Ustica Island, Sicily
Must-DoIconicItaly's first marine reserve and widely considered the best diving in the country. Volcanic topography, sea fans, barracuda schools, and the Grotta dei Gamberi. The Secca della Colombara pinnacle is world-class. Dive centres on the island are excellent.
Portofino Marine Park, Liguria
Must-DoThe Cristo degli Abissi (Christ of the Abyss) statue at 17m is Italy's most famous dive site. The protected marine area also has gorgeous wall dives, gorgonians, and grouper. Dive centres in Santa Margherita Ligure.
Sardinia: Capo Carbonara & Tavolara
Must-DoSardinia's clearest water. Capo Carbonara (south) has seagrass meadows and barracuda. Tavolara (northeast) has dramatic walls and dolphins. Both are marine protected areas with exceptional biodiversity.
Isole Tremiti, Puglia
Hidden GemA small Adriatic archipelago off the Gargano coast. Underwater caves, Lombard-era anchor fields, and some of Italy's best wall diving. Far fewer divers than Sardinia or Sicily. Ferry from Vieste or Termoli.
Ponza & Ventotene, Lazio
Hidden GemVolcanic islands off the coast between Rome and Naples. Roman fish farms, underwater tunnels, and blue-water encounters with pelagics. Ponza's Secca dei Mattoni is a highlight. Easy day trip from Formia.
Our pick
Ustica is Italy's undisputed diving capital — fly to Palermo, ferry to the island, and dive for a week. For mainland diving, Portofino's Cristo degli Abissi is the must-do.