Italy is home to astonishing scenery, from white sand beaches to beautiful fluorescent turquoise waters. The country has over 350 sea islands which are each architecturally, geographically, and culturally unique. The islands of Italy are perfect summer vacation destinations but the majority of them can be visited and enjoyed all year-round! These islands are not difficult to reach and can be explored by simply taking a ferry from Sicily to your island destination.
Procida is a small island that is part of the Flegrean Islands and is located in Southern Italy, off the coast of Naples. Although it is less popular than other islands such as Capri, this can be beneficial as it makes for a very relaxing location.
Best time to visit: July – August
Things to do:
- Observe Corricella Marina, shown in the above image. This fishing villa is the oldest in Procida and contains an array of colorful buildings. This complex of building has so many amazing architectural characteristics including Romanesque arches, and stunning domes and balconies.
- Visit Cirracio Beach which is the largest beach on the island. It contains waters that are both translucent and shallow, therefore they are ideal for visitors. This beach also has many nearby beach clubs, restaurants, and bars.
- Enjoy delicious seafood cuisine at La Lampara.
- Catch a boat ride from Marine Grande to tour around the entire island in as little as three hours.
Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It contains many beaches with sands that are bright white and waters that are translucent. Although it is quite peacefully secluded, it offers a variety of different attractions including incredible restaurants with delicious seafood. Furthermore, the island has five-star beaches and intriguing history.
Best time to visit: July – August
Things to do:
- Visit beaches of the Subus Peninsula, Costa Verde, and Isola Maddalena.
- Go on horseback riding tours.
- Visit The Archaeological Museum Antiquarium Arborense.
- Visit Olbia’s archaeological museum.
- View Pisan-Style Churches such as the austere Basilica of San Simplicio.
- Favignana
Favignana, also known as “Farfalla” for its butterfly shape, is actually a commune in Southern Italy. It is only a half hour ferry ride away from Trapani. It includes three islands which are Favignana, Marettimo, and Levanzo. Favignana is the largest and most popular of the Egadi Islands.
Best time to visit: July – August
Things to do:
- Eat at delicious seafood restaurants including Osteria la Bettolaccia which is known for delectable spaghetti dishes or Ristorante Tentazioni di Gusto which is popular for fish dishes.
- Go bike riding, since the landscape of Favignana is relatively flat and ideal for it.
- Enjoy a day at a secluded beach such as Carla Rossa, or Blue Marino.
- Go on a boat tour.
- Rent a Vespa to explore the island.
- Go tuna fishing at Lido Burrone.
Capri is a rocky Island in the Bay of Naples of the coast of Campania. It is both a beautiful and historic tourist destination. Capri has four distinct seasons each with weather that varies immensely, so it is best to fully understand each when planning to visit.
Best time to visit: May, June, and September
Things to do:
- Sample limoncello at Limoncello Di Capri.
- Visit the Blue Grotto which is a sea cave perfect for honeymooners.
- Explore the Villa of ancient art, ” Villa San Michele”.
- Enjoy a cocktail or morning espresso at the Piazzetta.
- Watch the sunset at the Punta Carena lighthouse.
- Eat dinner at one of the islands most popular five-star restaurants, “La Palette”.
- Visit Sorrento which is only 20 minutes from Capri.
Elba is the largest and most popular of the seven Islands of the Tuscan Archipelago. Elba has over 70 beautiful clear water beaches to visit. The island is also full of delicious food and great wine.
Best time to visit: July – August
Things to do:
- Spend a day at one of the islands best beaches. Fetovaia beach has granite cliffs and beautiful ombre waters that go from mesmerizing shades of cobalt blue to turquoise, and fade into clear, shallow water. Sasonne Beach is considered one of the most gorgeous beaches of the island and is ideal for snorkeling. It contains bright white cliffs and pebbles.
- Paddleboat at Fetovaia beach, known to be one of the most stunning and relaxing beaches of the island.
- If you enjoy outdoor activities and adventures, hike up Mount Capanne which is the highest mountain of Elba.
- Eat at Piazza Domo which was ranked number 15 for the World’s 50 Best Restaurants of 2017.
