Vacationers looking for an island escape have their pick of picturesque spots, from stunning Caribbean hotspots to Mediterranean marvels and everything in between. However, those looking for a more relaxing, crowd-free alternative to top tourist destinations and resort-lined coastlines may have to think outside the box when it comes to planning a desert island itinerary—but such vacations are possible, especially for those who look to the seemingly endless parade of idyllic, under-the-radar islands off the coast of Italy.

While famed islands like Sicily and Sardinia may get all the attention, these lesser-known Italian island escapes, and hidden hideaways are remote, rugged, and relaxing—the epitome of low-key, laidback desert island vibes.

RELATED: 10 Gorgeous Cities In Italy That Will Take Your Breath Away

The Volcanic Beauty Of Pantelleria

The remote, far-flung isle of Pantelleria is famed for its black volcanic rock and stunning natural beauty. But don’t expect a parade of sandy beaches here—in Pantelleria, the main attractions stem from the isle’s volcanic past. Think mud baths and natural saunas where relaxing is mandatory; long, leisurely walks along the seafront; and warm, turquoise-hued lakes for the ultimate rest and recharge retreat.

• Things To Do: The Grotta del Bagno Asciutto; Barbacane Castle; Suaki Beach; Lago Specchio di Venere (Venus’ Mirror); Balata dei Turchi; Arco dell'Elefante
• Where To Eat & Drink: La Nicchia; Le Cale; Ristorante Altamarea; Al Tramonto; Osteria Il Principe e Il Pirate
• Stay The Night: Sikelia; Pantelleria Dream Resort; Mursia Resort & Spa; Club Levante

Relaxing And Remote Marettimo

The off-the-grid status and relative inaccessibility of Marettimo keep it relatively quiet and crowd-free—the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation. And while the idyllic isle doesn’t boast any marquee attractions, there are plenty of land and water-based activities for visitors looking to soak up the sun and sand.

• Things To Do: Diving, snorkeling, walking trails; explore the coast and nearby castle; visit the sea caves; sunbathing; wildlife viewing
• Where To Eat & Drink: La Scaletta; Trattoria Il Veliero; Ristorante Pizzeria Hiera; La Cambusa
• Stay The Night: Marettimo Residence; La Tartaruga B&B

Favignana: An Idyllic Isle

A rugged coastline dotted with coves and enough sandy beaches to satisfy any sunbather, Favignana is a low-key gem just perfect for maxing and relaxing. And though it's the largest (and most popular) of the stunning Egadi islands, its sun-soaked, laidback vibes make it an under-the-radar destination for those who want to escape the crowds.

• Things To Do: Hit the best beaches, including Cala Rossa, Bue Marino, Cala Rotunda, and Cala Azzura; explore the town of Favignana; hike to Santa Caterina Castle; biking; diving and snorkeling.
• Where To Eat & Drink: Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano; La Bettola; La Costa Sunset Bar; Trattoria Da Papù
• Stay The Night: La Casa Dell’Arancio; L’Oasi Villaggio; Cave Bianche Hotel; La Praya 5 (Airbnb)

RELATED: What Makes Palermo One Of The Top Destinations In Sicily

Quietly Stunning Sarina

Part of the Aeolian archipelago, Sarina is one of seven volcanic islands off Northern Sicily, each with its own distinctive look, feel, and vibes. Think black sand beaches; spectacular views; quaint, sun-washed villages; leisurely strolling the coastline after a fresh seafood dinner—in other words, an idyllic island paradise.

• Things To Do: Fossa delle Felci; the village of Valdichiesa; Semaforo di Pollara; Punta Lingua; Malfa village; hit the best beaches, like Pollara, Scario, and Rinella; explore Santa Marina
• Where To Eat & Drink: Porto Bello; Da Alfredo; l'Osservatorio di Rinella; In Se Natura; Ristorante Sugnum
• Stay The Night: Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia; B&B Le Sette Vele; Hotel Ravesi

Panarea: A Picturesque Paradise

While Salina is laidback and full of pebbly-beached charm, its fellow Aeolian island of Panarea has a more jet-setting, luxe feel, possibly in part of its renown as an A-list retreat. However, vacationers everywhere will enjoy its picturesque shores and walkable, comfortable vibes that make it a rustically chic retreat.

• Things To Do: Explore the surrounding caves, coves, and nearby tiny isles of Basiluzzo and Lisca; Punta del Corvo; Cala Junco; Capo Milazzese; hit the beach at Caletta dei Zimmari; San Pietro waterfront.
• Where To Eat & Drink: Trattoria da Paolino; Hycesia; Cusiritati; Ristorante Adelina; Hotel Francesco Panarea
• Stay The Night: Hotel La Piazza; Hotel Cincotta; Raya Hotel & Resort

RELATED: Why These Villages On The Italian Riviera Are Molto Bene!

Picture-Perfect Procida

If a parade of pastel houses set against a picture-perfect harbor and breathtaking coastal backdrop sounds like the dream vacation, then the tiny isle of Procida is the place to be. Home to stunning sea views and quaint, relaxed vibes, this rustic retreat is perfect for those looking for a low-key escape and a picturesque place to spend an island weekend.

• Things To Do: Terra Murata; Marina Grande; explore by scooter or bike; Corricella harbor;
• Where To Eat & Drink: Ristorante Da Mariano; Ristorante Gorgonia; La Lampara; Il Pescatore
• Stay The Night: La Casa Sul Mare; Hotel La Corricella; Insula Boutique Hotel; Albergo La Vigna

Travelers looking for an off-the-grid vacation need to look no further than these smaller, lesser-known Italian islands. While some are remote and rugged, and some are luxe and rustically chic, all are relaxing alternatives to busier, more touristy islands like Capri and Sicily—though many are just a ferry ride away. The perfect way to spend a vacation basking in sun-soaked, feel-good vibes, these hidden gems are worth a look for those who want to build an unforgettable, under-the-radar Italian island itinerary.