Ready to plan your perfect summer?
Here’s a look at 6 dream islands between Italy, Spain and Portugal, ideal if you’re after striking beaches, dramatic scenery, high levels of comfort and unspoilt nature.
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, outdoor experiences or special moments to share with family and friends, you’ll find the right destination here.
Let yourself be drawn in by the most evocative islands in southern Europe and get ready for a holiday of turquoise seas and memorable views.
Explore our selection and choose your next summer destination.
Sardinia
Often compared to the Caribbean thanks to its epic beaches, Sardinia is an island that brings together unspoilt nature, ancient history, exceptional local produce and plenty of fun.
Let’s start with its endless beaches, undoubtedly the island’s main attraction. Among the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia are:
- the pink beach of Budelli, unique in the world and accessible only with a guide
- Tueredda, near Cagliari, surrounded by lush Mediterranean scrub and clear water
- La Pelosa in Stintino, in the province of Sassari
- Cala Gonone, too beautiful to describe
On the historical side, there are around seven thousand nuraghi scattered across Sardinia, taking you back as far as 1800 BC. The symbol of this vast heritage is Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Among the best Sardinian dishes are Su Porcheddu, succulent roast suckling pig; Sa Fregula, a type of durum wheat semolina pasta; Pane Carasau; and, of course, the well-known and excellent Pecorino Sardo D.O.C.
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Procida
Procida is a volcanic island of about four square kilometres in the Gulf of Naples, between Ischia and Capo Miseno. The sea around it is bright and clear, and the views framed by the rocky coastline have a rare kind of appeal.
To fully appreciate the island’s beauty, it’s worth wandering along the “lonely little streets enclosed by ancient walls” described in the famous novel Arturo’s Island by Elsa Morante.
One unmissable spot is the port of Corricella, distinctive for its brightly coloured houses that contrast with the small boats moored along the quay.
On this small stretch of land set in the sea, there’s no shortage of striking beaches such as Spiaggia della Chiaia, Spiaggia della Chiaiolela and Spiaggia del Pozzo Vecchio.
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Ibiza
Ibiza, the queen of nightlife, is recognised around the world as the island of youth, endless nights and legendary clubs. The rhythm rarely slows, thanks to venues considered among the best globally, including Pacha, Amnesia and Privilege, where nights regularly turn into full-scale celebrations.
Yet Ibiza is not only about parties. By day, there are spectacular beaches such as Sa Caleta, Cala Conta and Ses Salinas, with clear, bright water.
Nature lovers are often drawn to its protected areas: the striking islet of Es Vedrá, best admired from the Torre de Savinar, and the unspoilt island of Espalmador with its white shoreline in the Ses Salines Natural Park.
At the heart of Ibiza lies Eivissa, a city steeped in history whose old town, Dalt Vila, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Renaissance walls, narrow streets and far-reaching views.
For a carefree day with children, there is also the Aguamar water park in Playa d’en Bossa, with attractions suited to different ages.
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Formentera
Formentera, the hidden pearl of the Balearics, is a small paradise just a short distance from Ibiza, also referred to as the “island of the famous” thanks to the many luxury yachts that gather in its clear waters along its brilliant white beaches.
You can stretch out on the soft sand of Illetes or take in the many turquoise shades of the sea at Llevant. For a more intimate cove suited to families, there is Cala Saona. If space is what you’re after, the six kilometres of white sand at Platja de Migjorn provide plenty of it.
Nightlife centres on Es Pujols, the island’s main tourist hub, where restaurants, bars and chiringuitos bring summer evenings to life. Those seeking a quieter atmosphere often prefer Sant Francesc Xavier, which shows a more authentic side of Formentera, with its small streets and relaxed feel.
The island’s green and largely unspoilt interior is well suited to exploring by bike, along paths that cross varied scenery.
Menorca
Menorca is often described as the island of peace and relaxation. The scenery, atmosphere, fishing villages tucked along its rocky coastline, good food and striking beaches waiting to be discovered are matched by plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, horse riding, diving and windsurfing.
The larger beaches, with bars and restaurants, are mainly along the southern coast; the longest is Son Bou, with its three kilometres of golden sand. The wilder beaches are further away from tourist centres and are usually reached on foot, with a 15-minute walk from the nearest road.
Children often enjoy a day at one of the two water parks in Calan Blanes: Aqua-Center and Aqua-Park.
Adults, meanwhile, tend to appreciate a visit to Ciutadella, the former capital, with its old port beneath the city walls, cathedral, the Molí des Comte and much more besides.
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Sao Miguel
The island of São Miguel is part of Portugal’s Azores archipelago.
Its natural scenery brings together ancient forests, vast craters, clear lakes and an intensely blue ocean.
For those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, this island is particularly appealing. Mountaineering, trekking, horse riding, mountain biking, diving and paragliding are just some of the many activities that can make a stay on the island of São Miguel memorable.
A visit to Ponta Delgada is also worthwhile, with its traditional Portuguese buildings in white with black stone detailing and a rich architectural heritage.
The beaches are distinctive too, generally characterised by black sand formed by the erosion of the archipelago’s volcanic rock. Praia da Ribeira Quente stands out if cold water is not your thing, as underwater thermal springs keep the sea warm enough for a long soak.
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