Top 10 Places to Visit in Molise
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Latest page update: 14 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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This top ten list brings together the lesser-known highlights of Molise — a region of mountains, villages and open countryside with a strong local identity.
From the Adriatic coastline at Termoli to archaeological ruins at Saepinum and medieval hill towns like Bagnoli del Trigno, the variety is quietly impressive. You’ll also find high-altitude plateaus, regional food traditions and peaceful landscapes with few tourists. Molise may be small, but it offers a real sense of discovery. |
Campobasso, Molise
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Termoli
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Termoli is Molise’s best-known seaside town, with colourful houses, medieval walls and sandy beaches. The old town stands on a promontory above the Adriatic.
A key landmark is the Romanesque cathedral, located right in the heart of the historic centre. The narrow lanes lead to viewpoints, shops and fish restaurants. The beach stretches south towards the Costa Verde. Termoli is also a gateway to the Tremiti Islands, with ferry departures during the summer months. |
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Saepinum
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Saepinum is an archaeological site in a peaceful countryside setting, where the ruins of a Roman town remain scattered across green fields.
The site includes a forum, amphitheatre, baths and a well-preserved gate, with no crowds or modern structures to distract from the view. Saepinum is near the village of Altilia and reached best by car. It’s a quiet, atmospheric place and one of Molise’s most important historical attractions. |
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Campobasso
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Campobasso is the regional capital of Molise, built across several hills with a mix of medieval lanes and modern districts. It’s the main transport hub of the region.
Above the town sits Castello Monforte, a 15th-century fortress with views of the surrounding hills. The town also has several interesting churches and museums. Campobasso is home to traditional artisan crafts, especially blade making. It’s central for exploring other destinations and well connected by road and rail. |
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Capracotta
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Capracotta is a mountain village known for its high elevation, snowfall and scenic setting. It’s one of the highest inhabited towns in the Apennines.
The village offers access to cross-country ski trails in winter and walking routes in summer, with views over the surrounding forests and plains. It’s small, quiet and ideal for travellers looking for nature and space. Local festivals and food traditions help preserve its strong sense of identity. |
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Sant'Angelo Limosano
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This small hill village is best known as the birthplace of Pope Celestine V and for its stunning views across central Molise’s hills and valleys.
The historic centre has stone houses, narrow alleys and a peaceful feel. A few churches and panoramic points can be visited on a short walk through town. Sant’Angelo Limosano is remote and largely untouched by tourism. It’s a place for quiet reflection and connecting with the rural traditions of the region. |
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Bagnoli del Trigno
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Bagnoli del Trigno is dramatically located on a rocky slope, with a medieval church perched above the village and an ancient watchtower built into the rock.
It’s known as the “Pearl of Molise” for its unusual geography and attractive views. The streets are steep and winding, with little traffic and lots of charm. Festivals, including the annual ‘Festa del Grano’, celebrate local culture. The village is a scenic place to visit on a drive through the region’s interior. |
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Isernia
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Isernia is one of the two provincial capitals of Molise, with ancient origins and a compact historic centre. It lies at a crossroads between valleys and mountains.
A Roman bridge still stands near the entrance to town, and the Museo Nazionale del Paleolitico explores early human activity in the area. Piazza Celestino V is the town’s main square, surrounded by cafés and local shops. It’s a relaxed place to stay when exploring inland Molise. |
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Cerro al Volturno
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Cerro al Volturno is a small village with a castle perched on a rocky outcrop above the valley. The Castello Pandone has stood for over a thousand years.
The village itself has narrow lanes and a few rustic houses, with views over the surrounding forested hills and the Volturno River below. It’s close to the Abruzzo border and the entrance to national parks. Cerro is a quiet and scenic stop on the way to higher mountain areas. |
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Civitacampomarano
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Civitacampomarano is a hill village known for its annual street art festival, which has transformed abandoned houses with bold murals and colour.
The medieval castle and narrow stone alleys tell of its older history, but the contrast with contemporary art gives the town a unique character. The project has helped revive the village and attract visitors. It’s ideal for those looking to see how art and rural life can combine in new ways. |
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Campitello Matese
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Campitello Matese is a ski resort and outdoor destination set on a high plateau in the Apennines. It’s one of Molise’s top spots for winter sports.
In summer, it’s a base for hiking, cycling and horse riding through meadows and woodland. Trails lead to viewpoints and mountain peaks. The area has a small cluster of hotels and lodges. It’s best reached by car and ideal for outdoor activities in both warm and cold seasons. |
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