Visit Aeolian Islands: Plan Your Next Sicilian Journey

Craving that dreamy escape with boats, volcanoes, and a chilled glass of wine in hand? Then it’s time to visit Aeolian Islands. This sun-soaked archipelago off Sicily’s northern coast is where volcanic peaks meet turquoise waters, sleepy fishing towns, and vineyard-covered hills. Think salty hair, grilled seafood by the harbor, and scenic hikes before diving into a natural hot spring. From the lush vines of Salina to the dramatic eruptions of Stromboli, each island feels like a new adventure. And if you’re into sipping your way through paradise, Sicily wine tours & wineries around the Aeolian Islands are packed with local charm, especially when Malvasia is on the menu. This is island life, Sicilian-style, unfiltered, unforgettable, and calling your name.

Visit Aeolian Islands: Best things to do and see

Start with Lipari

Lipari is the island that does it all. As the biggest and buzziest of the Aeolian Islands, it’s your ideal base for island-hopping, wine sipping, and scooter cruising. Grab a granita by the marina, wander up to the old castle for sea views and ancient vibes, then swing by the archaeological museum if you’re in the mood for a history fix. The vibe here? Effortless. Visit Lipari Italy to chase sunsets along winding roads or stretch out on volcanic beaches that warm your toes and calm your soul.

Hike Stromboli’s active volcano

Famous for its constantly active volcano (yes, it’s been erupting for over 2,000 years), this island is one of the few places in the world where you can hike to watch real volcanic activity glow against the dusk sky. Join a licensed guide for a sunset trek or admire the explosions safely from a boat just offshore. Don’t skip Ginostra, a tiny village tucked into Stromboli’s wild side, no roads, no cars, just donkeys and silence. It’s one of the most remote corners of the Aeolian Islands, and it feels like a secret.

Relax in the mud baths on Vulcano

Vulcano turns up the heat, literally. Known for its bubbling mud baths and steamy sulfur pools, this island is your go-to for a bit of messy, mineral-rich wellness. Sure, the smell is strong, but so are the bragging rights. Up for a hike? The trail to the Gran Cratere is short but steep, and once at the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views across the Aeolian Islands and a chance to peek into the island’s still-steaming heart.

Discover Santa Marina on Salina Island

Salina is the lushest of the Aeolian bunch, nicknamed the “green island” for its rolling vineyards, freshwater springs, and forested hills. It’s the place to slow down. Start in Santa Marina, a postcard-perfect port town with stylish restaurants and local artisan shops. Then head inland or uphill for scenic hikes, wine tastings, and views that stretch across the archipelago. If you’re into sipping Malvasia between sea dips and countryside strolls, Salina hits that sweet spot.

Head to Panarea

Thinking of visiting Panarea? Plan ahead, this is the smallest and most stylish of the Aeolian Islands. In summer, it draws yachts and celebs, but it still keeps its chill. Expect turquoise waters, chic whitewashed homes, and aperitivo spots with a view. It’s all about barefoot luxury here. Panarea makes for a dreamy day trip from Lipari or Salina, just enough time to soak in the island’s charm without blowing the budget.

Escape to the westernmost island Alicudi

If you’re craving real solitude, head to Alicudi, the most remote and westernmost of the Aeolian Islands. There are no cars, barely any shops, and just a handful of residents. You’ll get around on foot or by donkey, soaking in views of dramatic cliffs and the endless sea. It’s the kind of place where time genuinely slows down, perfect if you’re ready to disconnect and let nature take the lead.

Explore Filicudi

Filicudi, another serene jewel in the archipelago of the Aeolian Islands, offers the ideal setting for hiking lovers and nature admirers. Discover its lava rock formations, the archaeological village of Capo Graziano, and the mystical Grotta del Bue Marino sea cave by boat.

Visit Aeolian Islands: Best things to do around

Walk to the crater of Stromboli

Famous for its continuously erupting volcano, Stromboli is easily accessible by ferry from Lipari in just under 1.5 hours. The island of Stromboli offers one of the most awe-inspiring hiking experiences in all of Italy. Join a guided hike from Ginostra or Stromboli village to reach the summit safely, and witness molten lava spurting into the night sky, a fiery memory you won’t forget. To truly visit Aeolian Islands in all their volcanic glory, Stromboli is a must.

Stroll in historic Milazzo

On your way to or from the Aeolian Islands, make a quick stop in Milazzo, your gateway to island-hopping magic. Just under two hours by ferry from Lipari, this northern Sicilian town has more to offer than just a port. Climb up to the Castello di Milazzo for sweeping sea views, grab a granita or a glass of local wine, and soak in a bit of mainland charm before you sail off. It’s the perfect bonus stop to round out your visit Aeolian Islands itinerary with a touch of Sicilian flair.

Visit Sicily for a journey full of flavour

Visit Sicily and dive into a world of ancient myths, sunlit coastlines, and unforgettable plates of pasta alla norma. Each corner of the island offers something different: black-sand beaches in the Aeolian Islands, baroque beauty in cities like Noto, volcanic trails on Mount Etna, and vineyard-dotted hills around Marsala and Etna. This is the kind of place where lunch lasts three hours and the golden hour feels endless.

Good to know before visiting Aeolian Islands