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The Amalfi Coast is a jewel in crown and a favourite amongst . Nestled along its rugged shoreline are picturesque properties perched on the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Salerno.

Even just mentioning this iconic coastline brings to mind images of Italian luxury, exquisite cuisine, and the warm southern sun. However, Amalfi's reputation for elegance and sophistication comes with a hefty price tag. Thankfully there's a cheaper and less crowded alterantive that's just as beautiful - Ischia.

Offering all the attractions of the Amalfi Coast without the crowds and inflated prices, the island of Ischia could very well be paradise on Earth.

Located in the Gulf of Naples, north of Amalfi, Ischia boasts beautiful villas that reflect the region's architectural style, coupled with equally breathtaking landscapes.

You're also likely to save on accommodation. Unlike Amalfi, which is dominated by international hotel chains, Ischia is home to independent boutique hotels.

Perhaps the island's most notable claim to fame is its feature in the 1999 modern classic The Talented Mr Ripley, starring Matt Damon, Jude Law, and Gwyneth Paltrow.

A scene from the film was shot in Ristorante da Ciccio, one of the many superb dining spots on the island.

Holidaymakers heading to Ischia have affectionately named it as Italy's "best-kept secret".

One Welsh visitor couldn't help but rave about the picturesque isle, they said: "Visited Ischia for a week at the end of August/early September and it lived up to expectations.

"Beautiful island in the Bay of Naples where the experience can be summed up as Sorrento without the noise and bustle and Capri without the rip-off prices."

The visitor recounted some not-to-be-missed attractions such as the stunning La Mortella Gardens, created for composer Sir William Walton, declaring Ischia's Castle the finest they've ever set eyes on, and recommended unwinding at the Negombo Spa Park with its thermal pools nestled in an enchanting locale.

They added: "Don't know why I'm sharing this with you because the best thing about Ischia is that it doesn't cater for the UK visitor market at all so no fast food joints, nowhere doing hair-braiding and fake tattoos and no loud-mouth embarrassing drunks in the bars and restaurants. It is very stylish and very much a destination for Italians."