Posted by Italy has hundreds of islands, but only a few of them are truly large in terms of area and population. Two of them – Sicily and Sardinia – clearly dominate, while the rest are much smaller and often more tourist-oriented.
This article explains the largest Italian islands, includes a Top 10 table (area & population), and helps travelers understand where these islands are, how different they are, and which ones are worth visiting.
Tours & Experiences in Italy
Boat tours, volcano trips, food tours – many popular activities sell out quickly in high season.
Top 10 Largest Islands of Italy (Area & Population)
| Rank | Island | Area (km²) | Population (approx.) | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sicily | 25,711 | ≈ 5,000,000 | Sicily |
| 2 | Sardinia | 24,090 | ≈ 1,600,000 | Sardinia |
| 3 | Elba | 224 | ≈ 32,000 | Tuscany |
| 4 | San Pietro | 51 | ≈ 6,000 | Sardinia |
| 5 | Sant’Antioco | 109 | ≈ 11,000 | Sardinia |
| 6 | Pantelleria | 83 | ≈ 7,500 | Sicily |
| 7 | Lampedusa | 20 | ≈ 6,000 | Sicily |
| 8 | Capri | 10 | ≈ 14,000 | Campania |
| 9 | Ischia | 47 | ≈ 65,000 | Campania |
| 10 | Procida | 4 | ≈ 10,000 | Campania |
Note: Italy has many more islands, but after Sicily and Sardinia, sizes drop very quickly. That’s why the Top 10 already includes islands that feel “small” compared to the two giants.
Find Hotels on Italian Islands
Whether you’re planning Sicily, Sardinia or a small island like Elba – comparing accommodation early often saves money.
1. Sicily – The Largest Island in Italy
Sicily is by far the largest island in Italy and also the largest island in the entire Mediterranean Sea. With more than 25,000 km², it is almost as large as some European countries.
What makes Sicily special is its diversity: large cities, volcanoes, beaches, mountains, and strong local traditions. Many travelers underestimate how big Sicily really is – driving from one end to the other can easily take a full day.
- Major cities: Palermo, Catania, Messina
- Famous sights: Mount Etna, Valley of the Temples
- Best for: culture, food, long road trips
2. Sardinia – Wild Landscapes and Long Beaches
Sardinia is slightly smaller than Sicily but feels very different. It is less urban, more rugged, and famous for its turquoise beaches and wild interior.
Despite its size, Sardinia has a relatively low population. Many areas feel empty and untouched, especially outside the summer season.
- Main cities: Cagliari, Sassari
- Known for: beaches, hiking, nature
- Best for: relaxed holidays, road trips, outdoor activities
3. Elba – Largest Island After Sicily and Sardinia
Elba is the third-largest island in Italy, but already much smaller than the first two. It is located off the Tuscan coast and is famous for its beaches and for Napoleon’s exile.
Elba is very popular with Italian travelers and easy to reach by ferry from the mainland.
Other Large Italian Islands (Quick Overview)
- San Pietro & Sant’Antioco – lesser-known islands near Sardinia, quiet and authentic
- Pantelleria – volcanic island between Sicily and Tunisia
- Lampedusa – southernmost Italian island, closer to Africa than mainland Italy
- Ischia, Capri, Procida – popular islands near Naples, very different in style
Which Italian Island Is Best for Travel?
That depends on what you are looking for:
- Longest stay & variety: Sicily or Sardinia
- Short island break: Elba or Ischia
- Luxury & scenery: Capri
- Quiet & authentic: San Pietro, Procida
If you only have a few days, the very large islands can actually feel overwhelming. Smaller islands are often easier for short trips