Everyone knows of Italy as this boot-shaped country in southern Europe. Within this shoe silhouette of land, there's the stunning capital, Rome, the ever-romantic Venice, and the fashionable Milan. And those are just the famous cities on the mainland! Did you know that there are many islands in Italy too? The most famous of which is
Sardinia, but there's also Capri, Ponza, and Procida, to name a few. And they prove that the country really is such a magical destination. Each and every one of these islands has something amazing to offer, be it their paradisical coasts or their fascinating cultures.
Sardinia
From its 2,000-kilometer stretch of white sandy shoreline to its
many delicious local delicacies, there's a lot to expect in Sardinia. It's a fairly large island, complete with
charming towns and a myriad of natural wonders. In a way, it offers the best of both worlds. If you want to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Italy, you can stay in any of the island's beautiful cities. And if you prefer a more thrilling adventure where you can be one with nature, you can venture off into the magnificent mountains and enchanting forests of Sardinia.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Caprera
Off the north coast of Sardinia lies Caprera, another one of the most beautiful islands in Italy. It's actually part of the Maddalena archipelago, located in the Strait of Bonifacio. So the first thing you might notice here is the crystal blue waters. They sparkle in such glistening jewel tones that you can't help but want to jump in. And though the shorelines are mostly rocky, there are still a few patches of white sand where you can enjoy a fun day at the beach. You shouldn't miss the serenity that Caprera offers. It's as if you were transported to another, quieter world.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/Cannonau
Capri
Perhaps the most famous on this list is the island of Capri. Ever since the former US First Lady (and fashion icon) Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis frequented this island in the 1960s, it's become one of the go-to Mediterranean escapes of the rich and famous. As a result, the island is now home to a good number of luxury resorts, five-star hotels, and the like. If you want to revel in the high-class luxury that southern Italy can offer, you couldn't have found a better place. In many ways, Capri almost rivals the famous destinations on the
French Riviera. Though compared to Cannes and Saint Tropez, Capri Island has a paradisical beauty that's all its own.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ischia
Often regarded as “Capri's quieter little sister,” the island of Ischia shines as a bright tourist gem in the Gulf of Naples. It sits on the Amalfi coast, welcoming onslaughts of tourists into its shores all year round (though summer remains its busiest season). What's so great about Ischia is that it has a lot to offer for various kinds of tourists. History buffs will want to visit the Roman Ruins near Cartaromana Beach. The hot springs at Maronti Beach, on the other hand, serve as the perfect spot for honeymooning couples to unwind and relax.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ponza
If you think you've heard about Ponza before, it's most likely because the island is mentioned in Homer's “Odyssey.” But is it just as magical as the ancient Greek poem describes? Many will argue that it's even more amazing in real life! You might not find enchanting nymphs and scary titans on the island now, but you will see some of the most stunning coasts in the Mediterranean. And the best part? They're all relatively remote. Ponza has its fair share of bustling towns and crowded beaches, sure, but if you go off the beaten path, you'll end up in some seriously magical places.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Procida
With how peaceful Ponza is, going to Procida will feel like you went to the other side of the world. Located off the coast of Naples, this is one of the busier islands in Italy. Though it's comparatively more peaceful than Capri and Ischia, there are still countless tourists who flock here once summertime arrives. They can't help but immerse in the lively provincial towns here, dock their luxury yachts on its scenic coast, and revel in the island's natural glory. If you want to have a quieter and more relaxing stay in Ponza, you'd do well to go here around spring instead.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Borromean Islands
Finally, there are the Borromean Islands. Located west of Lago Maggiore, they're more like islets than standard islands. In fact, depending on where you are, you might even catch a good view of these islands in their entirety. And isn't that what makes them so enchanting? They feel like small remote lands that may have worlds of their own. You'll only get to discover them if you get there yourselves. Who knows? Perhaps an exciting adventure awaits you here! Similar to the ones you'd see in
Disney films and the like! Now that'd be pretty magical.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Many of the most beautiful islands in Italy are just so enchanting. They offer scenic coasts, serene waters, charming villages, and of course, the Mediterranean's signature sunny weather. Who wouldn't want to stay here?
