Capri
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Caprihas lured the glitterati since time immemorial.
Writer after writer has spread the word about this place.
Whatever your literary ambitions, if onlyan inspired Instagram caption, put together your own retreat.
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Don’t forget Mount Etna.
Europe’s largest active above-the-surface volcanoand a must for fans of pistachios, honey, and wine.
The locally harvested versions of each are legendary.
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The beauty of Italy’s second-largest island has near-mythic status on the mainland, and that reputation is well-deserved.
But even in peak season, you won’t hear a lot of Englisha bonus for authenticity seekers.
Elba
The largest island of the Tuscan Archipelago, low-key Elba trades hard on its Napoleonic history.
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Several local spa facilities offer thermal cures for everything from skin conditions to rheumatism.
But even if nothing ails you, take the waters anyway.
They’re especially lovely alfresco at one of the island’s free natural hot springs.
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Try the rock pools at Sorgeto, whereaperitiviare served in summer.
In place of sprawling full-service resorts, youll find boutique hotels andalberghi(inns).
The local nightlife is of the evening-stroll-with-a-gelato variety.
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You’ll find dark volcanic rock and white-domed dwellings, all offset by a dizzyingly blue sea.
Many of those white structuresordammusi, holdovers from centuries of Arab rulehave been turned into luxury hotels and guesthouses.
Take your snorkel and maskthe underwater scenery here is stunning.
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Stromboli
Where there’s smoke, there’s Stromboli.
So approaching the islandwhich you might do only by ferry or helicopteris especially thrilling.
Several tour operators offer hikes up the slopes.
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Just be sure not to overestimate your fitness levelor your tolerance for volcanic heat and serious elevation gain.
With its prettycentroand ample tourist services, Lipari town is an easy choice for a stay.
The largest is Favignana, where you’ll find a good balance of tourist services and old-school charm.
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Be sure to visit one of the former tufa quarries, with their impressively huge caverns.
San Domino
The tiny Tremiti archipelago off the coast ofPugliatends to get overlooked.
But if you know, you know.
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The Borromean Islands
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While seascapes make for spectacular backdrops, so do Italys lakes.
Isola Bella and Isola Madre are particularly well-known for lush gardens and palaces.
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