Italy is not only famous for its stunning beaches but also for being a top destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. With everything from marine reserves and underwater caves to historic wrecks, the country offers something for divers of all levels. A typical dive costs around €45-€60, depending on the location and whether you bring your own gear. In this article, we’ll explore some of Italy’s best diving regions, each offering its own unique underwater experiences.
Sardinia
Maybe I’m biased, but Sardinia is my absolute favorite scuba diving destination in Italy. First and foremost, for its stunning surroundings: hidden beaches accessible only by secret trails, secluded coves you stumble upon while exploring, and of course, a magnificent sea that rivals even the most beautiful Caribbean shores. Despite being a popular tourist destination, it still offers a profound sense of peace depending on where you go, which, as you may know, also increases the chances of spotting a greater variety of marine species underwater.
Here you can find plenty of species, from eagle rays to tunas, dolphins, barracudas and groupers. There are many options for beginners and non, but if you want a middle path that works for everyone, I would recommend you the Area Marina protetta di Tavolara e Molara (here’s the diving center I always go to).
- Best sites: Nereo Cave, Secca del Papa, Area Marina protetta di Tavolara e Molara
Tuscany
Tuscany offers a diverse range of scuba diving experiences, from deep dives and caves to wrecks dating back to the First and Second World Wars. The main diving spots include the Argentario Coast, as well as the protected areas of Giglio and Giannutri Islands, which provide calm and pristine waters for exploration.
- Best sites: Secca di Mezzo Canale (best suited for experienced divers), Giannutri Island, and Scoglio delle Formiche (also ideal for beginners, as barracudas, groupers, and amberjacks can be spotted as shallow as 15–18 meters).
Liguria
Liguria has four Marine Protected Areas, including the Portofino MPA, which is divided into zones A, B, and C. In zone B, there are several interesting spots, such as the Secca dell’Isuela and the Cristo degli Abissi (only 17 meters deep). In addition, the Bergeggi Island is considered one of the best diving sites, especially in the so-called “Canalone,” where you can find large fields of sea daisies, as well as barracudas and dentex.
- Best sites: Christ of the Abyss, Haven Wreck
Sicily
The region’s volcanic landscape makes it truly unique, with volcanic rocks scattered across the seafloor, particularly around Pantelleria and the Aeolian Islands. Other standout dive spots include the Ustica Marine Reserve, known for its rich marine life, and the Egadi Islands, which are famous for their breathtaking underwater landscapes. Further south, the Pelagie Islands offer even more incredible dive experiences.
- Best sites: Grotta dei Gamberi (Ustica, maximum depth of 44 meters), Secca della Colombara, Capo Milazzo
Lazio
The most beautiful sites to dive in Lazio are in Ventotene, which is part of the Pontine Islands. For those who prefer a location closer to Rome, just 40 minutes away, you’ll find the famous Area Naturale Marina Protetta Secca di Tor Paterno near Ostia. This spot is recommended for advanced divers. It offers a rich variety of marine life, including sea eagles, groupers, moray eels, conger eels, loggerhead turtles, gorgonians, sea daisies, green turtles, and bottlenose dolphins.
- Best sites: Ventotene Marine Reserve (Le Sconciglie, Relitto di S. Lucia, La Secchitella etc.)
Campania
In this region near the islands of Capri and the Phlegraean Fields, you’ll find plenty of amazing dive spots. The waters along the Sorrentine coast are incredibly rich in marine life, with several protected areas, including the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area. One of the most interesting places to dive is the submerged city of Baiae, where you can explore the ruins of an ancient city, complete with mosaics, marble, old villas, imperial palaces, and statues.
Another great spot is the Regno di Nettuno Marine Protected Area, perfect for seeing underwater life in its natural state since it prohibits harmful animal and plant species are prohibited.
- Best sites: Punta Campanella, Baia Underwater Archaeological Park
Veneto
In this case, I recommend Veneto not for sea excursions but because it is home to Y-40, the world’s third-deepest pool, reaching a depth of 40 meters. Located in Montegrotto Terme, near Padua, it’s a dream for both diving enthusiasts and beginners, offering certification courses, expert-led workshops, and year-round training sessions (starting from €36,90). The thermal water ensures a comfortable experience, and in addition to scuba diving, the facility also provides freediving courses. I personally earned my certification here and can’t recommend it enough!
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