I’m always captivated by its stunning blend of jagged cliffs, sparkling turquoise waters, golden sandy beaches, and charming whitewashed buildings nestled among lush Mediterranean vegetation. It’s no surprise that it’s often hailed as one of the best beaches in all of the south.
I loved soaking up the sun, snorkelling, taking boat tours to discover hidden coves, dining in charming waterfront restaurants, and ending the day by watching breathtaking sunsets over the sea.
Location:Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast, southern Italy | Size: small headland and beach area | Vibe: wild and remote Mediterranean feel
My personal highlights…
Staying at the wonderful 4-star Capovaticano Resort Thalasso Spa Resort – I loved the chic, modern design, the private sandy beach, the 2,000-square-metre wellness spa, the heated seawater pools and the heavenly wellness treatments which used citrus fruits and aromatic herbs.
Dining on at Ristorante Le Grotte di DeSo – I was totally won over by the welcoming vibe, the handcrafted mosaic decor, the stunning views of both the sea and the mountains and my delicious dish of house made spinach Tortelli!
4. Lipari
I thought this was a unique and picturesque volcanic island! It exudes a tranquil vibe, thanks to its remote location in the Aeolian Islands and its commitment to preserving its unspoiled natural landscapes, traditional culture, and historic charm.
I personally found the scenery here to be pure magic – rugged volcanic cliffs plunging into sparkling turquoise waters, a charming mix of pebble, rocky, and some sandy beaches, adorable whitewashed buildings with terracotta rooftops scattered across the hillside, cobblestone streets, and fascinating ancient ruins to explore.
I arrived by ferry from Milazzo port in Sicily based myself at the charming 4-star Hotel Mea – Aeolian Charme and then explored the ancient Lipari Castle and its fascinating Aeolian Archaeological Museum.
I also strolled through the charming streets of Marina Corta, relaxed on the unique pumice-stone beach of Spiaggia Bianca, hiked scenic volcanic trails, and enjoyed delicious meals at traditional trattorias!
Location:Aeolian Islands, north of Sicily| Size: small island town (largest of the Aeolian Islands) | Vibe: intimate and effortlessly Mediterranean
My personal highlights…
Sipping on a sweet Malvasia delle Lipari wine and watching the sunset over the Baia di Canneto (Bay of Canneto) from the pebbly but very fine Coral Beach.
5. Ischia
This is a romantic and very picturesque island! I love how it has preserved its laid-back charm by embracing wellness tourism centered around its natural thermal springs, rather than succumbing to mass tourism!
It’s a stunning mix of pebble and sandy beaches, rolling green hills, sparkling turquoise waters, and charming pastel-coloured houses dotted across quaint little villages, all crowned by the majestic Aragonese Castle standing proudly on its rocky perch!
I took a ferry from Naples and soaked in the famous thermal waters at Negombo and Poseidon Gardens, explored the historic Aragonese Castle, relaxed on the gorgeous beaches of Maronti and Sant’Angelo, hiked the trails up Mount Epomeo, discovered the charming towns of Forio and Ischia Ponte, and dined at waterfront trattorias.
Location:Bay of Naples, southern Italy | Size: large volcanic island | Vibe: chic-but-laid-back Italian island feel
My highlights…
Staying at the 4-star Sorriso Thermae Resort & Spa – the five thermal pools complete with hydromassage jets were awesome and so were the wellness facilities especially the soothing Mud Therapy treatments (also known as Fangotherapy)!
Taking a fun yacht tour around the island – it was great to discover secret coves, swim at the Grotta dell’Amore and have an onboard lunch of freshly made linguine!
6. Noli
This charming medieval town never fails to win me over! It remains wonderfully off-the-tourist radar thanks to its small size, commitment to preserving its medieval heritage, and dedication to authentic, low-key tourism rather than large-scale development – to me, it felt like a peaceful, timeless escape from the modern world!
I was absolutely captivated by the stunning turquoise waters, the mix of pebbly and sandy bays, the medieval stone walls, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic towers that frame the old town, along with the picturesque Ligurian houses crowned with terracotta roofs.
I stayed here for a peaceful short break, where I relaxed on the tranquil beaches, wandered through the medieval old town with its ancient towers and walls, hiked the breathtaking trails of Capo Noli, admired the charming San Paragorio Church, and indulged in freshly made linguine that perfectly captured the flavors of the region!
Location:Ligurian coast, northwest Italy | Size: small seaside town | Vibe: quiet, old-world, and gently romantic
My highlights…
Staying at the charming boutique Paradiso Di Manù – I loved the unique but authentically Italian decor, the intimate and personal vibe, the stunning views of Spotorno Bay from its hillside location, the outdoor swimming pool and its superb restaurant is carved into the rock!
Taking a two hour hike from medieval town of Noli to the Grotta dei Falsari (Cave of the Forgers) – I discovered Insta-worthy views of the beautiful Ligurian Sea, the Gulf of Noli and even the outline of the Maritime Alps in the distance!
7. Isola del Giglio
I love this secluded small island located off-the-beaten-path! It has a laid-back atmosphere due to its small size, out the way location, and dedication to preserving its natural beauty.
I absolutely adore its scenery, with turquoise waters, a mix of sandy and pebble beaches, rugged cliffs, hillsides dotted with charming stone buildings, picturesque fishing villages, and the medieval fortress of Giglio Castello perched majestically above it all.
I caught a ferry from Porto Santo Stefano in Tuscany and spent a dreamy long weekend at the charming Hotel Castello Monticello relaxing on the beaches, snorkelling in the clear waters which were teeming with marine life, exploring the charming port town of Giglio Porto with its colourful waterfront, hiked the picturesque trails, wandered the narrow cobblestone streets of the medieval village Giglio Castello, and drank delicious local Tuscan wines!
Location:Off the coast of Tuscany in the Tyrrhenian Sea | Size: small island | Vibe: unspoilt with a slow Mediterranean feel
My favourite highlights…
Going snorkelling in the calm and exceptionally clear spot of Cala dell’Arenella and seeing swarms of tuna fish, black coral and even a moray eel (which made my day)!
8. Lake Maggiore
A photo I took of a lakeside villa on Lake Maggiore – it was a seriously dreamy place!This is one of my photos of Lake Maggiore taken in summer – I fell in love with this tucked away beauty spot!
This romantic and old-world lake resort always wins my heart! I’ve visited a few times now, and I’m always charmed by its relaxed elegance and understated luxury. It remains wonderfully serene, tucked away in the stunning Alpine landscape, and is less well-known than its more famous lake resort rivals, Garda and Como. I actually prefer it here because of the far fewer crowds!
I love how the sparkling blue waters of the lake are framed by green mountains, pastel-coloured villages, grand lakeside villas, pretty blooming gardens, and a mix of sandy and pebbly beaches.
I come here to laze around on the peaceful beaches, explore the stunning Borromean Islands with their gorgeous palaces and botanical gardens, stroll through charming lakeside towns of Stresa and Verbania, take a scenic cable car up to Mount Mottarone and see jaw-dropping views, explore the gorgeous botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto, enjoy scenic boat rides and dine on local food and wine at cosy waterfront cafes.
Location:On the Italy–Switzerland border in northern Italy | Size: large lake | Vibe: elegant, serene, and softly glamorous
My favourite highlights…
Staying at the beautiful 4-star Hotel de Charme Laveno – I was completely won over by the mix of trendy contemporary decor mixed with retro design details, the Insta-worthy rooftop infinity swimming pool which had superb lake views and the excellent on-site spa.
9. Procida Island
This sleepy but very pretty island offers a wonderfully authentic slice of life! I love how it has stayed quiet and unspoiled, thanks to its lack of large-scale tourism and its dedication to preserving traditional charm and a local way of life—it even had the honor of being named the country’s Capital of Culture!
I adore the slow-paced vibe here, along with the stunning scenery—sandy beaches, rocky coves, pastel-coloured buildings, the sparkling blue waters of the marina, and narrow cobblestone streets weaving through its charming villages.
I took the ferry from Naples and stayed for a short break at the funky and chic 4-star CALEA Boutique Hotel. I wandered the colourful streets of Marina Corricella, relaxed and swam on the beaches (my favourite was the sandy Chiaiolella Beach), explored the historic Terra Murata with its medieval abbey, enjoyed traditional dining and discovering hidden coves along the coastline! To me, it was pure bliss!
Location:Bay of Naples, south | Size: small island | Vibe: authentic, and quietly enchanting
My highlights…
Walking across the 100-meter footbridge to Vivara which was a small, crescent-shaped islet which were the remains of an ancient volcanic crater. From the narrow bridge I could see panoramic views of the coastline and distant volcanic peaks.
Exploring the old abandoned prison of Palazzo D’Avalos which featured a museum, garden and art gallery – it was fascinating to see the rusted iron bars, the faded graffiti of former inmates, and artifacts like uniforms and documents which revealed the grim realities of what life was once like there!
10. Scilla
This lesser known gem of a coastal town never fails to charm me! Scilla feels so peaceful unspoilt because it’s tucked away from the tourist crowds, letting its charming fishing village vibe and authentic Italian beauty shine without all the hustle and bustle!
It offers a stunning blend of crystal-clear shimmering waters, a mix of golden sand and pebbly beaches, picturesque pastel-coloured houses, and the dramatic Castello Ruffo perched majestically on a rocky outcrop.
I stayed at the charming beachfront Hotel Palazzo Krataiis soaked up the sun on the sandy Marina Grande beach, wandered through the enchanting Chianalea fishing district, explored the historic Castello Ruffo with its breathtaking views, and dined on spaghetti tossed with cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of Calabrian chilli for the perfect spicy kick!
My favourite highlights…
Dining in the fabulous Restaurant Bleu De Toi – I loved the traditional stone building it was housed in, the unique platform which was built directly over the sea (where we could dine) and my heavenly risotto which came with citrus fruits and a red pumpkin sauce!
11. Calabria and Basilicata Regions
These are are wonderfully rustic and untouched regions! I absolutely love how quiet and intriguingly mysterious it feels, thanks to its remote location, commitment to preserving traditional lifestyles, and the wonderfully low levels of mass tourism compared to other popular Italian regions.
I’m in awe of the captivating blend of fine sandy and pebbly beaches, rugged mountains, rolling hills, unspoiled coastlines, and historic towns featuring ancient stone buildings, cliffside villages, and charming churches.
I stayed in these areas for a blissful fortnight and explored the stunning cliffside beaches of Tropea, hiked the dramatic landscapes of Pollino National Park, discovered the UNESCO-listed cave dwellings of Matera, explored the charming hilltop villages of Civita and Maratea, relaxed along the beautiful Ionian coastline, and visited historic attractions from Greek ruins to medieval castles!
Location:Southern Italy (toe and instep of the “boot”) | Size: two large regions | Vibe: soulful with a slow, old-Italy feel
My personal highlights…
12. Tremiti Islands
This remote and unspoiled spot always leaves a lasting impression on me! There are five islands in total, home to just 454 residents. It exudes a wonderfully tranquil vibe, tucked away in the Adriatic with limited tourist infrastructure and the added protection of being part of the Gargano National Park’s marine reserve.
I found a treasure trove of a mix of sand and pebble beaches, hidden coves, rugged cliffs, dense pine forests and several historic buildings surrounded by aquamarine waters.
I caught the hydrofoil boat from the town of Termoli on the mainland and stayed for a blissful four days at the quirky and laid-back Relais Al Faro Bed&Breakfast.
I swam and snorkelled in the gorgeous waters, relaxed on the sandy beach at Cala delle Arene, hiked the awe-inspiring trails on San Domino, explored the historic Abbey of Santa Maria and medieval fortifications on San Nicola, and took a wonderful boat tour and discovered dramatic sea caves.
Location:Adriatic Sea off the coast of Puglia, southern Italy | Size: small island archipelago | Vibe: low-key with a castaway Mediterranean feel
My highlights…
Going on a beginner’s dive tour with a experienced instructor in San Domino – I have to admit I was a little nervous but seeing groupers and schools of sea bream and silvery barracudas as well as underwater caves made the experience really incredible!
13. Lake Orta
I think this is a very beautiful hidden gem! I love visiting this lesser-known gem because it offers a much more tranquil and under-the-radar vibe compared to the more famous Italian lakes, and it proudly steers clear of mass tourism.
I think this place is a little slice of heaven, with its calm, glassy waters surrounded by pebble and rocky beaches, a few small sandy stretches, lush green hills, cobbled streets, elegant villas, charming gardens, and the atmospheric small island at its center, crowned by an ancient monastery.
I stayed in a beautiful lakeside boutique hotel and spent my days exploring the charming village of Orta San Giulio, visiting the peaceful Isola San Giulio with its historic monastery, strolling the serene nature trails and chapels of the Sacro Monte, enjoying picturesque boat rides, and simply relaxing by the tranquil lakeside.
Location:Piedmont, northern Italy | Size: small lake | Vibe: romantic with a nostalgic, elegant feel
My favourite highlights…
Staying at the ultra-romantic Relais & Chateaux Villa Crespi – I was in awe of the elegant decor, the historic 19th-century villa it was housed in, the four poster bed in the guest room, the wellness facilities and the stunning lake views, it was hard to leave!
Wandering through the pretty cobblestone streets early in the day – the morning mist hovered above the shimmering lake and made it seem almost magical!
14. Lampedusa Island
This secluded cove is a gorgeous secret beauty spot! Located on the remote island of Lampedusa, I found it could only be reached by boat or a challenging hike, which has thankfully deterred large tourist crowds!
I personally thought it was a gorgeous natural paradise with beautiful turquoise waters and soft white sands, framed by rocky cliffs.
I stayed at the chic and characterful 4-star Relais Isole del Sudhiked the well-marked trail for 40 minutes from Casa Teresa to reach it, and once there, I spent a blissful four hours relaxing on the sandy beach, swimming, snorkelling, and soaking up the zen-like vibe!
My personal highlights…
Going on a sunset dolphin watching tour on a yacht – sailing on a large modern catamaran, spotting playful dolphins while sipping on local cocktails and going for a sunset swim was a truly amazing experience!
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