The most beautiful waterfalls in Italy: what are they and where to find them

The Bel Paese's incredible natural heritage is literally boundless, including rivers, lakes, huge natural parks (habitats for many protected animal species) and waterfalls. When you think of waterfalls in mind come the classic movie or cartoon scenes where you find yourself wandering on a raft or boat about to fall down a very high waterfall, well in Italy we have many WOW effect waterfalls.

These magnificent natural beauties are located throughout the country from north to south, often located in nature parks or hiking trails, accessible to all hiking enthusiasts. Often hidden from prying eyes, waterfalls show their power to those who dare to reach them to enjoy the spectacle.

What are the most beautiful waterfalls in Italy? 
A division must be made between waterfalls found in northern Italy, those in central Italy, southern Italy, and the islands.

In northern Italy we find the Toce Waterfalls in Piedmont, the Acquafraggia Waterfalls in Lombardy, the Riva Waterfalls in Trentino Alto Adige, and the Molina Waterfall in Veneto.

In central Italy, on the other hand, we find the Marmore Falls in Umbria, the Cascate del Mulino di Saturnia in Tuscany, and the Cascata Grande del Liri in Lazio.

In southern Italy there are the Marmarico Waterfalls located in Calabria, the Capelli di Venere Waterfall in Campania, the Valle delle Ferriere also in Campania.

In the islands, on the other hand, we find the Cascate di Santa Lucia and the Cascata di Capo Nieddu in Sardinia.

In Piedmont in the municipality of Formazza is the famous Toce Waterfall, located about 1675 meters above sea level and with a 143-meter drop, one of the highest in Europe.

The Toce Waterfall is the highest in Piedmont, the highest in Italy, and the second highest waterfall in Europe; in fact, it is described as one of the most spectacular in the Alps. One of its characteristics is that it is not visible all year round but only in the period from June to September in fact, at the top of the waterfall there is an artificial lake whose waters are used for the operation of hydroelectric power plants.

For the more adventurous we recommend getting to the top of the waterfall where there is a small wooden bridge that overlooks the very waterfall and is a wonderful observation point. 

How to reach the Toce waterfall? From the A26, continue along the Simplon highway, passing Domodossola and heading toward Crodo-Premia-Formazza. The waterfall is located in the hamlet of Frua. 

Some tips: If you intend to reach the base of the waterfall, it is advisable to wear waterproof clothing to protect yourself from splashing water. Remember that in the area you can have a picnic on the banks of the creek or play with children in the picnic area. 

The Riva waterfalls are located in the Aurina Valley in Trentino Alto Adige. They consist of three waterfalls each of which offers a unique spectacle because they are uniquely beautiful, which is another reason why they are among the most beautiful waterfalls in Italy.

The first waterfall is about 15 meters high and is easily reached with a short walk while the second and third are both 40 meters high and require a somewhat more challenging path but the reward is a breathtaking view that opens up to the horizon.

The trails leading to the waterfalls are very well marked and are suitable for hikers of all levels the trails vary in length and it takes about 20 minutes to reach the first waterfall while it takes 40 minutes to reach the next ones. The three Riva waterfalls are located at the entrance to the Vedrette di Ries-Aurina Nature Park. The path to follow is marked red-white and bears No. 2. It starts from the center of Sand in Taufers (864 m a.s.l.).

The Riva waterfalls are nestled within forests and flower-filled meadows within which hovers an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, a suitable place to enjoy nature, fresh air, have a picnic and, of course, play outdoor games with children or take a nice walk. For adventure lovers there is also a beautiful flyline flying over the entire gorge.

As a reminder, there is a very large free parking lot available at the beginning of the trail that makes it easy to reach the falls, which are open year-round although our advice is to visit during the best time, which is from spring to fall when the weather is mild.

The Molina waterfalls are located in the municipality of Fiumane in the province of Verona, Veneto. The waterfalls are a real natural jewel that offer an unforgettable experience for nature and hiking lovers. They are located within the Molina Waterfall Park, an ideal place for a nature excursion and mersi completely in the green. The park covers about 80,000 square meters, is rich in waterways and features a wide variety of flora and fauna. 

Within the waterfall park there are different routes suitable for both families and more adventurous explorers, of course all routes are walkable and have a predefined direction so it is recommended to follow it. 

Molina's main waterfall gives a breathtaking waterfall drop of about 30 meters and an alpine panorama of rare beauty. The waterfall is easily accessible by both car and public transport, there is a short and scenic path leads to the base of the waterfall that thunderously drops into a deep rocky gorge. 

Tips: we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and waterproof clothing to protect yourself from splashing water, it is also important to bring water and food with you because remember that picnics can be had in the park.

The park in addition to the Molina waterfall offers important hiking trails and also possible to visit the different waterfalls within the park one of them is very special and it is the black waterfall inside which there is a magnificent swing placed between the walls of the gorge, perfect for shooting or shots to remember forever.

Also worth visiting is the Bear Cave, a prehistoric cave with remains of bears, other animals and ancient hieroglyphics.

The Marmore Waterfall is a true masterpiece of the Umbria region, located a few kilometers from the city of Terni is a natural spectacle that leaves any visitor breathless. It boasts a leap of 165 meters that is divided into three distinct jumps, and it is the highest artificial waterfall in Europe as well as one of the highest in the world, a true excellence that makes it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Italy.

It has a Roman origin in fact it was the engineer Manio Curio Dentato who diverted the course of the Velino River to create an artificial channel. Over the centuries, the waterfall has become not only an engineering work of immense value but also a popular tourist destination for the Umbria region due to its breathtaking beauty.

The Marmore Waterfall is located in a totally green landscape characterized by forests, flower meadows and limestone rocks, very often there is a fog, created by the spray of water, almost ghostly that makes the waterfall even more fascinating. It often happens that the fog with the filtering light of the sun generates magnificent rainbows. 

The Marmore Waterfall offers several possibilities to be admired, there are walkable paths that allow you to reach the waterfall and admire it from different angles, in addition to this there is also a viewpoint, actually two, the lower viewpoint that offers a frontal view of the waterfall while the upper viewpoint allows you to admire the jump from above then above the waterfall.

For lovers of speleology and adventure it is also possible to explore the karst caves that lie at the base of the waterfall, one of which is the Saturn Cave, an impressive tunnel carved into the rock that allows you to observe the waterfall from behind the veil of water as if you were in the batcave.

If you are a sports lover, on the other hand, we remember that the Nera River, fed by the waterfall, offers a path for water sports lovers so you can go canoeing, kayaking or rafting.

Located in the Tuscan Maremma, the famous Saturnia thermal baths are a much sought-after place for those in search of relaxation and carefreeness. This is one of the most striking tourist spots, and not only, in the entire region of Tuscany, their thermal waters flow naturally at a temperature of 37°C, going to create natural pools in limestone rock.

It is from here that the famous waterfalls of Saturnia are born, a real panacea for body and spirit, but above all a unique experience for a place that falls te the most beautiful waterfalls in Italy.

The waterfalls of the mill of Saturnia are located in the province of Grosseto, in the municipality of Manciano. In this magical place you can spend days dedicated to relaxation and total well-being of body and mind. In addition to the Saturnia spa, which of course is chargeable, and the Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort hotel, the Saturnia complex includes what is perhaps its most iconic postcard: waterfalls of the mill of Saturnia.

This area is totally free and open to the public 24 hours a day. The waterfalls consist of many small cascades that over the years have given life and form to natural limestone pools. In these pools you can relax and abandon yourself, temporarily forgetting the problems of life, devoting yourself only to yourself.  

Tips: access to the falls is free, and it is advisable to bring a bathing suit, towel and comfortable shoes. The area is often very crowded, especially during summer periods, so it is advisable to arrive early in the morning. It is also possible to rent sunbeds and umbrellas for a fee.

The waterfalls of the mill of Saturnia are a magical place not to be missed for anyone who wants to experience relaxation and wellness in contact with nature.

Fun fact: The Cascate del Mulino di Saturnia waterfalls have been the location for several movies and TV series, including "Under the Tuscan Sun" and "No Reservations."

The great waterfall of the Liri River is located in the municipality of Isola del Liri, in the province of Frosinone, in the heart of Ciociaria. This waterfall is one of the few waterfalls to be located in the heart of the historic center of a city and not immersed in the green nature or woods. This waterfall has a drop about 27 meters high and is a true natural spectacle especially since it is located in the center of town next to the Liri River.

Very impressive is the walk along the banks of the river until you reach the roar of the waterfall that powerfully breaks over the sheet of water of the Liri River.

The vegetation around the waterfall is lush and gives an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. The great waterfall of the Liri River can be easily reached on foot because it is located right in the heart of the municipality of Isola del Liri, in the historic center, and to reach it there is a scenic path also it is possible to take a boat ride on the Liri River to admire the waterfall from a different perspective.

In southern Italy we have one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the peninsula: the Marmarico Waterfall. It is the highest waterfall in Calabria and the southern Apennines as well as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Italy. The Marmarico Waterfall has a drop as high as 114 meters and is located in the municipality of Bivongi, in the upper reaches of the Fiumara Stilaro.

The Marmarico waterfall has been included among the "Italian wonders" since 2011. It is an unspoiled place and the waterfall is immersed in a wonderful landscape characterized by lush green forests, flowering meadows and limestone rocks. The waterfall roars down the valley and into the small lake below, while the mist generated by the water spray creates a permanent rainbow.

Visiting the waterfall is an experience for everyone because it can be easily reached on foot thanks to a path that starts from the parking lot located right in the Marmarico locality.. The trail is more or less 2 km long and the walking time is 30 minutes, and well marked it is suitable for hikers of all levels.

How to reach Marmarico Waterfall?

By car from Reggio Calabria take the A2 highway to the Bivongi exit. From here follow the signs to Marmarico Waterfall.

By train: the nearest train station is Locri. From here take the bus to Bivongi and then follow the signs to the Marmarico Waterfall.

Campania is full of marvelous waterfalls, one of which is the Cascata Capelli di Venere (Venus' Hair Waterfall), the name of which already conjures up in the mind of the listener a unique beauty, somewhat reminiscent of that of Botticelli's Venus.

This marvelous waterfall, falling among the most beautiful waterfalls in Italy, is located in the municipality of Casaletto Spartano in the province of Salerno and is a unique natural jewel that is explored and visited by thousands of visitors every year. This waterfall has a drop about 30 meters high and is one of the highest waterfalls in Cilento.

Why does this waterfall bear such an artistic name? A name that evokes beauty, the waterfall is named after the maidenhair fern that grows luxuriantly in the area. Its thin and numerous fronds wet by water and falling downward create an effect similar to a thick canopy of hair whose name is evocative for the waterfall.

How to reach this beautiful waterfall? 
The Venus hair waterfall is easily reached on foot via a well-marked path that starts right from the village of Casaletto Spartano. The path is about a kilometer long and has a walking time of 20 minutes, so really very easy for any explorer. The path winds through chestnut and oak forests offering beautiful views of the valley below, a true paradise for nature lovers.

This place is ideal for hikers because there is fresh, pure air, the sound of falling water and the breathtaking view create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, all ideal conditions for an escape from the temporary world and mundane chaos.

How to get to the Venus Hair Waterfall?

By car from Salerno take the A2 highway to the Vallo della Lucania exit. From here follow the signs to Casaletto Spartano and then to the Cascata Capelli di Venere waterfall.

By bus: from Salerno take the bus to Casaletto Spartano. From here follow the signs for Cascata Capelli di Venere.

A natural jewel is hidden in Campania far from prying eyes, this jewel is the Ferriere Valley Waterfalls. Set in the Amalfi Coast, the Ferriere Valley Waterfalls are located within the Valle delle Ferriere Oriented Nature Reserve. Valle delle Ferriere is a nature reserve that is located in the municipality of Scala, in the province of Salerno, right in the territory of the Amalfi Coast. Due to its unspoiled beauty the hiking trails are considered one of the most attractive and interesting destinations for nature and trekking lovers. 

The waterfalls can be easily reached on foot from Amalfi or from pontone, the path to reach the waterfall is very suggestive and is completely immersed in unspoiled nature passing through ferns and moss along The reed stream. 

The waterfall is about 20 meters high and goes into a natural pool where it is also possible to bathe on hot days, this makes the experience even more interesting and more intense. The water is generally cold or otherwise cool but very invigorating and is a real boon for the body and spirit. Remember to bring your swimsuit!

Around the waterfall and in the surrounding air there are several areas equipped for picnics or ideal for a short break in nature. 

Trekking enthusiasts can continue their path that leads to the top of Mount Cerreto from where there is a breathtaking view of the entire Amalfi Coast. In this case we always recommend wearing comfortable shoes suitable for trekking and technical clothing, it is important to carry food and water for long hikes and above all to respect the environment and not leave waste around. The waterfall is open all year round and can be seen at any time.

How to reach the Ferriere Valley Waterfall: it can be reached on foot from Amalfi (about a 1-hour walk) or from Pontone (about a 30-minute walk). Alternatively, you can take a cab or bus from Amalfi.

The Capo Nieddu Waterfall, located in the municipality of Cuglieri a town in the province of Oristano, is one of the most spectacular natural beauties in the whole of Sardinia because it creates a spectacle that leaves any viewer breathless.

This type of waterfall is very un-Italian but very European because it does not break within a hidden forest or within an urban center but rather it falls into the sea. With a drop of about 40 meters, it is one of only two waterfalls that falls directly into the sea after the one at Cala Luna also in Sardinia.

The waterfall is located within a pristine natural area overlooking the sea. Its roar in throwing itself directly and forcefully into the sea creates a very fascinating atmosphere typical of the Northern European landscapes of Ireland or Iceland, these large and enormous waterfalls rising to the horizon of the sheer cliffs above the sea.

The Capo Nieddu waterfall is a truly ideal place for those who want to immerse themselves in nature but above all the perfect place to go trekking or maybe just have a picnic or relax on the beach, a true oasis of peace and tranquility.

How to get to the waterfall? The Capo Nieddu waterfall can be reached on foot from a path that starts from the Capo Nieddu resort. The trail is about 2 km long and the walking time is about 30 minutes. The trail is well marked and suitable for hikers of all levels.

In Sicily there is a waterfall with a thousand-year history called Cascata di San Filippo but also known as Cascata di Santa Lucia and it is located in Messina. It is a truly enchanting place surrounded by unspoiled nature where you can go hiking or enjoy breathtaking scenery.

The San Filippo Waterfall is 15 meters high and can be reached in a few minutes through a properly marked and easy path. At the foot of the waterfall there is a very large space in which to comfortably admire this wonder of nature this in fact resides in a special protection area.

The waterfall is located in the locality that is recognized as the area of the Valley of the Hundred Mills precisely because of the abundance of mills that were once used for the production of grain and flour, the waterfall today bears the name of San Filippo.