Favignana

Favignana is the largest island in the Egadi archipelago and also one of the most popular summer destinations in the Mediterranean. 

On Ferryhopper, you will find lots of useful information about Favignana, its wonderful beaches, must-see sights, gastronomic delights, and ferries to get there. Check out all available routes and book your tickets to the Aegadian Islands with just a few clicks!

Colorful fishing boats docked in front of houses in Favignana

Vacation in Favignana

If you've always dreamt of a trip to the Aegadian Islands (also known as Egadi Islands), you should know that Favignana is the first island you'll encounter when taking the ferry from the ports of Trapani and Marsala. 

Also called the “butterfly island” due to its shape, Favignana is one of the most popular summer destinations thanks to its dreamy coves, turquoise waters and wild nature. 

And despite being chosen by so many as a vacation destination, Favignana has managed to retain its authenticity and charm. 

Although Favignana is beautiful all year round, the best time to visit it is in June or September (try to avoid the high season months). Stay on the island at least 3-4 days (or even a week), and we assure you, it will be hard to leave!

How to get to Favignana

The only way to reach Favignana and the Aegadian Islands (Egadi Islands) in general is by ferry. 

There are frequent connections from the Sicilian ports of Trapani and Marsala. If, on the other hand, you’re already on vacation in the Aegadian Islands, in Marettimo or Levanzo, you can easily reach Favignana thanks to direct routes connecting the 3 islands. 

The quickest way to get to Favignana is by taking the plane to Palermo or Trapani. If you arrive in Palermo, however, you will first have to reach Trapani (1 hour's drive) and then take the ferry to Favignana.

The town of Favignana and its port seen from above

What to do in Favignana

Once you arrive at the port of Favignana, head to its picturesque town. Explore its narrow alleys and squares, and stop at a restaurant or cafe to taste the island's specialties! 

Strolling along the waterfront and the streets near the harbor, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. Visit the former tuna factory of Favignana, walk up to the castle to admire the spectacular view from above and then head to the island’s amazing beaches. 

Furthermore, we recommend going on a boat trip and taking your snorkeling gear with you to discover Favignana’s white seabed. After an adventurous day at the beach, all you have to do is get to Punta Sottile to enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets ever! 

Favignana is also the ideal starting point for an excursion to Levanzo and Marettimo, the other 2 Aegadian Islands. Hop on one of the many direct ferries and visit the entire archipelago in no time!

Beaches in Favignana

With 33km of coastline, Favignana is rich in cavities and caves with sparkling, multi-toned water. The island has plenty of choice when it comes to picking your ideal beach, but all of them are unspoilt and peaceful. Keep in mind that most of the beaches do not offer amenities. 

Here are 8 of the best beaches in Favignana:

1. Cala Rossa: among the most famous in Italy, Cala Rossa (Red Cove) is located on the northeastern end of the island. The contrast of the calcarenite limestone quarries with the turquoise waters is breathtaking. Keep in mind that this beach has no easy access and it is best to wear water shoes. 
2. Cala Azzurra: this rocky stretch is located on the southeast coast and is protected from the wind. Its waters are crystal clear and shallow, so perfect for children, and it is also easy to reach from the port. You can go cliff jumping and snorkeling. 
3. Cala Faraglioni: located on the northernmost tip, it is a remote beach perfect for those seeking tranquility. The access is not easy, but it is worth it. The beach is small and sandy, with a circular shape and clear waters. From here you can swim to some beautiful caves. 
4. Cala Rotonda: located on the southern coast, it is among the most beautiful in the archipelago. It is a natural harbor, famous for its picturesque archway and protected from the winds. You can reach it by taking a 200m dirt path. According to legend, this cove was also the landing place of Odysseus.
5. Cala Preveto: this unspoiled cove located east of the Pirreca promontory  stays crowd-free. Located at the foot of a valley, it has a pebble shoreline and its waters have blue and azure hues. It can be reached by boat or by taking a challenging downhill trail. 
6. Lido Burrone: one of Favignana's few sandy beaches. It is also the most visited since it has many facilities for visitors including sunbeds for rent, bars and restaurants. Perfect for families with children, it is also suitable for snorkeling.
7. Marasolo: this is a beautiful cove surrounded by low rocks and crystal water. Access to the sea is not very easy, so we recommend that you wear rock shoes. You can reach the beach by foot or boat and there’s a lovely Kiosk nearby. 
8. Bue Marino: located 6km from the port of Favignana, near Cala Rossa, it is a diver’s paradise. The bay consists of steep tuff cliffs from which you can dive into the crystal clear waters. Cliff slippers are a must! There’s a food truck nearby during summer. 

The famous Bue Marino beach with turquoise waters in Favignana

Sightseeing in Favignana

Favignana's highlight is definitely its beaches, but during your stay you can also visit some attractions such as:

• The former Florio factory, one of the largest in the whole Mediterranean
• The Castle of Santa Caterina, 300m above sea level with a 360-degree view all of the Aegadian Islands
• Piazza Madrice, the heart of Favignana
• Palazzo Florio
• The Hypogean gardens, old tuff quarries transformed into gardens
• The Punta Sottile Lighthouse, a perfect place to enjoy the sunset

A beautiful sunset over the Punta Sottile lighthouse in Favignana

Nightlife in Favignana

For the most part, the island is quiet and peaceful. 

Although there are no neon-lit nightclubs and discos in Favignana, you will find several bars in the main streets of the town center, such as Via Vittorio Emanuele. Around sunset time you will also find summer beach parties and cocktail bars with an amazing view. You can then indulge in a seafood dinner near the harbor or stroll along the waterfront. 

Favignana's entertainment is thus more relaxed, perfect for couples or families.

Food in Favignana

Favignana's gastronomy has very ancient origins. If you’re a big seafood fan, then this is a must-visit destination. Fish is always very fresh and cooked in various ways. The island's pride is definitely the bluefin tuna. 

Here are some Favignana local delicacies not to be missed:

• tuna meatballs
• couscous with fish
• sweet and sour tuna
• pasta with lobster
• spaghetti alla bottarga (with cured tuna roe)
• cassatelle (deep-fried Italian pastries with ricotta cream and chocolate chips) 
• l’amaro rizza (typical liqueur made with 12 aromatic herbs)

Tip: for a quick lunch in Favignana you should try Tuna Kebabberia. At this place you can choose from different variations of tuna sandwiches or tuna kebabs!

Favignana's delicious tuna meatballs

Tips

Here are 3 tips that we hope will be helpful to you before your trip to Favignana:

• Favignana is windy almost all year round. During the day you should aim for the most sheltered coves to avoid strong currents. 
• If you like to get around by bicycle, you should know that Favignana offers as many as 20km of trails and is one of the favorite destinations for those who love cycling tourism. By choosing this eco-friendly option, you can discover the most hidden corners of the island!
• If you’re traveling with children, you should visit the First Aid Center for Sea Turtles, located inside the former Florio factory. Admission is free and it will allow you to discover more about the lives of these beautiful creatures.

Useful information for Favignana

As the largest of the Aegadian Islands, with 3,500 permanent residents, Favignana offers more services than Marettimo and Levanzo. 

In regards to accommodation, there are various options for all budgets: resorts, villas, apartments, and vacation homes. These are mainly concentrated in the area of the historic center and the port, although there are also several options near the most famous beaches.

For souvenir stores, bars and restaurants head to via Vittorio Emanuele. If you’re interested in buying quality local produce at affordable prices then visit via Corleo. A Fruit and Vegetable Market occurs there every morning. 

Near the port you will also find the only 2 existing pharmacies on the island and a Medical Guard service.

Useful phone numbers for your stay in Favignana

Here are some numbers that could prove useful during your holiday in Favignana: 

• Municipality of Favignana: +390923920011
• Maritime office: +390923922273
• Medical Guard: +390923921283
• Municipal Police: +390923921670
• Carabinieri: +390923921202
• European emergency number: 112

Transportation in Favignana

In Favignana, you can get around easily on foot, by car, bus, bicycle or by cab. 

The local company Tarantola runs seasonal bus services that cover almost the entire island with stops every 30 min. Buses run until evening. 

If, on the other hand, you want to move more freely and rent a car, bike or motorcycle, you can do so at different points in Favignana. As for cabs, the service is quite efficient, and there is also a tourist train, Egadilandia. 

Useful Info: although it is possible to embark your car on some ferries to Favignana, keep in mind that from June to September, the circulation of motor vehicles is prohibited except for permanent residents of the island.

Bicycles parked in a picturesque alley in the historic center of Favignana

Port in Favignana

The port of Favignana is located on the island’s north-central region. 

In addition to the piers where ferries from Sicily and the other Aegadian Islands dock, the port also serves fishing boats, yachts and hydrofoils. 

The port is close to the town, so it is very easy to reach on foot. In the port area there are various bars, ice cream parlors, restaurants, rental services, supermarkets, and pharmacies.

Island hopping to the Aegadian Islands from Favignana

Staying in Favignana gives you the opportunity to visit for a day (or longer) the nearby islands of Marettimo and Levanzo.

Connections between the 3 islands run year-round and are operated by Liberty Lines and Siremar. You can choose to travel by ferry or hydrofoil according to your needs.

The route from Favignana to Levanzo has about 10 daily crossings of 10 min depending on the type of vessel. 

The Favignana - Marettimo route, on the other hand, runs up to 8 times a day (there are fewer routes in winter), with crossings ranging from 25 min to 1 h 35 min depending on the operator.

Favignana ferry: schedules and tickets

From the ports of Trapani and Marsala, in Sicily, you can easily take the ferry and reach Favignana. The companies that operate the connections are Liberty Lines and Siremar with annual and seasonal routes. 

From Trapani you can travel to Favignana either by ferry or hydrofoil. From the port of Marsala, however, only seasonal hydrofoils are available.

On Ferryhopper's Map of ferries, you can see all the available ferry routes to Favignana, so that you can easily and conveniently plan your ferry trip. 

Here are some more details on the ferry connections to Favignana: 

• Ferry Trapani - Favignana: the route to Favignana from Trapani runs year-round with 8-15 ferry crossings per day. Crossings range from 30 to 40 min depending on the operator chosen.
• Ferry Marsala - Favignana: the route from Marsala to Favignana is seasonal and operates 3-5 times a day. The ride takes only half an hour.

The elegant former tuna factory of Favignana, near its port

Where to book ferry tickets to Favignana online

On Ferryhopper, you can find all connections to the Aegadian Islands, compare prices, departure times and book ferry tickets to Favignana online at no additional cost!