Southern Italy is known for its sun-soaked beaches, rich food, and timeless villages—but you don’t need a luxury budget to enjoy it. Many towns in the region offer all the charm of Italy’s top destinations without the inflated price tags. You’ll find authentic experiences, slower rhythms, and real value around every corner.
Here’s a list of 15 affordable towns worth exploring across Southern Italy.
Matera, Basilicata
Known for its ancient cave dwellings, Matera feels like walking through a movie set—but it’s very much real. The Sassi districts offer cave hotels, family-run trattorias, and sweeping views without big-city prices. Local bakeries and small museums keep costs low, and most of the beauty is free to explore on foot.
It’s atmospheric, unique, and surprisingly affordable compared to northern cities.
Ostuni, Puglia
Called the White City for its bright buildings, Ostuni is perched on a hill near the Adriatic. It’s packed with charm—narrow alleys, small courtyards, and a casual food scene where even a slice of focaccia tastes special. Accommodations here are reasonable, especially just outside the historic center.
The town is also a good base for exploring nearby beaches without paying resort premiums.
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Maratea, Basilicata
Maratea sits quietly on the Tyrrhenian coast, overshadowed by flashier spots like Positano. But its peaceful beaches, coastal drives, and cliffside views offer a similar experience—just without the crowds or high prices.
Even beachfront hotels tend to be reasonably priced, and seafood meals don’t come with tourist surcharges. It’s a hidden gem that doesn’t feel overrun.
Trani, Puglia
This harbor town combines seaside charm with medieval architecture and a much lower cost of living than nearby Bari. The cathedral overlooks the water, and evenings bring out local families strolling the promenade.
It’s the kind of place where a glass of wine with fresh octopus salad costs less than parking in Rome. Lodging, food, and entertainment all stay budget-friendly.
Scicli, Sicily
Part of the Val di Noto, Scicli is filled with baroque beauty and relaxed energy. It hasn’t seen the same level of tourism as Ragusa or Modica, which means lower prices and fewer crowds.
Cafés serve full meals for the price of a sandwich in northern Italy, and apartments for rent often come with hillside views. The town is calm but never boring.
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Agropoli, Campania
Just south of the Amalfi Coast, Agropoli offers beautiful beaches, a walkable old town, and panoramic sea views—all at a fraction of the price. It’s also near Paestum, home to well-preserved Greek temples.
While tourists head for Amalfi and Capri, Agropoli remains a favorite among Italian families, keeping prices grounded. It’s a smart choice for coastal travel on a budget.
Cosenza, Calabria
Located inland, Cosenza is a student-heavy city with a mix of old charm and modern energy. Prices for food, transit, and housing are well below national averages, yet you still get access to historic architecture and lively street scenes.
It’s not a resort town, but that’s exactly what keeps it affordable. Think espresso for a euro and full dinners for under ten.
Noto, Sicily
Though better known than it once was, Noto remains one of the most accessible baroque towns in Sicily. Grand churches and wide boulevards make it feel luxurious, but prices stay reasonable, especially outside peak weekends.
Many restaurants offer prix fixe menus with generous portions, and guesthouses are both cozy and low-cost. It’s refined without being expensive.
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Policoro, Basilicata
This beach town along the Ionian coast is popular with locals but rarely makes foreign travel lists. The water is warm, the beaches are long, and prices stay low even in summer.
Policoro also has ancient Greek ruins and natural parks nearby, offering more than just sand and sun. Accommodations are simple, clean, and often steps from the water.
Locorotondo, Puglia
With circular streets and whitewashed buildings, Locorotondo feels tailor-made for aimless wandering. It’s one of the prettiest towns in the Itria Valley, but still surprisingly affordable. Local wine is cheap and excellent, and even fancy-looking restaurants stay wallet-friendly.
Many visitors skip it for Alberobello, which keeps prices refreshingly down-to-earth.
Castrovillari, Calabria
Tucked near the Pollino Mountains, Castrovillari is surrounded by hiking trails, medieval ruins, and rustic countryside. It’s a strong pick for outdoor lovers on a budget. Guesthouses and inns here are often family-run, with prices that rarely spike.
The town itself is low-key, and you won’t find souvenir shops or inflated menus—just good food and long views.
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Termoli, Molise
Located on the Adriatic, Termoli combines beaches with a fortified old town that juts into the sea. It’s rarely crowded, and even in high season, lodging stays affordable. Restaurants focus on fresh seafood, and the beach stretches for miles without private club fees.
As a bonus, you can catch a ferry to the Tremiti Islands for a day trip that still feels off-the-beaten-path.
Isernia, Molise
This small town in Italy’s most overlooked region has Roman ruins, quiet piazzas, and mountain air that stays cooler in summer. Prices for everything—from espresso to hotel rooms—are among the lowest in the country.
It’s not flashy, but it’s perfect for slow days filled with local markets and honest food. Isernia is proof that beauty doesn’t always come with a price tag.
Mazara del Vallo, Sicily
With North African influences and a relaxed fishing-town atmosphere, Mazara feels distinct even by Sicilian standards. It’s home to one of Italy’s largest immigrant communities, which adds layers to its food and culture.
Prices reflect the town’s local-first mindset—fresh fish, strong coffee, and beach access without tourist inflation. You’ll find color, history, and affordability in every corner.
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Vico del Gargano, Puglia
Set in the lesser-known Gargano region, Vico del Gargano is a forested town with coastal access just a short drive away. It’s known for citrus groves, folk festivals, and narrow lanes barely wide enough for a bike.
Rooms in old stone buildings go for a fraction of what you’d pay along the Amalfi Coast. And the local food? Rich, hearty, and budget-friendly.
Beauty Without the Price Tag
In Southern Italy, you don’t have to choose between affordability and atmosphere. These towns offer both, giving travelers a chance to experience Italy’s warm culture, rich flavors, and historic settings without the premium price.
When you’re willing to explore just a little beyond the typical stops, you’ll find the best deals come with the best views.
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