
In addition to the other travel tips I shared such as booking travel in the off or shoulder season, comparing transportation prices, shopping at local markets and choosing local restaurants, below are several other tips I have so you maximize your savings when visiting Italy:
- Book accommodation in advance for better deals.
- Use a price comparison app to check flight prices such as Skyscanner and Trivago to compare hotel prices.
- Take part in travel rewards programs. If you’re a loyal customer of a certain airline, try and stick with that airline to accumulate points. Additionally, sign up for a credit card with travel rewards such as air miles.
Top Places to Visit in Italy on a Budget
Cheapest Places to Go In Italy
Sicily
There are many cheap cities to visit in Italy, but it’s a good idea to also consider regions as a whole so you have more options to choose from, including Sicily, one of the best places in South Italy for budget travel. This beautiful island is full of beautiful nature to see. Visit Palermo, the capital of Sicily, and be sure to visit the Monreale Cathedral while you’re there. Don’t miss the Siracusa, a modern city with an ornate Baroque piazza and a seafront walkway.
Other key places to visit while in Sicily include Ragusa, a beautiful hill town, Agrigento, a town with Greek ruins, Mount Etna, the most active volcano in Europe and Taormina, a resort town where you can view Mount Etna.
Free activities in Sicily include Ortigia, the beaches of Isola Bella, the Ragusa Ibla historic walking area and the Dumo di Monreale.
Puglia
Puglia is a long region in southeasern Italy and is relatively small and compact, but should not be kept out of anyone’s list of the cheapest places in Italy for travel or remote work. This region is known for its historic sites, beautiful landscapes, delicious food and gorgeous shoreline. Start your trip to Puglia by visting Conversano, an ancient town with a medieval Castle and picteresque streets. Be sure to visit the Castel del Monte, the region’s most popular monument. The building is located 540 metres (1,771 feet) above sea level, so when you visit, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss Trani, a fishing port where you can walk along the shoreline and enjoy harbor views. Additionally, visit Alberobello for its trulli houses, dry stone huts with a conical roofs.
Free activities in Puglia include visiting the I Trulli di Alberobello, the Castello Aragonese and the Basilica San Nicola.
Cilento Coast
A quieter alternative to to the Amalfi Coast, Cilento is a travel destination that’s off-the-beaten-path and won’t hurt your budget. Enjoy visiting Client’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and two archeological parks, Velia and Paestum. Paestum contains some of the world’s most well-preserved ancient Greek temples, while Velia contains remains from Greek, Byzantine and Roman civilizations.
While visiting the Cilento Coast, don’t miss the Marina di Ascea which has a lengthy sand beach and a wooden boardwalk to stroll down. Additionally, check out Agropoli which also has a sand beach as well as an ancient fortress.
Free activities in the Cilento Coast include visiting the Baia del Buon Dormire and the Cala Bianca Beach.
Umbria
If you want to take in picteresque hills and olive groves, don’t miss Umbria! Have your fill of delicious food such as cheese, salami, porchetta and sausages.
Key places to visit in Umbria include Perugia for its architecture, the hilltop castle in Spoleto, the Castello del Leone and a wine tasting at one of Umbria’s popular vineyards.
Free activities in Umbria include visiting the Orvieto Cathedral and hiking at the Giro dei Condotti.
Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore is somewhat off the beaten path, but cannot be missed if you’re looking for one of the cheapest places to travel in Italy. Get around Lake Maggiore’s seven towns easily via train travel, including:
- Verbania – the biggest town on the lake, where you can enjoy strolls on the promenade and botanical gardens
- Sesto Calende – a town with many camping opportunities
- Lavenoa Mombello – a destination with a beautiful lake view and great hiking
- Stresa – full of shops and markets. Don’t miss enjoying time soaking in the sites at the Piazza Cadorna
- Arona – a quiet town with many medieval homes and markets to explore
- The Borromean Islands – a gulf with brightly-colored houses and beautiful lake views
- Santa Caterina del Sasso – a town accessible via boat which contains a beautiful baroque church and bell tower
Free activities on Lake Maggiore include visiting the Lungolago di Angera and the Il Centro Storico Laveno-Mombello.
Bologna
If you’re looking for another one of the cheapest cities in Italy to visit, look no further than Bolognia, an ideal destination for both foodies (like me!) and art and history lovers. Be sure to walk around the Bologna Porticos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at night. Enjoying this attraction at night will allow you to see the street lights illuminating the town. You’ll also see the locals out and about, so you’ll have a true taste of the city’s vibe.
For a stunning view of Bologna, be sure to climb the Asinelli Tower.
Free activities in Bologna include visiting the Piazza Maggiore and the Basilica Santuario di Santo Stefano.
Verona
Verona is a beautiful Italian travel destination that cannot be missed. Take in the beautiful piazzas and cobblestone streets and enjoy people-watching at an outdoor cafe or restaurant.
Verona is best known for Juliet’s House, a tourist attraction that dates back to the 12th century. Additionally, enjoy shopping in Piazza Dei Signori (“Square of the of Lords”) in the center of Verona. The piazza contains many shops offering handmade leather shoes, bags and belts.
Free activities in Verona include visiting the Castelvecchio Bridge, Piazza dei Signori, Castel San Petro and the Casa di Giulietta.
Naples
Naples is one of the most densely populated cities and has quite a gritty feel. However, it’s a destination that should not be missed as it’s one of the cheapest cities in Italy to visit. Visit Castel dell’Ovo, the oldest castle in Naples. Other key travel sites to visit in Naples include the Royal Palace of Naples, the San Carlo Theatre and the Museo Cappella Sansevero, where you’ll see the Veiled Christ statue. Don’t leave Naples without enjoying pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele.
Free activities in Naples include visiting the Via San Gregorio Armeno, the Gesu Nuovo Church and the Spaccanapoli.
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Matera
Materia is a region with various caves that have been in existence since the Paleolithic era. Visit the Casa Noha and several other cave houses in the region including the Casa grotta del Casalnuovo, the Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera and the Casa grotta C’era una volta.
Don’t miss the Sassi Barisano and Sassi Caveoso, ancient areas of the city which contain various alleyways and courtyards full of green cacti.
Free activities in Matera include visiting the Sassi di Materia, the Sasso Barisano and the Parco della Murgia Materana.
Reggio Calabria
Reggio Calabria is the largest city in Calabria and is located near Sicily. This city is situated in front of the Aspromonte Mountains and has a waterfront ideal for long strolls. Visit the Piazza Italia, the Corso Garibaldi, a walking-only street with small shops and the Teatro Francesco Cilea, a theater that honors Francesco Cila, an opera composer.
Free activities in Reggio Calabria include visiting the Lungomare Falcomatà , the Opere di Rabarama and doing a walking tour.
Ancona
Ancona is the capital of the Le Marche Region in central Italy and is one of the most important ports along the Adriatic Sea. Beach lovers will enjoy Ancona’s many beautiful beaches. Be sure to visit the San Ciriaco Cathedral, an 11th century church at the top of Monte Guasco which boasts gorgeous city views. Check out the Arc of Trajan, a monument in the middle of the harbor and walk along Ancoa Harbor.
Museum lovers will enjoy visiting the National Archaeological Museum, the Ancona City Picture Gallery and the Museo della città di Ancona.
Free activities in Ancona include the Cattedrale San Ciriaco, the Spiaggia Mezzavalle and the Baia di Portonovo.
Spello
Spello is a beautiful village located within Umbria and is known as one of the prettiest villages in Italy. Visit the Porta Consolare, the Consular Gate that dates back to Ancient Rome. Spello has some beautiful churches including the Collegiata di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Cappella Tega. Be sure to check out the Pinacoteca Civica, an art museum with Renaissance works.
Free activities in Spello include checking out the Church of Sant’Andrea and enjoying an aperitivo in Bar Bonci’s courtyard.
Urbino
Urbino is located on the top of Le Marche’s hills and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is one of Italy’s top destinations for art. Be sure to visit the Palazzo Ducale and the National Gallery of Marche, where you can see some impressive Renaissance architecture. Visit the Urbino Cathedral, a church dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the Oratory of St. John the Baptist.
Free activities in Urbino include visiting the Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, the Casa Natale di Raffaello and the Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista.
Lecce
Lecce is an ideal destination for those who enjoy exploring narrow streets and relaxing at a restaurant while enjoying food and wine. Start your trip in Lecca at the Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the city’s main square. Be sure to check out the large Roman amphitheatre and see the Orologio Delle Meraviglie, a 20-meter bronze clock.
Afterwards, visit the Lecce Cathedral, a church in traditional baroque style and the Basilica di Santa Croce.
Free activities in Lecce include visiting the Centro Storico and the Basilica di Santa Croce.
Mazara del Vallo
The Mazara del Vallo was founded in the 9th century by Phoenicians and used it for trading. Start by visiting the Church of San Francesco and the Museum of the Dancing Satyr.
Free activities in Mazara del Vallo include visiting the Kasbah di Mazara del Vallo remains.
Assisi
Located only 20 minutes by from from Pergua, Assisi is a quaint and relaxed place full of Franciscan monuments and beautiful art. Admire the brightly colored houses and stained glass windows at the Via San Francesco. For an authentic experience, walk around the gardens and take a bike ride.
Free activities in Mazara del Vallo include visiting Basilica di Santa Chiara and the Rocca Maggiore.
L’Aquila
L’Aquila is located in the Apennine Mountains and is located around 90 minutes from Rome. A less popular travel destination, L’Aquila has yet to be run over by tourists which is why it’s an ideal travel destination.
Be sure to visit the Fountain of 99 Sprouts, a building with a trapezoid shape and 93 water spouts over small rectangular pools. Don’t miss checking out L’Aquila’s beautiful churches including the Basilica of San Bernardino, the Santa Maria di Collemaggio and the L’Aquila Cathedral.
Free activities in L’Aquila include visiting Basilica di Santa Maria di Collegemaggio e Porta Santa.
Noto
Noto is the perfect example of a Baroque town and cannot be excluded from any list of the cheapest places to travel in Italy. Start by visiting the Corso Vittoria Emanuele. At night, visit the Via Nicolaci, a street with beautiful historic buildings including the San Carlo al Corso.
While walking around Noto, take in the beauty of the many limestone walls and wrought iron windows.
Free activities in Noto include visiting the Centro Storico, the Riserva di Vendicari adnd the Cathedral of St. Nicolò.
Bellagio
Bellagio is known as the Pearl of Lake Como and has gorgeous gardens, historic districts and beautiful, colorful buildings. Take time to stroll the streets in Il Borgo, the center of Bellagio. Check out the many shops in the town center. Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the park of Villa Serbelloni. Enhance your experience by booking a 90-minute garden tour.
Free activities in Bellagio include visiting the Duomo, the Basilica di Sant’Abbondio and the Villa Olmo.
Cheapest Places in Italy During the Summer
I’ve covered the cheapest places to travel in Italy in general, what if you can only travel during the summer? While travel to Italy is cheaper during the winter and shoulder seasons, you can still visit on a budget. Read on to learn about the most affordable places to travel in Italy during the summer.
Super Affordable Summer Vacation Spots
Calabria
Calabria is another underrated Italian travel destination and has beautiful medieval villages and greenery to take in. If you’re looking for a place to just kick back and relax, you’ll enjoy visiting Calabria’s mountains, beaches and towns.
Start by visiting Tropea, the most popular town in Calabria. Be sure to check out Scilla and Pizzo, both quaint fishing villages.
Free activities in Bellagio include visiting the Chianalea di Scilla, the Lungomare Falcomatà and Tropea Beach.
Abruzzo
Abruzzo is only a couple hours away from Rome and is home to medieval towns, gorgeous mountains and beautiful parks. Start by visiting the beaches at the Adriatic coast, the North Coast and the South Coast. Enjoy hiking around Bomba, Scanno, Lake Sinizzo, San Domenico and Campotosto Lake. In the south’s Trabocchi Coast, check out the old trabocchi, huts on the water on stilts.
Free activities in Abruzzo include visiting Ponte del Mare, Rocca Calascio and Il Lago di Scanno.
Emilia-Romagna
Emilia-Romagna is home to Romanesque buildings and home to opera legends Pavarotti and Verdi. Start by visiting Bologna, home to Europe’s first university. Enjoy walking around the historic streets and enjoy classic Italian dishes such as tortellini. While in the region, visit the Dumo in Modena and the Rocca Viscontea, a stunning castle 35 km west of Parma.
Free activities in Emilia-Romagna include visiting the Basilica – Santuario di Santo Stefano, Piazza Maggiore, Basilica di San Petronio and Santuario di Madonna di San Luca.
Liguria
Liguria is home to the famous Cinque Terre, but there is so much more to this region. Visit Portofino as an alternative to the popular Cinque Terre as it’s less crowded and just as beautiful. Additionally, check out Genoa, a modern city with colorful houses. Finally, be sure to visit Santa Margherita, another town with colorful houses and places to walk alongside the sea.
Free activities in Liguria include the Portovenere, Boccadasse and the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo – Duomo di Genova.
Marche
Located in central Italy, Le Marche has both beautiful beaches and rolling hills that will appeal many types of travelers. Be sure to visit Ascoli Piceno for its white stone towers, Ancona’s museums and monuments and Recanati, a medieval town with picteresque views of the Adriatic Sea and te Apennines.
Free activities in Marche include the Piazza del Popolo, the Santuario Della Santa Casa and the Lungomare San Benedetto del Trono.
Money-Saving Apps and Resources
Aside from comparing prices and traveling in the off-season, take advantage of the many apps out there to help you save money on travel. I’ve used these apps.
Apps
- Kayak – a classic app for comparing flight prices
- Hopper – compare flight deals by using their price prediction tool
- Skyscanner – hunt for last-minute deals and compare prices by turning on alerts
- YNAB – track every single dollar that comes in and out of your bank account and spending in different categories
- Mint – track expenses, pay bills and track your savings for your next vacation
- Google Maps – download offline maps so you save money on buying SIM cards and using data in your destination. Downloading offline maps has saved me nearly $500 on mobile data. When you turn off your data, you’ll still be able to see the ‘blue dot’ as your phone’s GPS will know where you are.
- Wise – easily send money and convert currency
- XE – convert currency so you know how much something costs in your home currency. An easy way to avoid scams and know if you’re getting a deal or not. Be sure to research the average price of food, drinks and other items in your destination so you know if you’re getting a decent deal or not
Additional Resources on Traveling to the Cheapest Places in Italy
- Creating a Budget for Family Travel by Frugal Fun Finance
- Cheap Travel Destinations in June article by Frugal Fun Finance
- Frugal Backpacking Tips by Frugal Fun Finance
- Budget Backpacking by Frugal Fun Finance
- How to Explore Italy on a Budget by Lonely Planet
- Italy Budget Travel Guide by Nomadic Matt
- How to Travel Italy on a Budget by The Family Voyage
- The Cost of Travel in Italy by Never Ending Footsteps
- Plan Your Dream Trip to Italy by Trip.com
A Final Word on the Cheapest Places in Italy for Travel or Working Remotely
There you have it – the cheapest places 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.
