When travelers think of Italian islands, the glamour of Capri or the postcard views of Sicily often come to mind. But for those seeking secret islands in Italy where nature, food, and slow travel meet, there’s much more to discover.
These best Italian islands are perfect for escaping the mainland crowds, swimming in crystal-clear waters, hiking through untouched landscapes, and savoring local cuisine. Whether you’re planning your next Italy summer getaway or returning for a deeper experience, these five under-the-radar islands deserve a spot on your list.
1. Ponza – The Best-Kept Secret Near Rome
Located off the Lazio coast, Ponza is just a ferry ride from Anzio or Formia, making it one of the easiest islands to reach from Rome—yet it remains surprisingly uncrowded.
The island’s jagged cliffs, hidden coves, and turquoise waters make it a dream for swimming and boat excursions. Rent a small boat and explore natural rock arches and grottos, or snorkel in calm inlets like Cala Feola. For a bit of history, visit the Roman cisterns or the 18th-century port designed by the Bourbons.
Ponza’s charm lies in its simplicity: pastel houses, seaside trattorias serving linguine with sea urchin, and a timeless, laid-back vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere so close to the capital.
2. Elba – A Blend of History and Natural Beauty
Most famous as Napoleon’s place of exile, Elba in Tuscany’s Tyrrhenian Sea is a treasure trove of natural landscapes and cultural intrigue.
Part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, the island offers hiking trails with sweeping sea views, secluded beaches like Fetovaia, and crystal waters ideal for kayaking and diving. In autumn, you can join grape harvest festivals in inland villages.
Elba is also known for its seafood, especially cacciucco (a rich fish stew), and local white wines. Stay in Marciana Marina or Capoliveri for charming accommodations and easy access to nature trails and historic forts.
3. Ischia – Thermal Springs and Garden Walks
Often overlooked in favor of nearby Capri, Ischia is the largest island in the Bay of Naples and offers something truly special: natural thermal springs, lush gardens, and a thriving slow food scene.
Relax in one of the many thermal spas in Forio or Sant’Angelo, stroll through the fairytale La Mortella Gardens, or hike up Monte Epomeo for panoramic views. Ischia is also home to ancient vineyards and volcanic soil, making for unique local wines.
Food lovers will enjoy rustic dishes like coniglio all’ischitana (Ischian rabbit stew) and pasta with wild herbs. It’s the perfect island for those who want both relaxation and discovery.
4. Pantelleria – Italy’s Most Exotic Island
Located between Sicily and Tunisia, Pantelleria feels like another world. Shaped by volcanic activity and shaped by Arab influences, the island is a bold contrast to the classic Italian coastal look.
Stay in a traditional dammuso stone house, visit the Specchio di Venere (a heart-shaped lake), or trek through the Montagna Grande natural reserve. The landscape is rugged, wild, and deeply peaceful.
Pantelleria is also a Slow Food paradise. Don’t miss caper farms, sweet passito di Pantelleria wine, and dishes infused with local herbs and citrus. It’s remote, but worth every effort to get there.
5. Favignana – Tuna, Biking, and Turquoise Bays
Part of the Egadi Islands off Sicily’s western coast, Favignana is a flat, bike-friendly island known for its transparent waters and former tuna-fishing traditions.
Cycle from beach to beach, stopping at Cala Rossa or Cala Azzurra for a swim. Visit the Tonnara di Favignana, an old tuna processing plant turned museum, to understand the island’s fishing heritage.
Seafood dominates the menu here. Try busiate pasta with bottarga or raw red prawns, freshly caught that morning. The relaxed rhythm and clear sea make Favignana ideal for a day trip or a few days of digital detox.
Why These Islands Belong on Your Itinerary
Each of these islands offers something that goes beyond sun and sand. They invite you to:
- Travel slowly and intentionally
- Discover regional food and traditions
- Experience landscapes shaped by time and nature
They also align perfectly with the values of Maestro Discover Italy, exploring beauty without crowds, diving into culture through local flavors, and finding peace in unexpected places.
Plan Your Island Escape with Maestro Discover Italy
At Maestro Discover Italy, we help travelers look beyond the obvious. Whether you’re kayaking off Elba, relaxing in a vineyard in Ischia, or cycling along Favignana’s coast, we design journeys that bring you closer to Italy’s soul.
Let us curate your perfect island escape, where natural beauty meets authentic experiences, and every bay, village, and dish tells a story worth savoring.