Italy is renowned not only for its stunning cities but also for charming small towns, where visitors can bask in peaceful landscapes and immerse themselves in local culture. This year, Holidu, a well-known vacation rental platform, has released its 2025 ranking of the most searched Italian small towns with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants, marking an increasing trend toward vacations away from crowded urban centers.
At the forefront of this ranking is Maratea, located in Basilicata, which has captivated travelers with its beautiful coastlines and historical sites. With over 111,000 average monthly searches, Maratea not only outperforms its competition but has solidified its reputation as the leading destination for those seeking tranquility and unique experiences.
Following closely is San Vito Lo Capo, situated on the Sicilian coast, earning its spot with nearly 92,000 average monthly searches. This picturesque location is famous for its stunning beaches and clear waters, making it no surprise it captures vacationers' attention. The third position is held by Positano, another gem on the Amalfi Coast experiencing nearly 91,500 searches, reflecting its continued allure with its steep, picturesque streets lined with colorful houses.
Portofino, once ranked higher, falls to fourth place but remains one of Italy's most exclusive destinations, drawing over 91,000 searches. Known for its yacht-filled harbor and breathtaking scenery, this town continues to attract those seeking elegance and charm. Rounding out the top five is Amalfi, which has climbed two spots this year, with about 91,000 searches highlighting its iconic coastline.
The rankings provide insights beyond just popularity; they reveal the average nightly prices for accommodations, which vary significantly across these sought-after towns. For those with luxury tastes, Positano and Portofino stand out as the most expensive, with average prices of 814 and 423 euros per night, respectively. Amalfi and Courmayeur follow with nightly rates of 317 and 310 euros.
On the other hand, travelers seeking more budget-friendly options can find charming accommodations with lower nightly rates in towns like Castel del Monte, where average prices hover around 100 euros, and Peschici, approximately 101 euros. Overall, Puglia and Calabria boast some of the most economical options available, making these regions increasingly attractive for cost-conscious travelers.
This year’s ranking not only highlights the trend of vacationing in smaller environments but also indicates the diverse experiences these towns offer—from stunning beaches to rich histories. The top 30 list includes six towns from Lombardy, emphasizing the region's attractiveness with Bormio, Bellagio, Limone sul Garda, and others featured prominently, each with its unique appeal.
Holidu’s methodology involved analyzing the average monthly search volume for keywords related to travel specific to various small towns, illuminating which regions have captured the globe's curiosity. Through the platform, potential visitors are presented with ample opportunities to discover lesser-known gems.
So, as travelers gear up to plan their next adventure, these small but captivating towns offer beautiful retreats as alternatives to the often over-crowded, larger cities. With their unique charms and picturesque settings, they are poised to become increasingly popular instigators of Italy's tourism allure.
The complete list offered by Holidu not only covers the rankings but provides insights on local attractions, making it easy for vacationers to choose their next getaway. Their intention? To inspire holidaymakers to visit smaller towns, enhancing the overall tourism experience across Italy.
With many delightful Italian towns waiting to be explored, travelers of all kinds are certain to find hidden treasures just off the beaten path, making memories and forging connections with local cultures.