The best seaside villages in Italy to visit in the winter

Italy is a popular summer destination, but what happens to its seaside villages once the beach loungers and umbrellas are gone? The cold season can be an opportunity to visit places that keep their charm intact and can warm your heart (despite the cold).

Discover some of the most beautiful seaside destinations in Italy, perfect for a winter getaway!

A terrace with a spectacular view over the Gulf of Sorrento

The best Italian seaside villages for a winter trip

It may be winter, but the sea is beautiful all year round! This means there are many welcoming destinations in Italy offering unique landscapes and experiences regardless of the season.

Here are 7 Italian seaside villages perfect to visit off-season:

1. San Vito Lo Capo (Sicily)

San Vito Lo Capo is located 40 km from Trapani and is part of the Zingaro Reserve, one of the most admired natural gems in Sicily.

The unspoiled coast of San Vito Lo Capo and its 3 km long beach make this village one of the most famous in the world. Thanks to its mild climate and winter temperatures reaching 13°C, you can spend sunny days on the beach even during Christmas! Also, the first almond trees bloom in February, turning the town's gardens pink.

And how can we not mention the famous couscous of San Vito Lo Capo? You can enjoy it in its restaurants overlooking the sea and finish your meal with a slice of cassata, the Sicilian sponge cake!

2. Scilla (Calabria)

Located just 10 km from the port of Villa San Giovanni, Scilla is one of the most beautiful villages of the Calabria region. Here you can find a mix of history, mythology and breathtaking landscapes.

Even if Scilla is quieter in winter, it is perfect for a walk through its distinct alleys and viewing points. From the castle of Ruffo you can admire the Strait of Messina and the Aeolian archipelago!

Even Homer spoke of Scilla in his Odyssey, and today its myth echoes in the town, full of hidden beauties. Don’t miss the areas of Marina Grande, San Giorgio and the traditional Chianalea district, with alleys and stairways that stretch out towards the sea.

The beautiful village of Scilla in Calabria

3. Termoli (Molise)

Termoli is a seaside village overlooking the Adriatic Sea, with mild temperatures all year round. It is ideal for walks by the sea and through its historic center made up of narrow streets, churches and towers.

Termoli’s promenade, its cathedral and the Swabian Castle that dominates the landscape are not the only reasons for a winter escape. From the port of Termoli you can reach the wonderful Tremiti Islands by ferry in 1 hour! Their unspoiled nature deserves a visit both in the summer and the winter!

Good to know: in December, the Tremiti Archipelago celebrates the feast of San Nicola di Mira, one of the most characteristic, medieval-style events. One more reason for a winter trip!

4. Sorrento (Campania)

Sorrento is one of the towns at the Gulf of Naples that retains its charm even in the colder months. It’s a romantic destination, perfect to experience the beauty of the sea off-season!

Located near Naples, this village offers beautiful views of the famous islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida. In its colorful historic center you can admire churches, cloisters and museums that are worth a visit.

One of the most important winter events in the city is the Feast of Sant’Antonino, which is celebrated on February 14 with fairs and parades (Valentine’s Day is so last year)! Get ready to experience Sorrento out of season in the most authentic way.

Tip: did you know that you can reach Sorrento from Naples by ferry? Take a look at the connections from Naples to Sorrento, but also the Sorrento - Capri and Sorrento - Ischia ferry routes for a winter adventure in the Gulf of Naples!

5. Sperlonga (Lazio)

Sperlonga is only 15 min from the town of Terracina and is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Appreciated for its beaches during the summer months, this seaside village is also quite impressive during the winter. Nestled between white houses, alleys and stairways, you're going to appreciate winter in Italy like never before!

Visit the town's watchtowers, the church of Santa Maria di Sperlonga and the Archaeological Museum, and get ready to photograph every corner of its historic center.

Sperlonga is also famous for its cliffs and rocky walls, perfect for climbing lovers. The Monte Moneta is the most popular climbing spot during the winter season, with 174 wind-protected trails!

The historic center of Sperlonga and its white houses

6. Camogli (Liguria)

Camogli is one of the most impressive seaside villages in Italy. It is located on the Ligurian Riviera, 20 km from Genoa.

Famous for its ancient seafaring tradition, Camogli surprises travelers with its colors, its small port and its landscape. Among the places not to be missed is the Maritime Museum, featuring historical objects related to the nautical world.

Finish your visit to Camogli with a plate of traditional home-made ravioli and some local sweet pastries flavored with rum; a real heart-warming delight!

7. Castiglione della Pescaia (Tuscany)

Tuscany is certainly an ideal destination both in summer and in winter, with its crystalline sea and its green hills perfect all year round. One of the most beautiful seaside destinations in the region is Castiglione della Pescaia, only 30 min from the town of Piombino.

This medieval town is very lively during the summer months, but offers unique moments during the winter months too. From the upper part of the town you can enjoy an extraordinary view of the Tuscan archipelago. The old town is one of the best preserved on the Tyrrhenian Coast.

Castiglione della Pescaia is also famous for its wines, cheeses and cured meats, perfect to enjoy when it's cold outside!

The pretty village of Castiglione della Pescaia by the sea

Do you crave the sea all year? Read our tips and get ready to discover beautiful Italian seaside villages this winter! On Ferryhopper, you can book your ferry tickets and explore the villages of Italy with just a few clicks.