Italy is an island holiday paradise! Lounge on sun-soaked beaches and watch the world go by in beachfront cafés as you overlook crystal clear waters. From family-focused destinations to exclusive romantic couple’s retreats, all of which are topped off with jaw-dropping natural beauty, the islands of Italy are a real treat.
Italy’s sparkling islands have been drawing a glamorous crowd of A-listers for decades. Off the Gulf of Naples, holidays to Capri are a jetsetter’s paradise. Expect luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and opulent boats lined along the marinas. Indulge in low-key relaxation on Italy’s own spa island with a luxury holiday in Ischia, famed for its natural and healing thermal springs.
Sardinia is a fabulous self-drive destination with a whopping 1,220 mile stretch of unspoiled coastline to explore. The exclusive, glitzy Baia Sardinia in the North provides the perfect base to start, while the renowned strip of Costa Smeralda is ideal for sun-seeking couples.
Looking to entertain your children? There are plenty of all-inclusive holidays in Sardinia, particularly in the South. You’ll find endless family-friendly activities including watersports on the azure waters, rugged trails and forests for hiking and cycling, and luxury golf clubs and spas.
Sardinia holidays are a foodie’s dream with culinary delights, fine wines, and local markets to tuck into.
When you’re holidaying in the Italian countryside or along the coast, we highly recommend you add a few nights to holiday in Italy’s islands as they are stunningly scenic. Head to the laidback Aeolian Islands off the coast of Sicily to immerse yourself in picturesque bays and volcanic backdrops.
Even if you’re short on time, be sure to take a day trip to visit popular attractions, such as the glowing Blue Grotto of Capri or medieval Castello Aragonese in Ischia, both just a ferry hop away from Naples. With over 80 islands surrounding the mainland, you will never tire of choosing a Citalia island holiday in Italy.
Holidays along the Tuscany Coast take you beyond the beautiful gently undulating, tree spiked countryside that is characteristic of this enchanting part of Italy.
As well as the peaceful, artist inspired countryside, there’s a wonderful contrasting coastline to experience. The Tuscany Coast boasts many kilometres of enticing sandy beaches, perfect for those who just want to relax and enjoy the sun, as well as charming restaurants and bars for an early evening Tuscan Negroni aperitif.
Tuscany is renowned for its cuisine; from comforting winter soups made with different types of cabbage and beans, to Panzanella, a popular salad made with bread and lardo di colonnata, which is pork lard cured on local marble.
The Tuscan Coastline offers everything from sunbed and umbrella striped private beaches to free beaches with intimate coves boasting calm, clear blue water. Everything’s on offer here; the peace and tranquillity of beaches surrounded by pine forests and sand dunes or fishing harbours offering bars and restaurants to suit all tastes along. Adventurous travellers will love the water and wind sports which can be enjoyed off the coast.
With 95 years of expertise in providing holidays on Tuscany’s Coast, there are plenty of hidden treasures we can introduce you to. Tuscany’s sandy beaches stretch for many kilometres and for those who like some privacy, a top tip is to seek out single cars parked along the road. You’re likely to find a subsequent steep trail which leads down to a quiet stretch of beach.
The Versilia resorts along the northern coastline favour the archetypal Italian beach, with rows of sun loungers, umbrellas and coast guards on hand. Travelling further south there are pine woods and extensive sand dunes to enjoy in the Migliarino San Rossore nature reserve just east of Pisa. To add variety to your holiday, a trip to the multicultural sea port of Livorno offers the opportunity to hire a bike or a Segway and travel along the Terrazza Mascagni, the black and white chequered waterfront terrace favoured as a meeting place for locals. If you start your ride at the right time of day you can enjoy the panoramic sunset views.
13 day suggested trip
8 day suggested trip
Be inspired for your next Italy holiday with our range of blogs below.