Italy is known for its rolling Tuscan hills, ancient cities, and Renaissance art — but the country also hides landscapes so unusual and dramatic they could easily be mistaken for faraway tropical islands or remote desert oases. These places prove you don’t have to leave the country to feel transported somewhere entirely different.
Here are some of the most remarkable corners of Italy where the scenery feels almost unreal.
La Maddalena Archipelago, Sardinia
Few places in Europe can rival the clarity of the water in Sardinia’s La Maddalena Archipelago. The mix of emerald, sapphire, and turquoise shades looks more like the Caribbean than the Mediterranean. Granite boulders shaped by the wind frame small coves of fine white sand, and in summer, the scent of wild myrtle drifts through the air.
Many beaches are accessible only by boat, adding to the feeling of seclusion and exclusivity. Sailing from island to island, diving into crystal-clear coves, and picnicking on untouched shores is as close to a tropical escape as you can get without a long-haul flight.
Tremiti Islands, Puglia
Off the coast of Gargano, the Tremiti Islands are small, wild, and stunningly diverse. Pine-covered cliffs drop into transparent waters, while hidden grottoes shimmer in shades of emerald and cobalt.
The main islands — San Domino, San Nicola, and Capraia — are ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking. In the quieter months of late spring or early autumn, the light and silence make the experience even more intense, like you’ve stumbled upon a private Mediterranean sanctuary.
Ortigia, Sicily
Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, feels like a world of its own. Surrounded by the deep blue of the Ionian Sea, its white stone streets and honey-colored Baroque facades could pass for a Greek island. The small size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, whether you’re wandering through the lively market or watching the sunset from the Lungomare di Levante.
The light here is unforgettable — soft in the mornings, golden by evening — giving the sea an almost tropical shimmer. Staying at an Ortigia luxury hotel means waking up surrounded by this beauty and having the island’s unique mix of history and coastal charm right at your doorstep.
Scala dei Turchi, Sicily
Near Agrigento, the Scala dei Turchi is a natural wonder: dazzling white limestone cliffs that slope gently into the turquoise waters below. The contrast between the blinding white rock and the bright blue sea feels almost unreal, more like a South Pacific postcard than southern Europe.
The cliffs are soft to walk on and perfect for watching the sunset, when the rock glows pink and gold. It’s a spot that rewards those who linger, especially outside the busy summer weeks.
Isola di San Pietro, Sardinia
Located off Sardinia’s southwestern coast, Isola di San Pietro combines unspoiled coves with pastel fishing villages that feel frozen in time. The island’s rocky coastline and secluded beaches are reminiscent of the Seychelles, while its laid-back pace and delicious seafood make it uniquely Italian.
A boat trip here reveals hidden bays, cliffs alive with seabirds, and water so clear it feels like you’re swimming in glass.
These landscapes prove that Italy’s beauty isn’t limited to what’s familiar. Each destination offers a journey that feels both far away and deeply connected to Italy’s soul.
