Home › Destinations › Lipari Islands
Lipari Islands, Italy - Things to Do in Lipari Islands

Lipari Islands

Lipari Islands, Italy - Complete Travel Guide

The Lipari Islands, also known as the Aeolian Islands, are a impressive volcanic archipelago off the northern coast of Sicily, Italy. This UNESCO World Heritage site consists of seven inhabited islands - Lipari, Vulcano, Stromboli, Salina, Panarea, Alicudi, and Filicudi - each offering unique landscapes, from active volcanoes to pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The islands have been shaped by thousands of years of volcanic activity, creating dramatic coastlines, black sand beaches, and therapeutic hot springs. These enchanting islands blend natural beauty with rich history, featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins, charming fishing villages, and traditional Mediterranean architecture. The archipelago offers everything from adventurous volcano hiking and diving in underwater volcanic vents to relaxing in natural thermal baths and exploring picturesque vineyards. With their laid-back island atmosphere, excellent seafood cuisine, and impressive sunsets, the Lipari Islands provide an authentic Italian island experience away from the crowds of more touristy destinations.

Top Lipari Islands

Stromboli Volcano Night Excursion

Experience the spectacular sight of Stromboli's active volcano erupting against the night sky, known as the 'Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.' This guided trek takes you to viewpoints where you can safely observe the volcanic activity and glowing lava flows. The dramatic nighttime eruptions create an unforgettable natural fireworks display.

Booking Tip: Book guided tours through certified operators for €35-50 per person, including equipment. Best visited April-October when weather conditions are favorable. Choose operators with good safety records and proper insurance coverage.

Island Hopping Boat Tours

Explore multiple islands in a single day aboard traditional boats, discovering hidden coves, sea caves, and pristine beaches accessible only by water. These tours typically include stops at Panarea's exclusive atmosphere, Stromboli's dramatic coastline, and swimming opportunities in crystal-clear volcanic waters. Many tours include lunch and snorkeling equipment.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost €40-80 per person depending on islands visited and inclusions. Book early in summer season and choose tours with smaller group sizes (under 20 people) for better experience. Look for operators offering flexible itineraries based on weather conditions.

Vulcano Thermal Baths and Mud Pools

Relax in natural hot springs and therapeutic volcanic mud baths on Vulcano island, known for their healing properties and skin benefits. The sulfurous mud pools maintain temperatures of 40-50°C year-round, while nearby thermal waters offer a natural spa experience. The unique volcanic landscape creates an otherworldly setting for relaxation.

Booking Tip: Entry to public mud baths costs €5-10, while private spa facilities charge €20-40. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Bring old swimwear as sulfur can stain clothing, and shower facilities are available on-site.

Salina Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours

Discover the unique volcanic wines of Salina island, particularly the famous Malvasia delle Lipari dessert wine made from grapes grown in volcanic soil. Tours include visits to family-run wineries, tastings of local varieties, and insights into traditional winemaking methods adapted to the island's challenging terrain. The experience often includes panoramic views of neighboring islands.

Booking Tip: Wine tours cost €25-45 per person including tastings and light snacks. Book directly with wineries for more intimate experiences or through hotels for transportation inclusion. Best visited during harvest season (August-September) for the most real feel.

Archaeological Museum and Lipari Castle

Explore the rich history of the Aeolian Islands at this complete museum housed within the ancient walls of Lipari's castle. The collection includes Greek and Roman artifacts, volcanic rock samples, and exhibits on the islands' maritime heritage. The castle grounds offer panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding islands, making it both educational and scenic.

Booking Tip: Admission costs €6-8 for adults with discounts for students and seniors. Open daily except Mondays, with extended hours in summer. Combine with a walking tour of Lipari town for better historical context and allow 2-3 hours for the full experience.

Getting There

The Lipari Islands are accessible only by ferry or hydrofoil from mainland Italy and Sicily. The main departure points are Milazzo (Sicily) with the most frequent connections, Messina, Palermo, and Naples on the mainland. Hydrofoils (aliscafi) are faster but more expensive, taking 1 hour from Milazzo to Lipari, while ferries take 2 hours but can transport cars. Liberty Lines and Siremar operate year-round services, with increased frequency during summer months. Flight connections are available to nearby airports in Catania or Reggio Calabria, followed by ground transport to ferry terminals.

Getting Around

Inter-island transportation relies on regular ferry and hydrofoil services connecting all seven islands, with Lipari serving as the main hub. On individual islands, transportation options vary by size - larger islands like Lipari and Salina offer local bus services, taxi services, and car/scooter rentals, while smaller islands like Panarea and Stromboli are best explored on foot or by electric cart. Many visitors choose to rent boats or join organized boat tours for flexible island hopping. Walking remains the most authentic way to explore the islands' narrow streets, coastal paths, and hiking trails, though sturdy footwear is essential for volcanic terrain.

Where to Stay

Lipari Town Center
Marina Corta Waterfront
Salina Island
Panarea Village
Stromboli Island
Vulcano Porto

Food & Dining

The Lipari Islands offer exceptional seafood cuisine featuring the day's fresh catch, including swordfish, tuna, and local specialties like sea urchins and anchovies. Traditional restaurants serve Sicilian-influenced dishes with unique island twists, such as caponata with capers grown on the volcanic soil and pasta with wild fennel. Each island has its culinary specialties - Salina is famous for its Malvasia wine and granite made with local fruits, while Lipari offers the widest variety of dining options from casual trattorias to upscale restaurants. Don't miss trying the local granita, pane cunzato (seasoned bread), and fresh ricotta desserts paired with island-produced wines.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Sicily

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

A Putia

4.6 /5
(5043 reviews) 2

Osteria da Rita (dal 1991)

4.5 /5
(3892 reviews) 2

Ristorante Antichi Sapori

4.5 /5
(3607 reviews) 2

Triscele Restaurant

4.8 /5
(2541 reviews) 2

Il Cambusone

4.7 /5
(2080 reviews) 2

Trattoria Tiramisù Restaurant in Taormina

4.6 /5
(1536 reviews) 2

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit the Lipari Islands is from May to October, when ferry services run most frequently and weather conditions are favorable for outdoor activities and swimming. July and August are the busiest and most expensive months, with the warmest temperatures and liveliest atmosphere, but also the largest crowds. May-June and September-October offer the perfect balance of good weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices, with September being particularly appealing for wine harvest activities. Winter visits (November-March) are possible but limited, with reduced ferry schedules and some accommodations and restaurants closed, though this period offers solitude and dramatic stormy seascapes.

Insider Tips

Purchase a multi-island ferry pass if planning to visit several islands, as it offers significant savings over individual tickets and provides scheduling flexibility
Pack light and bring a wheeled suitcase, as many accommodations require walking on cobblestone streets and stairs, and luggage transport services are limited
Book accommodations well in advance for summer visits, especially for smaller islands like Panarea and Stromboli where options are limited and fill up quickly during peak season

Activities in Lipari Islands