Snorkelling and diving are  wonderful ways to explore a country, offering a whole new perspective and opening up a secret marine world. Thanks to a wealth of flora and fauna, diving in Italy is a great way to explore what lies beneath the Mediterranean. From vibrant coral reefs, star fish and dolphins, barracudas, giant eels, turtles, and an infinite number of colourful fish.

The best diving and snorkelling spots in Italy

Italy is a perfect destination for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, with crystal clear waters that are home to an incredible variety of marine flora and fauna. From the turquoise shores of Sardinia to the underwater caves of Sicily, this article will guide you through the best places to dive for a unique Mediterranean experience and the best spots for snorkelling in Italy.

Elba

With a rich and varied marine bed, Elba is home to red gorgonians, green Posidonia and rare black and red coral. Go to Capo Sant’Andrea to see rare and wonderful species and to Pomonte where you can dive 10 metres to the remains of a sunken ship.

Gulf of Gaeta

This stunning gulf offers the opportunity to freedive off impressive cliffs and snorkel in aquamarine waters, where you will find a plethora of interesting sea creatures. This destination attracts not only snorkelling enthusiasts but also it considered one of the best scuba diving places in Italy.

Capri

There are many boat tours in Capri that will take you out to the most impressive snorkelling spots, including the White Grotto, and the Faraglioni rocks. A wonderful way to explore the turquoise waters of Capri and discover colourful sponges, gorgonians, and fish. If you’re lucky, even dolphins!

Sardinia

Make your way to Cala Goloritze at the east of the island near Baunei, where you willfind crystal clear waters and pure white sand, offering incredible visibility under the water to observe the colourful marine life and some of the best diving in Italy.

Portofino Marine Park

With an incredible amount of sea life to explore, in the protected marine area of Portofino, you can see octopus, starfish and many more interesting species among the Posidonia meadows.

Sicily

Home to some of the most spectacular snorkelling spots in Italy, Sicily is teeming with diverse marine life to keep you entertained for hours. Famous spots for snorkelling include the marine reserve of Vendicari, Plemmirio, and Isola delle Femmine.

Tuscany

Tuscany not only makes a great destination for history buffs, but also for outdoor and underwater enthusiasts. The Tuscan coast offers crystal-clear waters along its many pristine beaches, which are perfect for snorkelling. With well-loved resorts such as Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio to the lesser known spots of Cala del Gesso and Cala Violina.

The island of Ustica

Ustica is home to phenomenal marine reserve that is full of interesting and colourful marine life including molluscs, crustaceans and even a barracuda or two. Head to the Cala Sidoti on the western side of the island for some of the best snorkelling in Italy.

The Pelagie islands

The shallow waters off the coastline of this archipelago offer clear waters allowing excellent visibility of the diverse marine life. Head to Lampedusa and the Dead Sea Beaches where you will find numerous caves filled will fish and marine plants. Enjoy the island of Linosa, with black sands and clear waters making a unique visual adventure.

Apulia

In the south of Italy, in the region of Apulia you will find spectacular diving and snorkelling spots, with fascinating coves and bays to while away the time. Head to Polignano a Mare for pristine waters or to the famous Grotta del Sangue, to see starfish and sea urchins.

Shopping at Fiumicino airport

If your itinerary to discover any of these fantastic snorkelling or diving destinations includes departure (or a stopover) from Rome Fiumicino airport, take advantage of the Shop & Fly service: choose and purchase your favourite products online at competitive prices and collect them comfortably at the airport, enjoying a 10% discount (cannot be combined with other offers). We all know the importance of protecting our skin from the sun, that’s why at the duty free store you will also find a wide range of suncare products,  including water resistant high factor sunscreens that are perfect for those long hot days in the water.

For travellers who love to explore the sea, Italy is a fantastic destination, with many wonderful snorkelling and diving spots all over the country. From the delightful coves of Apulia to the shallow waters off the coasts of Sicily, there is an infinite amount of marine wildlife to explore on your next trip to Italy.

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