Guide to the Best Islands of Italy
Now that travel is getting allowed again in Europe, why not consider one of the islands around the Italian coast.
The main islands include Capri, Sardinia, Elba and Sicily, and can mostly be accessed by boat, hydrofoil and plane. All the islands are steeped in history, with links back to the Bronze Age through to Modern Times. Have a look at our brief guide for more…
Long-legged Italy is situated in Southern Europe. Surrounded by the Adriatic, Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas and many islands including Capri, Sardinia, Elba and Sicily.
Sicily
Sicily, the largest island is located in the Mediterranean Sea. Access to Sicily is via air or sea. Although this could all change in the next few years as construction of the Messina Bridge, between mainland Italy and Sicily has been given the go-ahead.
Sicily is divided into 9 provinces and is also home to Mount Etna the largest active volcano in Europe. The island is steeped in history, dating back to the ancient times and right up to the Allied invasion of Sicily, World War II, 10th July 1943.
A popular holiday destination with people from the mainland, the island also attracts tourists from abroad. Sicily has so much to offer in the way of Art, Culture, Sport, Architecture and world heritage sites.
Sardinia
Sardinia is the second largest island and is situated in the Mediterranean Sea. You can get to Sardinia via air or sea. Once on the island you can choose from car, bus or train to see the sights.
Sardinia has a strong history dating back to pre-historic times, right up to Modern times.
Sardinia is a mountainous island, with a number of artificial lakes, Baratz, a fresh water lake, lagoons and Tirso the largest river on the island.
Italian is the main language, however Sardinian is also spoken with the two most well known dialects being Campidanese and Logudorese.
Sardinia is home to Su Nuraxi di Barumini world heritage site. It also has wildlife reserves, natural monuments and 3 National Parks.
Capri
The island of Capri is situated in the Tyrrhenian sea. It is served by hydrofoil and ferry and is a popular resort destination for people from the mainland and abroad.
Archaelogical finds date inhabitants of the island back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Roman Emperor Tiberius made Capri his home back in 27 CE and also conducted the daily business of the Roman Empire from there.
Once on the island, look out for Marina Piccola, the Belvedere of Tragara, Anacapri, Sea Stacks, ruins of the Imperial Roman Villas and Grotta Azzurra (the Blue Grotto).
Be sure and grab a ride on the Funicolare, a mountain tram from Marina Grande to Capri.
Elba
The island of Elba is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Known more as the place of exile of Napoleon I, Emperor of France. Napoleon stayed on Elba for 300 days. You will have an opportunity to have a look at his Summer and Winter homes whilst on the island.
Elba had a part to play in the 2nd World War. French troops landed there in June 1944 and freed the island from German occupation. The island is served by ferry and you can also get a flight to Marino Di Campo airport.
Sample local wines and of course fresh seafood. Stroll along one of the islands beautiful beaches. Keep an eye out for castles, churches and Mount Capanne, the highest peak on the island.
