Which Italian villages are most searched online?

Interest in Italy’s small villages, a rediscovery of traditions, and the search for a peaceful getaway are on the rise. Data from Telepass, a leading Italian mobility and extra-urban services company, shows a staggering 210 million clicks on the web from 2020 to 2023, with a 45% increase over three years—63 million of which occurred in the last year alone. Here’s a list of the most searched and renowned Italian villages you shouldn’t miss during your stay!

Tropea

With an average of 148,300 monthly searches, Tropea in Calabria ranks solidly at the top of the list. This charming village, home to fewer than 6,000 residents and overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, was the most searched destination during summer and also attracted significant interest from Swiss users.

Alberobello

Known as the town of Trulli, Alberobello in Puglia boasts a population of about 10,000 but is famous worldwide. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, it is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Puglia. The village draws not only Italian tourists but also many from France, the UK, and Spain.

Civita di Bagnoregio

Known as “the dying town,” Civita di Bagnoregio is an icon of central Italy. With just 11 residents (as of 2011) and a rich history, this tiny village in the province of Viterbo is accessible only by a footbridge built in 1965. The bridge was necessary due to the area’s unique geological structure, which is subject to continual erosion, leading to the village’s slow disappearance—hence its nickname.

Ronciglione

Ronciglione in Lazio has seen a staggering 457% increase in online clicks in just two years, primarily driven by its famous winter carnival, which has captured widespread attention.

Vipiteno

Vipiteno is one of the most searched destinations as winter approaches and the holiday season begins. This small village, with fewer than 7,000 inhabitants, is located in the autonomous province of Bolzano in Trentino and is popular for its proximity to the traditional Christmas market in Bolzano.

Subiaco

During the New Year, searches from abroad increasingly focus on Subiaco. This small town, home to 8,500 residents near Rome, garners interest for its traditional culinary offerings, including polenta, lamb, and the typical biscuits known as “subiachini.”

Locorotondo

Have you ever heard of “U Curunn”? That’s the local dialect name for Locorotondo in Puglia, which sounds unique! This village, located in the province of Bari, is renowned for its Christmas markets and festive decorations, making it one of the most searched places in December and January.

Maratea

Maratea is one of the most searched villages during July and August. With just 4,000 inhabitants, it stands out as one of Italy’s most famous destinations abroad. Additionally, it boasts a unique distinction: it is the only town in Basilicata that overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Otranto

Alongside Maratea, Otranto dominates online searches from abroad during the summer months. As the easternmost town in Italy, it is recognized by UNESCO as a Messenger of Peace and is a renowned international tourist center, despite its small population of just 5,600.

Vernazza

Vernazza in Liguria is the most clicked Italian village by users from the United States. Part of the Cinque Terre National Park, it is beloved for its stunning cliffside views of the Ligurian Sea and its picturesque houses with colorful roofs.

Malcesine

Malcesine is the favorite village among German users. The influence of the German writer Goethe, who included the village in his book “Italian Journey,” has undoubtedly contributed to its popularity.