Italy is no stranger to an island, claiming 350 of its own. But while you’re likely familiar with lemon-laden Capri, or the rugged beauty of Sardinia, there are a bevy of places in the Mediterranean nation that are just as fluent in pasta and beaches, but with less tourists (promise). If you crave some island time with some seclusion on the side, try these 7 lesser-known destinations.
While it may neighbour glamorous Capri, Procida is as relaxed as can be. Dominated by pastel-hued buildings, this spot is as pretty as its fellow Bay of Naples residents, but promises far less crowds. While you’re here, make way for the towns of Marina Chiaiolella and Marina Corricella, former fishing villages that are now home to a cluster of well-regarded eateries and boutiques.
Yet another of Sicily’s offerings, Favignana may be small in stature, but it makes up for it in natural wonders. Eye-catching to the extreme, this lovely little escape belongs on the Egadi Archipelago within access of eastern Sicily’s port town of Trapani. Picture 37 kilometres of rocky shoreline and crystalline waters that are best explored by bicycle.
Within arm’s reach of Sardinia (or 20 or so minutes) is La Maddalena. A part of a cluster of seven islands, it’s famed for its stunningly beautiful beaches (like Spiaggia Rosa), and its national park. Spend your time here swimming (or snorkelling) its turquoise waters, or exploring town, a picturesque place dating back to the eighteenth century.
Small but mighty, Panarea is a part of the Aeolian islands off the northern tip of Sicily. Idyllic is an understatement when it comes to this piece of paradise – think crystal clear waters, white and blue buildings aplenty, and the calm of car-free streets. Spend your day cruising its coves by boat or venturing to neighbouring island Salina where vineyards are plentiful.
Head to the east of Sicily and offshore you’ll find eye-catching Pantelleria, a place closer to Tunisia than Italy. If you’ve seen Tilda Swinton’s ‘A Bigger Splash’ you’ll be no stranger to this sun-baked wonderland. But it’s long been associated with the jet set, (Truman Capote was a fan) thanks likely to its rugged natural beauty, thermal lake, and quaint villages.
Wedged between Rome and Naples in the Tyrrhenian Sea is the Pontine Islands. Ponza is the largest of these rocky outcrops and famed not just for its stunning waters, but the brightly coloured buildings on its mainland. While the town (and its many historic sites) is worthy of a wander, don’t miss out on the pebble-laden Spiaggia di Frontone, what’s considered to be Ponza’s best beach.
A member of the quartet of four Tremiti Islands, San Domino sits off the coast of Puglia. One of Italy’s only islands in the Adriatic Sea, San Domino is rich in grottoes, limestone cliffs, and sparkling waters, but it’s also a diving haven, its underwater caves and shipwrecks attracting scuba fans by the bucketload. There’s plenty to do on two feet too – including visiting the island’s only village.
