Things to do in
Aeolian Islands

Our most recommended things to do in Aeolian Islands

From Milazzo: Panarea and Stromboli Boat Trip by Night

1. From Milazzo: Panarea and Stromboli Boat Trip by Night

Experience the glitz and glamour of the Aeolian Islands on this full-day tour. See the famous Capo Milazzese, Cala Degli Zimmari, Saint Vincent’s Square, and other places before witnessing the magical sunset over the island. After departing from Milazzo, sail to Panarea, the smallest of the islands. Soak up the glamorous atmosphere of the island, favored by VIPs, as you stroll around the narrow streets of its historic center. You will continue to pay a visit to the prehistoric village of Capo Milazzese, where you can learn more about Panarea's ancient origins. Visit Cala Junco Bay, a spectacular beach in the shape of an amphitheater that is ideal for underwater swimming. Finally, relax on the sandy beach of Cala Degli Zimmari before continuing your journey. Having left Panarea, sail through the picturesque inlets which form a micro-archipelago between Lipari and the island of Stromboli, your next stop. Enjoy some free time to discover this island, which is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, at your own pace. Visit Saint Vincent’s Square, named after the church dedicated to the same Saint, and the house in which Rossellini and Ingrid Bergman lived during the shooting of the film "Stromboli terra di Dio" (Stromboli land of God). As the sun sets over the island, enjoy panoramic views of the port and volcanoes from the main square. Watch as the fire of the eruptions and the dark sky clash with each other providing ever-changing colorful creations in the Sciara del Fuoco, which will be visible from the sea during the return journey.

Stromboli: Sunset Trekking at Sciara del Fuoco

2. Stromboli: Sunset Trekking at Sciara del Fuoco

Embark on a guided hiking trip and witness Stromboli Island at sunset. Marvel at the breathtaking island views and watch the active volcano light up the night sky. Meet your guide and set off from Piazza San Vincenzo 2 hours before sunset. After a safety briefing, start your hike from a nature trail that leads to 400 meters, the maximum altitude allowed with a volcanological guide. Soak up the dramatic views of the summit craters and Sciara del Fuoco. During the trek, take breaks to take in the views and even visit the old island cemetery. Cross the Mediterranean shrubs, accompanied by the constant view of the Strombolicchio.  On arrival at Sciara del Fuoco, marvel at the sunset that colors the Aeolian archipelago red and witness the volcanic eruptions lighting up the night sky. Then, make your way downhill in the dark, equipped with torches, and return to the starting point.

From Milazzo: Panarea & Stromboli Cruise & Shore Excursion

3. From Milazzo: Panarea & Stromboli Cruise & Shore Excursion

As soon as we leave the port of Milazzo we will sail towards the island of Panarea, the smallest and most "fascinating" of the Aeolian Islands, with arrival and disembarkation at the port of San Pietro. Panarea is truly unique in its charm and beauty. From the port there is direct access to the picturesque village of San Pietro with typical white houses arranged next to each other, set in a colorful nature. From here, among the many meeting places, restaurants, small shops, and boutiques scattered along the narrow streets that cross it, it is possible to reach the main points of attraction (on foot or with typical local taxis): the Church of San Pietro - with its valuable mosaic and the terrace from which you can enjoy a beautiful panorama, Drauto, the Cala degli Zimmari – with its particular sandy beach. A path of steps leads to the promontory of Capo Milazzese and the suggestive Cala Junco bay, an incomparable cove with breathtaking colors and a crystalline sea that hosts a small pebble beach. Above, in the frame, a prehistoric village dating back to the Bronze Age (1400 BC) with the remains of 22 oval-shaped stone huts and one with a quadrangular shape, perhaps a place of meeting and worship of the community. ** At 16.00 a.c. there is a direct connection that will allow you to reach the island of Stromboli. During this connection you will cross the ancient volcanic caldera of Panarea, you will be able to see the volcanic remains that have emerged, islets and rocks that have formed a mini-archipelago: Formiche, Dattilo, Panarelli, Lisca Nera, Bottaro, Lisca Bianca, Basiluzzo and Punta Spinazzola. Stromboli, "iddu", the black giant that emerges in all its grandeur from the deep blue sea. For millennia it has been one of the most active volcanoes in the world, with its "Strombolian shots" - explosions of lapilli, ashes and magma visible at regular intervals of 15/20 minutes - it is like a beacon for sailors. From the port of San Vincenzo "Scari", immediately attacked, long black beaches of pebbles and sand alternate. From here, a road crosses the village and allows you to reach the Church of San Vincenzo with its panoramic square in front of which you can see Strombolicchio, also known as the "grandfather of Stromboli", above which the lighthouse of the island resides. Continuing along the same road, it is possible to reach the "Casa di Ingrid", today a house museum, where the famous film "Stromboli Terra di Dio" by Roberto Rossellini was filmed with Ingrid Bergman. At dusk, while in all the other islands the evening is spent in a conventional way, with an aperitif, dinner or two visits to the disco, in Stromboli we embark and, passing under the Sciara del Fuoco, it is possible to watch from the sea to the show of incandescent lapilli. When there are effusive eruptions, as happened in 2019, the lava river slides down the slope and ends up in the sea, releasing large columns of steam.

From Milazzo: Lipari and Vulcano Day Trip

4. From Milazzo: Lipari and Vulcano Day Trip

See the stunning Aeolian Archipelago on a day trip to the islands of Vulcano and Lipari from Milazzo. Take a boat to Lipari and go on a walk in the Old Town. Then, sail to the UNESCO-listed chain of volcanic islands. Enjoy a walk in Vulcano, swim in the Tyrrhenian Sea, or relax on the beach.  Discover the 2 beautiful Liparian Islands north of the coast of Sicily. Begin your tour in the morning at the Port of Milazzo and set out along the foothills of Capo Milazzo to Lipari. Explore the land with its wonderful old town and archaeological park. Walk down the little streets and wander into tiny shops. Admire the impressive needle- and cone-shaped rock formations of Faraglioni, Pope John Cliff, the Angels' Grotto, and the Mummy Cliff. Then return to your ship and continue on to the island of Vulcano. Relax here in the sulfuric mud spa or on the dreamlike black sand beach, or enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. On your way back to Milazzo, enjoy one last view of the picturesque town of Gelso with its antique lighthouse.

From Tropea: Stromboli, Lipari, Vulcano Guided Day Tour

5. From Tropea: Stromboli, Lipari, Vulcano Guided Day Tour

Set sail from Tropea on a guided day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Aeolian Islands of Stromboli, Lipari, and Vulcano. Explore stunning black sand beaches, swim in the shadow of Mount Stromboli, stroll through charming old towns, and discover picturesque sea views. Start your adventure from the Port of Tropea and meet your friendly guide and group for the day. Cruise on the Tyrrhenian Sea for two hours until you see the Aeolian Island of Stromboli's beautiful coastline on the horizon. Set foot on Stromboli and discover the traditional village of San Vincenzo with white houses and Aeolian architecture. Enjoy your free time with the chance to walk along charming streets, admire Mount Stromboli, or go swimming at the seafront's black sand beaches. Cruise to Lipari, the largest of the islands with so much to discover. Go sightseeing at the Acropolis and Lipari Cathedral or listen to the peaceful sounds of the ocean at Marina Corta and Marina Lunga. If you're looking for tradition, head to the historic center. Travel just a few hundred meters south to the island of Vulcano. Admire the jets of steam from the volcano said to be the mythological home of Hephaestus and trek along the volcanic trail to be blown away by the views from the crater.

From Milazzo: Lipari and Vulcano Day Trip

6. From Milazzo: Lipari and Vulcano Day Trip

See the stunning Aeolian Archipelago on a day trip to the islands of Lipari and Vulcano from Milazzo. Take a boat to Lipari and go on a walk in the Old Town. Then, sail to the Unesco-listed chain of volcanic islands. Enjoy a mud bath in Vulcano, swim in the Tyrrhenian Sea, or relax on the beach. Discover the 2 beautiful Liparian Islands north of the coast of Sicily. Begin your tour in the morning at the Port of Milazzo and set out along the foothills of Capo Milazzo to Lipari. Explore the land with its wonderful old town and archaeological park. Walk down the little streets and wander into tiny shops. Admire the impressive needle- and cone-shaped rock formations of Faraglioni, Pope John Cliff, the Angels' Grotto, and the Mummy Cliff. Then return to your ship and continue on to the island of Vulcano. Relax here in the sulfuric mud spa or on the dreamlike black sand beach, or enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. On your way back to Milazzo, enjoy one last view of the picturesque town of Gelso with its antique lighthouse.

From Taormina: Chic Panarea and Stromboli Day Tour

7. From Taormina: Chic Panarea and Stromboli Day Tour

Take a tour of Stromboli and Panarea, both belonging to the Aeolian Archipelago. Enjoy this unique chance to see volcanic eruptions and learn the history of these ancient islands. On a motorboat equipped with toilets and bar, arrive at Panarea onto Calajunco Bay and the small Zimmari Beach. Take in the quiet beauty of these stunning beaches as you explore the second smallest of the islands. Meander along its winding streets and gravel beaches, taking in the perfect Sicilian backdrop.  Sail around the rocks in front of Panarea and then proceed to Stromboli, home to one of Italy’s 3 active volcanoes. Constantly active, you will be able to see the eruptions from the sea and the many viewing points on the island. This spectacular phenomenon has given the island the nickname 'Lighthouse of the Mediterranean'. After looking over the small village of Ginostra from the sea, you have the chance to explore the historical center of San Vincenzo until sunset. Back on board guests sail out to sea to watch the dramatic eruptions of the Sciara del Fuoco, fire slide, against the night’s sky. Return around midnight.

From Tropea: Stromboli Volcano Night Tour

8. From Tropea: Stromboli Volcano Night Tour

Visit the fantastic island of Stromboli on this tour starting in the early afternoon from Tropea. Drive through the sunset and admire the perfect cone of the volcano crater. During the trip, enjoy the sea breeze and the fantastic views. In the summer and autumn, can keep an eye out for dolphins swimming alongside the boat. Visit dreamy San Vincenzo, explore the village, and enjoy the fantastic view of the open sea. You will be enchanted by the small streets between white Aeolian houses, the turquoise water, and the lush green palm trees and cacti. Explore the island, or relax at the black sandy beach and go for a swim. The small alternative shops invite you to go shopping and the numerous restaurants offer the opportunity for a romantic dinner. Once back to the boat, you'll cruise to Sciara del Fuoco ("Stream of Fire"). Admire the fascinating natural firework on the uninhabited side of the island. A soft rumbling accompanies the permanent eruptions of the volcano, creating small and large columns of smoke. After 30 minutes you will head back to the port of Tropea.

From Tropea: Lipari, Panarea, and Stromboli by Night

9. From Tropea: Lipari, Panarea, and Stromboli by Night

Go on a trip to Lipari, Panarea, and Stromboli by speedboat. Hop on board in Tropea and enjoy the ride to the various islands, taking in the sites at each stop. Get a taste for Aeolian life and see typical streets, shops, and nature.  Begin by meeting your guide at the Port of Tropea in the morning. After a short boat ride, arrive at your first stop in Lipari, the biggest, most populated of the islands. Visit the Basilica of San Bartolomeo and the Castle of Lipari.  Have the option to go on a boat tour of the area for an additional cost. Next, continue on to San Pietro, Panarea. Explore the island for a few hours, passing through the winding streets full of shops, clubs, and restaurants. Pass by Capo Milazzese and the famous beach of Cala Junco. Visit the charming village of San Vincenzo and discover more traditional restaurants and shops. Come face to face with Mount Stromboli, said to be one of the most active volcanoes on earth, where small explosions can be felt every half an hour. Head back to the boat and circumnavigate Strombolicchio. Stop under the volcano to admire the Sciara Del Fuoco. As night falls and the evening approaches, return to Tropea on the boat.

From Lipari: Panarea and Stromboli Cruise with Stops

10. From Lipari: Panarea and Stromboli Cruise with Stops

Spend the day on a memorable boat excursion through the Aeolian Islands. Enjoy the afternoon and evening exploring quaint villages and seeing stunning landscapes of the Mediterranean. Meet in Lipari and aboard your boat to begin your excursion through the Aeolian Islands. Have impressive views as you go along the pumice quarries and Monte Rosa. Head towards the island of Panarea, the smallest of the Aeolian islands. Admire the beautiful bay of Cala Junco before docking and have some free time to wander around the village. After time on Panarea, resume your boat excursion along Basiluzzo, the largest islet of Panarea, and the village of Ginostra before reaching the port of Stromboli. Arrive in Stromboli and be overwhelmed by the wild colors of nature. From the green scrub of the Mediterranean to the black volcanic landscape, from the blue frame of the sea to the white architecture of the island, the imagery of the island is one you won't forget. Have some free time to visit Stromboli and when the sun goes down, cruise around the islet of Strombolicchio. At dusk have your breath taken away as the active volcano magnifies its natural sounds in the dark of the evening.  Go along the Sciara del Fuoco before returning to Lipari.

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What people are saying about Aeolian Islands

Overall rating

4.2
(2,148 reviews)

A great activity that we did with our 2 children aged 3 and 6. The crew was great, very cheerful and very attentive, especially with the children. We fell in love with the island of Panarea and we saw some great eruptions of Stromboli. A magical moment!

Great time. Our guide was friendly, passionate and very interesting. The magnificent volcano. The eruptions at nightfall were superb, although, of course, there were a lot of people at the observation site.

It was everything really good. Gaspare is a really nice person and he made the trip especial. I recommend it so much. The beaches we went to were also beautiful.

very good trip. Team was very Nice. Only in Italian so difficult to easily understand the good tips for the différent stops.

Giovanni was excellent storyteller. Highly recommend. Magical trip