5 Beautiful Islands Off Italy: Panarea, Procida, Pontine Islands & More

When it comes to the beautiful islands off Italy, most travelers immediately think of Capri, but the country has so much more to offer beyond this famous hotspot. Scattered along the coasts of the mainland and Sicily, Italy is home to countless lesser-known islands, each with its own unique charm, history, and natural beauty.

From tranquil villages and dramatic cliffs to pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, these islands offer a more authentic and often quieter experience than the more tourist-heavy destinations. Here are five spectacular Italian islands you may not have heard of, each brimming with breathtaking scenery, delicious local seafood, and a distinctive character that makes them unforgettable.

5 Islands Off Italy That You Should Visit

Procida (Bay of Naples)

The island of Procida is picture perfect with its pastel houses and charming marina.

Forget Capri. Colorful Procida is also an easy ferry ride from Naples, and with everyone else flocking to Capri (or, secondarily, Ischia), it’s easily the Bay of Naples’ least-touristy island. With its colorful fishing village, fresh seafood, and authentic character, it’s one of our favorite spots for a day trip from the coast.

Throw in a trip to Procida when you visit Naples,  to balance the buzz of the city, with the chilled vibe of island life.

Levanzo (Aegadian Islands, Sicily)

The only village on the island of Levanzo in the Isole Egadi

Want to get away from it all? Then head to lovely Levanzo. This lovely speck of land sits off the northwestern coast of Sicily, in a chain of three islands called the Aegadian Islands (or Isole Egadi). It’s Levanzo is easily reached as a day trip from Trapani or Marsala.

The island has just one tiny, peaceful village (Calla Dogana), tranquil beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lovely nature walks. For history-seekers, there’s also the Grotta del Genovese (visitable by boat), a small cave holding Paleolithic graffiti dating back to 9,680 B.C.

If you want something with a bit more buzz in Sicily, go to Palermo and check out our Palermo City Guide.

Ponza (Pontine Islands, off Rome)

The island of Ponza, one of the most beautiful off Italy!

Many Romans make the trek to Ponza at least once over the summer, driving the hour to Anzio and then taking a 2-hour ferry ride to Ponza from there. That’s because the volcanic island is, quite simply, stunning.

Its villages are quaint and its water incredibly blue. There are also ancient cave pools, called Grotte di Pilato, scattered everywhere. The island is so beautiful, even the legendary Circe chose it as her home; this is where she seduced and lived with Odysseus for more than a year.

Island of Elba (Tuscan archipelago)

Forno Beach on the island of Elba

Okay, you might have heard of Elba—as the famed location of Napoleon’s exile. But it’s also an island well worth visiting for its own sake. The geography here includes mountains, hills and beaches.

The wine is renowned, and the history is fascinating, especially since Elba was French right up until the Italian reunification of 1860. Elba is easily reached by ferry from Piombino, a port town 2 hours from Florence or just 1 hour from Livorno.

Panarea (Aeolian Islands, Sicily)

The island of Panarea, in the Aeolian Islands

In the summer, Italians flock to the Aeolian Islands, a chain of eight spectacular isole off the coast of Italy. The inactive volcano of Panarea—at 1.3 square miles, the second-smallest island— is also one of the most lovely.

Although it’s become a favorite celebrity hangout in recent years, Panarea is an especially great destination for scuba divers, who particularly like diving the shipwreck just offshore.

Panarea, the most exclusive of the islands!

FAQs – Visiting Italy’s Lesser-Known Islands Off Italy

How much should I budget for visiting these islands?

When visiting islands off Italy, the costs vary by island and season. However, as a general guide, round-trip ferries usually range from €20–€60, while faster hydrofoils can cost more. Day trips are very doable, but overnight stays, especially in summer, can raise costs due to limited accommodation. Smaller islands like Procida and Levanzo tend to be more affordable than glamorous destinations such as Panarea or peak-season Ponza.

What are the best ways to get around once I’m on the islands?

Most of these islands are small and easy to explore on foot, but boat hire is a popular option for reaching secluded coves and beaches. You’ll also find water taxis, small-group boat tours, and private cruises, particularly in Ponza, Elba, and Panarea. Scooter or bike rentals are common on larger islands like Elba, while cars are often unnecessary, and sometimes restricted.

Can I stay overnight, or are these better as day trips?

Both options work well. Procida and Ponza are excellent for overnight stays thanks to their lively evenings and dining scenes. Levanzo is better suited to a quiet overnight escape or a relaxed day trip. Elba offers the widest range of accommodation, from hotels and agriturismi to beachside apartments, making it ideal for longer stays.

What should I expect in terms of food and dining?

Food is a highlight across all these islands. Expect fresh seafood, simple local recipes, and seasonal ingredients. Dining options may be limited on smaller islands, so reservations are wise in summer. Prices are generally reasonable on Procida and Levanzo, while Panarea and Ponza can be more expensive, especially at waterfront restaurants during high season.

It would be a sin not to indulge in fresh seafood when you’re right by the coast.

Experience the best of both worlds on your Italian getaway!

Start your trip in one of Italy’s major cities, Rome, Florence, Naples, or Venice, where you can immerse yourself in world-famous sights, guided tours of iconic museums, and historic landmarks. Then, swap the city hustle for the serene beauty of Italy’s islands, from the colorful streets of Procida to the sun-soaked beaches of Elba or the dramatic cliffs of Ponza.

Relax, unwind, and explore at a slower pace during the second half of your holiday, enjoying fresh seafood, hidden coves, and breathtaking Mediterranean scenery. Combine city sightseeing and island relaxation for a perfectly balanced Italian escape!