Want to discover some lesser-known Italian islands? Untouched nature, uncrowded beaches where you can enjoy a holiday by the bluest sea, far from the noise of traditional and mass tourism. Italy is full of them: you just have to look.
In this article, we will tell you about some of the most beautiful lesser-known Italian islands, inviting you to visit them at least once in your life.
Filicudi, in Volcanic Sicily
First on the list is the wild Filicudi, in Sicily. It has 250 inhabitants and is part of the Aeolian archipelago, being the oldest among them. Of volcanic origin, it is characterized by its steep slopes and rocky coasts.
Originally, it was called Phoenicodes due to the presence of many ferns. The island is indeed home to a fascinating flora: here heather, broom, prickly pears, and ferns grow happily.
What to see in Filicudi? First of all, Fossa Felci which, at 774 meters high, is the highest point on the island. Along its coast, you can visit a myriad of caves that overlook the sea. Among these, we recommend the Bue Marino cave. Bue Marino.
You can circumnavigate the islet by boat, sunbathe on beaches with dark volcanic pebbles, or walk to Le Punte, the trendiest seaside spot in Filicudi.
Favignana, a Holiday in the Blue Sea
Between Trapani and Marsala, in the crystal-clear sea of the Egadi Islands, you will find Favignana, the “big butterfly on the sea.” In ancient times, it had many Greek and Latin names, including Aegusa, meaning “island of goats.”
The island abounds with sea caves accessible by boat. Among these, we recommend the Grotta dei Sospiri, whose name evokes romantic atmospheres.
Favignana is known for its tranquil coves and beaches of every kind. From the golden sands of Cala Azzurra and Calamoni to the pebbly shores of Punta Lunga and the Faraglioni.
This island is the perfect destination for those who love diving, cliff jumping, and snorkeling thanks to its wonderful seabeds, coves like Cala Rossa and rocky spots like Punta Fanfalo and Grotta Perciata.
Caprera, Between Nature and History in Sardinia
Moving to Sardinia, Caprera draws our attention. Sister to the more urbanized La Maddalena, to which it is connected by a 600-meter-long bridge, Caprera is famous for a historical fact: it was the last residence of Giuseppe Garibaldifor twenty-six years. You can visit the hero of the two worlds’ home, rich with memorabilia and everyday objects. TheCasa Bianca , along with the tomb and the Garibaldino Museum
preserve the memory of this figure of the Risorgimento. Geographically, Caprera has two zones. The eastern part is a nature reserve and park where Mediterranean scrub grows lushly. In this area, you can visit the peacefulCala Coticcio , also known as the “Sardinian Tahiti,” and the area between Punta Rossa
and Isola Pecora. Beyond Punta Rossa stretches theSpiaggia del Relitto
, where the remains of an ancient ship rest on the shore. To the southeast, you will find Cala Portese, located in the center of a cove, a true jewel of Caprera.
The western area is covered by a pine forest, accompanied by the clear waters of Cala Napoletana and Cala Garibaldi of Cala Serena. The most populous village of Caprera isStagnali
, equipped with a small port popular with fishermen and boaters.
Giannutri, Beaches and Mediterranean Scrub in the Tuscan Archipelago Giannutri, a small crescent-shaped island and therefore dear to the goddess Artemis, is part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. It is located not far from Argentario and the Island of Giglio.
A holiday in Giannutri takes you to a unique and extraordinary natural environment, where only the most curious tourists can find their place.
Its sea is synonymous with silent beauty, its seabeds are clear and unmissable for their biodiversity. Caves and cliffs overlooking the sea alternate with Mediterranean scrub and dense woods.
The main pebble beaches are Cala Maestra and Cala Spalmatoio, free and accessible to all provided you have water shoes.
The island is perfect for trekking lovers in the Mediterranean scrub. A particularly recommended route leads to Monte Mario and Poggio di Capel Rosso, at an altitude of 88 meters above sea level. From this point, a breathtaking view is guaranteed.
Finally, Giannutri is also archaeology. Here are preserved the ruins of a majestic Roman villa dating back to the second century AD.
Palmaria, One of the Most Scenic Italian Islands in the North
Northern Italy also offers the chance to visit unknown islands, far from crowds and outside the international tourism circuit. Palmaria, for example, is one of these.
Located in the Gulf of La Spezia, it is on the list of World Heritage Sites. Fifty inhabitants live on this small island, whose settlement, Terrizzo, is known for its colorful houses.
Why visit it? If you like trekking routes along high rocky coasts, Palmaria is for you. Walk the Path of the Condemned, you won’t regret it.
Among the less frequented beaches are Pozzale and Punta Secco. The plus of the latter spot is its view over Portovenere, which we talked about here.
You can discover all the other Italian islands thanks to Meeters’ activities, which organize trips and experiences that are always different, alternative routes and outings in company. Try joining the community, we’re sure you won’t look back!