5 romantic Italian islands to visit in 2026

Ahh, a romantic Italian vacation. Where to? The canals of Venice? The bustling streets of Roma, to reenact a certain Lizzie McGuire movie?

We have a better idea.

Unlike neighbouring Greece, Italy isn’t so well-known for its island destinations. As ferry affificanos, it’s our duty to set this straight! Italy has some of the most beautiful islands in the world, practically overflowing with culture and scenery. With Valentine’s day right on the horizon, there’s no better time to get inspired by our selection of the most beautiful islands to visit in Italy in 2026.

1. Procida
2. Favignana
3. Capraia
4. Salina
5. Ponza

1. Procida: the island of color

Procida’s shoreline is a colorful, dopamine delight. Source: FreePix

There’s no need for metaphors to describe Procida: its beauty speaks for itself, with salt-worn walls and sorbet-colored windows reflecting in the sea. It’s the smallest island in the Gulf of Naples, yet the one that best preserves its soul. A slow rhythm, fishing boats swaying at Marina Corricella and voices echoing along the stairways of Terra Murata. Easy to reach and perfect for a day trip, Procida is a gentle reminder that wonder doesn’t require distance; just a ferry ride from Naples to feel a world away.

Useful tip: The most scenic viewpoint is the Terrazza di Terra Murata, where you can admire all of Marina Corricella at sunset — one of the most photographed spots in the Gulf of Naples.

How to reach Procida

Procida is connected year-round to the ports of Naples and Pozzuoli, with daily sailings operated by companies such as Ippocampo, SNAV, and Medmar. Ferries take around 1 hour, while the faster hydrofoils reach the island in about 40 minutes. Prices vary depending on the season and type of vessel, starting from about €15–20 per passenger each way, slightly higher if you’re traveling with a vehicle.

2. Favignana: the pearl of the Egadi Islands

Favignana is the perfect location for a dreamy adventure. Source: iStock

Favignana is low houses, the scent of the sea, and the slow rhythm of bicycles evoke a simple summer that smells of salt and freedom. In 2026, Favignana stands out as one of the best Italian islands to visit. Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra are the most famous, with transparent waters and wind-sculpted cliffs, while the historic Tonnara Florio is also worth a visit; a place steeped in history where the island’s seafaring past still lives on within its walls.

Useful tip: From June to September, the free shuttle bus “Egadi in Bus” connects the port with the main beaches. It’s perfect if you don’t want to rent a bike.

Don’t miss our guide to the most beautiful beaches in Favignana — discover the island’s unmissable coves and pick your favorite!

How to reach Favignana

You can easily reach the island by hydrofoil or ferry from Trapani, with daily routes operated by Liberty Lines and Caronte & Tourist. The journey takes about 30–60 minutes, depending on the vessel type. Tickets start from around €15–20 per passenger each way, and may increase for vehicles. During summer, additional connections from Marsala are also available.

3. Capraia: wild, and surprisingly close

A stroll through Arcipelago Toscano National Park will have you reminiscing on lovers from centuries before. Source: iStock

Capraia feels miles away from the world, yet it’s just a few hours from the Tuscan coast. It’s a place where nature sets the rhythm and silence becomes a luxury. The colorful houses by the harbor welcome travelers with a simple, genuine atmosphere, while the path leading up to the old prison offers breathtaking sea views. Cala Rossa, with its red cliffs plunging into deep blue waters, is one of those places that stay with you. Perfect for those who love hiking, exploring, and breathing pure freedom, Capraia is among the top Italian islands to visit in 2026 if you’re looking for an authentic, uncrowded paradise — just wind, sea, and light.

Useful tip: Among the most scenic trails is the Ex-Prison and Monte Arpagna Trek, a circular 8 km route starting from the port. In just over three hours, it rewards you with stunning views over the Tuscan Archipelago and the cliffs of Cala Rossa.

How to reach Capraia

The island is connected year-round to Livorno via Toremar ferries, with a journey time of about 3 hours. During the summer season, extra sailings are added — perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Tickets start from around €25–30 per passenger each way, with the option to bring vehicles at higher rates.

4. Salina: the green island of the Aeolian Islands

Salina is so gorgeous and lush. Source: iStock

Salina embodies the most authentic soul of the Aeolian Islands: green, fragrant, and lush. Time moves slowly here, among vineyards, sea, and charming villages. In Pollara, the famous village where Il Postino was filmed, sunsets paint the rocks gold and purple; in Santa Marina, you can stroll among boutiques and seaside restaurants, while Malfa captivates with its quiet rhythm and endless views. Between a glass of Malvasia and a dip in crystal-clear waters, Salina offers the essence of the true Mediterranean. It’s one of the top Italian islands to visit in 2026 if you long to experience pure nature — with scenic trails, clear waters, and an atmosphere that invites you to slow down, far from the crowds.

Useful tip: Between late September and early October, Pollara hosts the Capers Festival, celebrating the island’s signature product with tastings and live music.

How to reach Salina

You can easily reach Salina by hydrofoil or ferry from Milazzo, Messina, Palermo, Reggio Calabria, and, in summer, also from Naples. The main operators are Liberty Lines and Siremar. The journey from Milazzo takes around 2–3 hours, depending on the vessel, with fares starting at about €25–35 per passenger each way.

5. Ponza: Mediterranean charm and stunning design

Even when the clouds come out, Ponza is a sight to behold. Source: PixaBay

Ponza manages to be chic without losing its soul. It’s elegant, bright, and a little wild, with that unmistakable Mediterranean charm that wins over anyone who visits, even just for a weekend. Its pastel houses climbing up the harbor look like a painting, while boats glide slowly toward surreal-colored coves. Chiaia di Luna, with its white cliff rising over the sea, is a natural wonder, and the Grotte di Pilato tell ancient stories of light and mystery.

Useful tip: To explore the island’s most secluded coves, rent a small boat without a license from the port. Prices range from €70–90 per day, and you’ll be able to reach beaches accessible only by sea.

How to reach Ponza

During the summer months, Ponza is connected to the port of Naples with a weekly service operated by SNAV. The crossing takes between 2 hours 50 minutes and 3 hours 5 minutes, offering a comfortable and scenic trip across the Tyrrhenian Sea. Tickets start from €34.50 per passenger each way and can reach up to €84.50, depending on the season and seat type.

Quick recap of 5 Italian islands for couples

• Procida: perfect for a day trip from Naples or Pozzuoli, with ferries and hydrofoils from €15–20 each way and a 40–60 minute journey among pastel houses and scenic views.
• Favignana: easy to reach from Trapani (30–60 min, tickets €15–20), offering crystal-clear waters, iconic coves, and a relaxed, authentic vibe.
• Capraia: connected to Livorno by Toremar ferries (3 hours, tickets €25–30), perfect for trekking lovers seeking silence, cliffs, and spectacular panoramas.
• Salina: reachable from Milazzo, Messina, or Palermo (2–3 hours, tickets €25–35), combining vineyards, turquoise waters, and cinematic sunsets in a timeless setting.
• Ponza: departures from Naples in summer (2h 30–3h 05, tickets €34.50–84.50), the island to visit in 2026 if you seek authenticity, harbor life, and stunning coves like Chiaia di Luna.

Book with Ferryscanner

Every Italian island has its own magic: one smells of lemons, another is shaped by the wind, and another still holds the silence of the sea. From the Tyrrhenian Sea to Sicily, there are so many to explore with your lover. Each tells a different story and offers something special in every season, whether you want to relax, hike, or lose yourself in stunning views.

Can’t wait to get started? Head to the Ferryscanner homepage to compare ferry routes and prices from different operators — you’ll surely find the most convenient and comfortable option for your perfect 2026 trip. And to make booking even easier and faster, download the Ferryscanner app.