Butterfly-shaped Favignana is a lovely destination for divers and beach lovers. Climb aboard the adorable Egadilandia, a tourist train that chugs along the island’s main streets and coastlines. Don’t miss the Ex Stabilimento Florio (a tuna canning factory turned museum), the challenging hike to the hilltop ruins of the Castello di Santa Caterina and snuggling up with your soul mate at the Lover’s Grotto.

Mainstream tourists haven’t discovered San Vito lo Capo yet—so if you’re looking for a low-key, authentic Italian beach break, now’s the time to book your trip to this seaside Sicilian town. The weather is best in the summer months, but foodies might want to wait till September, when San Vito lo Capo hosts its annual Couscous Festival.

Gallipoli may be best known for its wartime history, but Apulia’s island-like fortress retains a southern Italian charm all its own. Colorful fishing boats dart around the old city walls, while resilient stone churches peer across a medieval bridge to the mainland port.