Aeolian Islands Sicily

What Are the Aeolian Islands in Sicily?

The Aeolian Islands are a group of seven volcanic islands off the northern coast of Sicily. They sit in the Tyrrhenian Sea and are known for dramatic landscapes, black sand beaches, thermal springs, and postcard-perfect towns. Each island has its own personality, from the lively streets of Lipari to the quiet walking trails of Alicudi.

If you’re planning a trip to Sicily and want to add something truly special, the Aeolian Islands are worth it. They’re easy to reach by ferry, and you can explore one or several depending on how much time you’ve got. Whether you’re after beach time, volcano hikes, great food, or just some peace and quiet, there’s an island with your name on it.

How Do You Get to the Aeolian Islands from Sicily?
What Is There to Do on Vulcano?
What Is There to Do on Salina?
What Is There to Do on Stromboli?
What Is There to Do on Panarea?
What Is There to Do on Filicudi?
What Is There to Do on Alicudi?
Why Visit the Aeolian Islands?
Featured Villas

Lipari located at a island named Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea near Sicily in Italy

How Do You Get to the Aeolian Islands from Sicily?

The easiest way to reach the Aeolian Islands is by ferry or hydrofoil from the northern coast of Sicily. The main departure point is Milazzo, a small port town about 1.5 to 2 hours from Catania or Messina by car. From Milazzo, you can catch regular services to all seven islands year-round, with more frequent departures in summer.

There are also seasonal routes from Palermo and Messina, and even Naples on the mainland if you’re coming from further north. Most fast ferries are operated by Liberty Lines, while Siremar handles slower, larger boats that also carry vehicles.

If you’re flying into Sicily, the closest major airport is Catania (CTA). From there, you can take a shuttle or private transfer to Milazzo. Some travelers also fly into Palermo (PMO), but the transfer to Milazzo takes longer.

To make things smooth:

Book ferry tickets in advance during the summer months
Check seasonal schedules carefully, especially outside peak season
Allow extra time for transfers if you’re flying in the same day

Once you’re at the port, it’s all pretty simple. Hop on a ferry, sit back, and enjoy the views, your Aeolian adventure is about to begin.

What Is There to Do on Lipari?

Lipari, aeolian island sicily, as seen from the coast

Lipari is the largest and most accessible of the Aeolian Islands, making it the perfect starting point for your trip. It has a little bit of everything, beaches, history, great food, and easy transport links to the other islands. If you’re island hopping, Lipari is a smart place to base yourself.

You can stroll through Lipari Town, with its pretty marina, cafes, and narrow lanes lined with shops. The Lipari Castle, perched on a rocky outcrop, offers stunning views and houses a small but fascinating archaeological museum. If you love history, it’s well worth a stop.

For swimming, there are plenty of coves and pebble beaches nearby. Canneto is the most popular beach, just a short drive or bus ride from the main town. You can also rent a boat or take a tour around the island to see the cliffs, caves, and clear turquoise water from the sea.

Lipari is also great for food. You’ll find laid-back trattorias serving Aeolian-style pasta, grilled seafood, and sweet pastries. And because it’s the main hub, you’ll have more options for accommodations and ferries compared to the smaller islands.

Lipari gives you a taste of everything the Aeolians have to offer, with just the right mix of convenience and charm.

What Is There to Do on Vulcano?

Vulcano is the island that smells like sulfur, and that’s part of the charm. It’s famous for its steaming craters, black sand beaches, and natural mud baths. If you’re into wellness, hiking, or geology, this island should be on your list.

The top activity is hiking to the Gran Cratere, the island’s active (but closely monitored) volcano. It’s a steady 1.5-hour round-trip hike, and once you reach the top, you’ll get incredible views of the other Aeolian Islands. Just be ready for the strong smell of sulfur and the bright yellow vents puffing steam into the air.

Down by the harbor, you’ll find mud baths and hot springs. The mud is rich in minerals and locals say it’s good for the skin. Not everyone loves the smell, but it’s definitely a unique experience. There are also a few small beaches like Spiaggia delle Sabbie Nere, known for its black volcanic sand.

Vulcano is quieter than Lipari and easy to explore in a day, though some people stay overnight for a peaceful escape. It’s ideal if you want to soak in something a bit different, literally.

What Is There to Do on Salina?

Salina is the greenest and most peaceful of the Aeolian Islands. It’s less crowded than Lipari, more refined than Vulcano, and known for its lush hillsides, sweet Malvasia wine, and laid-back charm. If you’re looking for natural beauty and great food, this is the island for you.

One of the best things to do here is hike. Salina has twin volcanic peaks, and Monte Fossa delle Felci is the highest point in the Aeolian Islands. The trails are scenic and quiet, and on a clear day you can see all the way to Etna. If hiking’s not your thing, you can explore the coastline by boat or simply relax by the sea.

The island is also famous for capers and Malvasia wine, both of which you’ll see on menus and in local shops. Salina’s food scene punches above its weight, with small restaurants serving beautifully simple dishes using local ingredients. The village of Santa Marina has a charming seafront, and Malfa is a peaceful base with boutique hotels and stunning views.

Salina isn’t flashy, and that’s exactly why people love it. It’s the perfect place to slow down and savor Sicily’s island life.

What Is There to Do on Stromboli?

The eruption of active volcano Stromboli spraying lava into the night, sicily, italy.

Stromboli is all about the volcano. It’s one of the world’s most active, and its fiery displays have earned it the nickname “the Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.” If you’re up for adventure, this island delivers something truly unforgettable.

The most iconic experience here is hiking up the volcano to watch it erupt at night. Guided hikes take you partway up to the observation points (the summit is sometimes restricted), where you can see lava bursts lighting up the sky. It’s a challenging trek, but the payoff is incredible. If hiking’s not for you, you can also take a boat tour around the island at sunset to see the eruptions from the water.

Stromboli village is small, and almost car-free. It feels remote in the best way. You’ll find dark beaches like Spiaggia di Ficogrande, perfect for a swim or a relaxed afternoon in the sun.

The nearby islet of Strombolicchio, just off the coast, is also worth a look. You can’t go ashore, but it’s a striking sight from a boat or beach.

Stromboli is wild, raw, and unlike anywhere else. If you want a taste of untamed nature, this is where to find it.

What Is There to Do on Panarea?

Panarea behind white walls - the smallest volcanic island in the north of Sicily

Panarea is the smallest and most exclusive of the Aeolian Islands. It’s known for its chic atmosphere, chalk-white houses, and stylish visitors who come to soak up the sun and the scene. If you’re after beauty, elegance, and a bit of glamour, Panarea ticks all the boxes.

There aren’t many cars on the island, so people get around on foot or by electric golf carts. You can explore charming cobbled streets, browse small boutiques, and enjoy aperitivo at one of the laid-back but luxe bars overlooking the sea. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and everything feels just a bit more polished.

For swimming, head to Cala Junco, a natural cove with crystal-clear water and a rocky amphitheater that feels like a private pool. You can also rent a boat or hop on a tour to the nearby islets like Basiluzzo or the volcanic bubbles of Lisca Bianca.

Panarea is ideal for a romantic getaway or a stylish island stop. It’s not about ticking off sights, it’s about enjoying the vibe, the views, and the unhurried pace of island life.

What Is There to Do on Filicudi?

Filicudi is one of the quietest and most untouched islands in the Aeolian chain. It’s ideal if you’re looking to unplug and slow things right down. Life here moves at its own pace, with peaceful walking trails, old stone houses, and a raw, natural landscape that feels a world away from the mainland.

Most visitors come to hike and relax. The island has no big towns, just a handful of small villages like Pecorini a Mare and Valdichiesa, where you’ll find local trattorias and unbeatable sea views. Walking trails lead through fig groves and past ancient ruins, including a prehistoric village at Capo Graziano.

The coast is perfect for boat trips. You can visit caves and dramatic rock formations, like the towering La Canna sea stack, or swim in clear blue water near the Grotta del Bue Marino. It’s all about simple pleasures here: hiking, swimming, eating well, and enjoying the silence.

Filicudi isn’t fancy or crowded. It’s honest, peaceful, and perfect if you want to get away from it all.

What Is There to Do on Alicudi?

The Alicudi Island aerial view from airplane window

Alicudi is the most remote and least developed of the Aeolian Islands. There are no roads, no cars, and hardly any shops. Life here revolves around walking, sea views, and complete stillness. If you’re looking to truly disconnect, this is the place.

The island has just one small village, and everything is reached by steep stone paths and staircases. Donkeys are still used to carry goods up the hills, and the rhythm of life hasn’t changed much in decades. It’s quiet, simple, and incredibly peaceful.

Most visitors come to hike or just enjoy the solitude. You can follow old mule tracks through fig and olive trees, with sweeping views over the sea. Swimming and boat trips are also part of the experience, especially around the island’s rugged coast.

There are no real tourist attractions on Alicudi, and that’s the point. It’s a place to read, walk, swim, and breathe. If you want a break from everything modern, you’ll find it here.

Why Visit the Aeolian Islands?

The Aeolian Islands offer a completely different side of Sicily. Each island has its own rhythm, landscape, and appeal, from volcano treks and quiet beaches to stylish towns and sleepy villages. Whether you’re after luxury, adventure, or total stillness, there’s a place for you here.

Getting there is part of the fun, and island-hopping makes it easy to see more than one. You don’t need a strict itinerary, just a sense of curiosity and some time to explore. Once you arrive, the rest takes care of itself.

Ready to explore the Aeolian Islands?

Browse our handpicked villas across the islands and start planning your perfect Sicilian escape today. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.