Italy’s Most Beautiful Small Towns

We are proud to announce that in 2023 Malcesine has been named as one of Italy’s most beautiful small towns.

The prestigious guide “I Borghi più belli d’Italia”, which has been promoting the best of “unknown Italy” for more than 20 years, has selected Malcesine as one of the finest small Italian towns to visit.

The Association’s scientific committee meets every year to draw up the list of the country’s finest small towns.

To be admitted to the Association, the small town must have at least 70% of historic buildings dating prior to 1939, whilst the town must have a total population of fewer than 15,000 inhabitants with under 2,000 residents in the town centre.In sort, the very criteria which describe Malcesine: a town which is small in size but big in beauty!

After all, as the local saying goes, “there is good wine in the small barrel”, or good things come in small packages.

Malcesine has joined the Association after passing the 72 award criteria. These include the town’s architecture, its cultural and culinary heritage, hospitality, and tourism.

We are joining a major network where the keywords, in addition to beauty, are the quality, conservation, development and protection of the small town and its traditions. A series of notable events and projects will be held, bringing together our town, its residents, schools and promoters. The overarching aim is to promote and protect our cultural and artistic heritage.The quality of life in a small town like ours is traditional and anyone who visits Malcesine will be struck by the characteristic features of our way of life.

We are delighted that, from this year, our town will join the list of Italy’s most beautiful small towns.
This award increases the appeal of Malcesine and can only make the town an even more attractive destination for visitors. Are you ready?Here is your chance to explore the incredible scenery, taste our local specialities, soak up the views of the stunning lake, bring all of your senses to life with all of the many experiences we offer, and discover that magnificence lies in the smallest details. In short, experience something really special in one of Italy’s most beautiful small towns.