Discover five Italian islands «hidden gems» for summer vacations beyond the ordinary.
Greek seas may steal the spotlight every summer, but if you want to break away from the usual for a while, the islands of Italy make a great alternative. Sardinia, Sicily and Capri are the best known. Beyond these, though, our neighboring country hides many gems that deserve your attention: lesser-known yet enchanting islands with crystal-clear waters, picturesque coves and idyllic fishing villages, attracting those seeking holidays with authentic character and tranquility. We present five such places below to add to your travel list.
Salina
Salina, one of the seven Aeolian Islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea, north of Sicily, is an ideal destination for those who want to pair a place of abundant natural beauty and wonderful beaches with wine explorations. Volcanic cliffs plunging into the sea, quiet villages amid lush green mountains, and pebble beaches dotted with colorful fishing boats create a unique setting for summer relaxation. Don't miss a swim at Pollara beach with its black volcanic sand, and try the famous sweet Malvasia wine as well as the island's renowned capers. You can take the ferry for excursions to other islands, hike the volcanic Monte Fossa delle Felici for dreamy views over the archipelago, or simply relax alongside Sicilians vacationing in the little town of Rinella.
Ponza
With tiny fishing villages, a charming harbor with cafés and trattorias, beaches with turquoise waters, superb caves to explore and trails for hiking, Ponza is an unpretentious island that remains off the tourist radar. Despite the enormous yachts you'll see in the harbor, the island's atmosphere is calm and relaxing. Here you'll swim at one of Italy's loveliest beaches, Chiaia di Luna, which impresses with its lunar landscape. The island of Ponza lies between Naples and Rome in the Tyrrhenian Sea and you can visit it by hydrofoil or by ferry from the towns of Anzio, Formia and San Felice Circeo, or from Naples.
Pantelleria
It may be no secret to Italians, but Pantelleria is a surprise of an island that remains unexplored by tourists. Between Sicily and Tunisia, Pantelleria stands out for its wild, volcanic landscape. You won't find endless sandy beaches here. You'll discover instead a unique sanctuary and a distinctive scene made up of warm natural pools, beautiful caves perfect for snorkeling and diving, and vineyards that produce some of Italy's best sweet wines. The island's most impressive sight is the heart-shaped lake Specchio di Venere (meaning, "Mirror of Venus"), which is fed by hot springs.
Procida
The smallest island in the Bay of Naples is overshadowed by neighboring Capri and Ischia. Those who do visit are enchanted by fishing villages that recall Portofino, the colorful houses that tumble down to the sea, the picturesque Coricella marina and its gorgeous coastline. It's no coincidence that Procida has been chosen as the setting for famous films such as «The Talented Mr. Ripley» and «Il Postino». The island is so small you can walk everywhere.
Elba
The largest island of the Tuscan archipelago, known as Napoleon Bonaparte's place of exile, uniquely blends natural beauty and cultural wealth. Although it's just an hour by boat from the Italian mainland, Elba is more than a day trip. It has many lovely beaches with crystal-clear waters, colorful villages, imposing buildings of traditional architecture, medieval castles and trails for hiking and cycling.
