Discover the Aeolian Islands and all of their secrets

Everyone is talking about the Aeolian Islands, but why? Sun, fantastic beaches and good food are just some of the reasons that drive millions of travelers to the Sicilian coast every year.

Discover these wonders of the Mediterranean Sea on Ferryhopper and choose your favorite island. Have a look at ferry routes to the Aeolian Islands, gather inspiration and book your ferry tickets hassle-free!

A quaint alley in the Aeolian Islands

What are the Aeolian Islands and how can I go there?

The Aeolian archipelago is located off the Messina coast in Italy. It is made up of 7 islands: Alicudi, Filicudi, Lipari, Panarea, Salina, Stromboli, and Vulcano.

The Aeolian Islands are famous for their volcanic features, dreamy beaches and hiking trails. This is what makes them a Unesco World Heritage site!

If you’re wondering how to get to the Aeolian Islands, you should know that you can travel all year round by ferry from the ports of Milazzo, Messina, Naples, and Reggio Calabria. In the summer, there are also connections from Palermo and Vibo Valentia.

The 7 Aeolian Islands are also connected by daily ferry routes. This means that you can go on an island hopping in the Aeolian Archipelago and visit them all!

Tip: have a look at all ferry connections in Italy for 2024 and discover the Italian islands with Ferryhopper!

Which Aeolian island should I choose for my vacation?

Dreaming of a one-day trip, a weekend getaway or a complete tour of the Aeolian Islands? Whatever you choose, the Aeolian Islands have something for everyone!

Here’s what you need to know about the 7 islands:

1) Lipari: the grand island of the archipelago

Lipari is the largest island of the archipelago and it offers more services and accommodation facilities to visitors. There’s nothing you can’t find in Lipari: magical beaches, cute villages, architectural gems, and unique views make it a perfect destination for everyone. But what’s the best attraction in Lipari? Well, it’s obviously the castle!

You can reach Lipari by ferry from Sicily, Calabria and Campania. Specifically:

• Milazzo - Lipari ferry
• Palermo - Lipari ferry
• Messina - Lipari ferry
• Reggio Calabria - Lipari ferry
• Vibo Valentia - Lipari ferry
• Naples - Lipari ferry

The stunning fortified citadel of Lipari overlooking the sea

2) Salina: verdant landscapes and great food

Salina is famous for its lush nature, olive trees, pebble beaches, and top-notch gastronomy. Visit the villages of Salina and stop at the traditional restaurants to enjoy a fantastic caper salad or a glass of Malvasia wine! Did that make your mouth water?

You should also know that there are 2 ports in Salina: Santa Marina and Rinella. Check out all direct connections to Salina below:

• Palermo - Salina ferry
• Messina - Salina ferry
• Milazzo - Salina ferry
• Naples - Salina ferry
• Reggio Calabria - Salina ferry
• Vibo Valentia - Salina ferry

3) Adventures and natural spas in Vulcano

Its name is already a calling card, but did you know that in Vulcano, there are actually 4 volcanoes? Explore the unique landscape of the island and walk the 7 km path to the Great Crater. You can end your day with a bath in the thermal springs of Vulcano and treat yourself to a well-deserved relaxation session!

Discover more about the Palermo - Vulcano, Messina - Vulcano and Milazzo - Vulcano routes here, and experience the natural energy of the island of Vulcano!

Tip: there are also connections to Vulcano from Naples and Reggio Calabria throughout the year, as well as from Vibo Valentia in the summer.

4) The magical volcano of Stromboli

Known as the “lighthouse of the Mediterranean”, the island of Stromboli is famous above all for its volcanic eruptions. Being one of the few active volcanoes in the world, Stromboli offers to its visitors a natural spectacle like no other! Get ready to watch sparks crackling in the night sky and reflecting on the sea, always from a safe distance!

The 2 ports of the island are Stromboli and Ginostra. The available connections to Stromboli are the following:

• Palermo - Stromboli ferry
• Milazzo - Stromboli ferry
• Naples - Stromboli ferry
• Messina - Stromboli ferry
• Vibo Valentia - Stromboli ferry

The Stromboli volcano during one of its “night shows"

5) Alicudi: the wildest of the Aeolian Islands

Alicudi is the westernmost island of the Aeolian archipelago and is also the most remote and wild. If you want to escape the crowds and you’re after relaxation in nature, Alicudi is the right place! The cherry on top? Motor vehicles are not allowed because the island has no driveways!

If you want to experience the magical and timeless atmosphere of Alicudi, we recommend that you take a look at the Milazzo - Alicudi and Palermo - Alicudi ferries to book at the best prices!

6) Filicudi: the "wisest" of the archipelago

With its 246,000 years of history, the island of Filicudi is the oldest of the Aeolian Islands and the ideal destination for sea and mountain lovers alike! If you enjoy mountains and long walks, you can explore the different trails of the island and reach Fossa Felci, a beautiful viewpoint at 773 m above sea level.

You can travel to Filicudi from Milazzo or get the seasonal hydrofoil from Palermo to Filicudi.

7) Panarea: romance and jet set

Panarea is just 3 km² large and is the smallest of the Aeolian Islands. With its wild vegetation, its romantic atmosphere and its traditional white houses, Panarea is also known for being the island of VIPs and lively nightlife. It is a perfect combination of beaches, nature and fun!

Have a look at the available ferry connections to Panarea:

• Palermo - Panarea ferry
• Milazzo - Panarea ferry
• Messina - Panarea ferry
• Vibo Valentia - Panarea ferry

The beautiful landscape of Panarea with its traditional white houses

Book cheap ferry tickets to the Aeolian Islands

On Ferryhopper, you can book cheap ferry tickets to the Aeolian Islands without any hidden fees! Compare ferry routes, companies and prices, and choose your next destination on our interactive Map of ferries. The sun of Sicily is waiting for you! 🌞