Where do Italians go on vacation —hidden islands far from the crowds?
Where Do Italians Go for Summer?
Ponza
Ponza is the quintessential Roman getaway. Though it is the largest of the Pontine Islands, located opposite Rome and Naples, it remains a tiny volcanic gem. Just an hour away from the mainland by boat, it is the perfect escape for city dwellers craving tranquility. Its serene beauty has earned it the nickname “Capri without tourists.” Steeped in Neapolitan heritage and blessed with stunning landscapes and crystal bays, Ponza has long attracted celebrities such as Naomi Campbell, Monica Bellucci, Michael Douglas, and Giorgio Armani. If you go, don’t miss swimming in Chiaia di Luna, a spectacular crescent-shaped bay, or anchoring in one of its hidden coves. In the evening, the harbor—lined with colorful, authentic houses—becomes the heart of island life and the best place for dinner.
Pantelleria
Between Sicily and Tunisia lies Pantelleria, a volcanic island often called the “black pearl of the Mediterranean.” Its rugged black lava landscapes are as captivating as its thermal hot springs and breathtaking beaches. The island’s white-roofed “dammusi” stone houses, along with scooters and buggies zipping along narrow roads, lend it an atmosphere found nowhere else. In fact, it takes just half an hour by scooter to cross from one side to the other.
Pantelleria’s cinematic appeal was immortalized in Luca Guadagnino’s 2015 film A Bigger Splash. One of its natural wonders is the , a thermal lake rich in minerals, known for its therapeutic properties. Thanks to its volcanic soil, Pantelleria also produces exceptional grapes; wine tastings at renowned estates such as  and  are unforgettable.
