A small island lying off the Amalfi Coast, Capri is known worldwide for its crystal-clear seas, luxury villas, and lush gardens.
Considering how many times it’s been featured on mainstream media, it’s no wonder it seems to be at the top of the bucket list for everyone visiting South Italy.
However, it’s far from being the be-all, end-all Italian vacation hotspot:
Yes, it’s stunning, and yes, it’s the quintessential Mediterranean escape, but it can be extremely expensive to visit, with the average 3-night stay setting you back by a whopping $801, not to mention the high levels of mass tourism.
But hey, not all hope is lost if you’re dreaming of a laid-back island adventure in Italy!
There are 5 other Capri-like islands that are way cheaper, and that by virtue of not being overtouristed, can feel much more authentic:
Procida
We’re starting with Procida, an even-smaller island in the Gulf of Naples, not far from Capri, famous for its picturesque harbor lined with colorful houses, and its relaxed atmosphere of a traditional fishing village that’s not crumbling under the weight of tourism.
Other than the postcard-ready main settlement, tourists are free to wander around the largely-walkable island on foot, and explore many more sights, from Palazzo D’Avalos, a castle-like, medieval prison perched atop a coastal cliff, to the secret coves of Chiaiolella.
If you’re wondering how much dining out in Procida will cost you, seafood linguini and local red wine is around $15, and as for staying overnight, there are affordable accommodation providers, such as Piccolo Tirreno Hotel, where entire studios are listed from only $51.
Lipari
A much-overlooked island lying off the northeastern coast of Sicily, Lipari is characterized by its volcanic terrain, with rugged peaks traversing a compact landmass, and hugged by the turquoise-most seas you’ll ever see.
Between the myriad of volcanic beaches and fine-pebble strips, and the man-made wonders—think a monumental Lipari Castle, built onto a volcanic rock face, or the quaint harbor towns of Canneto or Marina Corta—this is a Mediterranean diamond-in-the-rough that’s hardly been spoiled.
While Sicily is probably one of Europe’s busiest summer destinations, Lipari continues to exist in its own microcosm of calm, hosting only tens of thousands of guests yearly (it’s no wonder room rates start at $47 on Booking.com, and food is so inexpensive).
Elba
A fairly sizable island part of the Tuscan archipelago, Elba is known historically for serving as Napoleon Bonaparte’s place of exile between 1814 and 1815, and let’s face it, there are worst open-air prisons to be in:
It has a rich history comprising periods of Etruscan and Roman rule, its lively port capital, Portoferraio, is still protected by medieval fortifications and dotted with beautifully-decorated Baroque churches, and surrounded by fine white-sand strips, like Spiaggia Bianca, that feel almost Caribbean-like.
The best part is, as idyllic as it may be, Elba is nowhere as popular for international tourism as Capri: think Margherita pizzas costing as little as $10, sparkling spritz for roughly $4, and studio-style accommodation arrangements for $43.
Ponza
A remote territory in the middle of the Tyrrhenian, only accessible by boat from the Italian mainland, including from Naples, Ponza has captived many a curious visitor due to its natural beauty, with the dramatic coastline, blue grottoes, and unique geological formations.
Other than swimming off hidden coves, and floating in crystalline natural pools, Ponza revolves around its main port settlement, Ponza Town, peppered with your typical, pastel-hue buildings and family-owned trattorie.
A seafood platter in a local restaurant should set you back by between $18-21, and staying near the center of town, in a privately-managed guesthouse such as Maridea, only 600 meters from the harbor, you’ll be paying only $69-a-night.
Pantelleria
Closer to Tunisia than it is, in fact, to Italy, Pantelleria is highly sought-after by Italians themselves for its remoteness, and distinctive nature: it’s filled with natural landmarks of volcanic origin, and some of its wineries date back centuries.
The main attractions in Pantelleria are Venus’ Mirror, a volcanic crater filled with naturally warm waters; its dammusi, stone dwellings topped with white domes that are a direct influence from North Africa, which is only a short boat ride away; and charming Pantelleria Town.
As far as pricing goes, a main dish and glass-of-wine order at a downtown restaurant averages $21-22 (make sure you try some of their Moscato, made from homegrown, sweet Zibibbo grape), and beachfront hotels can be as cheap as $56 to book in the off-season (see Hotel Bue Marino).
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
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