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Those wandering Rome may not realize that just a gladiator’s throw away lies an unsung paradise, with a colorful cityscape on the waterfront, fewer summer crowds and the same (if not more authentic) pleasures, from decadent cuisine and local wine to dreamy beaches with crystal clear waters.
While others invade the island of Capri and numerous Amalfi paradises, this locally beloved escape has been the antidote to the ‘tourist season’ for decades.
As travelers from far and wide flock to Rome and Italy’s endless array of captivating locations, according to AFAR magazine According to experts, this mysterious island is one of the most beautiful islands on earth – and true Italians Actually go on holiday.
Europe-based senior journalist Vini of Travel Off Path even pleaded: “Don’t ruin Ponza for us!” when he found out I was writing this piece.
Oops…
- Admission requirements: US travelers can currently visit Italy visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. A new ETIAS travel authorization is expected to be launched in the last quarter of 2026. Check your destination here.
Ponza: The unknown Pontine paradise 🏝️
Just over 20 miles from the mainland lies the Pontine Archipelago’s largest landmass, the vibrant hideaway of Ponza.
Forget the rowdy beach clubs and grumpy crowds elsewhere, Ponza is a laid-back blast where pastel harbor views, sun-drenched boat days and long, wine-filled dinners still set the tone.
The heart of the island is the small port town of Ponza Porto – and if my limited, cappuccino-ordering Italian 🤌🏻 serves me well, this is exactly where your escape begins
Wake up in the city and enjoy a morning espresso to jump-start your day, watch boats bring their catch to port and stroll the Buco Divino before making beach plans.
Gommoni over gondolas 🛶
As you might imagine, a walk through the village of Ponza Porto is very walkable, just like any other legendary city. However, when you’re ready to move beyond this color wheel cityscape, it’s time to rent your car gommoniwhich are essentially dinghies that take you to even lesser known territory.
We have all certainly imagined our boat trips through Italy with a gondolier in striped shirts gliding through the romantic dreamscape of Venice, but, As my grandparents used to say, there’s more than one way to skin a cat for some strange reason.
The island may not be the easiest to navigate, as renting a boat is practically necessary to see hidden coves and old-fashioned villages, well off the beaten track, for even the most seasoned globetrotters.
Ponza is not a place for people who get seasick easily. Boats are a way of life here, including the way you reach the island in the first place, whether you arrive from Rome, about an hour away, or Naples, a little further, before departing by ferry from the coastal town of Anzio.
- Safety: Italy currently has a Level 2 rating (the lowest level issued by the U.S. Department of State). See what local travelers say about safety in Italy.
Why Ponza flies under the radar compared to Capri
Capri is one of Italy’s most famous beach destinations, gaining almost universal fame despite being named after the worst style of pants on the market.
Tell me I’m wrong…
Ponza, on the other hand, is less polished, less glamorous, but much more authentic – something that is hard to come by these days.
It has flown under the radar for three main reasons:
1) It hasn’t caught the attention of TikTokers yet
This is what Ponza fanatics like Vini are concerned about. Ponza has long been a local slice of paradise, allowing the Amalfi Coast and Capri to take center stage and retain their unspoilt charm.
2) Beaches are rougher
The waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea may be beautiful, but some of the coastline, made up of hidden coves and steep shores, is more suitable for photos than for swimming and lounging in the sun from the comfort of a beach chair.
3) It takes extra effort to reach Ponza
This picture postcard island is just an hour from Rome to the port. It’s not exactly a click-and-go destination, but locals swear it’s well worth the adventure!
