Itinerary #5: Italian beach escape: Sun, sand and secret shores
Ditch the crowded tourist beaches and discover Italy’s sun-soaked coastlines with this two-week itinerary.
Start your journey on the Amalfi Coast, but skip Positano. Instead, spend two days in Cetara, a sleepy fishing village known for anchovies and lemon groves. Stroll pebble beaches, sample fresh seafood, and catch sunset from the quiet, cliffside town.
Next, head south to Maratea for two days of rugged coastlines and hidden coves. Hike to the Cristo Redentore statue for panoramic views, then cool off with a swim at Spiaggia Nera, a beach with unusual dark sand and clear blue waters.
From there, cross over to Calabria and settle into Tropea. Spend two days lounging on white-sand beaches below dramatic cliffs, explore the historic town center, and don’t miss the local red onion gelato (trust us, it’s a thing).
Then, hop on a ferry to Sicily and make your way to Cefalù. Over the next two days, bask on sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, climb La Rocca for views of the coastline, and indulge in Sicilian street food.
Travel east to Syracuse, where you’ll spend two days exploring rocky beaches and swimming in natural pools at the Plemmirio Marine Reserve. Wander the ancient streets of Ortigia, and dine on fresh seafood by the sea.
Finally, wrap up your beach escape with four days in Sardinia. Fly into Cagliari and head south to the secluded beaches of Costa Rei and Chia. Hike along coastal trails, snorkel in turquoise waters, and soak up the wild beauty of Sardinia’s southern coast.
Pack your swimsuit and sunscreen—Italy’s most stunning shorelines are waiting.
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