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Top Budget-Friendly Italian Regions You Must Visit

Considering a budget-friendly journey to Italy? Let us guide you in uncovering the cheapest regions to explore and give you valuable tips for maximizing your savings while still experiencing the best this stunning destination offers.

Puglia is one of the cheapest regions in Italy
Puglia is one of the cheapest regions in Italy

Italy, a quintessential European country, is globally renowned for its exquisite cuisine, awe-inspiring art, and stunning architecture, making it an ideal holiday destination.

But there’s one catch: Italy is often perceived as an expensive country to visit. But is it true?

Worry not! If you’re a budget-conscious traveler eager to immerse yourself in culture and adventure, this guide about the cheapest regions for tourists in Italy is specifically crafted for you.

The cheapest regions to visit in Italy
The cheapest regions to visit in Italy

Here we’ll show you why a trip to the country of the boot doesn’t have to cost thousands of euros. Explore how a journey to the land of the boot doesn’t require breaking the bank.

An affordable Italian getaway undoubtedly involves a fresh perspective on your geographical choices. Trips to iconic cities like Venice, Florence, or Rome might exhaust the savings of even the wealthiest travelers in no time. However, opting for lesser-known yet equally enchanting regions results in considerably reduced expenses, particularly in terms of food, transportation, and accommodation. By wandering off the beaten path to budget-friendly areas such as Puglia, Abruzzo, or Sicily, you’ll discover that costs can be up to three times less expensive than in Tuscany or Veneto.

Here is a list of the cheapest regions to visit in Italy.

Reaching these regions from other places in Europe can be done by plane, train, bus, or even by car, although it should be noted that the trip can take up to 20 hours.



The Cheapest regions for Tourists in Italy

1. Puglia (Apulia)

Cheap regions to travel in Italy - Apulia
Cheap regions to travel in Italy – Apulia

Apulia, also known as Puglia, is a region in Italy located in the southern part of the country. It shares borders with Molise, Campania, and Basilicata and is bounded by the Adriatic Sea to the east and the Ionian Sea to the west. Major cities in Apulia include Bari, its capital, along with Taranto, Foggia, Lecce, and Brindisi.

Apulia boasts many attractions which make it worthwhile for tourists to explore. The region is characterized by a landscape rich in historical landmarks, such as Castel del Monte, built during the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II. Furthermore, Apulia has several well-preserved examples of Baroque architecture in Lecce’s historical center.

Bari, la capital de la Puglia, es uno de las ciudades menos conocidas de Italia
Bari, the capital of Puglia, is one of the least known cities in Italy.
Viajar barato a Italia - Puglia
Travel cheap to Italy – Apulia
La Puglia está repleta de rincones espectaculares
Puglia is full of spectacular corners of the country.

Regarding accommodation costs in Apulia, travelers have various options for different financial conditions. Hostels typically cost between €15 and €25 per night for a dormitory bed. Budget hotels can range from €30 to €60 per night for a twin or double room. Midrange hotels are available between €60 and €110 per night.

For food expenses, visitors to the region can expect lower costs than other parts of Italy. A meal in an inexpensive restaurant costs an average of €12-15, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range eatery may be priced between €30 and €45.

Accessibility between Apulia and other countries is made possible by direct flights from the United Kingdom offered by airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet. These flights generally land at either Bari or Brindisi airports. Travelers arriving from the United States may first reach European cities–such as London or Rome–through direct flights before connecting onward to Apulia via additional flights or train services.

Budget for a trip to Puglia

Transportation

Flight by low-cost airline (Ryanair) to Bari from London or Dublin 15 – 90€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Flight by a flag carrier (British Airways ITA Airways) to Bari or Brindisi (with stopovers)99 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
*Estimated price per person each way on a return trip

Travel Insurance

Basic travel insurance (including cancellation)20 – 30€* CHECK POLICIES
All risk travel insurance (including cancellation)40 – 60€* CHECK POLICIES
*Approximate price per person for a one-week travel insurance policy in Italy through HeyMondo.

Accommodation

Shared dormitory accommodation in a hostel20 – 25€* CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a hostel or budget hotel 25 – 40€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a mid-range hotel45 – 90€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a luxury hotel 80 – 200€** CHECK RATES
*Estimated price per person per night.
** Estimated price per person per night based on double occupancy room.

Other expenses

Backpacking tripIntermediate trip***** Luxury travel
Food and beverage15€25€>50€
Local transportation7€15€>20€
Tickets and attractions10€20€>35€
Other expenses5€10€15€
Per person per day of travel.
*Frugal travel saving as much as possible. Street food or supermarket food. Using public transportation or walking. Entrance only to the must-see attractions and taking free tours.
**Standard travel. Meals at inexpensive and intermediate restaurants. Public transportation and occasional cabs. Entrance to the main attractions.
***Travel without looking at expenses. Meals at the best restaurants. Transportation by cab or rental car. Entrance fees to all attractions and private tours.

2. Abruzzo

Unknown and cheap regions in Italy: Abruzzo
Unknown and cheap regions in Italy: Abruzzo

Abruzzo is a region in the southern part of central Italy. It has an area of 10,763 square kilometers and a population of approximately 1.3 million people. The region is divided into four provinces: L’Aquila, Teramo, Pescara, and Chieti. Pescara, situated on the Adriatic coast, is the most populous city and serves as an administrative center.

Abruzzo provides an affordable alternative for travelers visiting Italy, offering lower costs for accommodation and food compared to more popular tourist destinations. The Abruzzo region is often overlooked by travelers; however, it boasts a rich history, picturesque landscapes, and noteworthy landmarks.

Abruzzo es una excelente región para descubrir la Italia más secreta
Abruzzo is an excellent region to discover the most secret Italy.
Viajar a Abruzzo Italia
Travel to Abruzzo, Italy
Abruzzo es una de las regiones más bellas y desconocidas de Italia
Abruzzo is one of the most beautiful and unknown regions of Italy.

Historically, Abruzzo was inhabited by Italic tribes until it became part of the Roman Empire in the 4th century BC. During medieval times, it was divided into small fiefdoms ruled by local lords but later formed part of the Kingdom of Naples and later the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.

Visiting Abruzzo offers an opportunity to explore attractions such as the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, which hosts Corno Grande, the highest peak in the Apennines at 2,912 meters above sea level. Additionally, the region is home to several ancient hilltop towns like Sulmona and Pacentro.

Affordability is another crucial aspect of Abruzzo’s appeal to travelers. Accommodation expenses range from €15-20 per night for hostel dormitory beds to around €50-70 for budget hotels and €70-120 for midrange hotels. Regarding food costs, visitors will find that reasonable meal prices range from €5 for casual dining to €20-30 for more elaborate meals at nicer restaurants.

Given its location in Europe, Abruzzo can be reached conveniently from the United States and the United Kingdom. The region has no direct flights from the United States, and travelers must fly into nearby cities such as Rome or Milan and then travel to Abruzzo by train, bus, or car. For visitors from the United Kingdom, a few airlines operate direct flights to Pescara from London and nearby airports.

Budget for a trip to l’Abruzzo

Transportation

Flight to Pescara from London or European airport (with stopovers)99 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Flight by low-cost airline (Ryanair) to Rome from Spain 15 – 120€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Flight by traditional airline (Iberia, ITA Airways) to Rome from Spain (direct or with stopovers)45 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Regional train from Rome to Pescara15 – 20€ SEARCH TRAINS
*Estimated price per person one way for a round trip

Travel insurance

Basic travel insurance (including cancellation)20 – 30€* CHECK POLICIES
All risk travel insurance (including cancellation)40 – 60€* CHECK POLICIES
*Approximate price per person for a one-week travel insurance policy in Italy through HeyMondo.

Accommodation

Shared dormitory accommodation in a hostel27 – 30€* CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a hostel or budget hotel 25 – 40€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a mid-range hotel35 – 75€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a luxury hotel 60 – 200€** CHECK RATES
*Estimated price per person per night.
** Estimated price per person per night based on double occupancy room.

Other expenses

Backpacking tripIntermediate trip***** Luxury travel
Food and beverage15€20€>30€
Local transportation9€20€>30€
Tickets and attractions8€15€>30€
Other expenses5€10€15€
Per person per day of travel.
*Frugal travel saving as much as possible. Street food or supermarket food. Using public transportation or walking. Entrance only to the must-see attractions and taking free tours.
**Standard travel. Meals at inexpensive and intermediate restaurants. Public transportation and occasional cabs. Entrance to the main attractions.
***Travel without looking at expenses. Meals in the best restaurants. Transportation by cab or rental car. Entrance fees to all attractions and private tours.

3. Sicily

Sicily – Cheapest places to travel in Italy

Sicily, an autonomous region in Italy, is located in the Mediterranean Sea and constitutes the largest island in the region. The regional capital is Palermo, and other major cities include Catania, Messina, and Syracuse. Lying at the historical crossroads of various civilizations, Sicily is home to numerous cultural heritage sites and natural attractions, making it a desirable destination for tourists.

Sicily is one of the best economic regions in Italy
Sicily is one of the best economic regions in Italy
Sicily has an excellent mix of culture, beaches, and nature
Sicily has an excellent mix of culture, beaches, and nature
Regions of Italy - Sicily
Regions of Italy – Sicily

One of the reasons to consider visiting Sicily is its affordability compared to other Italian destinations. Travelers can observe historical monuments, such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the ancient Greek theater of Taormina. Additionally, they can explore Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano.

The cost of accommodation in Sicily caters for different budgets. Hostels have an average price range of 20–35 euros per night, while budget hotels usually fall within 40–60 euros per night. Mid-range hotels charge between 70–120 euros per night. Moreover, food expenses are generally reasonable due to the availability of local markets and affordable restaurants.

International connectivity with Sicily has improved over time. People traveling from the United Kingdom can fly directly to Catania or Palermo through airlines like British Airways and EasyJet. Visitors from the United States must transit through European hubs such as London or Rome before proceeding to Sicilian airports.

Budget for a trip to the island of Sicily

Transportation

Flight from Spain to Palermo, Catania or Trapani with a low-cost airline24 – 120€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Flight with traditional airline (Iberia, ITA) to Palermo or Catania from Spain (with stopovers) 99 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
*Estimated price per person each way for a round trip

Travel insurance

Basic travel insurance (including cancellation)20 – 30€* CHECK POLICIES
All risk travel insurance (including cancellation)40 – 60€* CHECK POLICIES
*Approximate price per person for a one-week travel insurance policy in Italy through HeyMondo.

Accommodation

Shared dormitory accommodation in a hostel25 – 30€* CHECK RATES
Accommodation in private room in a hostel or budget hotel 40 – 65€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a mid-range hotel50 – 90€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a luxury hotel 75 – 200€** CHECK RATES
*Estimated price per person per night.
** Estimated price per person per night based on double occupancy room.

Other expenses

Backpacking tripIntermediate travel***** Luxury travel
Food and beverage17€30€>40€
Local transportation15€25€>40€
Tickets and attractions15€25€>50€
Other expenses10€15€30€
Per person per day of travel.
*Frugal travel saving as much as possible. Street food or supermarket food. Using public transportation or walking. Entrance only to the must-see attractions and taking free tours.
**Standard travel. Meals at inexpensive and intermediate restaurants. Public transportation and occasional cabs. Entrance to the main attractions.
***Travel without looking at expenses. Meals at the best restaurants. Transportation by cab or rental car. Entrance fees to all attractions and private tours.

4. Marche

Dónde viajar en Italia que sea barato - Marche
Where to travel in Italy that is cheap – Marche

The Marche region, situated in central Italy along the Adriatic coast, is an economically accessible destination for travelers. Bordered by Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, Umbria, Abruzzo, and the Adriatic Sea, this region boasts various cities such as Ancona (the regional capital), Pesaro, and Urbino. Known for its affordability compared to other Italian regions, Marche offers a blend of natural landscapes, rich history, and cultural attractions.

Travelers with an interest in history should explore foundational cities like Ancona and Urbino. Established in 387 BC by Greeks from Syracuse as a Doric colony, Ancona has Roman ruins and historical artifacts available for sightseeing. Urbino, on the other hand, was the epicenter of culture during the Renaissance era under Duke Federico da Montefeltro. This city houses the Ducal Palace transformed into the National Gallery of Le Marche, which displays works by famous painters such as Raffaello Sanzio.

In addition to historical sites, visitors can explore Frasassi Caves – a network of underground chambers created by water erosion around two million years ago – or venture through scenic national parks like Monte Conero Park and Sibillini Mountains National Park.

Regarding accommodation expenses in the Marche region, budget-friendly options are available throughout. Hostels typically cost between €15 and €25 per night. Budget hotels range from €30 to €60 per night, while mid-range hotels charge approximately €60 to €120 per night. Meals at local restaurants usually average around €10 for lunch and €20 for dinner per person.

Traveling to Marche from the UK is convenient, with direct flights from London Stansted Airport to Ancona Falconara Airport. For US travelers, stopping in Rome or Milan may be necessary before flying into Ancona.

Budget for a trip to Le Marche

Transportation

Flight to Ancona from London or European airport (with stopovers)120 – 300€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Flight by low-cost airline (Ryanair) to Rome from Spain 15 – 120€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Flight with a traditional airline (Iberia, ITA Airways) to Rome from Spain (direct or with stopovers)45 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Regional train from Rome to Ancona20 – 30€ SEARCH TRAINS
*Estimated price per person one way for a round trip

Travel insurance

Basic travel insurance (including cancellation)20 – 30€* CHECK POLICIES
All risk travel insurance (including cancellation)40 – 60€* CHECK POLICIES
*Approximate price per person for a one-week travel insurance policy in Italy through HeyMondo.

Accommodation

Shared dormitory accommodation in a hostel17 – 25€* CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a hostel or budget hotel 35 – 45€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a mid-range hotel50 – 80€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a luxury hotel 60 – 200€** CHECK RATES
*Estimated price per person per night.
** Estimated price per person per night based on double occupancy room.

Other expenses

Backpacking tripIntermediate trip***** Luxury travel
Food and beverage15€20€>30€
Local transportation9€20€>30€
Tickets and attractions8€12€>30€
Other expenses5€10€15€
Per person per day of travel.
*Frugal travel saving as much as possible. Street food or supermarket food. Using public transportation or walking. Entrance only to the must-see attractions and taking free tours.
**Standard travel. Meals at inexpensive and intermediate restaurants. Public transportation and occasional cabs. Entrance to the main attractions.
***Travel without looking at expenses. Meals in the best restaurants. Transportation by cab or rental car. Entrance fees to all attractions and private tours.

5. Basilicata

The cheapest regions to travel in Italy - Basilicata
The cheapest regions to travel in Italy – Basilicata

Basilicata, also known as Lucania, is a region in southern Italy notable for its affordability and attractiveness to budget-conscious travelers. It is bordered by the regions of Campania to the west, Apulia to the east, and Calabria to the south. The two main cities in Basilicata are Potenza, its capital, and Matera.

The region is characterized by its rich history, unique landscapes, and cultural attractions. UNESCO designated Matera a World Heritage Site in 1993 due to the presence of cave dwellings known as “Sassi di Matera.” Other significant historical sites include Pollino National Park and the ancient town of Melfi, which boasts a Norman-Swabian castle constructed during the 11th century.

Travelers can expect lower-cost options for both accommodation and dining in Basilicata. Hostels can typically be found for approximately €15-30 per night. Budget hotels generally range from €40-80 per night, while midrange hotels are priced between €80-150 per night. Meals at local trattorias or pizzerias may average around €10-20 per person.

UK travelers can reach Basilicata by flying into Naples International Airport (NAP) or Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), followed by a train or bus ride into the region. Direct flights from London to Naples and Bari are available via British Airways and easyJet. For US visitors, there are no direct flights to Basilicata’s airports; however, connecting flights can be arranged through major European cities such as London, Paris, Frankfurt or Rome.

Budget for a cheap trip to Basilicata, Italy

Transportation

Flight by low-cost airline (Ryanair) to Bari from London or European airport 15 – 90€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Flight by traditional airline (Iberia, ITA Airways) to Bari from Spain (with stopovers)99 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Train from Bari to Matera5 – 10€ SEARCH TRAINS
Bus from Bari to Matera4 – 8€ SEARCH BUSES
*Estimated price per person per way for a round trip

Travel insurance

Basic travel insurance (including cancellation)20 – 30€* CHECK POLICIES
All risk travel insurance (including cancellation)40 – 60€* CHECK POLICIES
*Approximate price per person for a one week travel insurance policy in Italy through HeyMondo.

Accommodation

Shared dormitory accommodation in a hostel15 – 25€* CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a hostel or budget hotel 20 – 40€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a mid-range hotel40 – 70€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a luxury hotel 60 – 200€** CHECK RATES
*Estimated price per person per night.
** Estimated price per person per night based on double occupancy room.

Other expenses

Backpacking tripIntermediate travel***** Luxury travel
Food and beverage15€20€>30€
Local transportation10€25€>30€
Tickets and attractions15€20€>35€
Other expenses10€15€20€
Per person per day of travel.
*Frugal travel saving as much as possible. Street food or supermarket food. Using public transportation or walking. Entrance only to the must-see attractions and taking free tours.
**Standard travel. Meals at inexpensive and intermediate restaurants. Public transportation and occasional cabs. Entrance to the main attractions.
***Travel without looking at expenses. Meals in the best restaurants. Transportation by cab or rental car. Entrance fees to all attractions and private tours.

6. Molise

Italy on a budget
Italy on a budget – Molise Region[CC BY-SA] [CCBY-SA] Fabio Pitisci

Molise is a region located in Southern Italy, specifically bordered by Abruzzo, Lazio, Campania, and Apulia. It is the second smallest region in the country and notably less expensive for travelers compared to other tourist destinations in Italy. Its capital city, Campobasso, and the coastal city of Termoli are two of its main urban areas with several attractions worth exploring.

Molise offers various reasons for visiting, as it is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Key sites include the ancient Roman town of Saepinum, located near modern-day Altilia, and the Castello Pandone in Venafro. As for natural sights, the region proudly features Samnite Stone Cairns (Totò a Mammone), large stone piles built during prehistoric times.

When it comes to cost considerations for travelers, Molise offers affordable accommodation options. Hostels can range from €25 to €35 per night; budget hotels may be found at around €40 to €60 per night; while midrange hotels typically charge €70 to €105 per night. Additionally, food expenses can be kept to a minimum since regional cuisine tends to be less costly compared to more popular Italian destinations.

Regarding transportation links between Molise and the United Kingdom (UK), an indirect route is necessary as there are no direct flights available between these two locales. Travelers from the UK may fly into Naples or Rome first before taking a train or renting a car to reach Molise. Similarly, individuals coming from the United States (US) have to fly into another major European city like London or Paris before connecting through Rome or Naples.

Budget for a trip to Molise

Transportation

Flight to Pescara from London or European airport (with stopovers)99 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Regional train from Pescara to Termoli10 – 15€ SEARCH TRAINS
Flight to Bari from Spain15 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Train (regional or high speed) from Bari to Termoli15 – 40€ SEARCH TRAINS
*Estimated price per person per way for a round trip

Travel insurance

Basic travel insurance (including cancellation)20 – 30€* VIEW POLICIES
All risk travel insurance (including cancellation)40 – 60€* CHECK POLICIES
*Approximate price per person for a one week travel insurance policy in Italy through HeyMondo.

Accommodation

Shared dormitory accommodation in a hostel20 – 25€* CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a hostel or budget hotel 25 – 40€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a mid-range hotel35 – 75€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a luxury hotel 60 – 200€** CHECK RATES
*Estimated price per person per night.
** Estimated price per person per night based on double occupancy room.

Other expenses

Backpacking tripIntermediate trip***** Luxury travel
Food and beverage15€20€>30€
Local transportation9€20€>30€
Tickets and attractions8€15€>30€
Other expenses5€10€15€
Per person per day of travel.
*Frugal travel saving as much as possible. Street food or supermarket food. Using public transportation or walking. Entrance only to the must-see attractions and taking free tours.
**Standard travel. Meals at inexpensive and intermediate restaurants. Public transportation and occasional cabs. Entrance to the main attractions.
***Travel without looking at expenses. Meals in the best restaurants. Transportation by cab or rental car. Entrance fees to all attractions and private tours.

7. Umbria

Zonas más baratas de Italia para visitar - Umbria
Cheapest areas in Italy to visit – Umbria

Umbria is a region located in central Italy. It shares borders with Marche to the east, Tuscany to the west, and Lazio to the south. The region is known for its affordability in comparison to other regions of Italy, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers. The capital of Umbria is Perugia, which is also the largest city in the region. Other important cities include Assisi and Orvieto.

Umbria is renowned for its historical importance and cultural heritage. Tourists may visit Assisi, which is the birthplace of Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan Order. Another attraction is Orvieto’s iconic Gothic cathedral, built between 1290 and 1600 AD. Additionally, Umbria houses many archaeological sites, such as Carsulae – an ancient Roman town.

Lodging costs in Umbria offer affordable options for travelers. Hostel accommodations typically range from 20 to 35 euros per night. Budget hotels can average around 35 to 70 euros per night, while mid-range hotels cost approximately 70 to 120 euros per night.

Culinary experiences should not be overlooked when visiting Umbria. The region offers numerous traditional dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients at reasonable prices. On average, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around 15 euros per person.

Travelers from the United Kingdom have several options when planning a trip to Umbria. There are flights from London to Perugia’s San Francesco d’Assisi Airport (with a one-stop layover), or they can opt for train or bus services connecting major cities like Rome and Florence.

For visitors from the United States, reaching Umbria requires flying into a nearby major city, such as Rome or Milan, and then connecting to Perugia by train or bus. Alternatively, some chose to fly into Florence and rent a car for the scenic drive through Tuscany to Umbria.

Budget for a trip to Umbria

Transportation

Flight to Perugia from London or European airport (with stopovers)99 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Flight to Rome from Spain15 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Regional train from Rome to Perugia10 – 20€ SEARCH TRAINS
Flight to Bologna or Florence from Spain15 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Regional train from Florence or Bologna to Perugia15 – 30€ SEARCH TRAINS
*Estimated price per person one way for a round trip

Travel insurance

Basic travel insurance (including cancellation)20 – 30€* CHECK POLICIES
All risk travel insurance (including cancellation)40 – 60€* CHECK POLICIES
*Approximate price per person for a one week travel insurance policy in Italy through HeyMondo.

Accommodation

Shared dormitory accommodation in a hostel16 – 25€* CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a hostel or budget hotel 25 – 40€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a mid-range hotel35 – 75€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a luxury hotel 70 – 200€** CHECK RATES
*Estimated price per person per night.
** Estimated price per person per night based on double occupancy room.

Other expenses

Backpacking tripIntermediate travel***** Luxury travel
Food and beverage17€25€>40€
Local transportation10€20€>40€
Tickets and attractions20€25€>30€
Other expenses6€10€15€
Per person per day of travel.
*Frugal travel saving as much as possible. Street food or supermarket food. Using public transportation or walking. Entrance only to the must-see attractions and taking free tours.
**Standard travel. Meals at inexpensive and intermediate restaurants. Public transportation and occasional cabs. Entrance to the main attractions.
***Travel without looking at expenses. Meals in the best restaurants. Transportation by cab or rental car. Entrance fees to all attractions and private tours.


8. Calabria

Calabria - Regiones más económicas de Italia
Calabria – Cheapest regions of Italy

The Calabria region, located in the southernmost part of Italy, is a less expensive destination for travelers visiting Italy. Bordered by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Ionian Sea to the east, its geographical position forms the toe of the Italian peninsula. Five provinces make up Calabria: Catanzaro, Cosenza, Crotone, Reggio di Calabria, and Vibo Valentia. The region’s capital city is Catanzaro.

Calabria offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that attracts tourists from around the world. Among its historical sites are many ancient tombs and ruins dating back to Greek and Roman civilizations, including those found at Scolacium Archaeological Park in Catanzaro province and the ancient city of Kroton in Crotone. Notable cultural institutions include the Reggio di Calabria’s National Archaeological Museum and the Pinacoteca Civica di Cosenza.

Given its lower cost of living compared to more popular Italian destinations like Rome or Florence, Calabria provides budget-conscious tourists with affordable accommodation and dining options. A typical hostel room in this region costs around €16-€35 per night. Budget hotels may charge between €30-€70 per night while midrange hotels can be found for approximately €60-120 per night. Meals at local restaurants tend to range from €8-€20 per person.

Direct flights from the UK to Calabria usually have a layover in Rome or Milan and are available through airlines such as Ryanair and Alitalia. For travelers from the US, commonly scheduled one-stop routes involve transiting through European hub cities like London, Paris or Frankfurt before arriving at Lamezia Terme International Airport (SUF), which is Calabria’s main airport.

Budget for a cheap trip to Calabria

Transportation

Flight to Naples from London or European airport (direct or with stopovers)44 – 250€* SEARCH FLIGHTS
Regional train from Naples to Cosenza15 – 20€ SEARCH TRAINS
*Estimated price per person one way for a round trip

Travel insurance

Basic travel insurance (including cancellation)20 – 30€* VIEW POLICIES
All risk travel insurance (including cancellation)40 – 60€* CHECK POLICIES
*Approximate price per person for a one week travel insurance policy in Italy through HeyMondo.

Accommodation

Shared dormitory accommodation in a hostel14- 24€* CHECK RATES
Accommodation in private room in a hostel or budget hotel 25 – 35€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a mid-range hotel30 – 60€** CHECK RATES
Accommodation in a private room in a luxury hotel 50 – 200€** CHECK RATES
*Estimated price per person per night.
** Estimated price per person per night based on double occupancy room.

Other expenses

Backpacking tripIntermediate travel***** Luxury travel
Food and beverage15€20€>30€
Local transportation8€20€>30€
Tickets and attractions15€20€>30€
Other expenses5€10€15€
Per person per day of travel.
*Frugal travel saving as much as possible. Street food or supermarket food. Using public transportation or walking. Entrance only to the must-see attractions and take free tours.
**Standard travel. Meals at inexpensive and intermediate restaurants. Public transportation and occasional cabs. Entrance to the main attractions.
***Travel without looking at expenses. Meals at the best restaurants. Transportation by cab or rental car. Entrance fees to all attractions and private tours.