Roccaraso leads the 2026 ranking of sought-after small towns

Roccaraso, located in Abruzzo, emerges as the most searched destination online for 2026 holidays according to the Small Cities ranking, which combines search volumes with population and average accommodation prices. The mountain town has seen a marked increase in interest compared to the previous year.

Why travellers pick these small towns

Places like Roccaraso attract visitors for several reasons:

• Natural setting and outdoor activities: mountains, hiking trails and ski areas.
• Local food and wine: restaurants and inns highlighting regional produce.
• Online visibility: search behaviour brings lesser-known destinations to light.
• Seasonal variety: different appeals in winter and summer.

Top rankings for 2026

Alongside Roccaraso, the list highlights several coastal and island destinations that combine history, sea and cultural offerings.

• Roccaraso (Abruzzo)
• Portofino (Liguria)
• Amalfi (Campania)
• Favignana (Sicily)
• San Vito Lo Capo (Sicily)

Practical tips for visiting Roccaraso and nearby villages

To plan a visit to Roccaraso or similar small towns, consider the following practical suggestions:

• Best time to go: winter for snow sports; late spring and early autumn for quieter hiking and sightseeing.
• How to reach: evaluate train + local buses or car; the Sulmona–Isernia railway remains a historic regional link.
• Where to eat: choose places that showcase Abruzzo specialties and local ingredients.
• Getting around: book accommodation early in high season and consider car hire or guided excursions to explore surrounding areas.

Regional trends

The ranking highlights growing interest in Central and Southern Italy, with a noticeable presence of regions investing in slow tourism. Lombardy, Campania, Lazio and Marche continue to appear often, while Abruzzo and Marche are gaining traction.

Useful info: Roccaraso (67037 Roccaraso AQ) sits above 1,200 metres and is the main hub of the Alto Sangro area, recording a significant rise in monthly search interest in 2026.