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The 8 best Italian islands to visit

Discover Italy’s offshore offerings with an expert’s guide to the best Italian islands, from petite Procida to stunning Sicily

Whether for its charming towns and villages or its miles of coastline, for the mountains in the north or the world-class cities of Rome , Venice , Florence and Milan , it’s no wonder travellers are so drawn to Italy . And while the country’s boot-shaped mainland certainly isn’t short of incredible places and amazing things to do , its offshore offerings are equally as enticing. There are hundreds of islands within the Italian border; two of which – Sicily and Sardinia – are the largest in the Mediterranean. Many Italian islands are characterised by black-sand beaches and dramatic landscapes shaped by years of volcanic activity. Some, like Capri and Panarea, are playgrounds for the wealthy, while others retain a more rustic, salt-of-the-earth charm. One thing’s for sure: Italy’s islands are beautiful, and these are some the very best ones to visit.

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best places to visit in Italy 🛏 The best hotels in Italy 🏝 The best beaches in Italy

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Italy’s best islands to visit this year

1.  Sardinia

Best for: Food, beaches and agriturismo

Equidistant from the Italian coast and Africa’s northern tip, Sardinia – the Med’s second-largest island, after Sicily – is a place of tradition and unpretentious beauty, where life is lived simply (and, relatedly, where people live longer). A seemingly infinite number of beautiful beaches skirt the coast, from the ivory sands of Cala Gonone in the east to the crystalline waters of Tuerredda in the south. Venture inland for tiny, traditional towns and rugged mountain scenery – and don’t leave without tasting some creamy pecorino, suckling pig or lobster stew. 

2.  Sicily

Best for: History and architecture 

Sicily , along with Sardinia, has a character distinct from mainland Italy; the islands are two of Italy’s five autonomous regions, with their own languages and ways of life. Sicily has been shaped over the years by a long history of occupation – just take in the diversity of the island’s architecture to get to grips with the many civilisations that have passed through this island at the heart of the Med. You’ll find everything here from incredibly preserved ancient Greek temples and flamboyant baroque buildings to Norman churches and Palermo’s art nouveau kiosks. And when you’re done soaking up Sicilian history? Soak up the sun instead: Sicily’s beaches are as picture-perfect as they come.

3.  Elba and the Tuscan Archipelago

Best for: Beaches

When you think of Tuscany, you might think of rolling hills, Renaissance art and rustic hilltop towns – and not, perhaps, a chain of islands home to seriously stunning tropical-esque beaches. Well, Italy is nothing if not full of surprises. Elba, the largest island of the Tuscan archipelago, is home to stretches of powdery sand to rival any beach in the Caribbean. It’s also famously the site where Napoleon was exiled, and from which he escaped. But it’s not all sun, sea, sand and political history: the quiet, tumbling towns and hilly landscapes that characterise mainland Tuscany extend to the region’s islands. Fancy a hike? Elba’s Monte Cappane offers several trails, complete with wildlife and breathtaking views over the entire archipelago (and beyond).

4.  Capri

Best for: A luxurious break

Thanks to its rousing beauty, Capri was a favourite haunt of artists and intellectuals in the nineteenth- and twentieth- centuries. Today it’s fair to say that the island has become a summertime playground for the moneyed. Beneath Capri’s towering limestone cliffs, yachts dot its aquamarine waters, visitors sip locally-produced limoncello and beautiful, bronzed people sun themselves in beach clubs perched on rocks. A word of advice: Capri is on the small side and so feels very crowded in the summer months. Consider visiting off-season. In spring, fragrant wildflowers blanket the island, while September’s sea temperatures are known to carry the residual warmth of summer.

5.  Ischia

Best for: Volcanic hot springs

For somewhere a little more salt-of-the-earth than Capri, catch a ferry across the Gulf of Naples to neighbouring Ischia. This is where volcanic hot springs invite invigorating soaks, glorious beaches are filled with holidaying Neopolitans, and gelato stalls and restaurants jostle for custom in busy town centres. Made famous by Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan Novels and their TV adaptation, Ischia is bustling – but, crucially, not too busy (yet). Make the most of it while you can. Take in the views from the tropical perch of Giardini la Mortella, marvel at the dramatic view of Aragonese Castle, visit boutiques in the upmarket village of Sant’Angelo – and don’t forget to stop for a swim at Chiaia di Rose.

6.  Lipari and the Aeolian Islands

Best for: Hiking and dramatic landscapes

Spattered across the Tyrrhenian Sea, just north of Sicily, are the seven Aeolian Islands – an archipelago of dramatic cliffs and canyons, carved out over the years by volcanic eruptions. Lipari is the largest of the bunch, and its namesake town – home to a lively port and harbourfront restaurants – is the perfect place to base yourself. This corner of Italy is where you’ll find one of Europe ’s only active volcanoes, Stromboli. Though its eruptions are frequent – a spectacle of smoke plumes and streaming lava not to be missed – the volcano is actually a very popular and safe hiking spot. On Lipari’s northeastern tip, you’ll find another natural wonder in Cave di Pomice, a milk-white canyon made from natural pumice stone that slopes into the sea. Meanwhile, the tiny isle of Panarea has a surprisingly buzzy (if expensive) nightlife scene.

7.  Procida

Best for: Colourful houses and laidback charm

Though tiny – at two square miles, it’s the smallest island on this list – you can’t miss Procida, with its stack of striking, pastel-painted buildings that appear to rise from the Bay of Naples. Explore those two square miles and you’ll find a place of generous natural beauty and laidback charm. Maze-like streets are lined with wine bars, cafés and restaurants, while a handful of pretty beaches – many made up of dark, volcanic sand – grace the island’s western and southeastern coasts. Food on Procida is defined by seafood and citrus: for fish, head to the fishing villages of Corricella and Chiaiolella, while seafront bar Felice Mare serves up fresh, zesty lemon granita.

8.  Ponza

Best for: Wild swimming

The moment you catch sight of Ponza (typically on a ferry sailing over from the Pontine coast), you’ll wonder why this tiny island has flown under the radar for so long. Beneath the brightly-coloured houses climbing up steep hills, you’ll notice a complex of caves carved into the island’s rockface; a system of tunnels created by the Romans thousands of years ago. Boats bob on the marina, ready to sail visitors to crescent-shaped beaches and secret swimming coves. Diners enjoy long lunches of just-caught seafood and cactus parmigiana at beachfront restaurants. The ocean is a way of life here, making Ponza the perfect summertime escape.

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The 15 prettiest islands in Italy

By Sarah James

Dinky Levanzo, sitting in the Mediterranean just west of Sicily, is known for the Neolithic cave paintings at Grotta del Genovese, which can be visited on a guided tour. Whitewashed houses surround the port, from which divers head out to see the remains of a Roman shipwreck.

Where to stay: At sweet, affordable guest house Cala Dogana .

Getting there: Hydrofoils from Trapani in Sicily take 25 minutes.

The smallest of the Aeolian islands is also the most exclusive, where Milan ’s smart set heads for the summer. It’s got a reputation as the party island, and in high season the harbour fills up with glitzy yachts. While the beaches aren’t as beautiful as on the other Aeolian islands, there are plenty of rocky inlets to use as jumping-off points for the inky ocean.

Where to stay: Hotel Raya has been the island’s sharpest hideout for more than half a century.

Getting here: Ferries from Milazzo leave at least twice daily and take about one hour 20 minutes.

Just off the coast of the Sorrentine Peninsula, Capri is one of Italy’s best-known islands . It has a reputation for splashy hotels and a sparkly jet-set history – Jackie Kennedy made the island famous by visiting in the 1960s – but there’s a wilder, remote side too. Go off-season (we particularly recommend visiting in autumn) and get stuck in exploring the old town on foot.

Where to stay: Smart JK Place Capri , which appears to dangle on the cliffside above the port, has soothing rooms away from the crowds and some of the best views on the island.

Getting here: Boats from Naples take about an hour.

Now read: our insider guide to Capri, Italy

Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian islands are dotted off the coast of Sicily, an archipelago made up of seven UNESCO -protected specks of land known for their raw beauty. Lipari is the biggest, and Salina has some of the smartest hotels – but it's Alicudi and Filicudi that keep drawing curious travellers back. The least-visited, these two slips of land are the wildest and most off-the-beaten-track of them all.

Where to stay: Four-room guesthouse Pensione La Sirena , on Filicudi.

Getting here: 10 hydrofoils leave Milazzo, in Sicily , daily and take about one hour 30 minutes to get to Salina.

Now read: uncovering Italy's lesser-known Aeolian Islands

Sardinia is the foodie island. The culture here is Italian at its core, but more rustic and stripped back. On the north-east coast, Costa Smeralda is known for its crowd of billionaire jet-setters and Russian oligarchs. But the mountainous mainland disguises pretty villages, too.

Where to stay: Little B&B Domu Antiga in the centre of the island.

Getting here: You can fly direct to Sardinia from London , Manchester and Bristol .

Now read: why Sardinia has the best food in the Mediterranean

Capri ’s quieter sister sits just off the Amalfi Coast . There’s a rooted earthiness here: beaches are uncrowded and there are vast landscapes to explore. Pastel houses tumble down to the pretty ports of fishing villages, and the serenity of the island inspired WH Auden to pen a poem singing its praises. Dozens of natural hot springs and thermal pools offer welcoming wallowing spots.

Where to stay: Mezzatorre , the third opening from the Il Pellicano group, which made our Hot List 2020 .

Getting there: Hydrofoils from Naples take about one hour.

Now read: Ischia: Italy's island with the best beaches

Further north in Tuscany , Elba is best known as the island on which Napoleon was first exiled. Today, it is quiet compared to many of Italy’s shores, with a string of coves and bays dotted along the coast. Pristine beaches include the often-empty Marina di Alberese.

Where to stay: Hotel Hermitage is set right on the white sands of Biodola beach.

Getting there: Ferries from Piombino, a port about 100 miles south of Florence , take 45 minutes.

Secluded Caprera, off the north coast of Sardinia , is part of La Maddalena Archipelago National Park. Visitors go hiking among the shady pine trees that cover the island, with trails leading to deserted coves and gin-clear sea.

Where to stay: There are no hotels on Caprera, so catch a boat back to Sardinia.

Getting there: Take a 20-minute ferry from Palau in Sardinia to La Maddalena, which is connected to Caprera by a land bridge.

Adam Turner

CNT Editors

Rachel Everett

Retro Ponza is where Romans go on holiday. It’s about halfway between the Eternal City and Naples, and the largest of the six Pontine Islands that make an appearance in Homer's Odyssey . They’re just an hour from the mainland by boat, but few tourists make the journey over, leaving things quieter and more laid-back than at some of Italy’s bigger-hitting islands.

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Santa Domitilla has rooms from £90 and a grand spa .

Getting there: Ferries take one hour and depart from Terracina (about one hour 30 minutes by train and bus from Rome).

Now read: Ponza, Italy – the holiday island for in-the-know Romans

This a one-mile-long islet in La Maddalena Archipelago National Park is almost uninhabited. The island’s lone resident, caretaker Mauro Morandi, has lived here for more than 30 years, protecting its delicate ecosystem. It’s possible to visit by day on a boat trip – Budelli’s most famous beach, Spiaggia Rosa, is closed to visitors, but there are countless other coves to explore, and most boats will get close enough to Spiaggia Rosa for you to see its unusual pink sands.

Where to stay: You can’t stay on Budelli – your boat trip will take you back to Sardinia for the night.

Getting there: Boats leave from the port of Palau.

Wild swimmers and divers are drawn to Giglio, a dot 11 miles into the sea off the Tuscan coast. Most of the island is covered in wild plants and inhabited only by free-roaming wildlife. Candy-coloured fishing ports stud the many beautiful beaches, and inland Giglio Castello is an ancient village set within fortified walls.

Where to stay: At La Guardia , a pared-back hideout with beautiful views.

Getting there: Ferries from Porto Santo Stefano take about an hour and leave year-round – check ahead for timings, as they’re seasonal.

The three Pelagie Islands are closer to Tunisia than Sicily, cast away about 105 miles from their nearest Italian neighbour. The biggest of the three, Lampedusa is known for its pretty beaches (its southern shore is a protected marine reserve), which draw a swell of summer visitors.

Where to stay: La Calandra is a pretty hotel built into the cliffside.

Getting there: Ferries from Porto Empédocle in Sicily take four hours 15 minutes.

One of the best-known Italian islands, Burano is one of a handful in the Venetian lagoon. Its houses are a kaleidoscope of bright colours, and the shops stock exquisite linen and lace (which Burano is famous for).

Where to stay: Perfectly on-point (and affordable) Casa Burano .

Getting there: Take a ferry from San Zaccaria (near St Mark’s Square) to Burano; it takes about 45 minutes.

Borromean Islands

The vast Lake Maggiore straddles the Alps between Italy and Switzerland and is home to a cluster of pretty islands. The four Borromeans are some of the loveliest of them all – Bella, Madre and Superiore have been owned by an aristocratic Milanese family since the 1600s, but are all open to visitors.

Where to stay: Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees , with its medical spa and expansive terraces.

Getting there: Take the ferry from Stresa, a town on Lake Maggiore – the boats visit all three publicly accessible Borromean Islands.

Less visited than Capri or Ischia, tiny Procida is comparatively peaceful even in high season. It offers fewer places to stay than its neighbours and remains mostly inhabited by locals, which gives it an authentic, lived-in feel. The island’s technicolour fishing villages also had a starring role in The Talented Mr Ripley .

Where to stay: Hotel La Corricella is pared back but has brilliant views.

Getting there: Ferries from Naples take about 40 minutes.

Like this? Now read:

The best beaches in Italy to visit this summer

The most beautiful places to visit in Tuscany

The 11 prettiest small towns in Italy

10 Best Italian Islands to Visit

Italy isn’t just about Rome , Florence , Venice, or Milan . There are stunning countrysides, and even more stunning islands to visit in Italy! With this guide for islands off Italy, we’re going to cover the best Italian islands you should consider if you’re planning a summer vacation in Italy. You’ll see below an Italian islands map highlighting the best Italian island to visit, and nine more beautiful islands you should definitely know about!

10 Best Italian Islands to visit

Many people who have visited all these islands might not agree with me placing Sardegna in the first place, since all 10 of the best Italian islands list as equally beautiful, and Sicily for instance has more cultural activities to offer than Sardegna. However, the never-ending list of stunning beaches of Sardegna made me fall in love and name it the first of the best islands of Italy.

But, how many islands are there in Italy exactly? Well, there are about 450 islands around Italy, smaller, hidden, empty, or completely covered with buildings, like Venice . Within this list, I wanted to make sure that I’ll cover the best Italian islands for Italian summer vacations , where you can find beautiful beaches, and plan relaxing holidays but also road trips.

Before we get into our Italian islands list, you’ll also see an Italian islands map below to know where are located those that we’ll be listing. These islands are great for vacation with friends, or family, but they are also great if you’re looking for honeymoon locations in Italy .

Italian Islands Map

To make it easier to decide which one to pick from the best Italian islands to visit, we wanted to make sure to show you their locations with this Italian islands map. If you want to understand where is Lampedusa island Italy, or where is Sardegna, Caprera, or Capri, you’ll see it all below. Since there are many beautiful islands in Italy, if you’re flying from another country, you can now see which airports and big cities are close to your island destination.

Most of these islands have their own airports, though some of them are reachable just by ferries or private boats/ yachts . Islands like Sardinia, Sicily, and Lampedusa have airports . Capri, Ischia, Procida, and similar small islands can be reached just by water transport.

1. Sardinia

As I have already mentioned, for me, Sardegna ( Sardinia ) is the best Italian island to visit as many times as possible. It’s been on my bucket list for many years before I moved to Italy, and I made sure it was the destination of my very first staycation after I settled down. Sardegna is one of the most beautiful islands in Italy with countless amazing beaches , crystal clear water, and the best fancy summer vibes.

If you want to add culture to your visit, you should definitely plan your trip to Sardegna that includes places such as Cagliari, but if you’re looking to spend a week doing nothing just laying on the beach and going to fancy beach bars, well the area of Olbia, so the north-east side of the island . This side has the most beautiful beaches! You can also fly in Sardinia to Olbia, Cagliari or Alghero. Make sure you check out hotels to stay at here!

Sicily is the most fascinating option for an island off Italy , when it comes to mixing culture with beautiful beaches. When it comes to the best islands near Italy, most people would pick Sicily first instead of Sardegna, and it’s understandable why, since both are the best islands of Italy. Sicily has plenty of towns and cities to explore, rich history, volcanos , and beautiful culture. The Sicilian food is insane too!

If it comes to places to visit in Sicily, you should definitely visit places like Palermo, which also has an airport. Palermo is packed with wonderful landmarks, squares, and churches. There are also dozens of stunning beaches around the city! Also, when it comes to Sicily, you should make sure to add to your list places like Taormina, Syracuse, and Agrigento. There’s just one thing we must warn you about, and that’s the weather! Summer months in Sicily are extremely hot, so those who can’t cope with 40C degrees, better avoid Sicily between June-August. If you’re visiting the island, make sure you check out the best hotels in Taormina and Palermo !

So what are the islands of Italy you should consider beyond Sardegna and Sicily? Elba is one of the favorite islands around Italy for Italians, especially those from the regions of Tuscany, Emilia Romagna, and Lombardy. If you’re visiting Elba, prepare to see more Italian vacationers than people from other countries. Elba is much smaller than the previous two but it has the most stunning beaches and crystal-clear water.

Elba between Corsica island and the southern part of Tuscany. It’s not a cheap place to visit, such as Sardegna, Accommodations in Elba are pricy, however, if you’re looking for a boat vacation or yacht vacation around Italian islands, Elba is really popular for this purpose. We definitely recommend checking and considering Elba!

Everyone heard about Capri , and we all know that it’s one of the best Italian islands when it comes to stunning views, beautiful water, amazing lagoons, and luxury. Every year many celebrities , influencers , and those from the wealthy, upper crust of the population spend their vacation on Capri.

I couldn’t believe that Capri would be one of the best islands of Italy before I’ve seen it myself. Most visitors spend just a day on the island, taking the ferry from Naples , Sorrento, or Positano area since the island is pretty expensive and luxurious.

Since it’s one of the most beautiful islands in Italy, no matter if it’s a day trip or a long vacation, Capri is always worth it. If you don’t want to spend your whole vacation on the Amalfi Coast , well Capri is definitely a must-see place that’s also close! Make sure you also check the best hotels in Capri for your stay!

When it comes to Italy and islands, the 2nd really famous and popular island around Naples, right after Capri is Ischia. Ischia is definitely one of the most stunning island off Italy with the same flora and fauna as Capri, and just as beautiful. This is Capri’s quieter sister basically, reachable easily also from the Amalfi Coast.

Beaches aren’t crowded here, landscapes are incredible, and pastel houses tumble down the pretty ports of fishing villages. There are dozens of natural hot springs as well as thermal pools to explore on Ischia, as well as historic buildings to see, and great seafood to try. Ischia is definitely one of the most beautiful islands in Italy, that’s reachable in a short time and it’s perfect for a getaway.

The next place we must mention if we’re discussing Italy and islands is Procida. When you ask what are the islands of Italy, you must know that Procida just started to get in the spotlight of international, but even national tourism. Hence, we had to add to our Italian islands list. Procida is close to Ischia and Capri as well, it’s easily reachable from Naples , yet it’s less visited than the other two.

Procida offers fewer places to stay, it remains untouched and inhabited by locals, which makes it really authentic. You can reach Procida by ferry in about 40 minutes, and it’s the perfect island getaway if you’re looking for authentic Italian travel locations. Though, since it’s not a famous tourist destination, you should definitely practice your Italian too before visiting!

7. La Maddalena

If you’re in Sardinia, especially if you’re in the area of Olbia, you must absolutely visit La Maddalena, that’s definitely one of the best islands off Italy! When we speak about Italy and islands, we want to concentrate on those that have the most beautiful beaches, since that’s what makes an island vacation perfect.

Well, La Maddalena has that. Beautiful beaches and stunning lands. The Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago di La Maddalena ( national park ) consists of 7 islands, of which La Maddalena is the largest and most appealing. The beaches and coastline of La Maddalena are something that reminds you of the Caribbeans, except that you’ve got no sharks and people speak Italian. You could find Romain ruins, places that are perfect for sailing, and a beautiful atmosphere. Make sure you check the best luxury hotels and beach clubs in Sardinia too!

If we’re already in the area of La Maddalena, we must highlight our favorite island nearby, which is basically a national park on its own. One of the best Italian islands is definitely Caprera. To this one, if you’re not on a private boat, you can arrive by taking the ferry to La Maddalena, then either renting a car /scooter or taking the bus that will take you to Caprera. There’s a long bridge connecting the two islands, so Caprera is reachable by car.

Why is Caprera one of the most beautiful islands in Italy? Well, some of Caprera’s beaches qualify as the most beautiful beaches in Italy , such as the Spiaggia di Cala Coticcio and Spiaggia i Due Mari. White sand, rocks that look like they were sanded by sculptors, crystal clear, completely transparent water that has incredible color… That’s all Caprera.

As we’re reaching one of the last on our list of the best Italian island to visit, we make our way down to the area of Sicily again. Lipari is full of magical accommodations, beautiful landscapes, and even more beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for a hidden island off Italy, Lipari is a great option!

Lipari is the largest of the Aeolian Islands off Sicily, and you can easily get there by ferry from Milazzo. If you have a look at the Italian islands map, you’ll see that Lipari is between Sicily and the mainland of Italy, so you can visit both places. On the island, don’t miss Coral Beach, Lipari Castle, and the Belvedere Quattrocchi on side of gorgeous other beaches, and stunning hiking trails awaiting there.

10. Lampedusa

So, where is Lampedusa island Italy? Lampedusa is located south of Italy, really close to Malta. Why is Lampedusa one of the best Italian islands? Well, let’s start with its amazing beaches, and let’s just stop there. The three Pelagie islands are about 105 miles away from Sicily, so if you don’t fly directly to Lampedusa, you’ll need to travel about 4 hours by ferry to arrive.

The southern shore of Lampedusa is a protected marine reserve, and the island is rich in beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and amazing summer vibes. It’s the place you want to go if you want to actually be in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. A stunning, hidden beach location if you’re looking for an island off Italy, and it couldn’t miss our Italian islands list.

Wrapping up the 10 Best Italian islands

So, if you were looking for an island off Italy for the perfect summer vacation in Italy, you could be seen above the best ones. Have a good look at the Italian islands map, and decide which of these beautiful islands in Italy you’d want to visit first! As I mentioned, if you’re asking my personal opinion, I’d always suggest visiting Sardinia, Sicily, the islands around Sardinia, and Capri first. If you’re looking for the best Italian island to visit and you’re looking for something hidden, and peaceful, make sure to check islands like Lampedusa, Lipari, or Elba.

Italian version: Isole Italiane Più Belle

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10 Most Beautiful Italian Islands

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on April 15, 2024

Most people think of the boot-shaped mainland when considering vacation destinations in Italy, but there are more than 80 picturesque islands within Italy’s borders to explore and enjoy as well. From the 17 islands that make up the city of Venice to the beautiful Aeolian Islands off the coast of Sicily, Italy’s islands are as diverse in landscape, culture and climate as the nation’s mainland.

Whether in search of Italy’s rich past or on the hunt for a beach with powder-soft sand and clear water, Italian islands have something special to offer every visitor looking for a taste of la dolce vita.

10. Procida

The smallest of the three most popular islands in the Bay of Naples, Procida doesn’t have the same number of attractions as Capri and Ishia, but it’s also far less crowded than its larger neighbors. It’s the ideal destination for those seeking a laid-back seaside vacation.

Towns like the main port Marina Grande and Chiaiolella have basic accommodations, restaurants serve simple meals of fresh fish or rabbit and sandy beaches offer sunbathing and swimming. The Church of San Michele, with its painted domes depicting Saint Michael battling invasive Turks, offers a break from the sun as well as a glimpse of Procida’s history.

The smallest of the Aeolian Islands located north of Sicily, Panarea is the darling of celebrities and jet-setters from all over the world. With a population of around 200, the largely undeveloped island has only a few hotels and rentals, which helps keep the island free of summer crowds.

There are no cars on Panarea; locals and tourists motor about on golf carts and electric-powered bikes. Most food is imported and expensive. In the evening, lamps and lanterns light up the night. Upscale visitors come to Panarea to swim, dive and sunbathe in privacy and to enjoy lazy strolls through the island’s postcard-perfect villages.

Ischia is the largest of the islands that dot the Bay of Naples on Italy’s western coast. Sandy beaches and natural hot springs make the island a popular travel destination for weekend getaways for residents of Naples and for packaged European tours. Most of the island is mountainous, dominated by the 789 meter (2,589 foot) tall volcanic Mount Epomeo.

Ischia has many attractions worth visiting, including the Giardini Ravino, a botanical garden located at Forio d’Ischia known for its extensive collection of cacti and succulents, the Castello Aragonese, a medieval castle built by Alfonso D’Aragnona, and the Guervera Tower, a 15th century fortress that’s become a symbol for the island.

7. La Maddalena

Located off the northeast coast of the island of Sardinia, La Maddalena is the largest isle in the La Maddalena Archipelago. Linked to its neighboring island of Caprera by a long causeway, the island can be reached by boat or by the ferries that run from Sardinia throughout the day and night.

The pink-toned granite rock quarried near the town of La Maddalena, some of which was used in the construction of the Statue of Liberty, makes the village glow at sunset. The town is known for its smoldering nightlife too. A road circling the island brings visitors to La Maddalena’s most popular beaches, Bassa Trinita and Spalmatore, and passes by several abandoned military forts.

6. Lampedusa

Located closer to Tunisia than it is to Italy, Lampedusa is home to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Rabbit Beach. Situated on an islet on Lampedusa’s southern coast, the heart-shaped beach can be reached by wading through the crystal-clear shallows. The protected island is one of the few spots in the Mediterranean where loggerhead sea turtles can safely lay their eggs.

Conditions for snorkeling and diving are ideal on Lampedusa, and a tour by boat is the best way to find the perfect undersea location. One popular diving spot is around the submerged statue of Madonna del Mare where divers can encounter octopus, groupers and sargo fish.

Lipari is the largest of the seven volcanic isles that make up the Aeolian Islands off the coast of Sicily. Once famed for the black obsidian pulled from its volcanic earth, Lipari is best known today for its rugged landscape, pretty white-washed towns and crystal-clear blue water. Snorkeling, diving, boating and hiking are favorite activities on this scenic isle.

Of the island’s tourist destinations, the Aeolian Archaeological Museum is a must-see attraction. The museum houses an amazing collection of artifacts from the nearby Contrada Diana necropolis, including thousands of sarcophagi perfectly preserved by volcanic ash from ancient eruptions.

Part of the Tuscan Archipelago off Italy’s western coast, Elba is best known as a place of exile for Napoleon, and most people include a visit to his summer and winter homes while visiting the island. Italy’s third largest island boasts more than 150 beaches too, from wide stretches of sand to sheltered coves.

The most popular beach destinations include the resort of Marina di Campo, the ultra-fine sand of Procchio and the dreamy blue waters of Fetovia. Hikes in the mountainous inland area are favorite activities too. Visitors have been known to come across gemstones, quartz and crystals on the slopes of mineral-rich Mount Capanne.

Located in the Bay of Naples, Capri is an island rich in mythology and history. Sirens were said to have lured sailors to their death here with their sultry songs. The Roman emperor Tiberius lived here until his death in 37 A.D. Villa Jovis, the emperor’s imperial residence, is one of the island’s most popular attractions.

Capri’s most famous natural attraction is the Blue Grotto, a waterfront cave that’s accessible by boat when the tide is right. The sunlight pouring in from the entrance turns the water a glowing turquoise blue. Riding the Seggiovia chair-lift in the city of Anacapri to the summit of Monte Solaro is a favorite activity too. The 15-minute trip offers spectacular views of the island and sea.

2. Sardinia

Anchored between the Italian peninsula and North Africa’s coastline, Sardinia has been home to a succession of civilizations, many of which have left their mark on the second largest island in Italy. From stone structures built by the people known as nuraghi 3,000 years ago to medieval castles and churches, visitors interested in history, architecture and culture won’t be disappointed.

Most travelers, however, come to Sardinia for its sunny and clean beaches, the most popular of which are in Costa Smeralda in the northeast region. Hiking, climbing and camping are favorite activities for visitors who want to escape crowded beaches and explore the island’s hilly inlands.

The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily is an autonomous region of Italy that also includes several islands and archipelagos.Sicily is separated from the mainland by the two-mile-wide Strait of Messina and is reached by boat, plane, hydrofoil or ferry.

The island’s most striking geological feature is Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano, but the island’s beaches, seaside resorts and sunny, dry climate are Sicily’s biggest tourist attractions.

Map of Italian Islands

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The Dreamy Islands Where Italians Go to Escape

Some of italy’s prettiest and most uncrowded beaches are on islands in the mediterranean, tyrrhenian, and adriatic seas..

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When Italians want a quiet getaway, they know to get off the busy mainland and head to the country’s best islands. From pristine Mediterranean coves to fishing villages near active volcanoes, these idyllic escapes off the coast of Italy can fulfill your vacation dreams, whether you’re in the market for a jet-set fantasy, homey beach vacation, or an off-the-grid digital detox. Italy has more than 400 islands—and while Sicily, Sardinia, and Capri might be the best known, there are many more to explore. Use this guide to figure out which Italian islands you should visit on your next trip.

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Sicily and its satellites

With nearly 650 miles of coastline, Sicily is Italy’s biggest island, with some of the country’s most interesting and diverse culinary delights, exciting cities (like Palermo and Catania), and transporting hilltop hamlets and baroque towns. Sicily is also home to world-class archaeological sites, such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the Greek Theater in Taormina , and the temples of Selinunte and Segesta. But when you want to find a quiet sdraio (sun bed), look to the small islands off Sicily.

Popular with Phoenicians and fashionistas, Pantelleria is midway between Italy and Tunisia.

Photo by Ante Kante/Shutterstock

Pantelleria

• Where to stay: We like Sikelia , an adults-only luxury resort
• Book now: Sikelia

Pantelleria, a tiny volcanic island 67 miles southwest of Sicily (and 37 miles east of Tunisia), has long been a favorite getaway for the reclusively chic, like Truman Capote, Giorgio Armani, and Sting. The glamorous allure of the turquoise water is offset by a rugged coastline of jagged lava-rock formations, steaming fumaroles, and mud baths. Reminders of the island’s millennia-long human history—from the Bronze Age, on through its Roman occupation, into its heyday as Arab outpost Bent el-Rhia, and to its inclusion in the Kingdom of Italy—are revealed in its ruins, historic architecture, and even its language. Some of Pantelleria’s dammusi (the island’s iconic white-washed lava-rock houses) have been transformed into luxury resorts like Sikelia , the most coveted.

Italians love Pantelleria not only for its remoteness but also for its world-renowned capers and for passito di Pantelleria, a sweet wine made from zibibbo grapes. This variety of muscat grapes was introduced by the Phoenicians, and its cultivation has been honored by UNESCO by inclusion on its list of instances of intangible cultural heritage .

The Aeolian Islands

• Where to stay: Insiders stay at Salina’s sea-facing Principe di Salina
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Just off the northeastern coast of Sicily are the UNESCO-protected Aeolian Islands. The rich green landscapes of the seven-island archipelago— Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Filicudi, and Alicudi —are punctuated by smoking volcanic peaks, making them the perfect setting for lost-at-sea fantasies. Of the seven, Vulcano and Stromboli have active volcanoes, which can provide epic backdrops for nature lovers whether hiking, kayaking, or diving. Lipari is the liveliest and most easily accessible of the Aeolian Islands, while Panarea is the most exclusive: Limited to pedestrian traffic, it’s a perfect place to tune out and recharge. Can’t pick one? No problem: Island-hop via ferries that run between all seven islands.

Yes, the water really is that clear and blue off Mortorio Island in Sardinia.

Photo by travelwild/Shutterstock

Sardinia (Sardegna)

Second in size to Sicily and in the middle of the Mediterranean, Sardinia is also Italy’s second best-known island. Its most popular destination, Costa Smeralda, the northeastern “emerald coast,” is an enclave for the rich and famous, but the island offers more than a berth for mega-yachts. Sardinia’s distinctive personality—insular and a bit secretive—makes the destination fun and filled with surprises to explore. In addition to white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, the landscape includes Gola di Gorropu, the largest canyon in Europe; UNESCO-protected Su Nuraxi di Barumini , a defensive structure from the second millennium B.C.E.; and the Dunes of Piscinas, sand dunes that reach 200 feet in height. Two diverse off-island adventures are also available: From the north coast, the seven-island Maddalena Archipelago offers beaches, lagoons, and uninhabited islets. And off Sardinia’s southwestern coast, tiny San Pietro is a throwback to 19th-century island living at the charming fishing town of Carloforte and the lighthouse at Capo Sandalo.

The Tuscan Archipelago

Yes, Tuscany has islands. Along with novel- and movie-inspiring villages, the province has its own collection of gorgeous islands where Italians dock their boats during the summer holidays.

Elba was famously home to Napoleon during his exile.

Photo by Stefano Valeri

Six miles off the Tuscan coast, Elba is the most recognized of the Tuscan islands thanks to Napoleon, who lived here in exile in 1814. Back then, Elba was a quiet place, but today its beaches are busy from June through September with vacationers. Away from the sand, Elba has a lot to discover, including the largest protected marine park in Europe, perfect for underwater exploration, plus mountain biking, trekking, and hiking.

With more than 90 percent of its landscape covered by lush wild vegetation, Giglio is the Tuscan island for nature exploration. The hilly island’s highest peak reaches nearly 1,600 feet, and the seaside cliffs present dramatic descents to Giglio’s beaches and caves. For those looking to simply relax, the Tyrrhenian Sea views from Giglio are ideal for contemplation of the blue waters (expect dolphins and even whales to make an appearance). You can also gaze upon nearby Montecristo, the island made famous by Alexandre Dumas, who set his fictional prison fortress there in The Count of Monte Cristo . (Montecristo, a nature preserve since 1971, can only be visited twice a year, by permit.)

Divers will discover shoals of fish and ancient shipwrecks around Giannutri Island.

Photo by Simone Nicolini/Shutterstock

Nine miles south of Giglio, the crescent-shaped Giannutri, at one square mile, is the least populated island in the Tuscan Archipelago. Although swimming is restricted to certain areas, Italians head to Giannutri for diving and snorkeling—the seafloor presents a landscape of corals, meadows of Posidonia seagrass, and Roman- and Etruscan-era shipwrecks at Punta Scaletta and the Bay of Spalmatoio.

Ponza maintains a low profile but is a quick day trip from Rome.

Photo by Claudio Zaccherini/Shutterstock

• Where to stay: Villa Laetitia , a B&B owned (and curated) by Anna Fendi Venturini, of the Fendi couture family
• Book now: Villa Laetitia

One of the most charming and least-known Italian islands is only an hour’s drive, plus a ferry ride, from Rome. Blissfully off the popular Italian travel circuit, Ponza has tiny, appealing villages and an attractive harbor. You don’t have to be a local to participate in the island’s boating life—here you’ll want to rent a gommone (dinghy) to explore Ponza’s beaches and coves. Ponza happily is not overly fancy, but there are a smattering of cute bed-and-breakfasts to choose from if Villa Laetitia is booked.

The Campanian Archipelago

Most everybody knows Capri, the island beloved by the international jet set, but what if Capri were less, well, Capri? The Campanian Archipelago, dominated by the tourism powerhouse Capri, also includes Ischia and Procida, two delightful and much more laid-back islands.

• Where to stay: Traditional favorite Regina Isabella retains its 1950s charm
• Book now: Regina Isabella

Ischia, the largest of the archipelago, is by far the greenest of Italy’s volcanic islands. The by-products of this volcanic nature—lots of natural thermal springs along the coastline—have made Ischia a wellness-focused retreat; adventure-seekers, meanwhile, can find volcanic treks around the craters of Mount Epomeo. Ischia is also the name of the main city, notable for the Aragonese Castle and a modern port area with boutiques and restaurants. The island’s other outposts, like the picturesque town of Forio and the fishing village of Sant’Angelo , which can be visited by water taxi or hired boat.

Photogenic Procida has been captured in many movies.

Courtesy of Laurent Gence/Unsplash

At two square miles, Procida is the tiniest island in the Campanian Archipelago and possibly the most picturesque, with pastel-hued fishing villages and small ports like Marina di Chiaiolella and Marina di Corrice (locations for such films as Il Postino and The Talented Mr. Ripley ). Overlooking the island and the Bay of Naples, Terra Murata is the fortified historic village at the center of Procida. Whereas Ischia has fewer beaches and more rock promontories, Procida offers scenic stretches of sand like Chiaia and Chiaiolella. A perfect day-trip destination from Naples, Procida is a 40-minute hydrofoil ferry from the port and entirely walkable. Most importantly, Procida is known for spaghetti ai ricci di mare (spaghetti with sea urchin)—it’s best enjoyed with a sunset view.

The five Tremiti Islands in the Adriatic are part of a protected national park.

Photo by Paolo Barelli/Shutterstock

The Tremiti Islands

Everyone forgets about the other coast of Italy. Over off Puglia’s gorgeous Adriatic coastline, right above the heel of Italy’s boot, is Italy’s most off-the-radar archipelago—the Tremiti Islands of San Domino, San Nicola, Capraia, Cretaccio , and Pianosa . The remote region long served as a penal colony: In 8 B.C.E., Emperor Augustus exiled his granddaughter Julia the Younger here for licentious behavior; in the 20th century, Mussolini interned homosexual men on San Domino. Today, even though there are a few hotels and restaurants, the Tremiti are a protected part of Gargano National Park. Visitors can expect rugged coasts, limestone cliffs, rocky beaches, caves, and small coves with clear water. The small islands are easy to explore by foot and best visited via boat—whether a personal rental, a water taxi, or a tour boat.

This article was originally published in August 2019 and was updated in March 2022 and April 2024 with new information.

Wander-Lush

19 Best Italian Islands for Beaches, Hiking & History

Searching for Italy’s best beaches, prettiest fishing villages and most impressive volcanic landscapes? These 16 incredibly beautiful Italian islands and archipelagos all deserve a place on your Italy wish list.

From tiny uninhabited islets to the country’s largest island, Sicily, Italy boasts no fewer than 450 islands of all shapes and sizes. Alongside islands in the Adriatic, Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian, you’ll also find fascinating Italian islands dotted around lakes and lagoons – and even an island right in the heart of Rome.

→ Also read: Top 25 most beautiful cities in Italy .

These 16 Italian islands, chosen by me and other travel writers, are all famed for their pristine sandy beaches and pellucid waters, national parks, sweet villages, local culture and cuisine.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

16 most beautiful Italian islands & archipelagos

1. the aeolian islands.

Located just off the northwestern tip of Sicily, the seven islands that comprise the Aeolian Archipelago are some of the most beautiful Italian islands of all. Each one has its own character and distinct landscape formed by eons of volcanic activity.

The most famous volcanic island in the Aeolian arc is Stromboli. Defined by its massive active volcano, it’s a popular island for trekking. Intrepid travellers can summit the crater at dusk for an up-close look at the perpetually puffing vent.

Stromboli and its eruptions are visible from the four closest islands: Panarea, Salina, Vulcano and Lipari. The latter, the biggest in the Aeolian collection, is known for its beautiful villages, ceramics workshops , scenic viewpoints and terrific archaeological museum.

Vulcano boasts a similarly enigmatic landscape of sulfur and ash (with oozing mud thermal springs and black sand beachs), while Panarea is known as the ‘luxe island’ and accommodates some of the region’s most beautiful villas and boutique hotels on its narrow stone streets.

Salina and its main port of Santa Marina is the perfect Italian island destination for foodies. Its culinary scene and wine traditions are unmatched. Filicudi and Alicudi, the final piece of the puzzle, are the most remote islands in the archipelago.

The Aeolian Islands are easily reached by hydrofoil from Milazzo or Messina on Sicily. In the summer months, hydrofoils also run from Naples and Palermo. Hotel Signum in the village of Malfa on Salina is an ideal place to base your stay.

2. Ischia Island

The biggest island in the Campanian Archipelago, Ischia is a wonderful Italian island to visit in the Bay of Naples. It’s only a few miles from Capri, but feels world’s apart. In Ischia, you’ll discover cute villages, a laid-back pace and more things to do than you might imagine an island just six miles wide could offer.

The top attraction in Ischia is Castello Aragonese, a medieval castle perched dramatically on a rocky islet and accessed via a long bridge. There’s not one but two world-class gardens, while keen hikers will love the trek to the top of Mount Epomeo, the dormant volcano in the centre of the island.

Most people visiting Ischia are attracted to the island by its hot springs. You’ll be in great company; the ancient Greeks and Romans came to Ischia to enjoy the naturally heated waters. You can bathe Roman-style at the Cavascura baths near pretty Sant’Angelo, or visit one of the island’s many thermal spas.

To get the most out of your trip to Ischia, try to choose a hotel with its own spa. Treat yourself to a stay at the San Montano Resort & Spa , a top-rated 5 star property. A cheaper option is the Hotel Rivamare, which is ideally located on the beach in Ischia Porto.

By Helen from Helen on her Holidays

3. The Borromean Islands

The Isole Borromee, otherwise known as the Borromean Islands, are a set of splendid small islands featuring baroque palaces, botanical gardens and white peacocks. These idyllic islands are set in the Italian art of Lake Maggiore and are known locally as the country’s ‘Garden of Eden’. 

No holiday in Lake Maggiore is complete without visiting the picturesque Borromeans, which are located just off the coast of Stresa. Historically, the islands were a place for aristocrats to enjoy lavish parties thrown by the wealthy Borromeo family, to which the islands owe their name. It is said that a flag is ceremonially flown whenever the family returns to visit.

The islands comprise of Isola Madre (the largest), Isola Pescatori, and Isola Bella. The latter, Isola Bella, is home to a picture-perfect palace with intricately designed grottoes and gardens. Visitors can purchase a combined ticket to explore the gardens of Isola Bella and Isola Madre, which is best known for its English-inspired botanical garden.

End a day exploring the Borromean Islands on Isola Pescatori, which is where you will find a small selection of seafood restaurants to dine with the 25 lucky inhabitants that call the island home.

To reach the islands, take a one-hour train ride from Milan to Stresa then join a guided tour or jump on a local ferry.

By Jasmine from The Life of a Social Butterfly

4. Sicily, the biggest island in Italy

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and a perfect summer holiday destination that offers something for every type of traveller.

With more than 1,000 kilometres of coastline, there’s no shortage of amazing beaches in Sicily. Head to San Vito Lo Capo to enjoy the turquoise waters or visit Scala dei Turchi and soak up the sun on unique white limestone cliffs.

For the adventurous traveller, hiking to the top of Mount Etna , Europe’s highest active volcano, is a must! Seeing the massive volcanic craters and the steaming ground up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Aside from natural wonders, Sicily also has a rich cultural history since it has been dominated by Arabs, Romans and Greeks. The most important historical site on the island is the Valley of the Temples where you can admire the ruins of ancient Greek sanctuaries.

Another reason to visit Sicily is its charming towns full of character and history. Relax in the medieval coastal resort Cefalu, marvel at the Baroque church in Ragusa Ibla, and stroll along the waterfront promenades in Ortigia. 

Also, make sure to visit Taormina, a gorgeous hilltop town next to Mount Etna and the perfect place to base yourself if you want to take a day trip to the volcano. Stay in one of the spacious apartments at Medea Residence , a beautiful property with a garden full of citrus trees and a pool overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

You can get to Sicily either by taking a ferry from mainland Italy or by flying to one of the island’s two main airports in Catania and Palermo.

If you’re short on time, you can even experience Sicily in a day from a neighbouring country – it’s one of the best day trips from Malta .

By Marjut from The Smooth Escape

5. The Island of Capri

Capri is one of the most charming Italian islands in the Bay Of Naples. Its breathtaking landscapes include crystal clear blue waters, sea caves, iconic rock formations, beaches, pretty gardens and colourful buildings . Capri’s magical beauty has served as a refuge over the centuries for a number of literary icons and poets, including Axel Munthe and Edwin Cerio.

Take a boat tour to visit the iconic Grotta Azzura (Blue Grotto), a sea cave illuminated by blue light, and Faraglioni, craggy rock formations over the sea. Hiking Anacapri, taking a chairlift to Mount Solaro and admiring the Augustus Gardens that overlook the iconic Faraglioni are some of the other highlights of Capri.

While you’re there, try out the world-famous Limoncello with a slice of torta caprese , a flourless cake made of chocolate and almonds.

Capri can be reached by helicopter (quite splurgy) or by taking a ferry from Naples or Sorrento. From Sorrento, the journey is roughly 30 minutes while from Naples , it takes up to 50 minutes. You can also take an easy day tour to Capri from either of these ports.

The best place to stay in Capri is Hotel Della Piccola Marina , which is centrally located on the island.

By Anjali from Cheerful Trails

6. Sardinia

Sardinia is by far the most beautiful island in Italy – in fact, it’s one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

At the heart of the Mediterranean, this is a part of the country that feels incredibly different from anywhere else you may have been. The long isolation has certainly played a role in this (it only became part of the Reign of Piedmont in 1848 and, with it, of Italy in 1861).

The unique culture of Sardinia comes from the many dominations the island has suffered: Romans have left their mark in the ruins scattered throughout the island. You can also see Punic and Phoenician sites, as well as Nuraghe sites that are unique to Sardinia and date back to the Bronze age. The Spaniards influenced Sardinia with their language. There is even a Catalan enclave in Alghero on the island’s northwestern coast.

Blessed with stunning beaches and coves such as Cala Tramontana with clear, pristine waters, Sardinia is characterised by mountains, forests, fantastic hiking trails. You will find quaint villages where tourists are still a novelty; fantastic wines unique to the island; delicious food, and – more than anything else – welcoming people.

By Claudia from Strictly Sardinia

Venice isn’t just one beautiful island in Italy: The floating city is actually made up of 118 different islands divided by countless canals, linked together by more than 400 bridges. 

Popular things to do in Venice on a short city break include taking a gondola ride, visiting the Doge’s Palace, and walking across the Bridge of Sighs.

However, a stroll around the neighbourhoods away from the main sites will reveal a different side of Venice.  Discover hidden gems such as the Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a palazzo with an external spiral staircase, or take a peek inside a traditional carnival mask maker’s workshop.   

The food in Venice is another delight to enjoy, with typical dishes including seafood such as squid ink risotto and sardine spaghetti.  Don’t miss trying some of the local cicchetti bars, which serve up bite-sized snacks to accompany a glass of wine or Prosecco, or a Spritz Veneziano (Aperol Spritz).

Venice is easy to reach by air, with two international airports close by, or by train from anywhere in Italy (and the rest of Europe). Staying on the island of Venice is more expensive than the mainland, but choosing somewhere close to the train station such as the Hotel Antiche Figure offers a good combination of value and convenience.

By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

8. Murano Island

If you’re visiting Venice , Murano is a must-see colourful island in the Venice lagoon, famous for its glass blowing history.

Totally surrounded by water, the only way to get here, as with all the Venetian islands, is by boat. Depart from any of the main stations in the city of Venice on a number 3 water taxi for the 40-minute ride north across the lagoon. You’ll pass the haunting Cimiterio di San Michele on the way, where all of Venice bury their dead.

The island of Murano itself is actually five islands with a main canal thoroughfare, all connected by traditional bridges. Although it’s a bit touristy, you should visit a glass-making factory and watch a craftsman at work, or head for the Museo del Vetro to learn about the story of glass.

Glass has been made here since 1291 after the glassmakers of Venice were moved out of the city for fear of fire and destruction. The process is fascinating and has been honed to a fine art, with craftsmen still making some of the first glass in the world.

Eat at Trattoria Valmarana for tasty pasta and traditional tiramisu served with a welcoming smile. The best pace to stay is Casa Sulla Laguna , a charming B&B right at the tip of the island facing the Venice lagoon.

By Izzy & Phil from The Gap Decaders

9. Isola Tiberina, an urban Italian island in the heart of Rome

Many visitors enjoy their time in Rome without ever knowing there is an island in the middle of the Tiber River. You’ll find pretty Isola Tiberina in the southern bend of the river, between Trastevere and the Jewish ghetto.

The boat-shaped island is only 270 metres long but has been an important part of Roman life since ancient times. Bridges have linked the two sides of the Tiber for over 2,000 years and you can walk over the oldest bridge in the city,  Ponte Fabricio (built in 62 BC), to get to the island.

Isola Tiberina has long been an important site for the health of Romans. A temple dedicated to Aesculapius, the Greek god of healing, was built on the island in the 3rd century BC after a great plague struck Rome. In the 16th century, the Fatebenefratelli hospital was established there and is now where many of the city’s children are born. The hospital was also responsible for shielding Jewish refugees during WWII. 

You can easily spend an hour or two wandering around this unique Italian island, enjoying its ancient sites and views down the river towards St Peters. It’s particularly pretty in fall as the leaves change colour.

Make sure to take a break for lunch at Trattoria Sora Lella, where classic Roman dishes are served just as they have been for the last 80 years.

By Katy from Untold Italy

10. Favignana Island

Favignana is part of the Egadi Islands off the western edge of Sicily. It’s the largest of the three and known for its beautiful waters as well as tuna fishing.

Throughout its history, the island has fallen under the control of various dynasties such as the Phonecians, Romans, Arabs and Normans. Today, fishing and tourism are the main industries. The island itself is small with one main ‘city’; getting there requires taking a boat from Trapani (30-55 minutes depending on which one you take).

You won’t find many sandy beaches on the island, but there are plenty of rocky coves. It’s a great place to go for scuba diving or snorkelling. There are also many caves on the island.

Tufo is a type of stone that has been quarried here for many years. Where the stones were extracted downwards, locals have turned these spaces into subterranean gardens. Cave Bianche is a great place to stay as the hotel is actually built inside a rock quarry.

Favignana is somewhere to go when you want to relax. There aren’t a lot of activities or attractions on the island but if you like beautiful scenery, sunshine, bike rides, and water sports, you will be very happy.

There are three things you must eat and drink while you’re there. The first is pistachio espresso at Bar Marinaru in the port of Favignana. The second is tuna – it’s the bread and butter of Favignana – and the third is busiate pasta with red shrimp, another specialty of the island.

By Amanda from Maroc Mama

11. The Tremiti Islands

The Tremiti Islands are a little-known archipelago just off the coast of northern Puglia . Few people, especially foreigners, make it to these islands or even know they exist.

Crystal-clear turquoise waters; rugged coastline; remote communities; an old fortress – sounds like it could be the Caribbean, right? Truthfully, the Tremiti Islands are a little bit difficult to reach, but if you’re backpacking around Italy , they’re worth the effort. 

You must first get yourself to either of the coastal towns of Vieste or Peschici. From there, you can catch a fast ferry to the Tremiti, which usually takes around an hour. Ferries will drop you off on the magical island of Isla di San Nicola. From there, you can take a water taxi to any of the other islands. 

On Isla di San Nicolo you’ll find Castello dei Badiali, built in the 15th century and later converted to a monastery. Nearby Isola San Domino is home to the majority of beaches and tourist attractions. You should definitely rent a bike to get around San Domino.

By Ralph from The Broke Backpacker

12. Sant’erasmo Island

The Venetian lagoon island of Sant’erasmo was known for centuries as the ‘Garden of the Doges’ for it was literally the bread basket of Venice, the agricultural hub that grew the foods and grapes that fed the aristocracy and the Ruler, or Doge, of Venice.

Sant’erasmo is a small island just a 10-minute boat ride yet a world away from bustling Venice. Few visitors take the time to explore the quiet, idyllic bounty this island provides, which is precisely what makes it a perfect slow travel experience.

Besides enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding lagoon, travellers can explore the island on foot or bike, riding through fields of violet artichokes, farms producing fresh honey, and Prosecco vineyards as far as the eye can see.

For a local foodie experience , take a Sant’erasmo slow food tour to meet some of the producers or have an impromptu vineyard wine-tasting. Be sure to stop at Orto di Venezia for the most wonderful views of the lagoon. It’s the only winery in Venice and known for its crisp white organic wines made from Malvasia and Vermentino grapes. 

By Lori from Travlinmad

13. Giglio Island

Giglio Island (Isola del Giglio) is perhaps one of the most historically important islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea, with ties to Etruscan, Roman and Genoese history. As one of seven islands in the Tuscan Archipelago, it can be reached by ferry from ports along the coast near Grosseto.

Giglio is a heavily forested island and a nature lover’s paradise. Granite peaks rise and fall, with Poggio della Pagana being the highest point. Between thick pine groves you’ll find wine terraces where grapes are cultivated for Ansonaco , a unique amber wine native to the island.

The island’s rocky coast is all smooth cliffs and bays. Be sure to visit Cannelle and Campese for swimming. As well as occasional stretches of sand, you’ll see amazing rock formations of mineral ore. You might recognise the colours and patterns: Many of Rome’s finest buildings and plazas were paved with precious Gigliese granite.

Giglio’s very own royal residence, the Roman villa of Domitius Ahenobarbus (AKA Nero), dates to the 1st-2nd century AD. Other points of historical interest include Giglio Castle with its famous ivory crucifix and a Etruscan shipwreck off the coast that archaeologists dated to 600 BC.

For beautiful quarters within the historic port district, don’t look past La Guardia , an intimate hotel with bright rooms and sea views.

14. Ponza Island

Ponza might be the biggest of the Pontine Islands, but that isn’t saying much: At just 7.5 square-kilometers, it’s still tiny!

It’s also very densely populated and popular among tourists and celebrities alike (Philippe Cousteau even filmed a documentary here). You’re not likely to find an empty beach or a deserted cove, but there are dozens of wonderful things to do nonetheless.

Start by strolling through the Giardino Botanico, and dipping your toes in the water on the rocky beach Spiaggia di Chiaia di Luna (‘Moon Gravel Beach’). Let your imagination run wild when visiting the mythical natural formations along the coast: The Cave of Ulysses, Cave of Sorceress Circe, and the Grotta Azzurra sea caves.

Hunt for sea arches, natural saltwater swimming pools, and see if you can find the Roman-built underground tunnels that run beneath the island’s narrow streets. The docks are always lined with colourful fishing boats and the cafes always filled with friendly faces.

If there’s one must-eat on Ponza Island, it’s cacciatore made with locally raised rabbit or chicken. Pick up some ingredients at the market to take back to your waterfront apartment ( La Mansarda Sul Mare has a full kitchen) and whip up your own version of this Italian classic.

Ferries and hydrofoils from Anzio, Formia and Terracina take between 1-2 hours to reach Ponza.

15. Burano Island

Burano is a colourful island located 45 minutes away from the popular Italian city of Venice .

There are two main things to do on the island. Firstly, admiring the brightly coloured houses is perhaps the most popular past-time as this is what the island is most famous for. However, those who live in Burano can’t just paint their house any colour they like. Approval is needed first. This makes for a beautiful mix of shades that visitors just can’t resist snapping photos of.

Nearby Murano has its glass, and Burano has its own craft: Lace. Visiting the lace museum is a must if you want to discover more about the history of this traditional craft and admire some delicate lace pieces. Pick up something as a souvenir .

Reaching Burano is only possible via boat. The cheapest way to get to the island from Venice is to jump on the water bus from Fondamene Nove. As you make your journey, you will be treated to great views of Venice from the water.

To explore the island without the crowds, it’s best to stay overnight. This way, you can wake up early and take a stroll before the tourists arrive. Venissa is a highly rated hotel located just a short walk from the centre of Burano.

By Lauren from Pack and Paint

16. The Maddalena Archipelago

Located in the northeast of Sardinia, in the strait of Bonifacio, La Maddalena Archipelago is a beautiful national park formed by seven islands.

The two main islands, La Maddalena and Capraia island, are accessible by ferry from Palau. This means that you can take your car there and get around stress-free. The others, Budelli, Santa Maria, Spargi, Santo Stefano and Razzoli, are located within a protected zone and can only be reached by boat. Sailing tours run every day from Palau and stop at Maddalena, making it very easy for visitors.

The beaches in La Maddalena Archipelago are extremely beautiful and unique. There is even a pink beach known as La Spiaggia Rosa di Budelli. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to walk on it as it was placed under the protection of the National Park a couple of decades ago. Visitors used to steal the sand, so drastic measures had to be taken. That being said, you still get to see it from the boat during your day trip.

La Maddalena is also home to wild landscapes with walking trails and crystalline waters for snorkelling and diving. Don’t forget to take your flippers and mask – you will need them if you go to Cala Coticcio and Cala Corsara.

Spargi is the island that offers the best experience overall. There are beautiful beaches, snorkelling spots, and you can go hiking. As you climb up, you will discover gorgeous views over the other islands and even see Corsica.

When it comes to food, you will find plenty of restaurants on Maddalena island that serve typical Sardinian food and delicious seafood. For accommodation, you have two options. If you want to explore the two main islands, you should stay at Residenze Le Padule on Maddalena. If you only want to go for a day trip, you can book Bassa Prua B&B in Palau town centre.

By Pauline from Beeloved City

17. Lampedusa, Italy’s southernmost island

The southernmost Italian island, Lampedusa is a Mediterranean island off the coast of Sicily. Along with the other Pelagie Islands to which archipelago it belongs, Lampedusa was inhabited by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Arabs before finally becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.

You can get to Lampedusa by boat or plane. The local airport operates flights to and from Sicily and the Italian mainland. Overnight ferries from the town of Porto Empedocle in Sicily run every night. During the summer, there’s also a hydrofoil service.

The island is not particularly big – just 12 kilometres long and three kilometres wide. In summer, the air temperatures can soar to 37 degrees. If you visit Italy in autumn , this is the perfect time to take a four-hour long boat trip around the island. Don’t miss the nearby L’isolotto dei Conigli (Rabbit Island).

Tourists flock to Lampedusa because of its white sandy beaches, clear waters, and the opportunity to scuba dive. There are many restaurants on the island, not surprisingly offering seafood as the main delicacy.

There are hundreds of picturesque places to stay on Lampedusa but El Mosaico del Sol stands out because of its unique mixture of comfort and convenience.

By Mark by VogaTech

18. Elba Island

Part of Tuscan Archipelago National Park, Elba Island (Isola d’Elba) is a delicate ecosystem off the Tuscan coast. The third largest island in Italy after Sicily and Sardinia, it has a long history as a Greek and Etruscan settlement – but Elba is perhaps best known as the place where Napoleon was exiled in 1814.

Ferries to Portoferraio, the main port, depart from Piombino on the Italian mainland, roughly 2 hours by road from Florence . Thus in just a few hours you can swap the emerald green Tuscan vineyards for the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea – pretty cool!

Once on the island, there’s really only one way to get around and that’s by bicycle. Elba is famed for its road racing tracks and dirt biking trails through the hills. There are also easy paths suitable for leisure riders and children.

Other things to do on Elba include snorkelling the shipwreck at Pomonte Beach, visiting the Etruscan-built Fortress Volterraio, and touring the various landmarks associated with Napoleon, including the Villa San Martino and Villa dei Mulini, the two houses where he saw out his nine-month exile.

Protected beaches, easy hikes, and an aquarium and wildlife park make Elba a fantastic choice for families with kids. Capoliveri village is the ideal place to stay, with plenty of laid-back accommodations such as Casale Grandangolo .

19. Procida Island

Located in the Bay of Naples, Procida is one of the most beautiful islands on the southeastern coast of Italy. Just four square kilometres, this tiny island of whitewashed houses and powdery sand beaches can easily be explored on foot.

Italy is not exactly the cheapest country in Europe , but you can still find plenty of free things to do in Procida. Once you step off the hydrofoil at Marina Grande, you can feel the peace of this pretty island. Explore on foot by walking from the harbour to the fishing village of Corricella. You will see a lot of craft shops, bars, restaurants, and pastel-coloured buildings on your way.

Next, visit Terra Murata, the oldest village and also the highest point on the island. There is a square with colourful traditional houses at the top that offers breathtaking panoramic views. On a bright day, you can take some amazing landscape pictures from here.

If you’re a seafood lover, La Lampara is a great choice of restaurant. They serve delicious seafood dishes as well as traditional foods against a backdrop of stunning views across the marina. Chora Kale , which is near Chiaia beach, is the best place to stay in Procida.

A ferry or hydrofoil from Naples to Procida takes around one hour.

By Trijit from BudgetTravelBuff

Which of these beautiful Italian islands is on your summer wish list?

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16 Comments

Thanks for sharing

I’ve been meaning to visit Italy more, I have a feeling Capri might change my life

I just came back from Venice, Burano and Murano a couple of days ago and I LOVE Italy! I would love to visit the other islands too 🙂

Wow! All of these Italian islands look so beautiful! I have visited a few on this list, but I totally need to see more. You definitely inspired me.

The beautiful Italian islands!! Can’t wait to come back home and explore more of my beautiful land!

There are still so many beautiful places that I want to explore in Italy!

Everything looks amazing! Italy is high on my list so I’m saving this for later. Looks like I’m gonna have a hard time choosing between these destinations haha

Incredible post! Beautiful photographs. It is difficult to select one over the other. Saving this one for sure. Honestly had no idea that there are so many gorgeous Italian islands. Thanks for sharing.

I had NO IDEA there were this many islands off the coast!!! I got the travel bug bad. I’m going to pin this for when we can come from the U.S. again. Thank you for sharing!

Neither did I! So many beautiful islands to choose from!

All the islands looks incredible and make me want to visit Italy soon. Great post!!

Thanks Aswani! Happy island hopping 🙂

Gorgeous! I can’t wait until I can travel to Italy again!

Thanks Jessica. You and me both!

They’re all so beautiful! I don’t know which one to go to first 😛

I know right! Decisions, decisions! Who knew there were so many beautiful Italian islands 🙂

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12 Best Islands in Italy

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

As a nation largely surrounded by water, it's not surprising that Italy has a number of islands. What does surprise, however, is their variety. Italy's islands range from Sicily and Sardinia , almost nations of their own in the Mediterranean, to tiny Isola Bella in Lake Maggiore , hardly big enough to support the palace and garden that cover it.

Between these two opposites are idyllic Capri , historic Elba of Napoleonic fame, Stromboli with its nightly tectonic fireworks, a clutch of varied islands in the Venetian lagoon, and several others worth visiting.

Whether you are looking for a deserted beach, a lively resort scene, a romantic hideaway, or a chance to explore mysterious prehistoric sites, you'll find the top places to go with this list of the best islands in Italy.

2. Sardinia

4. the venetian islands, 7. borromean islands, 8. aeolian islands, 9. caprera & the maddalena islands, 11. tremiti islands, 12. giglio island, map of islands in italy.

Always listed among the best places to visit in Italy , Sicily may seem more like a separate country. At nearly 10,000 square miles, roughly the same size as Luxembourg, it is the largest island in the Mediterranean.

Sicily certainly has enough tourist attractions to deserve a trip of its own, instead of a quick stop on a grand tour. With seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites - three ancient sites, two natural wonders, and two architectural landmarks - and more than its share of beautiful beaches, Sicily appeals to a variety of travelers.

Temples, amphitheaters, and villas from the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations are the finest ancient structures surviving: at Selinunte is one of the largest Greek temples; at Agrigento , one of the most perfectly preserved. The powdery white sands and crystal blue waters of San Vito Lo Capo rank it as one of Italy's best beaches .

With its own language and cultural traditions, even a unique cuisine, Sardinia seems even more distinct from the mainland than Sicily. If foreign tourists know of it at all, it's for the fabled white beaches and emerald waters of the Costa Smeralda , one of Europe's top summer resort destinations . Much of the island is bordered in golden sands, and the beaches of its southern and western coasts are just as spectacular.

More surprising to many is how quickly Sardinia's inland rises to soaring rugged mountains, hiding villages that seem out of a past century. Also surprising - to the delight of those interested in history's mysteries - are the hundreds of prehistoric sites, especially the round stone towers known as nuraghi that dot the island landscape.

Little is known about their origins, but many are so soundly constructed that you can explore passageways and climb spiral stairs that were built in the Bronze and Iron ages. More enigmatic megaliths and stone engravings add to the island's mysterious past. And you're never far from the beautiful sandy beaches .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Sardinia

A romantic aura surrounds the very name of this island in the Bay of Naples. Its high cliffs rise almost straight out of the water, with its most famous landmark hidden beneath them. The Blue Grotto is a sea cave that small boats can enter; inside reflected daylight turns the water a luminous blue.

Boat trips around the island reveal more caves, arches, and the signature rock formation of sea stacks on the south coast known as the Faraglioni .

The island's two towns, Capri and the higher Anacapri, have a holiday air, as tourists pour in on ferries from Naples and Sorrento .

Capri highlights , apart from the cafés and fashion boutiques, are the beautiful villa and gardens of San Michele , and the Giardini di Augusto (Gardens of Augustus) high on the cliffs overlooking the Marina Piccola and the Faraglioni.

Trails follow the coastline for spectacular views, or you can ride a chairlift to the summit of the highest peak for bird's-eye views of the entire island.

• From Rome to Capri: Best Ways to Get There
• From Naples to Capri: Best Ways to Get There

Although the city itself is connected by a causeway, Venice is made up of islands laced together by bridges or scattered throughout the lagoon. Four of the "detached" islands have particular appeal to tourists.

The long beach-lined Lido is Venice's playground and Europe's earliest beach resort, where royalty gathered at the grand hotels that still line its sands. Less glamorous today, it has a cheerful holiday vibe and some lovely Art Nouveau architecture. An afternoon at Lido is a popular thing to do for families visiting Venice with children .

Murano is the center of the famed Venetian glass, and its canal is lined with glassblowers' studios and shops selling their work and less artistic imported glass trinkets. Take the Vaporetto to watch the artists at work and visit the glass museum in the 17th-century Palazzo Giustinian to learn more about the glass blowers and the island's history.

A longer boat ride takes you to Burano , its canals lined by brightly painted houses. Its fame is for lace making, although much of what you see in its shops is imported and not hand made. To see the real thing, stop at the Scuola dei Merletti (lace school) and its small museum.

Close to Burano is Torcello , of interest for its history as the original site of Venice, as early as the seventh century. Little is left of the once flourishing town except its cathedral, dedicated in 639 and considered the best remaining example of Venetian-Byzantine architecture. The excellent mosaics date from as early as the 11 th century.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Venice

Hot springs drew ancient Greeks and Romans to the island of Ischia, in the Bay of Naples, and tourists have appreciated its beaches and luxuriant gardens ever since. To find all three, head for Spiaggia Citara , where the elegant gardens of a high-end thermal spa overlook the beach. Or from the three-kilometer beach at Spiaggia dei Maronti , near the southern village of Sant'Angelo, you can access three open-air thermal pools.

Be prepared for crowded beaches in the summer, or take a water taxi to one of the secluded coves. From Forio, on the west coast, you can visit Giardini Ravino to see succulents and cacti or the stunning La Mortella , beautiful gardens created by Susana Walton and British composer Sir William Walton.

You can get to Ischia from Naples by ferry, and from either Naples or Ischia you can get a boat to the smaller – and less crowded – island of Procida .

Known to history buffs as the home of exiled Napoleon Bonaparte, Elba is best known to seekers of sun and sand for the miles of beaches that line its jagged shore.

Off the coast of Tuscany and reached by ferry from Piombino, on the Tuscan coast south of Livorno , Elba has more than 150 beaches. They vary from long sandy stretches to tiny pebble-beach coves. Some, such as Sansone , have shallow, gentle slopes that are good places to go for families. The waters off the sea cliffs are favorites for SCUBA diving.

There are things to do here besides the beaches. Hikers love the island's trails, and if you have a head for dizzying rides, you can take the basket-like cable car to the summit of Monte Capanne .

Among the most popular places to visit are Napoleon's Villa dei Molini in Portoferraio , and his summer retreat, Villa Napoleone on Monte San Martino.

In the mid-1600s, Count Vitaliano Borromeo built terraces on a tiny island of Isola Bella off Stresa on Lake Maggiore, creating a sumptuous summer palace and a terraced garden that tries to combine every feature of Italianate gardens into a very small space. The result of both is a sensual overload of gilded flourishes, grand salons, statuary, trees, flowers, and even a shell-encrusted faux cave.

It's great fun to visit, and after that, you'll relish a peaceful stroll around the spacious gardens and shaded lakeside paths of the neighboring Isola Madre , with its own more modest summer palace.

Stop for a meal of lake fish at the even more tiny Isola Pescatori , a fishing village that completes the trio of Borromean Islands. You can visit all three easily in one day by boat on a Lake Maggiore Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Ferry Tour from Stresa, spending as much time as you like exploring the palaces and gardens.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions around Lake Maggiore & Easy Day Trips

The volcano erupts so regularly that cruise ships time departures from Sicily for evening, so they can sit off Stromboli to watch the fireworks against the night sky. It's quite a sight - and viewing it on a balmy Mediterranean night from the deck chair of a cruise ship is one of Italy's most romantic experiences.

What makes it especially exciting - it is after all a live and very active volcano - is you never know what an uncorked hole in the earth may do. In 2002, Stromboli blew off one whole hillside of the island and sent it careening into the sea.

Stromboli is only one of the Aeolian Islands off Sicily's north coast and reached from Messina or Milazzo by ferry. The archipelago's other six main islands are Vulcano (nearest to the Sicilian coast), Lípari, Salina, Filicudi, Alicudi, and Panarea, all rising out of a 4,000-meter-deep seabed.

The islands' mild climate, volcanic landscapes of fumeroles and thermal springs, and ancient relics (people have lived here since the Neolithic era) plus hiking and water sports make them popular places to visit. You can tour Lipari and visit another of the Aeolian island on the Vulcano and Lipari Aeolian Islands Daily Cruise from Messina.

In the Strait of Bonifacio, between Sardinia and Corsica and within sight of both, the Arcipelago della Maddalena seems made solely for sailing or swimming in the emerald water and relaxing on an idyllic little beach of fine white sand. There is one small town, where the ferry deposits visitors after the half-hour trip from Palau, in northern Sardinia .

The main island is connected by a causeway to the lovely smaller island of Caprera, with more beaches and, for the history-minded, the home and farm of Giuseppe Garibaldi , the patriot general who united Italy into a single country. There are several walking paths on Caprera. Spiaggia di Cala Brigantina is an especially beautiful beach, and the smaller Cala Coticcio is surrounded by wind-sculpted rocks.

Once on the islands, you can easily find small boats to take you to beaches that are accessed only from the sea. Or you can take the La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour from Palau , which stops at several islands with time to swim.

All the Pontine Islands, off the Mediterranean coast between Rome and Naples , are small. Ponza, the largest of them, measures less than eight square kilometers. Steeped in legend – according to Homer's Odyssey , the sorceress Circe summered here – and popular with Romans, Ponza is rarely visited by foreign travelers.

The terrain is precipitous, so don't plan on bringing a bicycle. The best way to see the island is from the sea, which is easy because the harbor is filled with taxi boats and various craft you can hire to explore on your own. Or you can take a round-island cruise with stops at the beaches and top attractions.

These include the sea arch of Arco Naturale , natural pools at Cala Feola, caves excavated by the Romans, luminous white cliffs, and sea caves. Taffy-colored houses climb the lanes above the harbor, where there's a promenade, and high above the town is a botanical garden with Mediterranean and exotic plants. You can reach Ponza by ferry from Naples or from Terracina, south of Rome.

Adrift in the Adriatic, north of the Gargano Peninsula and part of the Gargano National Park , the Tremiti Islands are a little-known archipelago named for their seismic activity ( tremiti means earthquakes).

The most populated is San Nicola , but the best developed for tourists is San Domingo , where the only sandy beach, Cala delle Arene , is located. The smaller islands of Capraia, Cretaccio, and Pianosa are uninhabited.

A good way to see the islands is by boat tour, with stops at secluded coves and snorkeling sites. The islands have long been a secret of divers. Under the water are caves; rock formations; black coral; the remains of World War II aircraft; even a statue of Padre Pio, a much-revered 20 th -century saint from that region. Some of the marked underwater nature trails are suitable for snorkelers, as well.

Water sports and walking trails provide most of the things to do on the Tremiti Islands, but the towns offer a few places to visit, including the Abbey of Santa Maria al Mare and a formidable castle, both on San Nicola.

For a change of pace from Tuscany's Renaissance cites and medieval hill towns, hop a boat for the 15-kilometer ride from Porto Santo Stefano to Giglio . The small island rises from the Tyrrhenian Sea in a mountainous terrain that's covered in lush Mediterranean plants, dense pine groves, and terraced fields.

Hiking paths climb the granite peaks for spectacular views, or you can take a bus between the three main coastal towns. The coast is a series of cliffs, rock promontories, and coves with sandy beaches, most of which you can also reach by bus. Taxi boats will take you to others, or on a cruise around the island for views of the cliffs and sea caves. You may see dolphins in the surrounding turquoise waters, also popular for snorkeling.

Although it's a perfect retreat for nature-lovers and walkers, Giglio also has its historic attractions : Nero had a villa here, and in the center of the island is the 12 th -century fortress of Giglio Castello, surrounded by high defensive walls and seven original towers.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Islands to Visit in Europe: If you love beaches and island vacations, you will find plenty of ideas for places to go on Mallorca, Minorca, and Ibiza in our page on the top tourist attractions in the Balearic Islands . Or to feel as though you'd stepped onto the film set for Mama Mia refer to our page on the best Greek Islands for beaches .

Discovering Pacific Islands: Those who long for even more exotic shores might be interested in visiting the Cook Islands in the South Pacific, often cited as some of the most beautiful islands in the world .

More on Italy

15 Beautiful Islands in Italy to Visit

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: May 11, 2023

Home >> Destinations >> 15 Beautiful Islands in Italy to Visit

Italy has a fabulous diversity of destinations. From the ancient city of Rome to the atmospheric home of pizza, Naples , the stunning Ligurian coast , and the charming villages of Cinque Terre .

Almost entirely surrounded by water, Italy also boasts an incredible number of unique and beautiful islands. From two of the Mediterranean’s great islands, Sicily and Sardinia, to historic Elba and the lesser visited islands of Venice.

These are some of the best islands in Italy, offering a magical array of Italian culture, food, and experiences.

Ferry is often the most efficient and cost-effective way to reach most of these Italian Islands (especially if taking a car to the islands). You can search ferry schedules, routes, and fares here.

Table of Contents

15 of the Best Italian Islands for an Incredible European Island Escape

Located in the south of Italy, separated from the mainland by the narrow Strait of Messina, Sicily is one of the most famous islands of Italy and the largest island in the Mediterranean . Only 96 miles from Tunisia, with strong historical influences from the Arabs, Normans, and Byzantines, Sicily is a unique connector between Africa and Europe.

There are so many unique things to see and do in Sicily – such as its prominent natural attraction, Mt Etna, the tallest volcano in Europe and the most active in the world. We recommend an extended Sicily road trip to make the most of your time on this unique Italian Island. However, if you only have time to see a small part of this generous land, these are two of Sicily’s most famous cities, both popular Italian destinations for couples .

Palermo Sicily

Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country, many of which are in Sicily. Palermo, the capital of Sicily is a great vacation destination itself. Palermo is loaded with World Heritage Sites, stunning architecture, and incredible history.

The churches in Palermo are a highlight with incredible golden mosaics, Byzantine architecture, and magnificent marble pillars brought from the Italian mainland. The Palermo Cathedral, Santa Caterina, La Martorana, and the Palatine Chapel should not be missed.

Look out for statues of Saint Rosalia, the Patron Saint of Palermo , around the streets in Palermo. Rosalia, who died in 1166, appeared to a hunter during the height of the plague in 1624. The apparition told him where to find her remains and to bring her bones to Palermo and have them carried in procession through the city. After the procession, the plague ceased, and Rosalia became the patron saint of Palermo. A sanctuary was built in the cave where her remains were found.

The food markets in Palermo are famous for their variety of delicious street foods. You can find all city’s specialties and Sicilian dishes at the two main  Palermo street food markets , Ballaro and Capo Markets . Two Palermo specialties that shouldn’t be missed are the Pani câ meusa (spleen sandwich) and Arancini (rice balls). Be sure to indulge in Palermo’s famous desserts, including cannoli and gelato.

Recommended by: Michelle Moyer – Moyer Memoirs

You Might Also Like: Traditional Italian Recipes by Region

Cefalù, Sicily

Sicily is famous for its cathedrals, architecture, gorgeous beaches, vineyards, cuisine, and southern Italian culture – all of this can be experienced in the small city of Cefalu, an hour from the capital of Palermo . The very walkable town is famous for the Duomo di Cefalù , the 12th-century cathedral in the Piazza Duomo, which houses a magnificent collection of Byzantine mosaics.

Enjoy views of the cathedral from one of the many cafes and restaurants in the busy piazza. The perfect place to enjoy a famous Sicilian granita, a cold, sweet treat made from water, sugar, and fruit. 

To learn a bit of Sicilian history, Cefalu’s Mandralisca Museum has a fascinating collection of archaeological exhibits. For the adventurous, climb La Rocca , a tall, craggy mountain just outside the city. From the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the island, including Cefalu’s Old Town and the Mediterranean sea.

Cefalú is an hour from Palermo by car or direct train.

Recommended by: Erin Hynes – Pina Travels

2. Aeolian Islands

The  Aeolian Islands  are a volcanic archipelago off the northeast edge coast of Sicily. The seven islands are home to beaches of several colors, stunning cliffs, and an unforgettable lava-spewing volcano.

Each island has something to offer, but visit Salina and Stromboli if you only have time for two.

Salina is a wonderfully chilled-out island covered with vineyards and was the setting for the film Il Postino . Its central location and collection of excellent restaurants and hotels, particularly in the town of Malfa, make it the perfect base for exploring the Aeolians. 

Stromboli is best known for its volcano. Join a guided hike in the evening to watch the show, where lava spews about every 20 minutes. Or, you can enjoy the view from Osservatorio Restaurant. Stromboli also has the best beaches in the Aeolians, with sparkling black sand and wild blue waves.

The most beautiful view of the Aeolian Islands is from the top of Vulcano’s smoking caldera (be warned, the smell isn’t great).

Panarea Island has stunning cliff views, Lipari has the biggest city on the islands, and Alicudi and Filicudi make you feel like you’ve gone as far off the beaten path in Italy as you can go.

No matter where in the Aeolian Islands you choose to go, there are boat tours to explore the islands, or you can rent a motorbike for a day.

Don’t forget to try Malvasia wine and  pane cunzatu  — a local flatbread typically topped with olive oil tomatoes, capers, mozzarella, anchovies, and herbs.

The best way to get to the Aeolian Islands is to fly to Catania and take a shuttle van to the town of Milazzo. From there, Milazzo and all seven Aeolian Islands have frequent ferries running between them. And come in the summer — because summer is when the Aeolians truly shine their best.

 Recommended by: Kate McCulley – Adventurous Kate

3. Sardinia

There is little doubt that Sardinia is the prettiest island in Italy – and indeed, one of the most beautiful islands in the world. The island, an autonomous region of Italy, is right at the heart of the Mediterranean. Italian by nationality, Sardinia could not feel more different from Italy. Step on the island, and you’ll realize that the atmosphere is different, the culture and its history are unique, as are the culinary traditions.

The culture of Sardinia comes from the many civilizations that ruled over the island. The Nuragic people left the impressive nuraghe – there are more than 7000 scattered around the island, one of them (Su Nuraxi, in Barumini) is Sardinia’s only UNESCO site. Punics, Phoenicians, and Romans first, and then the Pisans, the Genoese, and the Spaniards left their mark. There are incredible examples of Roman sites, such as the Roman Amphitheater of Cagliari and Spanish colonial architecture visible in many towns in Sardinia. There is even a Catalan enclave – the beautiful town of Alghero.

Sardinia has a plethora of stunning beaches with clear waters. It has mountains, hiking trails galore, plenty of wineries for wine tastings, and lots of beautiful cities and small towns. 

Any time is a good time to visit Sardinia. When you go and where you base yourself (the island is huge) is a matter of personal taste. Visit in the summer months, and you will enjoy the beaches. Visit in the fall and winter, and you can enjoy festivals such as Autunno in Barbagia and Sa Sartiglia carnival celebrations in Oristano.

Plan to spend at least a week in Sardinia to enjoy just one or two of its main attractions or a month for a road trip around the island.

Sardinia is well connected to the rest of Europe via its three airports (Cagliari, Alghero and Olbia). The best way to move around the island is by car.  Search Discover Cars to compare the best car rental deals  from local rental companies in both Sardinia and mainland Italy.

Recommended by: Claudia Tavani – Strictly Sardinia

4. Caprera, La Maddalena Archipelago (Sardinia)

Caprera, located off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, is the second largest island of  La Maddalena Archipelago and one of the most impressive National Parks in Italy.

The island is sparsely populated. Actually, nobody lived there from the time the Romans left until Garibaldi, Italy’s unification hero, bought the island and built his home there. Garibaldi’s house is now a museum and one of the most interesting places to visit in Caprera. However, most people who venture to this remote part of Sardinia do so to appreciate the incredible nature and the paradisiac beaches. 

Spiaggia del Relitto (Shipwreck Beach), Cala Andreani, Cala Napoletana and Cala Garibaldi are among the most beautiful coves on the island. Yet, the best thing to do in Caprera is the hike to Cala Coticcio. Known in Sardinia as Little Tahiti, this protected cove can be reached on guided hikes that must be booked with one of the registered guides of Maddalena National Park .

Only four groups per day can visit the cove – two in the morning and two in the early afternoon. The moderate hike takes around 1.5 hours each way.

Once in Cala Coticcio, you will enjoy the clearest, most pristine waters you can imagine. Remember, this is a protected cove, so you must bring a straw mat (towels are not allowed), and as with the rest of Sardinia, taking sand, shells, and even pebbles is prohibited and punishable with a fine.

Caprera can be enjoyed year-round. To make the most of its beaches and hikes, plan to visit between the late Spring (from mid-May) and October. There are no places to stay on the island, but the nearby La Maddalena has plenty of accommodation options.

Hotel Villa del Parco has small, fully equipped apartments, which are perfect if you want to self-cater (a scrumptious breakfast is included).

You can get to Caprera by car from La Maddalena island (they are connected by a bridge), which can itself be reached via a 20 minutes ferry ride departing every 30 minutes from Palau. You can find the best car rental companies in Palau here .

Alternatively, you can visit Caprera on boat tours of the Maddalena Archipelago that depart from either Palau or La Maddalena harbor. You can browse a full selection of Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tours here .

5. Elba Island

Elba Island is a magical Italian island destination in the crystal clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. 

Seven Islands make up the Tuscan Archipelago, the largest marine park in Europe – Elba, Giglio, Capraia, Montecristo, Pianosa, Giannutri, and Gorgona. Elba is the largest of the Archipelago and the third-largest island in Italy after Sicily and Sardinia.  Elba is a highlight of our Rome to Pisa, Italy road trip itinerary .

Elba offers visitors a wealth of experiences, from pristine beaches, hiking, snorkeling, and plenty of historical attractions. 

Elba is very prominent in Italy and France’s history books as it was the island where Napolean was exiled between 1814 and 1815.

Far from imprisoned on Elba, Napolean recreated his empire on a smaller island scale. He built roads, established schools and a mining economy, and created his own legal system. Don’t miss a visit to the regal residences of the French Emporer, part of the National Museum of Napoleonic Residences – Villa dei Mulini and the neoclassical Villa San Martino, Napolean’s summer residence. 

Elba has a laid-back island vibe with plenty of great beaches and excellent restaurants. Be sure to book in advance for a meal at  Molo G Osteria Portuale,  a fabulous restaurant and bar tucked away at the end of the shipyard on the waterfront of the small marina in Portoferraio. Molo G sources local island produce to create delicious island specialties. There’s even a Pétanque court in the outdoor bar area.

Torremar and Moby ferry services sail daily to Elba Island from Piombino port. Both ferries take vehicles and have numerous daily sailings to Portoferraio, Rio Marina, and Cavo, with Portoferraio being the busiest port. You can get to Piombino port by train arriving at the Piombino Marittima train station located at the port. Sailings from Piombino take about 40 minutes. You can also fly to Elba Airport in Marina di Campo.

Venice is part of the Veneto region in northeast Italy in the Venice Lagoon, just off mainland Italy.  The city of Venice is made up of a tight cluster of 118 small islands, separated by the canals Venice is famous for.

Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, so it can get very busy during the summer, especially when cruise ships are in dock. 

With this in mind, the key to Venice is to allow time to enjoy this incredibly unique island city without hustling with the crowds.  Allow at least two days in Venice to have a chance to explore, and five days in Venice allows for some very interesting day trips – but no matter  how many days you spend in Venice , there is always more to experience.

The most popular things to do in Venice include visiting the Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Square and enjoying a gondola ride on one of the many canals. The Saint Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace VIP After Hours Tour is well worth the higher ticket price for unique access to two of Venice’s most popular attractions.

A true delight in Venice is simply walking down the quiet streets away from the crowds to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy an aperitivo and a cicchetti snack by the water.

The best time to visit Venice is during the shoulder season, from May to June and September and October, when there are fewer crowds, and the weather is pleasant. Winter can also be a good time to visit, but it can get cold and damp. The famous Venice Carnival takes place in February and offers visitors a fabulous spectacle with elaborate costumes and huge crowds – be sure to book well in advance for Carnival.   

Arrive in Venice in style in a classic Venetian water taxi. A shared water taxi from the airport will set you back around €32 pp, and a private water taxi around €220 for a group of six.

Venice is well connected to the mainland, with a train station on the island. The airport is on the mainland, and you can either take a water taxi and arrive in Venice by boat or take a bus or taxi across the road bridge. The bus station is just across the bridge, as there are no cars allowed on the island.

Recommended by Claire Sturzaker – Tales of a Backpacker

7. Murano Island

Murano is an island in the Venetian lagoon famous for its glass. The unparalleled craftsmanship of Murano Glass makes it one of the most revered and collectible glassware brands in the world.

Venetian glass earned its reputation as the finest quality in the late 1200s with the establishment of a guild and laws governing its production. With the escalation of the industry, the glass blowers of Venice were sent to Murano because the Venetians were afraid the fires from the furnaces would destroy the buildings in the city. 

The traditional techniques of Murano glass have survived for centuries, so understandably, one of the  best things to do in Murano  is to see glass-blowing demonstrations at artisan shops or larger production houses. You can book a tour of a Murano glass factory with a glass-blowing demonstration for less than €10 or watch a glass-blowing demonstration followed by a glass workshop where you can make your own unique Murano Glass piece. There’s also a glass museum you can tour. 

Murano is a small island, so it is easy to explore on foot. Wander the alleys of the island to take in the canals and buildings, and step inside the Duomo di Murano dedicated to Santa Maria and San Donato. The Murano lighthouse is a great photo spot. 

If you want to visit Murano independently, take line 12 Vaporetto (public ferry) from Fondamente Nove. You can also join a guided tour of the three islands. 

Visit Murano on its own or in combination with nearby Burano and Torcello on a half-day Venetian Islands tour for approx €25.

You can visit Murano year-round, but spring and fall offer good weather and fewer tourists than the peak summer months. 

Recommended by: Dhara – It’s Not About the Miles

8. Burano Island

Burano Island, located in the Venetian lagoon, is said to be one of the most colorful towns in the world and one of the most photographed places in Venice.

The cheery island of Burano, with its tranquil village atmosphere, is where visitors can get a glimpse of local life away from the hustle and bustle of Venice.

The famous colored houses of Burano were painted different colors to designate where one family’s quarters finished and the next started. There is also a legend that the bright colors helped fishermen establish which was their home during thick fogs.

Burano is not just famous for its brightly painted houses. The island is also famous for lace. The delicate and detailed Burano lace dates back to the 16th century. The women who created the intricate works each specialized in a single stitch, meaning each piece, no matter how large or small, could be the work of as many as seven or more women – passed from one woman to the next taking months to complete.

Today Burano lace is produced by machine but is by no means less beautiful than the traditional pieces.

When you visit Burano, make sure you try Burano Risotto – Risotto di gò , a typical Buranella fish risotto.

If you have allowed at least  two days in Venice , you’ll have time to visit independently on line 12 Vaporetto, which will continue from Murano Island to Burano Island and return to Venice. Or, you can join the combined Venetian Islands tour , which will include transfers and give you information on each island’s local treasures and history.

Recommended by: Daniel James – Urban Abroad

9. SantErasmo

It may surprise travelers that one of Italy’s best-kept travel secrets is next door to one of its most over-touristed destinations. The small lagoon island of Sant’Erasmo, a short ferry ride from Venice, feels like a world away.

The lagoon island was once the Garden of the Doge , the breadbasket for the Ruler of the Venetian empire. The island supplied him, the city, and its subjects with produce, wine grapes, honey, and other staple foods. That tradition continues today, and a visit to the island makes a unique day trip from Venice. 

Veneto is one of the most prolific  Italian wine regions , and growers on Sant’Erasmo still harvest Dorona grapes from some of the island’s original vines, as well as Prosecco grapes for Veneto’s signature bubbly wine.

To get to the island, catch the number 13 ferry from the Fondamente Nove. Once there, it’s easy to hike and explore on your own. But renting bikes for the afternoon is even better. It is also possible to take a kayaking tour around the Sant’Erasmo and Vignole islands .

Stop at Il Lato Azzurro Hotel , where you can rent bikes, or stop in the afternoon for some wine and local food. It’s also just across the street from one of the beaches on the island where you can enjoy a picnic lunch.

Recommended by: Lori Sorrentino – Italy Foodies

Capri, one of the most beautiful Italian islands, is located on Italy’s western coast, in the Tyrrhenian Sea near the coast of Naples. Take a 45-minute ferry ride to Capri from Naples, Sorrento, or the Amalfi Coast. Or, enjoy a group tour on a smaller boat for the day. This is a very popular day trip from Positano for travelers staying in the famous seaside village, or you can take a full day trip cruise with lunch from Naples .

Capri’s popularity dates back thousands of years, when royalty would vacation on the island. It was in the 1950s when the island’s popularity really took off as a major tourist destination. In the late 60s, the island caught the attention of American tourists when Jackie O became a frequent visitor to Capri. She is known for having the famous Capri “Canfora” leather sandals custom-made for her foot.

Today the island is famous for the leather sandals favored by Jackie O, along with lemon production, beach clubs, and the Blue Grotto. The island has also put its stamp on fashion items such as Capri pants and the delicious Caprese salad said to have been created on the island.

Take the funicular up to Capri town, shop for sandals and eat a lemon granita. On your way back down to the marina, stop at Da Paulino to enjoy lunch under the lemon groves. End your day with a boat ride around the island to see the various grottos and the famous Faraglioni Rocks. You can find some incredible Capri day trips and boat tours here .

The best time to visit is in September when the crowds from the summer have died down, but the weather is still hot, and the water is still warm. See our complete guide on things to do in Capri and tips for visiting.

Recommended by: Tori Mitchell – Tori Pines Travels

Ischia Island is located off the coast of Naples in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Along with the better-known island of Capri, Ischia is part of the Phlegraean Islands in the Campania region of southern Italy.

If you’ve been traveling through Italy for a while, Ischia will feel like a more authentic, timeless version of Italy. A breath of fresh air away from the tourist trail. You’ll likely be greeted in Italian everywhere you go, and you can enjoy classic local dishes at much lower prices than in nearby Capri.

You can soak up the local island atmosphere of laundry drying in the warm Italian sun, charming, brightly colored old cars parked against stone walls, and a fortified castle still in use since 471 B.C.

It’s possible to visit Ischia on a day trip from Naples , where you can navigate to the major sites on foot, by taxi, or by bus. If you stay overnight, you’ll want to rent a car or scooter to explore the island’s far side or drive around the ring road. The best time to visit is between May and September when all of the local attractions and shops are open for the season.

The easiest way to reach Ischia is on the one-hour ferry from Naples. You’ll likely pass by the comparably huge crowds headed to Capri as you make your way to the boat bound for Ischia. 

Recommended by: Amber Haggerty – Amber Everywhere

12. Procida

Italy lays claim to some of the world’s most beautiful islands, and one of the most beloved Italian Islands close to Naples, and one of Italy’s little gems , is Procida. Situated in the Bay of Naples, the colorful island is located between Capri and Ischia. Named Italy’s Capital of Culture for 2022, Procida is a mere two square miles and has less than 11,000 residents but offers travelers plenty to see and do.

Terra Murata is a can’t-miss landmark on Procida, the historic fortified village perched on the island’s highest point, with magnificent ocean vistas.

Inside the walls of the original stronghold town, you’ll find the 11th-century Benedictine Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo, the Palazzo d’Avalos, the deconsecrated Church of Santa Margherita Nuova and Museo Casa di Graziella.

Head to the Panoramica sulla Corricella viewpoint for an iconic view of the vibrant harbor of Procida. Don’t miss one of the  best things to do on Procida , indulge in a Lingua di Bue , a long, rectangular pastry filled with local lemons. Pasticceria Bar Roma, by the main port, has the most famous Lingua di Bue .

The best time to visit Procida is in the summer or shoulder season, but beware, prices will be far higher than during winter. While still charming, winter is rainy on the island, and the ferry ride to Procida can be extremely uncomfortable if the seas are rough. To reach Procida, you can take a ferry from Naples or Ischia. There are also plenty of day tours that visit the Italian island .

Recommended by: Megan Starr – Megan & Aram

13. Ventotene

One of the most underrated islands in Italy is Ventotene in the Pontine Island Group in the Tyrrhenian Sea – A wonderful choice for those wanting to explore  Italy off the beaten path .

Ventotene island is extremely popular among Italians in the summer months. You’re guaranteed a local feel when wandering the narrow streets lined with pastel-colored houses with the mouthwatering aroma of fresh seafood and pasta flowing from windows at lunchtime.

Ventotene is made up of volcanic rock, so there are only two sandy beach areas – The first is Cala Rossano, near the New Port (Porto Nuovo), on the northeast side. The second is  Cala Nave , a sandy bay located on the southeastern side after the Scogli del Faro (the rocks of the Roman Port). Both are easily accessible from town. There are plenty of spots where you can sunbathe and jump from the rocks into the crystal clear water and lots of options for boat cruises around the island to visit different bays, soak up the sun and swim straight from the boat.

Take a day trip to the prison island of Santo Stefano , only a stone’s throw away from Ventotene. There are also some incredible dive opportunities for experienced and novice scuba divers with multiple underwater caves. There are dive centers in the port area at the ferry port.

It is easy to reach Ventotente from Rome by train to connect with the ferry at Formia or travel directly by ferry from the Port of Naples. Due to the ease of access from the capital (and Naples), the island will be crowded with domestic travelers from the capital in the peak summer months. September is an excellent time to go for the Ventotente Santa Candida Festival for parades, fireworks, and the launch of giant handmade hot air balloons made with tissue paper – you will find souvenirs of the hot air balloons in the little shops throughout the island.

Recommended by: Linn Haglund – Brainy Backpackers

14. Ponza Island, Lazio

Head to Ponza if you’re looking for a low-key island paradise in Italy and a more local experience. Romans flock to the island during summer to escape the heat in the city, so don’t expect to hear more than a smattering of English. Ponza is the largest island in the Pontine Islands archipelago on the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is a perfect long weekend escape from Rome. (it is also possible to visit Ponza on a day trip from Rome if you are short on time).

The island has a long history dating back to the Phoenicians and ancient Greeks. The Romans took the island in 312BC and cemented Ponza as a favorite holiday destination of Italians.

Even though it is peak season and prices will be higher, summer is a great time to visit Ponza. There are several festivals throughout the season, including a fish festival, a watermelon festival, and perhaps the most important, the San Silverio festival .

Take it easy in Ponza and enjoy lazy days on the beach. Hop on the water taxi to the Frontone Beach Club, enjoy aperitivo at Bar Tripoli, and dinner at Il Tramonto.

If coming from Rome, take the train from Termini Station to Anzio to connect with the ferry. Ferries depart from Anzio, Formia, and Terracina, you can find more information on ferries to Ponza here . Given the small size of the island – 7 km with a single road running north to south and restricted traffic areas during summer – a car is not advised on Ponza. There is a bus service, taxis and scooter hire available.

Recommended by: Olivia Windsor – Livguine

15. The Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore

One of the most idyllic island destinations in Italy is away from the sea, on Lake Maggiore. The Borromeo family, who gave its name to the group of islands, still owns the largest islands, Isola Bella and Isola Madre.

You can visit both islands on a day trip from Milan or as part of a  Lake Maggiore road trip. Make your way to Stresa by car or the local train, then hop on the ferry to the first island, Isola Bella. You can purchase an all-day Borromean Islands hop on hop off boat ticket to explore all three islands, including the quaint fishing village on Isola dei Pescatori, at your leisure.

Visit Borromeo Palazzo on Isola Bella – the main attraction is behind the palace: ten terraces of impeccably manicured gardens. Teatro Massimo is the work of fantasy: three levels of greenery and mythology-inspired statues, with a fountain at the bottom. The symbol of the Borromeo family, a unicorn, stands at the top of Teatro Massimo, overlooking the gardens.

Next, head to Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands and the first to be acquired by the family. Again, you can visit the Isola Madre palace and the botanical gardens.

If you plan on visiting both islets, the best choice is to buy a combined ticket online. The best time to visit is from April to September, when temperatures are pleasant and different flowers are blooming.

Spend the night in the charming Stresa Village to continue to enjoy the incredible atmosphere of the scenic lake.

Recommended by: Anda Bartos – Travel for a While

These gorgeous Italian Islands remind us why Italy is one of the most popular destinations in Europe. With such a diverse range of islands, you can plan an Italian Island escape any time of year.

Top Italian Islands for Your Next Vacation

Take Your Pick of Italy's Top Island Destinations

Scattered like pearls across the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic seas of the Mediterranean, Italy's gorgeous islands have been the setting for ancient myths, epic wars, historic events and – more pleasantly – unforgettable vacations. Popular summer beach destinations for Italians and foreign visitors alike, Italy's top islands can be visited almost all year – although they can be cold in winter and many services, especially at the seaside, will close for the season.

Though there are hundreds of islands off the coasts of Italy and in its lakes and lagoons, we've narrowed down a few of our favorites. On the following Italian islands, you could spend days or weeks vacationing and still not experience everything there is to see and do.

Tripsavvy / Michela Sieman

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and the 5th largest in western Europe, is rich with Greek and Roman ruins, vibrant, earthy cities, and a distinct culture. Unless you have more than a week to visit Sicily, it's best to visit one or two parts rather than trying to see the whole island. Highlights of Sicily include the seaside resort towns of Taormina and Cefalu, the Greek Temples at Agrigento, the cities of Palermo and Syracuse, the Baroque towns of the Noto Valley, and Mount Etna, Europe's biggest active volcano. Sicily can be reached by air arriving in Catania or Palermo airports, by ferry, or by train or by car crossing the bridge that connects the mainland from Calabria to Messina in the island's northeast.

Nick Ledger/GettyImages

With its stunning beaches , dramatic coastline and well-developed seaside towns, Sardinia, the Mediterranean's second-largest island, is a popular summer destination. But the island's rugged interior holds many interesting sights and is steeped in traditions. Highlights include the prehistoric stone towers called nuraghi that dot the island, the mountain towns like Orgosolo whose walls are covered with murals, the seaside town of Alghero, and Cagliari , the island's largest city. Sardinia can be reached by air arriving in Cagliari or Alghero or by ferry from the mainland, Sicily, or Corsica.

The island of Capri has been a popular vacation destination since Roman times and continues to draw big crowds, mainly coming for the day. Spend a couple of nights so you can better appreciate its charm in the evening, when the tourists have left. Highlights of a visit include the famous Blue Grotto, Villa San Michele , the towns of Anacapri and Capri, and picturesque rock formations off the coast. Capri, just off the Amalfi Coast, is reached by hydrofoil or ferry (more frequent in summer) from Naples, Sorrento, or Positano. The nearby island of Ischia , known for its thermal spas , is also worth a visit and sees far fewer tourists than Capri.

Islands of Venice

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

A visit to any of the many islands of the Venetian Lagoon offers a chance to get a real look at lagoon life, as well as to escape what can sometimes be stifling crowds in Venice. Several islands that can be visited as day trips from Venice. Murano, the most popular, is known for its glass-making and you'll find glass in shops all over the island. Some factories allow visitors and there's a glass museum. Burano Island is known for its handmade lace and colorful houses. Torcello is a nature reserve and its 7th-century Cathedral has spectacular 11th and 12th-century Byzantine mosaics.

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Elba is the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park and Italy's third-largest island. Elba is famous as the place where Napolean was exiled, and several sites on the island recall his stay there. Highlights include more than 70 beautiful beaches along the coast, good places for hiking and trekking, picturesque villages, boat excursions in the archipelago, and lots of activities and events during summer. Ferries run between Piombino on the mainland and Elba's port towns of Portoferraio, Rio Marina, and Cavo.

Where to Go on Italy's Mediterranean Coast

Positano, Italy Travel Guide

The 15 Best Destinations in Italy

5 Must-See Towns on Italy's Amalfi Coast

Trips to Sicily: The Complete Guide

The 11 Best Things to Do in Sardinia, Italy

Visit the Amalfi Coast of Italy

18 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

Cagliari: Planning Your Trip

The Top 15 Things to Do in Sicily

Elba Island Travel Guide

The Top 11 National Parks in Italy

The 15 Best Beaches in Italy

The 9 Most Beautiful Islands in France

The Best Day Trips in Italy

The Most Romantic Places in Italy

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17 Of The Prettiest Italian Islands You Must Visit + Location Map

December 13, 2018 //  by  Follow Me Away //   2 Comments

If you are currently on the hunt for the best Italian islands to visit, you have come to the right place! It is no secret that the Italian islands are some of the most beautiful places on the planet, so the choice is more difficult because you have to decide which ones you want to visit. If you have time to visit all of the islands listed here, then we hope you invite us along on the trip!

From big and famous to small and remote, the islands of Italy have something to offer everyone. If you are looking for culture and history, there is an island for you. If you would prefer to get off-the-beaten-path, there are plenty of options for you as well. The islands of Italy are centrally located to many European countries, making them relatively easy to get to from both Eastern and Western Europe. With just a short flight or ferry ride, you will be transported to the island paradise of your choice where you can let the relaxing begin!

Below you will find the best Italian islands that you really shouldn’t miss! The only part left is choosing which one you want to visit!

17 Of The Prettiest Italian Islands You Must Visit

Asinara island is one of the most unique islands in italy.

Suggested by: My Adventures Across The World

Asinara Island is easily one of the most unique islands in Italy. Located off the north coast of Sardinia, it can be reached via a short ferry ride from either Stintino or Porto Torres. In the 19th century, this Italian island was used as a leper colony and it was then turned into a prison colony. It eventually became a high-security prison where Mafia bosses were held and where famous judges spent their time to prepare for the trials. The prison was eventually closed in the 1990s, following strong protests of the people living in northern Sardinia who complained that, due to the presence of Mafia bosses in the prison, their family had moved nearby and this increased the crime rate.

In 1997, Asinara became a National Park. Nobody lives there except for the Rangers. The Italian island can be visited on day trips from Porto Torres or Stintino, and it’s possible to stay overnight in the only hostel available, in Cala d’Oliva village. It’s a completely pristine island, packed with stunning beaches that, thanks to the fact that cars aren’t allowed and nobody lives there, remain uncrowded. There are many hiking and biking trails, making it perfect for nature and adventure lovers. Overall, this unique Italian island is a great place to have a break from the stress of city life.

Sicily Is The Largest Of The Italian Islands

Suggested by: A Girl And Her Dog On The Road

Sicily, the largest of the Italian Islands, may be synonymous with the Cosa Nostra and beautiful beaches but it is much more than this. Visitors should hire a car and tour the Island, exploring the quieter south side with its sleepier beaches and wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site Towns. There is the old town Ragusa Ibla. A baroque delight with an impressive Duomo, fans of the world-famous Italian crime drama Inspector Montalbano will no doubt recognize some locations End the day in the Giardino Ibleo with a Granita, the regions traditional drink of crushed ice and fresh fruit.

Don’t miss the nearby Italian island of Ortygia in Syracuse. With yet more jaw-dropping architecture and wonderful views of the lagoon. Nearby Noto and Modica are equally spectacular. Hikers should not miss the undisturbed Madonie National Park. Less than half an hour from the popular coastal town of Cefalu, escape from the crowds and get back to nature. Visit in early spring or autumn to enjoy warm weather and a more peaceful atmosphere. The summer months in Sicily are stiflingly hot, extremely busy and a haven for the dreaded mosquito. If this is one of the islands of Italy you want to visit during the summer, make sure you stay prepared!

Stromboli Is Home To An Erupting Volcano

Suggested by: Luxe Adventure Traveler 

Stromboli isn’t just a delicious type of stuffed Italian-American pizza. It’s also an island off of the north coast of Sicily and home to one of Italy’s three active volcanoes. One of the eight Aeolian Islands, Stromboli is known for its’ active volcano. One of the most active volcanoes on Earth, it’s been in constant eruption since 1932 and active for nearly 2000 years. The volcano can be seen at night spewing its fiery lava into the air, earning it the nickname of the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean. Adventure lovers can get up close and personal with a trek up Stromboli to sit on the rim and watch the fireworks of lava. It’s one of the most spectacular natural shows on earth and well worth the legs-to-jello inducing trek up. If you have always wanted to visit an active volcano, this Island in Italy is perfect!

Procida Is Just 4 Square Kilometers

Suggested By: Neverending Voyage

Procida is the smallest Italian island in the Bay of Naples, and although it’s only a 40-minute hydrofoil ride from Naples, it receives nowhere near as many foreign visitors as the popular neighboring islands of Capri and Ischia. The tiny island is only 4 square kilometers, so it’s easy to walk everywhere through the winding narrow lanes past lemon groves and hidden gardens. Procida’s highlights include its black sand beaches and colorful fishing villages. Marina Corricella is one of the most beautiful spots—a tangle of houses painted in pink, yellow, blue and green are built into the rock leading to the sea.

The 17th-century settlement is traffic-free and can only be reached by stairs in passageways through the houses. You can enjoy a meal with a view in one of the patio restaurant along the waterfront next to piles of fishing nets and bobbing boats. The Terra Murata is the oldest village and highest point on the island. Its fortress walls were built as protection from invaders in the 15th century. The views down to Marina Corricella and from the terrace of the quirky, crumbling church Abbazia di San Michele are the best on the island. This is one of the smallest Italian islands on the list but worth the visit!

The Termiti Islands Are An Archapeligo Off Mainland Italy

Suggested by: Thinking Nomads

The Termiti Islands is a beautiful archipelago of three islands, 36km offshore from mainland Italy. It is a picturesque composition of rugged cliffs, sandy coves and thick pine woods, surrounded by the glittering dark-blue sea. These Italian islands will take your breath away and you are in for a real treat. The islands’ main facilities are on San Domino, the largest and lushest Italian island formerly used to grow crops. It’s ringed by alternating sandy beaches and limestone cliffs. The island of San Nicola is the cultural and historical center of the three islands and bears the traces of a history often confused with legend.

You can start your trip from Acquedotto, a rocky beach, and then head to the Punta del Cimitero on the northern tip of the island to admire its steep cliffs, typical of the raw Mediterranean landscape. On the eastern part of the island, you can explore the cave Grotta del Ferraio with its mystical vibes and La Muratta, an ancient promontory hanging from the cliffs, reminiscent of the times when the island was isolated enough to attract pirates. For the last leg of your trip you can visit Isola Caprera on the north of San Domino. The island is uninhabited most of the year, but it is home to a gorgeous lighthouse and a small remote beach to explore with your boat, Cala dei Turchi. If you are looking to hit three of the prettiest islands of Italy in one place, the Termiti Islands are the perfect place for you to visit!

Sant’erasmo Is A Foodie Paradise

Suggested by: Travlin Mad

The small Venetian island of Sant’erasmo was known for centuries as the Garden of the Doges, and that’s literally what it was – the agricultural hub that grew the foods and wine grapes which fed the aristocracy and the Ruler of Venice. Sant’erasmo is a 10-minute boat ride and a world away from bustling Venice, though few visitors take the time to explore the quiet, idyllic bounty this small island in Italy provides.

Besides killer views of the surrounding lagoon, foodies and eco-travelers will love exploring the island by bike, riding along fields of violet artichokes, fresh honey farms, and prosecco vineyards as far as you can see. For the best experience, take a local food tour to meet the producers and even have an impromptu vineyard wine-tasting. And be sure to stop at Orto di Venezia, the only winery in Venice, to taste their crisp white organic wines grown from Malvasia and Vermentino grapes, overlooking the most scenic view of the lagoon. If you love food and wine, this is one of the prettiest Italian islands that will not disappoint!

Capri Is One Of The Most Famous Islands In Italy

Suggested by: The Wandering Wanderluster

Located in the Bay of Naples, the beautiful Italian island of Capri lies just 40 minutes by hydrofoil from Naples and 25 minutes from Sorrento. Famed for its rugged landscapes, boutique shopping and glamorous celebrity visitors, Capri is not just the perfect day trip option, but a great island vacation destination in its own right. Even the Roman Emperor Tiberius, back in his days of 27 – 37 AD, is quoted to have lived in and governed his empire from Capri and it’s easy to see why it has remained a popular holiday spot. Even if you have just one day in Capri , there is still so much to see and do! 

Mighty cliffs tower over the inviting turquoise warm waters perfect for a quick dip and luxurious boutiques in Capri Town lure you in with their fine linens and handmade ceramics colorfully decorated in summery lemons and royal blues. Explore the quieter town of Anacapri, visit the Villa San Michele and its picturesque gardens or take a thrilling ride on the single seat chairlift which ascends up the side of Mount Solaro. Offshore, hop on a private boat and ride around the island, leap off the back of the boat and swim to a hidden pebbled cove and discover the famous Blue Grotto, know for its deep sapphire colored water.

Isola San Giulio Is A Magical Inland Italian Island

Suggested By: Untold Morsels 

In the Piedmont region, not far from Milan, lies the mysterious, magical island Isola San Giulio, in the middle of Lake Orta. A tiny Italian island, only 275 meters long and 140 meters wide, it is dominated by the Romanesque Basilica San Giulio. The church is dedicated to a missionary sent by the Catholic Church in Rome to build 100 churches in the north of Italy. Legend has it that the island was overrun by snakes and monsters who disappeared when San Giulio arrived. These days, the island is home to a community of Benedictine nuns.

Visitors to this magical island in Italy are encouraged to take the walk the “Way of Silence and Meditation” around the island toward the basilica. It is an easy walk with picturesque views of the lake and the Italian island’s historic buildings – some of which are over 1,000 years old. Make sure to enter the basilica that is filled with beautiful frescoes and paintings. It is a short boat ride to and from the island from Orta San Giulio, a pretty town on the banks of Lake Orta. As you make the return ferry ride back to the lake shore you will keep glancing back at the bell tower on this island of Italy wondering when you will return.

The Borromean Islands Are All Located On Italian Lakes

Suggested by: Explore Now Or Never

Since we are already talking about beautiful Northern Italian islands, why not include a few more so you can visit them all in one trip? When most think of the Italian Lakes District north of Milan, Lake Como typically comes to mind. But just as lovely and a little less touristed is nearby Lake Maggiore and its beautiful Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola del Pescatori. They make a scenic and enchanting day trip from Stresa by ferry.

Isola Bella is the most famous of the three with its art-filled Baroque palace and white peacocks strutting in the famous Italianate garden. After touring the villa and underground grotto, a one way tour guides the visitor past manicured formal hedges, abundant climbing roses, and ultimately to the memorable Teatro Massimo sculpture, a structure built of a series of stone terraces and adorned with grottos, a unicorn and two obelisks. With more time, head next to Isola Madre for another tour of a gorgeous villa and exotic garden. Isola Pescatori (Superiore) is a tiny fishing village but makes a great spot for a delicious lakeside lunch. Tourists that want to skip the crowds often overnight on one of the three islands in Italy to enjoy serene evenings with locals only.

Murano Is Famous For Hand Blown Glass

Suggested by: Not About The Miles

Just a short vaporetto ride away, the island of Murano in the Venetian Lagoon makes for a wonderful full or part day trip from Venice. You can do the trip to Murano on its own, or combine it with tours of the neighboring Italian islands of Burano and Torcello [also discussed in this article!] You’ve probably heard of Murano before, in the context of glass. Murano’s hand-blown glass is famous the world over for its delicate beauty. Murano’s fame as the glass-blowing capital of the world came about somewhat fortuitously: the Doge of Venice decided that it was too dangerous to have the glass furnaces continue to operate in Venice because of its mainly wooden buildings. So the furnaces were moved to Murano, where the industry flourished in subsequent years.

When you visit the little Italian island of Murano, try to attend a glass-blowing demonstration at a local factory. It is awe-inspiring to see a craftsman or team of craftsmen expertly shape the molten glass into a beautiful object in a matter of minutes. Also, browse the glass showrooms for a pretty souvenir to take home. And make sure you see the huge Comet Glass Star sculpture at the Campo San Stefano. While glass is definitely everywhere in Murano, take the time to see the Duomo of Murano. The floor of the church features stunning Byzantine mosaics. You can get to Murano on a vaporetto or water taxi, or do a guided tour. However you choose to visit, you will love your time on the Isola di Murano!

Ischia Is Famous For Its Thermal Waters

Suggested by: Tripsget

One of the best islands to visit in Italy is Ischia, especially if you love relaxing! Ischia is located 30 km away from Naples and it’s very easy to reach by ferry in just 45 to 50 minutes. Ischia is a volcanic island and is famous for its thermal waters. There are plenty of thermal water parks and hotels that have swimming pools and spas with thermal water. Ischia is not as expensive and exclusive as neighboring Capri, however, it has some amazing restaurants and even local dishes that are native to the island, e.g. the rabbit stew in a clay pot. Ischia also has its own wines (mostly white).

Just as in Capri, you can hire your own private yacht or a boat and relax in privacy. Even though Ischia is not a big island and its population is only about 60,000 people, there are plenty of landmarks and things to do in Ischia such as the Castello Aragonese (the view from the top of the castle is absolutely stunning), La Mortella Botanical Garden (that also has a wonderful viewpoint from the top of the garden) and the little towns of Ischia such as St. Angelo d’Ischia. Ischia also has a pretty tall mountain – Mount Epomeo (almost 790 m) and you can choose from a wide variety of different hikes and routes to get on top of it and see the ultimate best panorama of the island. Ischia is a unique and relaxing Island in Italy that you are going to love!

The Aeolian Islands Are A True Italian Paradise

Suggested by: Live In 10 Countries

Greek myths may have associated them with winds, but the Aeolian Islands are soaked in the sunshine in the summer and dotted in bright blue waters all year round. It’s hard to believe that these Italian Islands are all here thanks to a volcano, except when you watch Stromboli in the distance giving off a bright red trickle of lava you realize that the land is active and alive. The other Italian islands are Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Panarea, Filicudi and Alicud – each a little piece of heaven.

The most popular route for a visit to these wonderful little islands of Italy is to fly to Sicily, which a lot of budget airlines fly to within Europe, plus there are regular flights from Rome. Then, join a cruise which will hop between the islands and give you a real flavor of each in just a day or two. You’ll land at a sunkissed port and have the chance to either swim, sunbathe or walk through quiet streets with pretty cafes. If it’s an idyllic slice of the Mediterranean, where time stands still, streets are windy and the welcome warm – you’ve found it in these pretty Islands in Italy!

Lido Is The Perfect Italian Island To Escape The Hustle And Bustle Of Venice

Suggested by: Arzo Travels

Venice is easily the most well-known chain of islands in Italy and while it is an amazing place to see, it is also incredibly crowded. If you need to unwind and take a break, and after two days in Venice you surely have to do so, then plan a trip to Lido. Lido is an 11-kilometer long sandbar in Venice – and while there might be prettier islands in Italy, the proximity to Venice mainland makes this a beautiful island to visit.

The island has some attractions, like the Malamocco Lagoon, the Parrocchia Santa Maria Elisabetta Church (and in September the Venice Fim Festival takes place here) but most of all you can enjoy some time at the beach. How to get there? Nothing easier than this. Just hop on a water taxi (vaporetto) which costs around 7,50€ for a one-way trip and takes about 20 minutes, and enjoy some time at the beach. The wide and sandy beaches in Lido are probably the best place after the hectic and business you will experience in Venice. This little slice near Venice is one of the best Italian islands for escaping the big city for a short break!

Read more: The Ultimate 10 Days In Italy Itinerary For Any Time Of Year

Mount Isola Is Surrounded By The Italian Alps

Suggested by: Travel By A Sherrie Affair

Lago d’Iseo is referred to as “The Pearl of Italy’s Lake district ” and is a magical Italian island in the mountains!  This beautiful island is surrounded by the Italian Alps, delicious food, beautiful scenery, and wonderful people. Making this area of Italy a perfect place to live and visit.   It is the fourth largest lake in Italy.  The largest lake island in all of Europe is in the middle of the Lago d’Iseo, Mount Isola.  Mount Isola can only be reached by boats and ferries.  However, for 16 days in 2016 visitors were able to walk there!  Yes, the artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude developed the Floating Piers that connected Sulzano and Peschiera Maraglio, a village on Mount Isola.  Locals and tourist from all over came to experience what it felt like to walk on water.

Peschiera Maraglio is an old fishing village where many fishing nets are made that are used for catching little sardines, the gourmet meal of Lago d’Iseo.  Mount Isola even has its own castle that was built sometime in the 14 th  century, Rocca Oldofredi.   The fortress castle like many was abandoned but in the 1960’s it was restored however is still private property.  Madonna Della Ceriola Sanctuary and the Church of S. Michele are also worth exploring while on the beautiful Mount Isola. If you are looking for unique and lesser-known islands in Italy, this will be the perfect place for you!

Burano Is Home To Cute Colorful Buildings

Suggested by: Josie Wanders

The Italian island of Burano is located in the Venetian Lagoon and is most well known for its beautifully colored buildings. Today the colors make the perfect Instagram backdrop and they are a popular subject for artists. The colors are an important part of the traditional lifestyle on the island. Before a house is repainted, an application must be made to the local government authorities who will decide what color the house will be through a system that has been in place for centuries.

Burano is also known for its traditional lace-making trades and delicious seafood caught in the surrounding lagoon served up in little pavement cafes dotted throughout the small town.  Burano is less than an hour from Venice by ferry, and most visitors come here on a day trip, often combined with a visit to the nearby glass-making island of Murano which was mentioned above. Consider staying on the island for at least one night though, as the island is magical as the light changes when the sun goes down. One of the more famous Italian islands, Murano is a wonderful place to pick up a memorable souvenir.

Ortigia Is A Remote Yet Wonderful Island In Italy

Suggested by: Delve Into Europe

Ortigia is the historic core of the ancient Greek city of Syracuse or Siracusa. It’s a tiny Italian island just off the shore of the modern Sicilian city, yet a world away in feel. The modern city has some of the best Greek ruins in Italy, but Ortigia (sometimes spelled Ortygia) is so much more seductive. The is one of the smaller Italian islands and is barely 1 km long by 500 meters wide, and much of it is closed to traffic.

Much of this island in Italy is a warren of lanes and alleyways lined with crumbling Baroque mansions and filled with beautiful backstreet trattorie. The two seafront walks either side of the island look out over the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea. The jewel of Ortigia is the Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral Square. It’s one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, dominated by the Baroque front of the Duomo. One side of the square is lined with cafes, a wonderful place to stop by for a caffè or gelato in the evening, for a tiny fraction of the cost in Venice or Rome. If you love getting away from the crowds and saving money, Ortigia is one of the best Italian islands to visit!

Torcello Is The Least Visited Island In The Venetian Lagoon

Suggested by: Travelling Book Junkie

Unlike the heavy footfall that hits Venice, Murano and Burano on a daily basis, Torcello is in comparison the poor relation, with many visitors opting not to visit. For those that do decide to disembark and explore the tiny island, you will get a glimpse of what was once home to the first successful settlement in the Venetian lagoon. Today, the Italian island’s unique charm still draws people in and if you wish to get away from the hordes of tourists visiting its extremely popular sister island, you will fall in love with this tranquil, almost sleepy archipelago.

Head towards the main piazza of this cute Italian island where you can stand looking up in awe at the ancient cathedral which is crumbling in places but is still a magnificent example of Byzantium building success before wandering into the Church of Santa Maria Assunta which contains some of the earliest mosaics of the area. Amongst its most famous visitors was Ernest Hemingway who fell in love with the peaceful islet during his 1948 visit. In fact, the author loved it so much he actually spent an entire month there at Locanda Cipriani gaining inspiration for his novel Across the River and Into the Trees. If you loved Venice but are tired of the crowds, this is one of the best islands in Italy for you!

Map Of The Best Italian Islands 

If you are looking for a map of the best Italian islands, you can simply download it below! Our Italian islands map has the Google Map locations of each and every island included in this article so you can easily find it during your trip. Some people are more visual so this map islands in Italy will help you see where they are all located around the country so you can better plan your trip. Better still, it can help you see which islands are close together in case you are able to stop at more than one during your visit to Italy! We hope you love the Italian islands as much as we did!

Click Here To Download A Map Of The Best Italian Islands 

Each and every one of these Italian islands has something special to offer! From an island surrounded by the alps to a sandy shoal near Venice, there is something for everyone. Let us know which one of these Italian islands are your favorites in the comments. If we left something off of this list, let us know what it is and maybe we will visit on our next trip! 

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10 Best Islands in Italy To Visit

The Italian islands are truly stunning! Stick around for our handpicked list of the best islands in Italy .

Italy is mainly surrounded by water and composed of great islands that you can visit if you want to escape the noise of the mainland.

From pristine Mediterranean coves to fishing villages near active volcanoes, these enchanting getaways off the coast of Italy can make your vacation dreams come true.

The country has more than 400 islands, but in this article, we listed 10 of the best Italian islands to visit that will surely satisfy your island beach cravings.

Table of Contents

Here are the 10 top islands in Italy that you should visit at least once in your lifetime.

Sicily is consistently ranked as one of the stunning islands in Italy that every traveler should visit. It’s the biggest island in the Mediterranean, about the same size as Luxembourg.

There are enough things to do in Sicily to make it worth a separate trip, not just a quick stop. Sicily has three ancient sites, two natural sites, and two architectural sites, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

The best ancient buildings that still stand are temples, amphitheaters, and villas from the Greek and Roman cultures: Selinunte has one of the biggest Greek temples and Agrigento has one of the best-kept ones.

It also has several beautiful beaches. One of Italy’s best beaches, San Vito Lo Capo, has white sand and blue water.

A romantic island in the Bay of Naples.

That is the first thing that will pop into your head when you hear the word “Capri.”

It is one of those popular islands of Italy that many people visit eventhough its most famous landmark is hidden in the steep cliffs.

There are caves, arches, and the Faraglioni sea stacks around the island. Small boats can go into the Blue Grotto, where the water is blue because of how the sun shines.

Capri’s highlights are the mansion and gardens of San Michele and the Giardini di Augusto, which are high on the cliffs and looking out over Marina Piccola and the Faraglioni.

There are great views from the trails along the coast, or you can take a chairlift to the top of the island’s tallest mountain.

3. Sardinia

Sardinia is one the most famous Italian islands. It has its own language, culture, and food, separating it from the mainland.

People know Costa Smeralda for its famous white beaches and green oceans. Most of the island is covered with golden sand, and the beaches in the south and west are beautiful.

Many are surprised by how swiftly Sardinia’s hinterland rises to steep mountains, hiding centuries-old communities. Also astonishing are the island’s hundreds of prehistoric ruins, especially the nuraghi stone towers.

There are beautiful beaches with sand close by. Many are well-built, and you can go through passages and spiral steps from the Bronze and Iron Ages. Megaliths and carvings on the island make it even more mysterious.

4. The Venetian Islands

Venice is made up of islands connected by bridges or distributed throughout the lagoon. Four “detached” islands draw vacationers, making it one of the beautiful islands in Italy.

The beach-lined Lido is Venice’s playground and Europe’s first beach resort, where royalty gathered at its lavish hotels. Today, it boasts a festive feel and Art Nouveau architecture. Lido is a favorite family destination in Venice.

Murano’s canal is dotted with glassblowers’ studios and businesses selling their work and foreign glass items. Visit the glass museum in the 17th-century Palazzo Giustinian to learn about the glassblowers and the island’s history.

Burano’s colorful waterways are reached by boat. It’s known for lace, yet many of the items in its shops are imported. Visit the Scuola di Merletti and its museum to witness actual lace.

Torcello, near Burano, was the initial site of Venice in the 7th century. The town’s 639 cathedral is the best-preserved example of Venetian-Byzantine architecture. Torcello’s 11th-century mosaics are excellent.

A must-visit in the region of Veneto, the Venetian islands are among the most beautiful islands in Italy.

Ancient Greeks and Romans were drawn to Ischia’s hot springs, and travelers have since enjoyed its beaches and gard people rens. Spiaggia Citara has all three, with magnificent spa gardens overlooking the shore. Spiaggia dei Maronti, near Sant’Angelo, has three open-air thermal pools.

Summer beaches are crowded, so take a boat taxi to a private area. From Forio on the west coast, visit Giardini Ravino to admire succulents and cacti or La Mortella, designed by Susana and Sir William Walton.

You may take a boat from Naples or Ischia to Procida, a smaller, less-crowded island. Whichever you choose, you’re assured of the best experience only the islands of Italy can provide!

Also read: 14 Best Non-Touristy Cities and Towns in Italy You Must Visit Before They’re Crowded

Definitely one of the most famous islands in Italy, Elba is known for its vast miles of beaches and for being where Napoleon Bonaparte went to live in exile.

Elba is an island south of Livorno off the coast of Tuscany . It has more than 150 beaches. Long stretches of sand lead to coves with pebbles. Families can ski on Sansone’s gentle, shallow slopes. Off cliffs, people often go scuba diving.

Not everything here is a beach. Take the basket-like cable car up Monte Capanne if you like rides that make you dizzy.

Napoleon’s Villa dei Molini in Portoferraio and Villa Napoleone in Monte San Martino are renowned destinations.

7. Aeolian Islands

Cruise ships leave Sicily in the evening to view Stromboli’s nighttime eruptions. Seeing it from a cruise ship on a beautiful Mediterranean night is one of Italy’s most romantic experiences.

You never know what an uncorked hole in the earth may accomplish – it’s a live, active volcano. Stromboli blew off an entire island hillside in 2002.

Stromboli is one of Sicily’s Aeolian Islands, accessed by ferry from Messina or Milazzo. Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Filicudi, Alicudi, and Panarea rise from a 4,000-meter-deep seafloor.

The mild climate, fumaroles and thermal springs, old remains (people have lived here since the Neolithic age), trekking, and water sports make the islands one of Italy’s most popular destinations.

Vulcano and Lipari Aeolian Islands Daily Cruise from Messina visit Lipari and another Aeolian island. For a private boat tour, book here .

8. Borromean Islands

In the mid-1600s, Count Vitaliano Borromeo created a luxurious summer mansion and a terraced garden on the tiny island of Isola Bella outside Stresa on Lake Maggiore to incorporate every element of Italianate gardens into a minimal space.

Both produce a sensual overload of gilded flourishes, enormous salons, sculptures, trees, flowers, and even a shell-encrusted false cave.

It’s a lot of fun to see. Then you’ll enjoy a calm stroll around the adjoining Isola Madre’s extensive gardens and covered lakeside paths, which has its own more modest summer palace.

Stop for lake fish at the even smaller Isola Pescatori, a fishing community that completes the Borromean Islands trilogy.

You may easily visit all three in one day by boat on a Lake Maggiore Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Ferry Tour from Stresa, spending as much time as you wish seeing the palaces and gardens.

For a boat tour of the three Borromean Islands, book here .

The Pontine Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, between Rome and Naples , are small. Ponza, the largest, is under 8 square kilometers.

Ponza, where Homer’s Odyssey says Circe summered, is popular with Romans but rarely visited by foreigners.

The terrain is steep, so don’t bring a bicycle. The harbor is full of taxi boats and other boats you can rent to explore the island. Or you can also join a round-island cruise with beach and attraction stops.

Arco Naturale, Cala Feola, Roman caves, white cliffs, and sea caves are among these attractions.

Above the harbor, where there’s a promenade, is a botanical garden featuring Mediterranean and exotic flora.

Ponza can be reached via ferry from Naples or southern Rome’s Terracina. For private tours, check out deals here .

10. Tremiti Islands

The Tremiti Islands – tremiti meaning “earthquakes” – are a little-known archipelago in the Adriatic, north of the Gargano Peninsula and part of the largest park in Puglia called Gargano National Park. These are among the most beautiful islands in Italy.

The most populous is San Nicola, but San Domingo has the only sandy beach – Cala delle Arene. Uninhabited islands are Capraia, Cretaccio, and Pianosa.

The islands are a diver’s secret paradise. You can visit isolated coves and snorkeling places to observe the islands by boat. Under the sea are caves, rock formations, black coral, World War II aircraft, and a statue of Padre Pio – a local saint. Some underwater nature routes are suitable for snorkelers.

Water activities and walking routes dominate the Tremiti Islands. However, the towns provide a few attractions, including the Abbey of Santa Maria al Mare and a fortress on San Nicola.

For private boat tours, book here .

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• Island Vacations

10 Secret Islands in Italy That Have All of the Beauty and None of the Tourists

Dreamy beaches, delicious food, stellar snorkeling, and much more await.

Everyone's heard of Sicily , Sardinia , and fashionable Capri , but when it comes to enchanting islands, Italy has much more to offer than the usual headline acts. And few people realize that the country's coastline is actually peppered with over 350 idyllic islands, from picture-perfect Favignana to car-free Panarea to rugged Marettimo.

Some of these islands are quite remote and hard to reach, while others require less effort; some are chic, and others are laid-back and rustic. One word of warning, though: The Italians adore their islands and make a beeline for them during their summer holidays. So, if you don't want to share your slice of paradise with lots of others, avoid traveling there in July and August. If true solitude is what you're seeking, visit during the winter months — you may be the only visitor.

Lying an hour's ferry ride from the western coast of Sicily, craggy Favignana is the largest and most popular of the three Egadi Islands, a butterfly-shaped mass of land fringed by a jagged coastline interspersed with sandy beaches (Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra are among the best) and small, secret coves. You'll find the impossibly clear, azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea dotted with dinghies, sailing boats, and yachts gliding silently along the rocky coast. Stock up on picnic essentials and head to the port to hire a small boat with or without a skipper ( Capitan Sinagra is a good bet) and spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and sipping cold beer.

Pro Tip: Scooter is by far the best way to get around on land — rent one from Brezza Marina .

Where to Stay: The west-facing Dimora dell'Olivastro is a small, stylish guest house in an utterly peaceful setting among olive groves and dry stone walls.

Where to Eat: Bright, rustic Osteria del Sotto Sale is a good place to sample the local cuisine, including peppery mussel soup, tuna tartare with capers and mint, and tuna steak.

Getting There : Ferries and hydrofoils from Trapani on Sicily's west coast are run by Siremar and Liberty Lines .

The charm of tiny, nearly traffic-free Marettimo — the most remote of the Egadi Islands — lies in its simplicity. Relative inaccessibility and a lack of hotels have kept things here largely rustic. Habitués come and stay a while, renting simple rooms and apartments in the only town, a tumble of whitewashed, blue-shuttered buildings clustered around a delightfully shabby port. They spend their time exploring sea caves and grottoes, swimming off the rocky shore, lingering over morning cappuccinos, and retreating to shady terraces with a book before feasting on local lobster soup in one of the simple trattorias. It's the ultimate wind-down destination, but if you have the energy, the walking trails through the scented macchia are well worth exploring — you may see peregrine falcons or even an eagle along the way.

Pro Tip: The diving and snorkeling is spectacular in the protected waters surrounding Marettimo — contact Voglia di Mare .

Where to Stay: Marettimo Residence is an eco-friendly hotel residence with self-catering apartments and wonderful views.

Where to Eat: You can eat in or take out at La Cambusa, a fabulous deli and wine shop selling a tempting array of prepared dishes, sandwiches, cheeses, and charcuterie. It's perfect for a picnic on the beach.

Getting There: Ferries and hydrofoils from Trapani on Sicily's west coast are run by Siremar and Liberty Lines .

The middle of the seven Aeolian Islands , sleepy, verdant Salina was formed from two extinct volcanoes. Lying off northern Sicily, it's now famous for its production of sweet Malvasia wine and capers. Small, whitewashed towns and villages can be found along the coastline; Santa Marina is the port and main hub, where you can hire a boat for exploring by sea (the best way). There's not much else to do on Salina except swimming in limpid waters off pebbly beaches, feasting on marvelously fresh fish and seafood, and drinking in the magnificent views. But that's precisely the point.

Pro Tip: The best lemon granita on the island (and arguably in the world) is served at bar Da Alfredo in Lingua.

Where to Stay: The sublime, whitewashed Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia has its own lighthouse and an excellent gourmet restaurant. Plus, it's set among vineyards and boasts far-reaching sea views.

Where to Eat: Laid out on several dreamy terraces overlooking the harbor, elegant Porto Bello offers some unique dishes, like spaghetti with clams and truffles and swordfish in a pistachio crust, as well as the Sicilian standards.

Getting There: Ferries run to Salina from Milazzo via Lipari, and the journey takes about 90 minutes.

In terms of vibe, picture-perfect Panarea (one of the easternmost of the Aeolian Islands) is about as far from Salina as you could possibly get. The epitome of barefoot luxury, the destination became popular in the 1960s, and today, celebs like Beyonce, Bill Gates, and Uma Thurman count as regulars. They anchor their smart yachts and shimmy ashore in linen, cashmere, and bejeweled sandals to hang out and sip Negronis at the see-and-be-seen Bar del Porto. There are no cars on the island (locals drive golf carts or three-wheeler Apes), so if you want to get anywhere, you'll need to walk.

Pro Tip: Rent a traditional wooden boat from charter company Sea Panarea to explore caves, coves, and the two micro-islands of Basiluzzo and Lisca.

Where to Stay: Tumbling, terraced Hotel Raya has been the top place to stay on the island since the 1960s. Cocktails on the rooftop bar and party-till-dawn sessions at the nightclub are legendary.

Where to Eat: Family-run Hycesia serves up elegant fish and seafood dishes, some with a creative twist.

Getting There: You can catch an overnight ferry or a faster hydrofoil from Naples, or a ferry or hydrofoil from Milazzo.

Pantelleria

This remote lump of black volcanic rock, relentlessly buffeted by warm, sirocco winds, is closer to Tunisia than Italy. Arab invaders left their mark in the vernacular dammusi, dwellings built of local black stone with domed roofs and two-meter-thick walls to keep out the heat. Publicity-shy celebs like Giorgio Armani and Luca Zingaretti ( Inspector Montalbano ) have villas here, but the island remains far removed from the jet-set (or any other) circuit. There may be no beaches, but Pantelleria is rich in volcanic activity; expect fumaroles, mud baths, and natural saunas, and don't leave without trying the honeyed local dessert wine, Zibibbo.

Pro Tip: Climb up past prickly pears to the Grotta del Bagno Asciutto, a kind of natural sauna in a cave where heat rises from the bowels of the island, thanks to geothermal activity.

Where to Stay: Sikelia is built around a group of typical dammusi with terraces looking out to the sea. The spa offers mud treatments, and the restaurant serves up a fusion of southern Italian, North African, and Arab cuisines.

Where to Eat: On a lovely terrace overlooking the sea, La Nicchia in Scauri offers local dishes such as caponata and swordfish steaks served with tomatoes, black olives, and capers.

Getting There: There are flights from Palermo and Trapani, which take between 30 and 45 minutes.

Most travelers venture to Vulcano to climb its active volcano or to bathe in its famous mud baths just a short stroll from the ferry dock. Devotees slather themselves in the therapeutic mud from an open-air pool, then jump in the sea to rinse it all off. But there's more to do if you can stand the sulphuric stench. Rent a Mehari and explore the lush, green interior, where goats roam the volcanic mountainside. Take the winding road down to the black-sand beach at Gelso where you'll find a clutch of buildings and a superb waterside restaurant, Trattoria Da Pina.

Pro Tip :If you want to peer into the depths of the Gran Cratere (a fairly easy two-hour climb from the port), wear sturdy shoes and a sunhat. Set off in the early morning or late afternoon as there is no shade.

Where to Stay: The coastal Therasia Resort is located near Vulcanello, the island's smaller extinct volcano. Choose a suite for added privacy and full sea views.

Where to Eat: Effort is required to reach Trattoria Da Pina, a simple terrace restaurant on an isolated beach at Gelso, but the reward is fantastically good. Feast on couscous with baby squid, marinated anchovies, pasta with clams, stuffed calamari, and seared tuna.

Getting There: Ferries run from Milazzo, and the journey takes about one hour.

The largest of the Pontine Islands — mere clumps of rock dropped in the Tyrrhenian Sea between Rome and Naples — Ponza has an otherworldly feel and is shrouded in ancient myth and legend (the witch, Circe, used it as her summer pad). In-the-know Romans flock here, but the destination doesn't see many international visitors. Clinging to steep cliffs, the brightly painted houses in the main town overlook the harbor packed with bobbing boats. Take the local bus to explore the island (it's too hilly for bicycles) and follow the walking trails through the scented vegetation down to hidden bays and secret coves.

Pro Tip : Ponza's top beach is Spiaggia di Frontone, a curve of pebbly sand lapped by clear water and framed by rocks. For easy access, hop on a taxi boat from the port and stick around for a sunset Campari spritz.

Where to Stay: The Grand Hotel Santa Domitilla is located in the main town; make sure to get a sea-facing room. Facilities include a beach club on Frontone beach.

Where to Eat: Located on the main waterfront drag with a terrace overlooking the busy port, upmarket Acquapazza serves up dishes like spaghetti with sea urchin, swordfish, and lobster.

Getting There: Laziomar operates ferry services to Ponza from Anzio, 25 miles north of Rome. The trip time is approximately one hour, 20 minutes.

Overshadowed by glam Capri and spa-crazy Ischia, the tiny, low-key island of Procida, famous for its lemons, is a delightful place to visit. Ferries dock side by side with fishing boats in bustling Marina Grande, where cafés and restaurants are strung out along the quayside. But for real island charm, head to the Instagram-worthy harbor of Corricella, a jumble of pastel-hued houses where scenes from "The Talented Mr. Ripley" were filmed. From here, climb up to the imposing, fortified Terra Murata for extraordinary sea views. The best way to explore the mainly flat island is by scooter or bicycle; you can hire both at Sprint near the port.

Pro Tip: Don't miss the typical Procida salad of chopped local lemons, fresh chili, and mint drizzled with olive oil for a burst of freshness on a boiling hot day.

Where to Eat: With a quayside terrace overlooking the marina at Chiaiolella, Da Mariano offers delicious local seafood dishes such as pasta with polipetti (baby octopus), seafood risotto, and fritto misto .

Where to Stay: La Casa sul Mare has 10 simple, airy rooms, all with wonderful views over the sea and Corricella.

Getting There: Ferries and hydrofoils run from Naples and Pozzuoli.

La Maddalena

The ferry crossing to the island of La Maddalena from Palau on the northeast coast of Sardinia takes just 20 minutes, but this peaceful spot is a world away from the overpriced kitsch of the nearby Costa Smeralda. This is the largest of the eponymous archipelago, a cluster of seven islands and outlying islets fringed by a pink-hued rocky shoreline. The only town on the island is a lively port with good shops, bars, and restaurants, but during the day, you'll want to explore the dozens of glorious beaches and swim in the turquoise waters, which are among the cleanest in the Mediterranean.

Pro Tip: Italian military hero Giuseppe Garibaldi made the wild island of Caprera his home for the last 27 years of his life, partly in exile. Caprera is connected to the main island by a bridge; you can visit his former house, now the small Museo Garibaldino, then set off to explore the magnificent beaches.

Where to Stay: The Grand Hotel Resort Ma&Ma in the southwest part of the island makes a good base for exploring the archipelago, and after a tiring day, you can retreat to the excellent spa facilities.

Where to Eat: Feast on fregola with seafood, culurgiones (fried ravioli stuffed with potato, sheep's cheese, and mint), porcheddu (roast suckling pig), and other local specialities at the cozy Sottovento near the main port.

Getting There: The ferry ride from Palau to La Maddalena is just 20 minutes.

Hardly under the radar, but big enough to absorb the droves of Italians that pile in for the summer holidays, Elba (the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago) is a solid choice if you want some sightseeing and culture along with your beach holiday. Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled here in 1814-15, and you can visit both his villas. Other attractions include the remains of a first century B.C. Roman villa at Punta delle Grotte and Portoferraio's iconic hilltop Forte Stella. For downtime, head to one of the world-class beaches, which range from great curving bays with fully-serviced lidos, like Biodola, to handkerchief-sized creeks accessible only by sea ( boat rentals are available) or via a long trek on foot. And for an evening stroll and gelato, old Portoferraio and the towns of Marciana Marina and Capoliveri are a delight.

Pro Tip: Take the cable car (which is more like a cable basket for two) from Marciana Alta to the top of Monte Capanne for views that stretch all the way to Corsica.

Where to Stay: The boutique Hotel Ilio has 19 modern rooms and a pretty garden, and it lies just above the gorgeous beach at Sant'Andrea in the western part of the island. Try and book the standalone seafront suite for a romantic getaway.

Where to Eat: Osteria del Noce in Marciana Alta serves up Elban and Ligurian specialities (think spaghetti with mullet roe or pesto and oven-baked catch of the day with potatoes, cherry tomatoes, and black olives).

Getting There: Ferries run all year from Piombino on the Tuscan coast, and the journey takes about an hour.

Best Islands in Italy to Visit | 13 Stunning Places to Explore

Looking for the best islands in Italy to visit this year? Italy is one of the most charming places in the Mediterranean, and while the mainland is pretty awesome, so are its picturesque islands.

Italy has one of the oldest civilizations on earth and over the years has left a powerful mark in world history. The country is home to some of the world’s greatest works of art, architecture, beautiful cities , and of course, delicious Italian food.

It also boasts some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world, from the Italian Alps, pristine sandy beaches, and islands dotted around lakes and lagoons.

Italy has about 450 Islands, so it might be a bit tricky to try and narrow down which ones you should visit. That’s why I’ve listed the best Italian islands below to help you out! 

The island of Sicily is not only the largest of Italy’s islands but also the largest island in the Mediterranean. It sits at the bottom of the mainland and is only 100 miles (160km) northeast of Tunisia.

Sicily has something for everyone including rich ancient history, baroque cities, hilltop towns, and 621 miles (1000km) of coastline. So there’s no shortage of beaches where you can soak up the sun.

Oh, and let’s not forget there’s also Mount Etna, the most active volcano in Europe. If you fancy an adventure, you can take a guided tour up to the top of Mt. Etna

A visit to Sicily wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its capital, Palermo. Some of the best Italian food can be found in Palermo. So if you’re a keen foodie, then Palermo is the city for you.

How to get there: You can take a ferry from the mainland across the Strait of Messina or by flying to Catania or Palermo.

Capri is without a doubt one of the most famous Italian islands, and this list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning it. The island is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea and was made famous by Jackie Kennedy’s visit in the 1960s.

It’s one of the most charming Italian islands with stunning panoramic views across the Bay of Naples. It boasts crystal clear blue waters, sea caves, intricate rock formations, and peaceful gardens.

Capri is 1 hour away from Naples and only 30 minutes from Sorrento and can be reached by ferry.

How to get there: You can catch a ferry from Naples or Sorrento. The ride will take about 45-minutes to an hour.

3) Sardinia

The Italian island of Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean and is located west of the mainland.

Sardinia is an island of the most amazing natural contrasts. It has some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches surrounded by emerald waters and coves. It’s also a mountainous island with alpine forests that hide quaint little villages.

It’s also important to mention that Sardinia is known to be the “foodie island” with a food culture rich in history and the most hospitable people in all of Italy.

The island of Levanzo is the smallest of the three Aegadian Islands just west of Sardinia. While it may be a small island, it’s arguably the most photogenic Italian island.

The island is best known for its Neolithic cave paintings at the Grotto del Genovese cave, which can be visited on a guided tour.

This idyllic island is also lined with pretty whitewashed houses which sit in the village of Cala Dogana.

How to get there: Levanzo can be reached by ferry departing from the city of Trapani in Sicily, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a hydrofoil ferry from Trapani which only takes about 25 minutes.

Paranea is the smallest of the seven Aeolian islands. While it may be one of the smaller islands in Italy, it’s quite exclusive and many of Milan’s residents flock to the island in summer.

It’s also known as the “party island,” and during summer the harbor of Panarea fills up fast with glitzy yachts.

Along with pretty beaches, it also has plenty of rocky inlets which can be used to jump off into the turquoise waters below.

How to get there: Ferries depart daily from Milazzo, a small town on the north coast of Sicily. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to get from Milazzo to Panarea.

Ischia is one of the islands near Capri at the northern end of the Gulf of Naples. This volcanic island is conveniently located just 19 miles (30km) from Naples.

This gorgeous island has plenty of uncrowded beaches, natural hot springs, and thermal pools. It’s a great place to enjoy the summer without the bustle of tourists.

Pastel-colored houses run down from the island’s hilltops down to the blissful fishing villages along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Be sure to check out the Roman ruins underwater at Cartaromana Beach and the Aragonese Castle.

How to get there: Ischia can be reached directly from Naples by boat.

The island of Elba lies just north of one of Italy’s best-known regions, Tuscany. It is also the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park and the third-largest island in Italy.

Elba is known for its amazing beaches, as well as being French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte’s place of exile from 1814 to 1815. In the town of Portoferraio, you’ll find the National Museum of Napoleonic Residences that follows Napoleon’s time spent on Elba.

The island is also where you’ll find many interesting restaurants that offer some of the freshest and most delicious Italian seafood cuisine and traditional local food.

How to get there: You can catch a ferry from the port town of Piombino, 100 miles (160km) south of Florence, which will take about 45 minutes.

If you’re planning a vacation in Tuscany, be sure to check out this guide on where to stay in Tuscany .

Lipari is the largest of the Aeolian Islands and lies just north of the coast of Sicily. The island is a true gem of the Mediterranean with so much to discover.

The island has a cheery atmosphere, and its old town is a charming little place with narrow streets lined with numerous shops and cafes that are open until late in the evening.

The old town is where you can enjoy some interesting food such as hot donuts with ricotta cheese, and mulberry granita with cream and brioche.

Lipari is also home to the Old Church of Quattropani, which sits at the top of the island. From here you’ll get stunning panoramic views of the island as well as some of the other Aeolian Islands. The best time to go is at sunset when the colors of the sun dance around the waves.

How to get there: Lipari can be reached by plane from Catania, Naples, Palermo, and Reggio Calabria. You can also reach the island by ferry or hydrofoil from Naples, Milazzo, and Palermo.

Ponza is situated halfway between Rome and Naples. This retro island is a popular holiday destination for many Romans looking to get away from the city during the summer.

The island is just 31 miles (50km) off the coast of the mainland and is the largest of the six Pontine Islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Although Ponza may be one of the larger islands, it’s one of the lesser-known islands of Italy, making it the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful and quiet vacation.

Ponza is the perfect example where people take the expression “l a dolce vita ” quite literally. Most people enjoy lazy days by the sea, strolling around the island, enjoying breathtaking sunsets, and feasting on fresh seafood.

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous be sure to visit the Grotte di Pilato, an intricate system of artificial tunnels and pools built by the Romans, where you can take a plunge and cool off.

How to get there: You can catch a ferry directly from Naples.

10) Stromboli

Stromboli has been nicknamed the “lighthouse of the Mediterranean.” It is one of seven volcanic islands that belong to the Aeolian Archipelago.

The island is home to the towering Mount Stromboli volcano which sits 3038 feet (926m) above sea level. It’s one of the most active volcanoes in the world and has been erupting intermittently for over 2000 years.

While Stomboli might seem like a daunting island to visit, it’s one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean, with hundreds of tourists flocking to its black-sand beaches in summer.

One of the best things to do on the island, if you’re feeling brave enough, is to trek up to the volcano’s summit at sunset and watch the lava fireworks against the night sky.

Alternatively, you can still watch this spectacular natural firework display on a boat tour around the Sciara del Fuoco.

How to get there: You can take a ferry or hydrofoil from Naples or Milazzo and Messina in Sicily.

11) Lampedusa 

Lampedusa is an island off the coast of Italy and the most southern Italian island. It lies 105 miles (168km)  from Sicily and 142 miles (228km) from Tunisia.

If you’re a nature lover, then it’s well worth the effort to make the journey to Lampedusa. The island is best known for its natural beauty and is popular with tourists.

The island is one of the three Pelagie Islands and is known for its incredible beaches. These include the Spiaggia dei Conigli with its shallow waters and colorful variety of marine life.

Some of the creatures that you should keep an eye out for in the waters around Lampedusa include friendly dolphins and sea turtles. It’s no surprise that two of the island’s most popular activities are scuba diving and snorkeling.

How to get there: You can catch a ferry from Porto Empedocle in Sicily that will take roughly 4 hours.

12) Procida

The tiny island of Procida is one of the Phlegrean Islands that sits between Ischia and Capri in the Bay of Naples.

While it may sit in the shadows of the two larger islands, it has recently been named Italy’s Capital of Culture and managed to beat nine other largest cities and towns, becoming the first island to claim the title.

It is notably peaceful even during the busy summer season, making it the perfect spot to escape the flocks of tourists heading to its larger neighbors.

Procida’s main port is filled with traditional colorful houses, each one painted in vivid colors such as pink, yellow, orange, red, and blue. These are all colors traditionally used by the local fisherman to identify their boats.

Procida’s main street, Via Roma, which is just around the corner from the port, is a good spot for meals and is lined with restaurants, cafes, and espresso bars.

Be sure to order the Lingua di Suocera, a traditional Procida pastry filled with lemon custard. It’s highly recommended by both locals and tourists.

How to get there: You can catch a ferry or hydrofoil from Naples which will take around 40 minutes. Another option is to catch a ferry from Capri or Ischia which will only take between 15 and 25 minutes.

Another one of the best Italian islands to visit is Giglio, which is part of the Tuscan Archipelago and is just one hour away from the mainland. A day trip here is one of the best things to do in Porto Ercole , and will be a nice and relaxing escape!

While it’s not as flashy as some of the other Italian islands, this picturesque place offers dreamy sea views and hidden coves perfect for diving and snorkeling. There are also some amazing hiking trails there, making it any nature lover’s dream destination.

For those wanting to lay back and enjoy the island’s relaxed atmosphere, there are plenty of beaches to laze around and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

How to get there: Ferries depart from Porto Santo Stefano in Tuscany, and it only takes an hour to reach the island.

Planning A Trip To Italy?

My website is filled with awesome articles like things to do, itineraries, music festivals, and so much more! I’d love for you to take a look through a couple of my favorites below, and let me know what you think!

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• The 20 Best Airbnbs In Florence, Italy | Gorgeous Apartments, Lofts + Rooftop Views
• 10 Awesome Things To Do In Florence, Italy
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• 10 Awesome Things To Do In Rome

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12 Best Italian Islands To Visit

One of the best things about Italy is how diverse the country is. I mean, you’ve got gorgeous lakes like Como in the north, the best Italian Islands to visit, and picturesque cities like Rome , Bologna and Matera , too.

Plus, that’s before we even broach the subject of gelato.

I know I harp on about Italy all the time, but with good reason. It’s gorgeous!

Now, although the mainland is stunning, so are the prettiest and best Italian islands that are just too good to miss.

From some of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean to some of the most charming Italian places to visit , there are some of the best Italian islands Italian island that I’m almost certain you’ll love.

Take a look at some of the best Italian islands you should visit on your next trip.

Perched within the Gulf of Naples, Ischia is a gorgeous volcanic island that’s so charming to visit. You can get to the island directly from Naples by boat and explore this gorgeous place.

Make sure to visit the hydrothermal  Negombo Park, see Aragonese Castle and swim to the Roman ruins that are underwater at Cartaromana Beach.

Read more: Best beaches in Sicily

2.) Procida

Between Ischia and Naples, Procida is a tiny little island that’s lovely to visit for a day trip.

Once there, head around the island on one of the walking trails that follow the coastline, explore the stunning Abbazia San Michele Arcangelo and head into Il Galeone for the best Napoli pizza on the island.

3.) Elba

Situated in the Mediterranean between Corsica and Tuscany , Elba is a gorgeous little spot to visit if you’re looking for a little rest and relaxation. Grab the boat from Piombino on the mainland, don’t forget your beach towel and enjoy the beautiful waters.

Some of the best beaches are; Sansone, Laconella and the largest beach in Biodola Bay. You’ll love it.

Read more: Best places in Tuscany to visit

4.) Stromboli

Part of the  Aeolian Islands chain, Stromboli is a volcanic island that’s stunning to see. The volcano itself is still active and can be seen best by boat around to the Sciara del Fuoco which is incredible to see at night.

If you’re feeling extra brave, you can even climb the volcano too – though, you should only do this with a local guide and always listen to expert advice on when and how to climb. It really is one of the best Italian islands for natural wonders.

I’m pretty sure that Lipari is the largest of the Aeolian Islands (just off Sicily ) and one that you should definitely explore. You’ll be able to get to Lipari quite easily (by boat) from Milazzo.

Once you arrive, head to Coral Beach for a little dip, see the vista over the island at Belvedere Quattrocchi and visit  Lipari Castle.

The island also has a few hiking trails which are gorgeous on a sunny day. Just pack lots of water and plenty of sunblock.

6.) Caprera

Just shy of Sardinia and relatively close to Corsica, Caprera is a stunning spot to visit.

When exploring the island, make sure you see the Fortification of Poggio Rasu, visit Spiaggia di Cala Brigantina (a gorgeous beach on the island) and Spiaggia I due Mari (another coastal haunt that’s just too good to miss).

You can get to Caprera by car (via a bridge) from Madelena Island or on a privately chartered sailing day. You’ll love it.

7.) Sardinia

Sardinia is one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean and a place that’ll take a little longer than a few days to explore.

To be honest, even a week won’t be enough; the island is pretty big!

Now, it’s hard to cram in all the spots you should see but there are some that are definitely a must-see.

Make sure to explore Neptune’s Grotto, and see the gorgeous beach of Cala Goloritze and the huge cliffs of Capo Caccia. If you’re looking for a little city life, pop over to Cagliari or Alghero in the northwest.

Read more: Best things to do in Sardinia

Situated about 50 km off the coast of mainland Italy (between Rome and Naples), Pona is one of the large islands in this chain to visit.

Make sure to visit Grotte di Pilato and explore the Punta Incenso Park that’s great early in the morning before the midday sun strikes.

For some of the freshest seafood, pop into the  Eea Restaurant that’s just so amazing. You’ll get some lovely views of the island too.

9.) Budelli

A tiny island just off a much larger island, Budelli is perched by Sardinia and close by Caprera.

One of the most famous features of Budelli has to be its coloured sandy beaches. I mean, where else in Italy can you get sand like this? 

Make sure to visit Spiaggia Rosa (it’s as dreamy as you can imagine) and explore some of the paths that criss-cross this little island.

Now, one of the easiest ways to get here is by boat. If you’re feeling extra fly, you can rent a skipper and vessel for a few hours to explore this gorgeous island and its beaches.

10.) Sicily

Officially the largest island in the Med, Sicily is a pretty diverse Italian gem to explore.

Just like Sardinia , you’ll need more than a few days to head around the whole island – but don’t let that put you off.

Make sure to pop into Palermo and visit the (rather macabre) catacombs. They are so eerie to see!

Afterwards, pop over to Ragusa which is just gorgeous at sunset.

If towns and cities aren’t your things, you’ll also love hiking Mt. Etna.

Just be prepared for a change in the itinerary as weather conditions can change fast (which happened to us).

Read more: Best places to visit in Sicily

11.) Giglio 

About 15 km from the coast of Tuscany is Giglio Island that’s easily reached by boat from Porto Santo Stefano.

Once you arrive on the island, pop over to Torre del Lazzaretto, gorge at Sopravvento (I swear they have the best pasta on the island) and ramble across its unspoilt coastline.

12.) Venice

Now, some Venice isn’t actually one island but multiple little islands that now form the base of what this water city is today. Now, Venice can be considered the most famous island city in the world and most certainly in Italy.

It’s gorgeous!

Once there, wander around all the narrow streets, head off the main tourist trail and find some of the smaller little eateries that line the street. You’ll not only find them to be much cheaper, but also much more local.

For some incredible sites, make sure you see; the Piazza San Marco, grab a gondola under the Bridge of Sighs and Rialto Bridge. It really is a gem of a city and one of the unique and best Italian islands to visit.

Read more: Best things to do in Venice

And last, but not least… Capri!

You can’t go exploring the Italian islands without thinking about Capri. Head over from Naples or Sorrento and spend a few days exploring the island.

Make sure to visit all the different colour Grottos, see the rocks of I Faraglioni and gorge on all the limoncello you can find!

17 Beautiful Places In Italy To Visit

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The Best Italian Islands You've Never Heard Of

By Kris Fordham

Just an hour’s drive and a ferry ride away from the Eternal City, you’ll find the stunning volcanic island of Ponza, a favorite summer escape for Romans for centuries. Miraculously, it’s managed to remain off the tourist radar and refreshingly free from the glitz and glamor of other Italian isles like Capri. Instead, you’ll find quaint villages, a charming harbor peppered with cafes and trattorias, and a windswept coastline studded with some of Italy’s most beautiful beaches .

Why choose between a wine country escape and an island getaway when you can have both? The island of Salina, located in the UNESCO-listed Aeolian archipelago, has gorgeous beaches and vineyards for days. One of the island’s top wineries, Tasca D’Almerita’s Capofaro , turns out delicious malvasia wine and doubles as one of the world’s best wine resorts . Here, you can sleep in a luxurious bungalow hidden among the lush vines and wake up to show-stopping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Though it’s the largest island in the Tuscan archipelago, Elba looks more like the lush French island of Corsica than its rocky sister islands, thanks to underground springs, which keep the island green year round. In addition to its dense vegetation, Elba also boasts an abundance of mountains and beautiful hidden beaches . Fun fact: this subtropical paradise was once home to the exiled Napoleon Bonaparte and his beautiful summer house, Villa San Martino, which is currently open to the public.

Located in the Maddalena archipelago off the coast of celeb-studded Sardinia , the island of Budelli has been fondly dubbed the “pink paradise,” thanks to its stunning rose-colored beach (the sand is actually a combination of crushed pink coral and seashells). Unfortunately, due to the negative effects of tourism and many unfortunate incidences of sand theft, visitors are no longer able to swim or set foot on Spiaggia Rosa itself. Still, you can admire its strawberry-hued sands from neighboring Spiaggia di Cavalieri, which is pretty enough to visit on its own.

Steph Koyfman

Alex Erdekian

Laura Walsh

Jamie Spain

With its Caribbean-blue waters and abundance of unspoiled white sand beaches, it's surprising to learn about this Tuscan island history as a penal colony. From 1856 all the way up to 1998, thousands of prisoners from across Italy called Pianosa home, including dozens of Mafia bosses like Pippo Calò. Now, it’s a protected wildlife sanctuary that—thanks to its unique heritage and unspoiled natural beauty—is capped at 250 visitors a day, so make sure to book early.

Perpetually overshadowed by the neighboring islands of Ischia and Capri, Procida is the Bay of Naples’ smallest island—and best-kept secret. Here, you’ll find Portofino-like fishing villages painted in pretty pastel hues, marinas lined with waterfront cafes and trattorias, and a coastline so picturesque that it was featured in several films, including The Talented Mr. Ripley and Il Postino . Added bonus: The island is so tiny—just 2 square miles in total—that you can get everywhere on foot.

With its clear, Caribbean-blue water and dense tropical vegetation—so wild and thick it grows right to the water’s edge—the Sardinian island of San Pietro is a Robinson Crusoe paradise come to life. On the island’s western coast, you’ll find lush mountains and craggy cliffs, while the southern coast is best known for its pristine white-sand beaches. Don’t miss the sunset views from Capo Sandalo, a lush promontory that juts dramatically out onto the Sea of Sardinia.

Monte Isola

Monte Isola isn’t your typical Italian island: To begin with, it sits in the middle of a lake and doubles as a mountain, soaring to a peak of 2,000 feet. It’s also home to some of the best food in Lombardy (don’t miss the stuffed lake trout at La Foresta) and is a ferry ride away from the country’s best sparkling wine region . Best of all, Isola still feels refreshingly sleepy and undiscovered, making it a great alternative to the heavily touristed areas of Como, Bellagio and Varenna.

Pellestrina

Next time you’re in Venice, skip the crowds and hop on a vaporetto headed for Pellestrina, one of the lagoon’s beautiful but overlooked outer islands . It’s far away from the action, but that’s exactly why you’re here: It’s got a cozy, rustic atmosphere, a blissfully empty Adriatic beach that stretches for miles, and a string of charming fishing villages where you can feast on the freshest seafood in Venice. Don’t leave without enjoying the delicious mussel soup (and sweeping lagoon views) at Da Celeste.

Pantelleria

Closer to Africa than to Italy, Sicily’s largest offshore island feels like a completely different planet with its rugged, sun-baked landscape and black lava cliffs. But that’s precisely what makes it so beautiful—everything about Pantelleria is strange and unique, from its squat, white-domed lava rock houses ( dammusi ) to its twisted, earth-hugging vineyards, which produce some of Italy’s best dessert wine . Stay at the luxurious new Sikelia resort, a decadent, 20-suite hideaway that’s worth traveling for on its own.

Kraken Travel

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The Best Italian Islands to Visit

Planning a holiday to italy the italian islands should be at the top of your must-visit list..

There are more than 450 islands of all shapes and sizes off the coast of mainland Italy offering everything from secluded beaches to rocky coves, historic sites and incredible natural beauty. No holiday to the Med is complete without a visit to at least one Italian island.

One of the best ways to explore these stunning islands is by sailing yacht, giving you the freedom to hop from island to island and experience the best of what these Mediterranean gems have to offer.

The 18 Top Italian Islands to Visit

With so many to choose from, which Italian island should you visit? Don’t just visit one island, hop on a sailing yacht and visit a bunch of them! To help you decide, we’ve picked 18 idyllic islands to visit on your next Italian holiday.

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and it offers a blend of history, culture and natural wonders. It is one of the most well-known Italian islands and is a kind of snapshot of everything great about the Med. From the active volcano of Mount Etna to the well-preserved Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, and Palermo’s vibrant mix of Norman, Arab, and Baroque influences.

Towns like Taormina, perched above the Ionian Sea, feature an ancient Greek theatre and scenic views, while Siracusa boasts historical sites like the Greek Theater and Ortigia. The coastal town of Cefalù is known for its Norman cathedral and sandy beaches. Of course, no visit to Sicily is complete without a visit to Valle dei Mostri, the Valley of the Monsters. This unique landscape features naturally formed rocks that resemble mythical creatures like the Cyclops, dragons and other mythical beasts.

Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, and only slightly smaller than Sicily offers more of the same. It’s home to the glamorous coastline of Costa Smeralda, or Emerald Coast, and is famous for its turquoise waters, luxurious resorts, and exclusive nightlife. Explore the ancient Nuragic village of Su Nuraxi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover the well-preserved Nuraghe tower.

Grotta di Nettuno is a stunning sea cave featuring intricate rock formations and underwater tunnels popular with scuba divers and snorkellers. After a dip in the med, head over to the charming seaside town of Cala Gonone surrounded by limestone cliffs and caves, then hike through the Supramonte mountains to the beautiful Cala Luna beach to relax after a day packed with adventures.

South of the Tuscan Archipelago, in the Bay of Naples, Capri is a small island with a glamorous reputation and stunning landscapes and has been a playground for the rich and famous for decades. The famous Blue Grotto sea cave is renowned for its vibrant blue waters, illuminated by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity. Explore the ruins of Roman Emperor Tiberius’s imperial residence, perched on the eastern cliffs of the island, offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples.

The iconic sea stacks of Faraglioni are a symbol of Capri and can be admired from various viewpoints, including the Gardens of Augustus. A quieter alternative to the island’s eponymous main town, Capri, Anacapri offers charming streets, the Villa San Michele, and the chairlift to Monte Solaro for breathtaking views.

Just north of Capri lies the Aeolian archipelago, consisting of 7 main islands. The largest of these is Lipari, a volcanic island with a rich history and stunning landscapes. Dominating the island’s landscape, the Castle of Lipari (Castello di Lipari) offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea and islands. The archaeological park within the castle grounds provides insight into Lipari’s ancient history. The Lipari Archaeological Museum dives even deeper into the island’s past and showcases various historical artefacts.

Heading into town, Lipari town is a charming blend of narrow streets, historic architecture, and vibrant high-end shops. After a day of shopping, eating and exploring, relax on Canneto Beach, the island’s most famous beach, known for its black volcanic sand. If you’re up for something a little more active, the crystal-clear waters of Lipari are also a snorkeller’s paradise

The second largest of the Aeolian Islands is Salina. The island’s picturesque village of Pollara with its unique horseshoe-shaped bay is famous for its stunning sunset views. Salina is also renowned for its sweet Malvasia wine and you can visit local wineries for tastings and learn about the island’s winemaking traditions.

After a taste of Salina’s famous vino, hike to Monte Fossa delle Felci, the highest point on the island, where you’ll find a lush, ancient fern-covered crater. The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. After building up a sweat on the hike up the mountain, relax and grab a bite to eat at one of the many seafood restaurants in the island’s main port of Santa Marina, a charming village with colourful houses and a relaxed atmosphere.

True to its name, Vulcano is a volcanic island in the Aeolian archipelago. Although dormant, the volcano is one of the most popular attractions, including steamy fumaroles, sulphur hot springs, and therapeutic mud baths. The mud is believed to have healing properties and is a unique and rejuvenating experience. After you’ve charged your batteries at the mud baths, hike to the summit of Vulcano’s volcano to witness breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the popular smoking crater, Gran Cratere. After a hike up the mountain, relax on the black sandy beach of Spiaggia Sabbie Nere, surrounded by volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

Another volcanic island in the Aeolian archipelago is Stromboli. The highlight of the tiny island is its namesake volcano, the volcano is still active with minor eruptions that are often visible from the surrounding sea, giving Stromboli the nickname, the Lighthouse of the Mediterranean. Guided hikes to the summit provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience of witnessing live volcanic activity. The small village of Ginostra offers a peaceful escape with black sand beaches and a slower pace of life. Located in the main village, San Vincenzo church is a tranquil spot for reflection and panoramic views of the island.

Southwest of the Aeolian Islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea, lie the Phlegraean Islands, the largest of which is Ischia with its thermal pools and stunning gardens. The most famous of these pools is Poseidon, offering a variety of pools with different temperatures and therapeutic properties. The mediaeval Palazzo D’Avalos Castle provides a glimpse into the island’s history and panoramic views of the island and the Bay of Naples.

Created by British composer Sir William Walton, the La Mortella botanical gardens feature a stunning collection of plants and flowers, as well as classical music concerts during the summer. If you feel like some well-deserved beach time, head along the southern coast to Maronti Beach, one of the longest and most beautiful beaches on the island, with crystal-clear waters and stunning views.

Procida is the smallest and least developed of the Phlegraean Islands. The small and colourful island is a hidden gem known for its charm and authentic Italian atmosphere. The picturesque fishing village of Marina Corricella is a postcard-perfect spot with colourful houses, waterfront cafes, and traditional fishing boats. Relax on the sandy shores of Chiaiolella Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and views of the nearby Ischia island. Adding to the charm and laid-back atmosphere of the island is the Abbey of Saint Michael, perched on the highest point of the island, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere along with stunning views.

Vivara, a small island connected to Procida by a narrow bridge, is a nature reserve with rich biodiversity and historical ruins. Discover the archaeological remains on the island, including the ruins of a Roman villa and a mediaeval church, offering glimpses into Vivara’s rich history, or go for a hike along the islet’s many scenic hiking trails, allowing you to explore the island’s landscapes, from coastal cliffs to lush interior regions.

Il Gallo Lungo

Il Gallo Lungo is the largest of the Li Galli group of islands, also known as the Serenusas, just off the Amalfi Coast. The island is most well-known for its distinctive dolphin shape. This shape forms a protected bay, facing the other two Li Galli islands, La Castelluccia and La Rotonda. Known for its natural beauty, the island features a small cove called “la Praja” where boats can anchor and a watchtower on top of its barren peak.

La Castelluccia

Known as “the tiny fortress,” due to its unique rock formations, La Castelluccia is one of the smaller islets in the Li Galli group of islands. It offers a dramatic backdrop against the blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The clear waters around La Castelluccia make it an excellent spot for snorkelling and diving, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant underwater world of this tiny island.

Tavolara, off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, is an island off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, characterised by granite cliffs and crystal clear waters. The sandy beach of Spalmatore di Terra on the island’s western side offers a picturesque setting with views of the surrounding turquoise sea. The highest point on Tavolara, Punta Cannone, or King’s Rock, provides panoramic views of the coastline and the neighbouring islands.

Razzoli, part of the Maddalena Archipelago, is a small island known for its rugged coastline and unique rock formations. The rocky shores of Razzoli create natural pools filled with clear seawater, providing a peaceful and scenic environment. The island is also home to a historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the surrounding sea and islands.

Another gem in the Maddalena Archipelago is Budelli, famous for the pink sandy beach of Spiaggia Rosa. The pink-coloured sand is created by the presence of microscopic shells. Swimming and sunbathing on this beach are unforgettable experiences. Not far from Spiaggia Rosa, is Cala di Roto, a secluded cove with turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

Lampedusa, located closer to Africa than Italy, is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Voted one of the world’s best beaches, Rabbit Beach boasts white sand and transparent waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Another beautiful beach on the island, Guitgia Beach is known for its long sandy shoreline and shallow, calm waters. After a relaxing day on the beach, visit Isola dei Conigli, a small islet near Lampedusa. This protected nature reserve is home to a large population of loggerhead sea turtles.

Pantelleria

Located between Sicily and Tunisia, Pantelleria is known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and unique architecture. Lago di Venere, known as the “Lake of Venus”, is a volcanic crater filled with thermal waters where visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs while surrounded by lush vegetation. A natural sea cave with crystal-clear waters, Sesame Cave is a popular spot for snorkelling and swimming. If you feel like a bit of history, explore the island’s ancient sites, including the Sesi Archaeological Park and the mediaeval Castle of Pantelleria, offering insights into the island’s long history.

Santo Stefano

Santo Stefano is one of the islands in the Maddalena Archipelago, located off the northern part of Sardinia, Italy. It is part of the Maddalena National Park, known for its rugged coastline, pristine natural beauty and marine environment. At the south of the island lies the historical fortifications and ruins of Forte San Giorgio and Forte La Torre. One of Santo Stefano’s most popular attractions is the giant unfinished bust of Italian fascist, Costanzo Ciano in an abandoned quarry on the east of the island. Commissioned by Benito Mussolini to the sculptor Arturo Dazzi, but was left unfinished at the fall of fascism.

Whether you bring your own, charter a yacht or join a sailing trip, sailing gives you the freedom to explore the incredible Italian islands at your own pace. It is the perfect way to spend your Italian island holidays.

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• 15 Best Italian Islands To Visit That Would Glam Up Your Europe Holiday

23 Mar 2023

Just like the cities of Rome and Venice, the Italian islands are also amongst the top marvellous wonders in Italy, which are absolutely perfect for an ideal island holiday. More than 400 in number, these islands offer experiences galore. From water adventures to culinary tours, there’s something for every type of traveler, which is why your next Europe trip must include a visit to one or more of these places.

But of so many, which one should you pick? This is definitely a tough choice to make. So, here’s a list of all the best Italian islands, which you can consider for your next vacation, according to the experiences they have in store for you.

15 Best Italian Islands You Must Explore On Your Next Trip

Situated in the Bay of Naples, Capri is the most famous and glamorous Italian island . While it has been famed as a holiday spot for the rich, its culture and natural beauty makes it a must-visit for everyone. If sea caves and mountain climbing is something that tickles your fancy, this is the place where you need to be.

Best time to visit: April to June and September to October Top things to do: Climbing up Mount Solaro with the Chair lift, taking a boat tour around the island, watching the sunset from the Lighthouse, chilling at the famous Piazzetta, and more. Best places to stay: Hotel Punta Tragara, Hotel Syrene Capri, Casa Morgano, and Grand Hotel Quisisana

2. Sardinia

Popular as the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia is the perfect place to visit if an ultimate Italy island vacation is what’s been on your mind. It has got a vibrant culture, lip-smacking food, breathtaking beaches, old-world Roman attractions, and everything that can make your holiday one-of-its-kind.

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Best time to visit: March to June Top things to do: Visiting Nuraghi, wildlife spotting, treat the history buff within at Nora or Tharros, and indulge in the local food and drink. Best places to stay: Hotel Abi d Oru, Nascar Hotel, Experience Hotel Su Gologone, and Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa

Boasting a classic architecture, which is surrounded by three seas, Sicily is the largest island in the sea and undoubtedly the most beautiful in the whole of Europe. From mountains to beaches and national parks to ancient villages, you can witness all of nature’s spectacular wonders here.

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Best time to visit: April to June and September to October Top things to do: Visiting Valley of the Temples, watching opera at Teatro Massimo, chilling at Mondello Lido, and visiting Mount Etna. Best places to stay: Liberty Hotel, The Ashbee Hotel, Hotel Villa Carlotta Taormina, and Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo

One of the most gorgeous small Italian islands , Procida doesn’t disappoint when it comes to offering a plethora of experiences. Though what makes it more ideal is the fact that it is less crowded that its larger neighbors like Capri or Ischia. If you’re looking for a laid-back beach holiday with basic accommodation and simple fish or rabbit meals yet an extraordinary experience, then this is the island to be.

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Best time to visit: March to June and September to November Top things to do: Visiting Marina Grande, spend time at Lido di Procida, museum hopping, and more Best places to stay: La Suite Hotel & Spa, Hotel la Casa sul Mare, La Tonnara Hotel, and more

Sandy beaches, natural hot springs, spectacular mountains, and authentic local cuisines are what defines this Italian island . Dominated mostly by the 2,589 feel tall volcanic Mount Epomeo, Ischia is a mountain lover’s paradise in this European country. And so you can start dreaming of a perfect relaxing summer holiday if you’ve picked this place already.

Best time to visit: April to October Top things to do: Relaxing at the geothermal beaches, trying authentic Italian cuisines at Ristorante Pizzeria Pirozzi, visit the Castello Aragonese, and more Best places to stay: Garden and Villas Resort, Hotel Villa Carolina, Grand Hotel Punta Molino, and more

The smallest yet the best Aeolian island to visit in the country, Panarea is the holiday hotspot famous amongst the top celebrities all across the world. From Beyonce to Bill Gates, everybody often stops by here for a secluded and rejuvenating vacation. What’s more special? There are only around 400 inhabitants here and barely no summer crowd, so you can imagine having a private island trip of your own.

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Best time to visit: April to July and September to November Top things to do: Visiting Zimmari Beach, dining at Francesco’s, and more Best places to stay: Hotel Oasis Panarea, Hotel Quartara, and Hotel Square

7. Filicudi

Despite its size, which is quite tiny as compared to the other places to visit in Italy , Filicudi is a shining gem in the Aeolian archipelago. It is only a 20-minute ride from the port of Rinella on Salina, and is ideal for having a serene and scenic vacation. But since there are only a few options for lodging and food, it’s best that you make all your reservations in advance if you plan to visit here.

Best time to visit: May and September Top things to do: Visiting Grotta del Bue Marino, chilling at Spiaggia di Capo Graziano, and more Best places to stay: Hotel Signum and Al Belvedere Salina

Famous mostly amongst travelers for its volcano hiking experience and mud baths, this island is also a great holiday spot to stop by. From renting a Mehari to explore its local lifestyle to witnessing its surreal mountainous regions, there’s a lot to do here, especially during the shoulder season. So, if not just this, you can plan a trip to Vulcano for a day or two along with your visit to another island in the country.

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Best time to visit: April to July and September to November Top things to do: Visiting Capo Grillo, savouring fish at Trattoria da Pina, relaxing near Spiaggia dell’Asino, and more Best places to stay: Therasia Resort, Les Sables Noirs, Hotel Eros, Hotel Garden, and more

Famed as one of the most beautiful streets in the world , Burano is the perfect place to head to if you’re looking for just an island getaway. It is situated only an hour’s boat ride away from Venice and has the most colorful houses in the country. From shopping your heart out to indulging in donut-shaped cookies, you’d surely have the most vibrant holiday of your life.

Best time to visit: September to October Top things to do: Exploring the beautiful canals, shopping and eating at Via Galuppi, visiting the Lace Museum, and more Best places to stay: Casa Burano Hotel, Hotel Murano Palace, The Gritti Palace, and more

10. Lampedusa

Situated in the Mediterranean Sea, Lampedusa is a stunning hub of white beaches, gorgeous sea, and majestic landscapes. Thanks to its beautiful coastline where you can find a mix of rocks, sheer cliffs, and more, you’d end up capturing the best pictures for your travel memoir. What’s more special? A holiday here wouldn’t cause a hole in your pocket.

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Best time to visit: July to September and October to December Top things to do: Visiting the popular Rabbit Beach, indulging in various water adventures, visiting the Museo Archeologico delle Isole Pelagie, and more Best places to stay: Baia Turchese Hotel, Hotel Cupola Bianca, Hotel la Calandra Lampedusa, and more

Also known as a place of exile for Napoleon and his summer & winter homes, Elba is a great place to holiday. Being the country’s third largest island, it has more than 150 beaches, innumerable adventurous experiences, and several places to see that are perfect for making your vacation unique. If you’re a beach lover at heart, this place is your haven in Italy.

Best time to visit: May to September Top things to do: Visiting the Napoleonic residences, beach hopping, tasting the famous Elban wine, and explore an iron mine Best places to stay: Grand Hotel Elba International, Barracuda Hotel Resort, Hotel Hermitage, and more

12. Stromboli

Home to one of Italy’s three active volcanoes, Stromboli is another best Aeolian island to visit . It is situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea in the north of Sicily, and often experiences lack of tourism due to its small size. But, this is only a great news if you & your close ones are amongst those travelers who love holidaying on their own, often at offbeat places.

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Best time to visit: May to September Top things to do: Hiking to the top of the volcano, dine and witness the fireworks at L’Osservatorio, go beach hopping, and take a boat ride to Ginostra Best places to stay: The Little Mermaid Park Hotel, Hotel Villaggio Stromboli, Hotel Quartara, and more

Located around 33 km south of Cape Circeo in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ponza is absolutely an ideal spot for a trip if you wish to experience one of the best Italian island holidays with your loved ones. From treating the history buff within to calming the wildlife enthusiast, there’s a lot that you can do on this island for rejuvenating your mind and soul.

Best time to visit: May, June, and September Top things to do: Exploring the famous Port Passeggiata, witnessing a sunset, hiking, go shopping in Cala Corallo, and more Best places to stay: Grand Hotel Santa Domitilla, Hotel Torre dei Borboni, Hotel Chiaia di Luna, and Ortensia

Another of the best Italian islands , Lipari is the largest island situated off the coast of Sicily. It’s got rugged landscapes, gorgeous whitewashed towns, and crystal-clear turquoise water that makes it perfect for both indulging in under and over water adventures like diving and boating. With so much to do and see, this is definitely a place to hang out this summer.

Best time to visit: March and July Top things to do: Visiting the Lipari Castle, chilling at Spiaggia Valle i Mura, visiting Tenuta di Castellaro, and more Best places to stay: Hotel Carasco, Hotel Villa Meligunis, Hotel Mea, and more

15. Pantelleria

Located in the Strait of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea, Pantelleria is a hidden gem in the country, which has made it the least-popular holiday spot in the country. Nevertheless, it is a hideaway for a few timid celebrities like Giorgio Armani and Luca Zingaretti. So, you can now think about the impeccable beauty or experiences this island may have in store.

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Best time to visit: May and October Top things to do: Visiting the Mirror of Venus Lake, go on a wine tasting tour, diving, mountain biking, and more Best places to stay: Pantelleria Dream Resort, Club Levante, Sikelia Luxury Hotel, and more

Just like its people, their language, and culture, the whole of Italy is a sweet country to be in. And while you may have been fascinated by the charm of its popular cities, believe us the magic of these islands wouldn’t disappoint you either. So, the next time you plan your Europe trip with TravelTriangle , make sure you customize your itinerary and include a visit to a few of these places for a truly unique experience.

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10 Italian Islands To Visit This Summer

27 March, 2023

Swerve the day-trippers heading to Capri and Sardinia: here’s our pick of the Italian islands to explore if you’re seeking a slower pace of summer living

I taly Italy has around 450 islands, many of which have fiercely independent identities, cuisines and cultures. From the remote Aeolian islands just off Sicily to the lake islands of northern Brescia, and Puglia’s crystalline waters and white sandy islets, there are surprises at every turn.

Transport in Italy is not famous for being efficient at the best of times, and this slows down even more when it comes to high-season ferry-hopping. Don’t see these as destinations to be hurried or fitted into a long weekend, but places in which to pause, taking refuge in the calm lack of diversions and the simple pleasures of island life. Here are 10 of our favourite Italian islands to head to this summer.

Our 10 favourite Italian islands

Although it covers just 4sq km, Procida’s crumbling pastel harbour has featured large on the silver screen, appearing in Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton’s performance of Cleopatra; in the 1994 comedy Il Postino; and, most memorably, as the backdrop for Jude Law, Matt Damon and Gwyneth Paltrow’s exquisite love triangle in The Talented Mr Ripley. No wonder, then, that the picture-perfect island was declared Italy’s capital of culture for 2022, with over 100 art installations and creative projects launched to mark the occasion, many of which are still in situ. The island has lost none of its movie star looks, with washing still fluttering in the breeze against colourful homes, and 50cc scooters coughing and spluttering along dusty roads. An island highlight is the seafood: try harbourside spots like Ristorante da Mariano and Il Pescatore .

Ponza and Palmarola

Midway between Florence and Rome, Ponza’s striking white cliffs rise from the water as you approach by ferry or yacht. There are few hotels, and even fewer cars; this is an island for lazy days of swimming, sunbathing and reading. There are a few sandy beaches you can reach by foot, but most of the island is best explored by hiring a little motorboat with a skipper for a day or two. In recent years, it’s developed something of a VIP reputation, thanks to a cluster of celebrity visitors, but the island is still laid-back at heart. Pack a picnic, or pootle into Cala Feola and grab a table at rustic La Marina, where the white tables pop against the crystalline water just below. Ponza is steeped in history: scholars believe it is the ancient island of Aeaea depicted in Homer’s Odyssey, and you’ll still find vast tree stumps from when it was first settled in Etruscan times. If you feel like venturing somewhere even more remote, hop over to neighbouring Palmarola island for a dip in the transparent blue waters.

Puglia might be everyone’s favourite Italian destination this summer, but the lesser-visited quintet of islands off the Gargano peninsula are still something of a secret. The two inhabited islands – San Nicola and San Domino – promise white cliffs and pristine sandy beaches frequented by olive-skinned locals and in-the-know visitors from the mainland. Ferries run year-round from Termoli port to San Nicola, the smaller and prettier of the two. Summer visits should involve snorkelling and chilled-out beach days; in the shoulder season, we’d recommend tracing hiking trails through shaded pineta (pine forest) in search of Neolithic ruins. For the best underwater adventures, take a boat over to the uninhabited island of Capraia and swim through the sheltered Cala dei Turchi. Or, dive down to the submerged statue of the saint Padre Pio, between Capraia and San Nicola.

La Maddalena

There’s a reason why Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) has been given the nickname- the waters here have a luminosity that rivals even those of the Caribbean. A short boat trip from the coastline, between Palau and Capo d’Orso on Sardinia, and a flipper flick away from southern Corsica, you’ll find over 60 islands and islets making up the Maddalena archipelago. Once a smuggler’s paradise – and often forgotten by the powers that be in designating islands to foreign rule throughout history – La Maddalena residents are proudly independent and culturally set apart from the mainland. On the eponymous main island, expect gelato-coloured houses and postcard-perfect cobbled streets, but other uninhabited islands are wild, rugged and romantic, with spectacular beaches fringed by fragrant herbs. For snorkelling, make a beeline to Cala Coticcio on Isola di Caprera, and Spiaggia del Cavaliere on Isola Budelli, where the otherworldly pink granite rock formations feel like a different world.

For contemporary art, craft and design, head to Giudecca, one of Venice’s 30 islands. Unlike the tourist hotspots of Murano and Burano, the old industrial quarter of the floating city has held onto its storied boathouses and factories. Giudecca’s contemporary art scene has exploded in the past two decades, transforming the island from a working quarter to one of Venice’s most exciting new districts. Uber-contemporary creative hub and exhibition space Spazio Punch , located in a disused brewery at the western tip of the island, is a welcome break from too many frescoes and gilded ballrooms in the rest of Venice, while CREA Cantieri del Contemporaneo is a “contemporary arts intervention project” that has recently started hosting classes in cutting-edge art technology.

Aeolian Islands

Staying on an island that is a vast and still-active volcano rising out of the sea may not seem like the best idea for a dolce vita escape to the Italian seaside, but then, you haven’t seen Stromboli. This rugged Aeolian island has black beaches, steaming hot springs, magnificent hiking opportunities and a smattering of low-key luxe hotels to stay in. The best beaches, restaurants and shops are found in San Vincenzo and Piscità at the north-eastern tip of the island, where all the ferries come and go. With a fraction of the tourists, Stromboli makes a great base from which to explore the six other Aeolian islands.

Aegadian (Egadi) Islands

Off Sicily’s western coast, the cluster of three small Egadi islets are about as far from the rest of Italy as you can get. In fact, you’re closer to southern Sardinia or northern Tunisia than to mainland Italy. The largest and most charming island is Favignana, at roughly 20sq km. Expect exceptionally clear waters off coves like Lido Burrone and Cala Azzurra, where you can find local fishermen to take you on a boat trip. Nature lovers should hop over to the smaller but no less lovely Marettimo, which is home to myriad species of birds and native plants. The easiest way to get to the trio of islands is to take a ferry from Trapani.

Monte Isola

A mountain in the middle of the lake, the northern Italian island of Monte Isola is sprinkled with sleepy fishing harbours and mesmerising waterside views at every turn. Explore the 12 traditional villages that nestle in its hills and along the shoreline, with charming footpaths swinging through olive groves between them all. Stay at Hotel Sensole , a 19th-century manor house converted into a boutique hotel, or on the mainland at L’Albereta , before taking a boat to explore. Off the island, day trips can be taken to Franciacorta to the south-east, a region known for producing Italy’s finest metodo classico sparkling wine.

The silvery Etruscan Coast may not have the glitz of the Italian Riviera or the Amalfi Coast, but its seven islands are no less marvellous if you know where to look. The best-kept secret among Italians is little Giglio, named after the native sea lily that grows along the beaches in springtime. A popular hiking destination, thanks to its natural beauty and fine, white-sand beaches, Giglio’s relative lack of accommodation means it remains manageably quiet even in peak season. If you visit by ferry for the day, stroll a few minutes to find the magnificent Cala delle Cannelle, a crescent-shaped bay with sparkling turquoise sea. For those wanting to stay longer – and wake up mere metres from the sea – we’d recommend pitching your tent at Campeggio Baia del Sole .

The largest of Italy’s islands is having a mini renaissance – and it’s not just down to the latest season of The White Lotus putting cliffside Taormina on radar. Head inland and you’ll discover an altogether quieter, more rustic and remote landscape – one of lunar-like red-rock hills, and dry, arid pastoral expanses. Check out Anna Tasca Lanza’s sumptuously rustic cookery school for immersive culinary experiences, or try a wine tasting on Mount Etna with Assovini . In Mussomeli, a sleepy medieval town in the island’s heart, expat Aussie Danny McCubbin has helped counteract the slow decline of a beautiful old town by opening community project The Good Kitchen . Working with charitable partners to provide opportunities for young people and kids in the kitchen, and feed vulnerable individuals, the space’s regular open-to-all dinners are welcoming to town visitors (and you’ll be able to chat to locals about places to visit, including the seriously good, family-run Pizzeria Lucerna nearby).

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Our 9 Best Italian Island Itineraries

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Cefalu on the Island of Sicily, Italy

From homes to palace gardens to Mediterranean havens that shimmer with azure waters and white-pebbled shorelines, our best Italian island itineraries demonstrate the wonders of cultural heritage and natural splendor for which the larger country is known.

Whether searching for a deserted beach or a romantic hideaway, the best family coastline or a relaxing island town far from the bustling crowds, Italy’s islands can give you exciting excursions or provide gateways into a serene ambiance.

Colorful or charismatic, rugged or well-tended, our top Italy island itineraries can uncover unique possibilities to inspire your next trip.

1. Splendors of the Italian Coastline: Elba Island & Cinque Terre Tour

2. the best of italy tour: rome, amalfi coast, island of capri and tuscany, 3. vip tour of sicily: beauty, culinary & luxury experience, 4. pleasures of southern italy: rome, ischia island & amalfi coast tour, 5. romantic getaway to the islands & villages of amalfi coast, 6. pontine islands, ischia and south of naples sailing tour, 7. northern italy tour: beauty, culture, food & wine, 8. gems of the mediterranean italy vacation, 9. an immersive italian tour to florence, cinque terre & sardinia, explore the best italian island itineraries.

Portoferraio on Elba Island, Italy

Length: 8 days

Places Visited: Pisa, Levanto, Monterosso, Portoferraio

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Dive into the remarkable colors and treasured coastline during this eight-day Splendors of the Italian Coastline: Elba Island & Cinque Terre Tour that features unforgettable island culture and the renowned towns along the Ligurian coast.

Find a remote beach that edges the entrance of an ancient abbey. Wander between vibrant towns that cling to the rugged cliff-shores and indulge in the celebrated flavors found specifically on Elba island.

Whether looking for Napoleonic history or breathtaking views from dramatic fortresses, eager to relax on a sandy beach, or enjoy the luxuries of a coastal village, you can embrace the special ambiance that captures a different perspective of Italy’s sweet life.

Learn more: Cinque Terre Tours & Vacations

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Capri, Italy

Length: 12 days

Places Visited: Rome, Amalfi Coast, Positano, Pompeii, Ravello, Capri, Siena, Florence, Tuscany region

The Best of Italy Tour: Rome, Amalfi Coast, Island of Capri and Tuscany immerses you in the beauty and charisma of Italy’s famous destinations, accentuated by the historic opulence of Capri island.

While on the island you can visit the remains of an ancient Imperial garden, explore the glowing azure light of the Blue Cave, or simply bask in the inviting ambiance of cafes and conversation that fill the Piazzetta.

From a boat tour around the shores to view the Fragolini Stacks to a mouthwatering cooking class focused on Tuscan cuisine, a scenic drive along the renowned Amalfi Coast to the stunning artwork displayed in the Vatican museums, your Best of Italy tour reflects the marvels of the peninsula, while fanning the flames for Capri’s essential natural beauty.

Learn more: Rome Tours & Vacations • Rome Travel Guide

Taormina, Italy

Length: 11 days

Places Visited: Catania, Syracuse, Taormina, Salina

Whether looking for romance or a unique island getaway, the VIP Tour of Sicily: Beauty, Culinary & Luxury Experience not only celebrates the cultural heritage and beauty of Sicily, but also introduces you to the panoramic views, volcanic slopes, and crystal-clear waters of the Aeolian Islands.

Embrace luxury as you lounge in the golden Mediterranean sun that spreads from the cobbled lanes of Taormina to the Greek ruins of Syracuse, the chocolate shops of Modica to the vineyards that terrace secluded corners of the Salina.

Cruise the glistening waters, sample unforgettable wine, and explore the undulating slopes of Mount Etna as you discover the picturesque views and tantalizing heritage around the southern islands.

Learn more: Sicily Tours & Vacations • Sicily Travel Guide

Conca dei Marini, Italy

Places Visited: Rome, Capri, Ischia, Sorrento, Naples, Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Conca dei Marini, Maiori, Minori, Cetara, Vietri sul Mare

Pleasures of Southern Italy: Rome, Ischia Island & Amalfi Coast Tour offers the ultimate splendor of the Mediterranean and the Italian ideal that celebrates “the pleasures of doing nothing”.

Indulge in the opportunity of a private sailing lesson on the crystal-clear waters and enjoy a cooking lesson that brings Campanian cuisine to life. Celebrate art history with a private painting class and wander the quiet lanes of a historic castle on Ischia Island.

Warm sunlight on glistening beaches, lively gardens that provide the feeling of seclusion, and luxurious experiences that celebrate the spirit of Italy connect the thrill of exploration with timeless pleasure.

Learn more: Southern Italy Itineraries & Tours

Prodica, Italy

Places Visited: Ischia, Procida, Capri, Sorrento, Amalfi, Vietri sul Mare Ravello, Positano, Minori

A custom tour to the southern islands off the Bay of Naples unveils the picturesque and mouthwatering during your Romantic Getaway to the Islands & Villages of Amalfi Coast .

From secluded accommodations with memorable panoramas to antique cobblestone lanes that capture the essence of charm, Renaissance architecture to ancient ruins, you can feel as though you’ve discovered an entirely new side of Italy.

Idyllic pebbled beaches, elaborate gardens, colorful homes, and a sense of history provide you with an ambiance of romance or adventure, luxury or discovery, as you travel from the Amalfi Coast to celebrated Capri and embrace the lesser-known islands of Ischia and Procida.

Learn more: Amalfi Coast Tours & Vacations • Amalfi Coast Travel Guide

Ponza, Italy

Places Visited: Ponza, Palmarola, Ventotene, Ischia, Procida, Capri, Castellammare

Pontine Islands, Ischia and South of Naples Sailing Tour engages you with local delights and authentic experiences as you travel between picturesque islands on a luxurious boat.

Sunsets wash over the horizon above the Tyrrhenian Sea, enchanting beaches fade into turquoise waters, antique architecture shares ineffable stories and thermal pools add to a sense of unparalleled opulence.

Whether following in the footsteps of royalty, learning the art of pottery, or enjoying the sound of the fluttering sails, you can bask in the sea breeze as you explore the wonderful islands around the Bay of Naples.

Learn more: 10 Best Italian Islands to Visit on Vacation

Lake Como, Italy

Length: 10 days

Places Visited: Milan, Lake Como, Langhe e Roero, Alba, Barolo, Lake Garda, Venice, Verona, Lake Maggiore

Prestige, beauty, and charisma emanate from the renowned Borromean Islands on this Northern Italy Tour: Beauty, Culture, Food & Wine , where you can find the grandeur of the Belle Epoque, as the islands emerge from alpine lakes.

Instead of traveling to the coastline and into the sea, you can explore the splendor of Italy’s northern landscape as you immerse yourself in the majesty of a gilded palace and manicured garden overlooking the waters of Lake Maggiore.

Enjoy the beauty of the islands with incredible flavors found with a cooking class in a Piedmont castle, a visit to da Vinci’s Last Supper , and a sampling of the king of wines. From the home of Juliet to the canals of Venice, you can crown the luxuries of your northern Italy tour with the allure of the Borromean Islands.

Learn more: Northern Italy Itineraries & Tours

Ischia, Italy

Length: 9 days

Places Visited: Capri, Ischia, Ponza, Ventonete, Rome

Gems of the Mediterranean Italy Vacation introduce you to the island luxuries around the Bay of Naples, from Capri to Ischia and Ponza, before reaching Rome. Authentic culture, surprising forests, and exceptional seaside panoramas will immerse you in wonders of Italy that are often overlooked.

Thermal spas create a sense of unadulterated luxury. Colorful houses and a slower pace of life reflect a corner not yet well known to travelers. With breathtaking views of jagged islands and calm waters, the islands offer the perfect Mediterranean serenity.

When exploring the unique combination of islands, you can find captivating Michelin-starred flavor or simply embrace the therapeutic ambiance of your surroundings.

Learn more: Mediterranean Tours & Vacations • Mediterranean Travel Guide

Bosa on the island of Sardina, Italy

Places Visited: Florence, Cinque Terre, Sardinia, Alghero, Cagliari, Oristano

An Immersive Italian Tour to Florence, Cinque Terre & Sardinia celebrates the culture and heritage beyond the mainland and onto the ancient island of Sardinia.

Custom, natural wonder, and sandy beaches create an inescapable grandeur on the island as you find Gothic architecture or honey-colored seawalls. Discover riverside charm and unique rock towers, or embrace the azure waters that lap at the quiet beaches.

The mainland demonstrates the passionate artistry of Florence found in architecture, cuisine, and artisan crafts, in addition to the inescapable allure of Cinque Terre’s five towns connected by scenic trails. But the true spirit of exploration emerges from time in Sardinia, as you enjoy the combination of prehistoric, ancient, medieval, and natural splendors.

Learn more: Florence and Cinque Terre Itineraries & Tours

Trapani Province on the island of Sicily, Italy

Ancient history, contemporary culture, and the welcoming traditions that emerge from colorful architecture, the islands of Italy can capture the imagination of any kind of traveler.

From learning about local delicacies to lounging on idyllic beaches, you can find inspiration for your trip with our sample Italy tours and vacations . Or, discover more information for your trip by visiting our Italy travel guide .

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A trip to Italy is too special to get wrong. Here's how to do it right. (San Gimignano, Tuscany)

I absolutely love Italy, for many different reasons. But I hate the way in which many Americans go about planning trips there. Survey after survey shows it is the number one dream destination for U.S. leisure travelers, but the way those travelers get their information and advice gives me nightmares.

Throughout the years I’ve heard people say over and over that “I was told to do this in Italy,” or “I was told not to do this in Italy.” By who? “A friend.” I have close friends who recently planned their entire 12-day trip on the basis of another couple they knew who gave them advice—after their first visit. I’ve heard of many people who skipped Rome because “we heard it was too busy, just another big city.” Or passed on Venice, one of the world’s most magical destinations, because, “I heard it was touristy.”

There are American tourists who say you should skip Venice. They are wrong.

It goes on and on, but suffice to say, I have been to Italy in the neighborhood of two dozen times, summer and winter, for food, wine, skiing, golf, hiking, cycling and more food, from north to south and east to west and islands too, and I know a lot about Italian cuisine, but I still ask real experts for advice every time I go. I specifically ask for advice on where to eat, what to see, and who to choose as guides. And by experts, I mean people how live in Italy, specialize in particular areas of travel, and know their subject matter.

“We get multiple guests a year who want to wing it,” says Cherrye Moore, owner of My Bella Vita travel. Moore moved to Calabria two decades ago after falling in love with the region on a visit, and opened a bed and breakfast, learning about what her visitors were looking for. Her company now specializes in planning trips—especially foodie and ancestry trips—to the area in Southern Italy where many Italian Americans trace their heritage. “They say, ‘My neighbor just showed up in their family’s hometown and it went great for them,’ or, ‘Our friends went to Italy last year and said we don't need a driver.’ It’s true that you can rent a car and drive to your family’s hometown, but that experience is vastly different from having a dedicated driver and a heritage specialist who has done research on your family’s history, who has already identified the home your grandfather was born in, and who has arranged meetings with locals upon your arrival.”

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Anyone can tour the Vatican, but only the right guides can get you a private visit.

I just got back from an exploration of Turin followed by a weeklong hiking trip in surrounding Piemonte, Italy’s most prestigious wine region, which included multiple winery visits. For restaurants and guides and sightseeing in Turin I used an Italian-based travel specialist that is the choice of many of the best luxury travel agents/advisors in this country (the best travel agents are savvy enough to know what they do not know and regularly rely on local experts). For the hiking trip, I used an Italy-based active travel specialist that does nothing else, and does it with a food-centric spin. It was another fantastic Italy trip, one amazing day after another, featuring many meals, wineries and experiences I never would have found by myself, especially by asking random friends or watching You Tube influencer videos by people with far less Italy experience than myself.

“We don’t focus on stars or diamonds, we focus on really special one-of-a-kind experiences and lodging that lets you discover our Italy,” said Heather Dowd, who lives in Turin and along with her Italian husband Beppe Salerno. They run Tourissimo , the active travel company we used. We had several friends hiking with us who were on either their very first or second trip to Italy, and when we reviewed our experiences at the end for the trip, one place we stayed, an 18 th century castle turned boutique hotel, was the overwhelming favorite. It did not have whirlpool tubs or Frette linens, it did not have a concierge or room service, but it had excellent food and beautiful gardens in which we had an epic dinner. It had cooking classes, a great location, a fun aperitivo evening cocktail session, and most of all, incredible charm..

Everyone wants the perfect meal in Italy, but not everyone knows where the locals go to find it.

It was exactly what my first timers dreamed Italy would be like, and it was a place we never would have found online. It was perfect, and even in Italy not every place is, but the reality is that Heather and Beppe and their guides spend a lot of time behind the scenes visiting small hotels and vetting them, way more time than the people who rate their stays on booking websites. One of my friends was so impressed he is already planning an extended family hiking trip to Sicily with Tourissimo next year.

If you want to have an insider experience in Italy, and see the places locals go, you need a local insider to help you out.

“Our goal is for guests to experience Calabria like we do, so we’ve built experiences that aren’t available online,” said My Bella Vita’s Moore. “Nowhere else can you find a multi-course lunch hosted at Zia Pina’s or a picnic prepared and delivered by Signora Francesca. Lunch in the home of our friend, Chef Massimo, isn’t available on Google. When creating or reviewing experiences I always think of my sister in Texas. If she were visiting, would I take her here? If that answer is yes, I know we have a winner.” That is exactly the standard by which I’d like my Italy travels to be judged.

A trip to Italy is a beautiful, special, and almost sacred experience, so don’t screw it up by taking bad advice. I do not know every local specialist—and I hope to keep finding more—but I know several experts I would recommend for different kinds of travel. Or use a good travel advisor, something I recommend for all travel (Read my article Why You Need A Travel Agent More Than Ever here at Forbes ), and communicate with them to ensure they are on the same page in terms of sourcing these kinds of local experts. If they are good, they will already be familiar with several of these companies.

Active Travel

All of Tourissimo's cycling and hiking trips in Italy emphasize food and wine, which is how it ... [+] should be.

Italy has long been the dream destination of cyclists, with Tuscany atop the Bucket List for global road riding destinations. But for the past few years the fastest growing sector of cycling has been “gravel grinding,” and with hundreds of miles of its stunning unpaved “white roads,” Tuscany has also emerged as the world’s top travel spot for gravel lovers. There are also plenty of other amazing places to ride in Italy, including Piemonte, Sardinia, Puglia, the Lakes region, and many other areas. World class hiking abounds, especially the stunning Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage Site of beauty unmatched by most other mountain regions on earth. Beyond this there are the Alps in the east, the Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and many other great options.

Italy is so well known for cycling and hiking that every major active travel company in the world runs trips there. But for my last two active trips, one hiking and one biking, I chose a tour operator that is actually based there, founded by an Italian with a passion for cycling and food. Tourissimo may be Italian, but they cater to the American market, and founder Beppe Salerno worked for am American cycling company as a guide before realizing he could do the real Italy better himself—to me, the perfect startup rationale. Over the years since, Tourissimo has grown its library of offerings, with both with an array of scheduled group trips and private custom options. While they do mostly road riding, they are notably one of the only tour operators scheduling gravel trips, and can also arrange custom mountain biking itineraries, with years of expertise in cycling and hiking.

Superstar Chef Mary Sue Milliken has led about galf a dozen Chef's Cycling Tours in Italy for ... [+] Tourissimo.

In addition, Tourissimo has also been a pioneer in “Active Culinary Travel,” a hot new category I have written about here at Forbes (and for other magazines and newspapers). They offer an annual series of six group rides (and a hike) each hosted by an acclaimed chef like Mary Sue Milliken, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author (five!) and co-host of the popular PBS cooking show Two Hot Tamales . She is also an avid cyclist and has led the Tourissimo Chef Bike Tours for several years, along with other big names. These trips are a unique option for serious foodies who also ride, while the other trips cater to just about anyone. Otherwise they offer several styles of trips, from Bici Basics for new riders to Ambitious Tours for the more hard core.

Tourissimo puts a focus on local, choosing small and often historic hotels that they have curated and vetted (like the castle I just stayed at in Piemonte), places that you would never be able to distinguish from hundreds of other non-chain options online. Same for restaurants, wineries, and all the other ways they take you behind the scenes and into their real Italy. Their Mission Statement? “We don't want to be the biggest adventure travel company. We want to design and run the best tours in Italy. We strive to be the most authentic and the most beneficial to local communities.” Fantastico!

Bellagio on Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in Italy — and the perfect place for a ... [+] food-centric bike tour!

Bike It! Bellagio offers another insider biking experience on a much different scale, providing a great one-day experience for visitors to Italy’s most famous lake town. This bike shop on Lake Como is run by a former pro racer and his wife. They rent bikes (road, mountain and e-bikes) out, but also offer one-day guided tours with multiple food and drink stops. Given that the owner grew up here and knows everyone, it’s not surprising that the food and drink spots are insider picks. The shop sits near the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb, the most famous in the Giro di Lombardia, a race more than a century old, and several days a week the shop offers guided group rides with a climb of the pass, on road or e-bikes—Bianchi bikes of course!

There are scheduled tours Monday through Saturday, as well as wide range of customizable private tours. These are often taken by families with mixed ages, but for more aggressive riders they offer longer road tours, mountain biking and gravel riding, along with a wide range of less demanding e-bike tours, including some even more focused on food and wine. They also offer a handful of multi-day tours and can put these together as custom on demand, usually for groups, including an iconic coast to coast traverse of Italy. If you are a guest of one of the many stunning (and pricey) ultra-luxury hotels around Bellagio, and ask the concierge to arrange a bike tour, they are likely going to call this shop anyway (and mark it up) so just do it yourself.

Luxury Travel in Italy

From planning your entire itinerary with flights, hotels, and transfers to just booking the best tours, guides and VIP access (often to non-public highlights), it pays to use a top local specialist.

Last year I attended the annual Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, which has been called “the Oscars of the travel industry.” Virtuoso is the leading global luxury travel consortium, and many of the best travel advisors on earth belong, So does just about every top hotel, resort, safari lodge, cruise line, and luxury tour operator. Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch was explaining the many advantages of using a travel advisor (I wholeheartedly agree) and something he said really stuck with me. He explained that with all of the new online tour booking companies, it was easier than ever to book a tour or guide in just about any destination on earth, but harder than ever to judge the quality. The caveat was that, “you can book a guide, but you can’t book my guide.”

One of Italy's greatest hidden gems, Turin was the nation's first capital and a Winter Olympic host. ... [+] It's worth getting a good guide if you visit.

The Vatican is the Vatican and the Colosseum is the Colosseum, so when you opt for a guided tour, what really matters and makes it a good, bad or great experience is the guide—and their special access, like a tour of the Vatican when no one else is there.

For my recent trip to Turin, I called Imago Artis Travel , an Italy-based luxury travel specialist. They are what is known in the travel industry as a destination management company or DMC, the same companies luxury travel agents call to arrange local details for their clients. There are great DMCs all over the world, and local knowledge is valuable everywhere, but many of them do not deal directly with travelers, while in Italy the best ones do.

I wanted a private day tour of Turin and its surrounding attractions for my wife and I, most importantly the Reggia di Venaria Reale, aka the “Italian Versailles” (one of two places in Italy with this lofty but accurate nickname). The guide they got for me was a licensed guide, and lifelong resident of Turin, and spoke excellent English, which was all good, but she was also an architect, which was great in a city where so much is driven by architecture. That’s not so easy to find on global tour aggregator website. Imago Artis also gave me a list of their favorite restaurant recommendations, which were spot on, then made my reservations for me. At a minimum this eliminates the language barrier of calling or the technology barrier of booking through often tricky (or non-functional) Italian restaurant reservation websites, but in many cases it also gets you a better table and instant VIP treatment—which definitely does not happen when I book myself.

Italy is rich in world-class crafts, and companies like Imago Artis can take you behind the scenes ... [+] to meet the makers.

Imago Artis Travel is a Virtuoso member, which means when you book through them, if you book your luxury hotel, you get extras like room upgrades, late checkout, spa credits etc., one of the big advantages of working with Virtuoso travel advisors. If you have a bigger budget than I do, they can handle all sorts of luxury transport, private jets, helicopters, boat charters, and also offer VIP Meet and Greet services at just about every airport in Italy. They can even arrange private security details. On a more accessible luxury level, they specialize in exclusive experiences, unlocking historic buildings and art collections not open to the public, and taking you behind the scenes with many artisans of Italy, from custom shoemakers to sculptors to jewelry designers. They know food, they know the guides, and I especially like their mission statement, “Our mission is simple: Getting You to the Heart of Italy.” That’s what it is all about.

Another top luxury DMC that is also a member of Virtuoso that I have used in the past with great success is IC Bellagio . They offer a similar array of luxury services and are very well connected, but they also specialize in Villa rentals as well as 5-Star hotels. Differentiating villas in Italy may be the single biggest challenge, more so than restaurants, with so many options and so few valid reviews. IC Bellagio has also boldly acknowledged the overtourism problems some of the most popular parts of Italy face, and are pushing “Slow Season Travel,” which varies in each of the country’s 20 regions but is something they are expert in. Last winter I went to Venice in the off-season, and it was spectacular, and I just traveled in a slow season to Piemonte. It was much, much better than fighting the crowds.

Skiing in Italy is awesome, and it's the best place in the world to stay in mountain rifugios — but ... [+] you need help for the perfect trip.

Skiing in Italy remains a bit under the radar for Europe, especially compared to France and Switzerland. Well, let the crowds go to other countries, because Italy has two different major ski regions, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, and the Games are returning to Milan and Cortina in 2026. The interconnected Dolomiti SuperSki lift and trail network in the Dolomites is arguably the largest “ski resort” in the world, and inarguably one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the planet. The towns are charming, the food is great, there are spectacular hotels from non-chain independent hidden gems to world-class luxury (Aman, Mandarin Oriental, Relais & Chateaux, etc.) and it’s cheaper than much of the rest of Europe. Did I mention the food?

I first went to the Dolomites to go hiking, and was so wowed I thought, “I have to come back and ski here.” I came back the next winter and skied, and the following year I got a group of friends together and went back. I have skied all over the U.S., and all over the world and never had the same compulsion to return to the same place immediately. That’s how good skiing in Italy is ( read much more in my Italy skiing piece here at Forbes ).

I’ve only used one company for ski travel in Italy and see no reason to switch gears, especially since the local logistics (a great guide/instructor, transfers, the best on-mountain meals and staying a couple of nights in the region’s unique on-mountain rifugios) is very hard to organize on your own. The company is Dolomite Mountains , a specialist in both resort ski vacations and backcountry touring trips (using skins and alpine touring or AT gear). They too are a U.S. facing company with mainly American clientele.

Like many active travel companies, they offer both group trip scheduled departure options and private custom trips to fit whatever you want. The group option is called the Dolomites Ski Safari and is a 7-day trip mixing stays in amazing rifugios with in-town hotels (4 and 5-stars on the Italian system) and includes all breakfasts and dinners, a full-time guide, ski pass, luggage transfers and more. Custom options include the same kind of trip for your own group, or anything you want, and while its name suggests local expertise—quite true—Dolomite Mountains also handles ski trips in the rest of Italy, like Courmayeur, and connected border regions of France, Switzerland and Austria, as many lift systems here know no national boundaries (ski with your passport!). They are also a Virtuoso member.

Calabria & Southern Italy

Many Italian Americans trace their ancestry to Southern Italy's Calabria, and if you want to visit, ... [+] make sure you do it right.

My Bella Vita travel focuses on this area, including both small group trips and custom privates. Their specialties include “Heritage Tours” for those interested in their ancestry, and a food focus for the rest of us. For instance, Taste of the South is a 12-day gastronomic journey through Calabria, Basilicata and Naples—the birthplace of pizza! Food & Wine of Calabria is an 11-daty trip and just what it sounds like.

These are some of the scheduled small group tours offered, but the rest of their business is private trip planning and custom options.

“Italy is deceivingly large, and travelers think two weeks is enough time to see everything. It isn’t,” insists Moore. “You can’t even experience all of Calabria in two weeks. Our team collectively spends about six months a year scouting new hotels, restaurants, and experiences in Calabria and we are constantly re-evaluating and tweaking our recommendations.”

There are some other Italy specialists I have not personally experienced, but that come highly recommended by some of my other experts:

My Bella Vita’s Cherrye Moore says, “ In Sicily, I recommend Lucia Davies of Sicily Tour , one of a trio of British expats who have lived in Siracusa, Sicily for decades.” A family-owned tour-guiding company based in Siracusa, they have nearly 40 years of experience on the island and create trips fostering cultural exchange between Italy and English-speaking visitors, specializing in small group and custom tours.

Food & Wine

Life is too short to go to Italy and not eat well.

Beppe and Heather Dowd of Tourissimo recommend Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures , a company that has also earned kudos from other travel industry folks I know. Owner Francesca Montillo grew up in Southern Italy where her father was greengrocer. An Italian-American cookbook author, she launched the company a decade ago, and she personally leads the tours. She does numerous scheduled tours to different regions each year, and also offers custom private itineraries.

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