There are few common traits that islands off the coast of Italy possess: wonderfully unspoiled nature, fantastic beaches, rich cultural heritage and, of course, great food. If the perfect holiday destination for you is to combine relaxing beach days with adventurous site-seeing, then read on as we explore some fantastic Italian islands.

Unmissable islands from Sicily to Sardinia:

In this article we explore some of Italy's most fascinating islands, from the historic and cultural Sicily to the crystal-clear waters of Sardinia. We will discover the natural beauty, local traditions and culinary delights that make these destinations unique and unmissable.

Capri: glitz and glam with beautiful views

This small Mediterranean island off the Amalfi Coast is full of stunning natural beauty, such as the Grotta Azzurra and the Arco Naturale. Surrounded by azure waters, which make for some excellent snorkelling, this glamourous island won’t disappoint.

Elba: unspoilt nature and Napoleonic history

The largest in the Tuscan Archipelago, the island of Elba is a paradise of natural, unspoiled beauty. It’s no wonder it’s the place Napoleon decided to retire too. If you love being outdoors, exploring golden sand beaches and hiking in lush Mediterranean scrub, then, this is the destination for you.

Ischia: relaxing spas and beautiful gardens

On this lovely island you can enjoy leisurely strolls through fishing villages and lazy beach days on one of the many white sandy beaches. Spend a relaxing afternoon in one of the famed spas: Poseidon or Negombo. Enjoy a morning at the Mortella Gardens, spectacular subtropical and Mediterranean gardens. To complement your experience, consider bringing a taste of Ischia home with you. You can find Limoncello available for purchase on Shop & Fly, the e-commerce platform of ADR - Aeroporti di Roma, offering an authentic way to relive your Italian journey.

Stromboli: an active volcano and breathtaking scenery

This untouched paradise is the perfect destination for those looking for spectacular scenery and black volcanic beaches. Make sure to enjoy the nocturnal eruptions from the volcano from a boat, a memorable site and a must while on this fascinating island.

Lipari: active volcano and thermal waters

Here you can soak up the village charm of Piano Conte, Acquacalda or Porticello, and enjoy the wild, sandy beaches. Climb to the highest peak of the island, Monte Chirica, for spectacular views over the Archipelago. Make sure to swing by the Bernabó Brea Museum and the archaeological park for a taste of the history of this fascinating island.

Pantelleria: volcanic landscapes and typical dammusi

A perfect location for those who want to immerse themselves in unspoiled nature, shallow clear waters, and dramatic beaches.  Visit the sulphurous waters of the Mirror of Venus, a thermal spring lake that was formed in the crater of an old volcano. A great natural open-air spa that is free. Trek up to one of the island’s most beautiful swimming locations, the beautiful crystal-clear waters of Balata dei Turchi, and spot the traditional stone-built houses called dammusi, dotted elegantly around the island.

Favignana: crystal-clear waters and ancient tuna nets

The largest of the Egadi Islands offers lovely coves with aquamarine waters and can be explored perfectly by foot or by bike. Once one of the largest tuna fisheries in the Mediterranean, you can now visit a fascinating museum on the history of fishing in the area. Here you can delight in the bustling night life and enjoy some delicious sea food along the coast.

La Maddalena: an archipelago of wild, unspoilt islands

This national park is comprised of seven islands located off the coast of Sardinia, renowned for their clear waters, yellow sand beaches, and hidden coves. A great spot for the adventure seeking traveller as on the islands you can scuba dive, go hiking, and cycling or enjoy boat rides around the coves and lazy beach days on the main island of La Maddalena.

San Pietro: unique traditions and turquoise waters

Located off the southern coast of Sardinia, San Pietro is the perfect location if you want to combine chilled-out beach days with culture and history. With rugged coastline and wonderful coves to explore, such as La Cala and Cala Vinagra, this island will make you want to stay forever. Enjoy the pristine beaches of Girin and Guidi. If you can drag yourself from the beaches, spend an afternoon at the Museum of the Sea to learn more about the history of the community.

Tavolara: unspoilt nature and marine reserves

This island just off the coast of Sardinia, offers turquoise waters and sandy beaches, as well as the opportunity to hike to the summit of Tavolara, rising 560 metres above sea levels. Once at the top you can enjoy spectacular sea views and the distant mountains of Corsica. If heights aren’t your thing, then enjoy a boat ride around the island stopping off at different coves along the way to jump off and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.

Whether it be lounging on a yellow sand beach, hiking in Mediterranean bushland to reach that perfectly secluded cove or enjoying the excitement of nocturnal volcanic explosions, islands in Italy have something to offer everyone. Enjoy wonderfully fresh cuisine in some of the many fishing villages and towns and bask in the beauty of the unspoiled nature that surrounds them.