Sea view across the Aeolian Islands from Salina
The Aeolian Islands

Aeolian Islands

Volcanic islands, sea crossings and slower stays off Sicily’s north-east coast.

Swim below volcanic slopes, explore harbour towns and linger over lunch with a sea view. Salina, Vulcano, Lipari, Stromboli, Panarea, Filicudi and Alicudi each have a different character; we help you choose an island and arrange the crossings for an unhurried stay.

How the islands work

Choose an island and settle in

Allow several nights for your chosen island, with time for swimming, village walks and days at the hotel. Crossings are part of the holiday, so we plan them with the mainland transfers and leave sensible time before flights.

Gateway

Usually reached via Milazzo

Catania and Palermo can both work depending on the wider route, but Milazzo is the practical port for many Aeolian crossings. We arrange the mainland transfer and crossing together, with time for the port connection.

Island choice

Choose the base carefully

Salina suits slower stays, Lipari is practical and lively, and Vulcano works well when the hotel itself is central to the experience. Choose the setting, evening life and hotel facilities you would most enjoy.

Pace

Enjoy one island in depth

Stay on one island and enjoy getting to know it. Add a boat day or a visit to a neighbouring island, with time to return for dinner and a relaxed evening.

Route logic

Give the islands several nights

Combine an island stay with Palermo, Taormina or Etna. We recommend several nights on the island so the holiday includes quiet days beside the sea as well as exploring.

Experiences & guides

Experiences, island notes and useful Aeolian guides

The Aeolian Islands are not a destination to rush through. Some days are best kept simple: a boat trip, a swim, a long lunch, an evening in a harbour town, or time to enjoy the view from the hotel. These guides and travel notes help you think more clearly about what to include — and what to leave out.

Explore Sicily next

Where the Aeolian Islands can lead you next

Continue to Palermo’s historic streets, Taormina’s terraces or Siracusa and the Baroque south-east. We can suggest the connections and time to allow for each stay.