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Colorful villages line the shores of the Italian riviera

Aeolian Archipelago

Lipari to Salina - Example 8 Day Tour
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The Aeolian Islands are a fascinating volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea north of Sicily and are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. On this 8-day tour, explore the beautiful towns of Lipari, Vulcano, Panarea, Stromboli, Filicudi, and Salina. Experience nature and culture, and see the traditional village with its white houses and Aeolian architecture. Visit the beautiful Panarea and Stromboli islands on a boat excursion from Tropea, Tour local wineries and vineyards, and enjoy lunch with a tasting of local wines and food stalls from the local market. Enjoy your free time with the chance to walk along charming streets or swim at the seafront's black sand beaches. Take in the dramatic scene of the volcanic activity on the hills while admiring the picturesque sea views.
Admiring the colorful Mediterranean coastSicilian landscape in the early eveningEnjoy fine dining on a Culinary tourDelicious cheeses and wines enjoyed at a vineyardThe stunning blues and scattered islands of the MediterraneanLounging in luxuryAdventures in the MediterraneanWander through colorful seaside townsRelax on sunny Mediterranean shoresColorful villages line the shores of the Italian riviera
Highlights
  • Discover two beautiful Aeolian islands, Lipari and Salina
  • Visit a local winery and take a stroll through the vineyard
  • Enjoy a scenic hike and rock formations in Vulcano
  • Admire the fantastic beaches and marine reserves of Cala Junco
  • Stroll through the beautiful streets of Stromboli
  • Enjoy your free time relaxing on the beaches of Salina
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in Catania | Milazzo | Lipari

Arrive in Sicily at Catania airport to start your adventure, where a private transfer awaits to take you to Milazzo. There, you'll board a ferry to Lipari, the largest of the volcanic chain of the Aeolian Islands. Once you disembark, it's time to settle into your cozy room and wash away any jet lag. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of a local winery and enjoy strolling through the vineyard grounds. As the sun sets, raise a glass in the beautiful natural surroundings and savor the flavors of Sicilian wine.

Day 2: Lipari

Kick off today with an exciting walking tour of the Archipelago's main island alongside a knowledgeable local guide. Visit the Archaeological Museum and discover a treasure trove of pre-historic, Greek, and Roman artifacts excavated from the islands and underwater wrecks.  After a leisurely lunch of your choice, join your hiking guide and stretch your legs on a hike through the unspoiled southern part of the island. Take in breathtaking views of Vulcano and its craters, A Praia di Vinci, and Faragghiuna from the geophysics observatory. In the evening, wrap up your day with a delectable seafood dinner, feeling rejuvenated after a day of exploration.

Day 3: Vulcano

Start the day with a delicious breakfast before meeting your local guide. Hop on a ferry boat to the island before embarking on a 40-minute hike to the Great Crater. Once you reach the top, enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the archipelago. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the island by private car/minivan. Discover the Valley of the Monsters, an area with unique rock formations from the eruption of 183 B.C. End the day back in Lipari, where you can unwind and relax in the evening.

Day 4: Panarea | Stromboli

Wake up slowly and savor the morning before embarking on an exciting boat journey to two of the most beautiful islands in the Aeolian archipelago: Panarea and Stromboli. As you disembark in Panarea, take your time exploring this charming and intimate island. You have the freedom to choose how to spend your time here - whether you want to swim in the Cala Junco marine reserve, hike up to the prehistoric ruins at P.ta Milazzese for a breathtaking view, or simply stroll around and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.
Afterwards, continue on to Stromboli, where you can wander through the narrow streets and enjoy the view of the black sandy beach and coastline from the town square. For dinner, you'll have the chance to choose a local restaurant that suits your mood, from seafood to more traditional fare.  As we make our way back to Lipari, we'll stop at the Sciara del Fuoco viewpoint to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the volcano eruption from the sea. Sip on a glass of Malvasia and indulge in some traditional cookies offered by the captain as you take in the breathtaking scenery, before heading back to your hotel late this evening.

Day 5: Salina

After breakfast, set off on a ferry to Salina, the second largest island in the Aeolian archipelago. Salina boasts a unique topography that is a must-see, including the stunning fern forest, la Fossa delle Felci, situated high on a precipice. The view from here is simply breathtaking, with a staggering drop down to the beaches below. Take a leisurely stroll through Salina and make your way to a local winery to explore the Heroic Vineyards of The Aeolian Islands. You'll be treated to a tasting session of different wines and learn about the wine-making traditions of this beautiful region. For lunch, head to Alfredo restaurant and try the traditional savory bread called cunzatu. Of course, no visit to Salina is complete without trying the most delicious granita on the island.

Later in the afternoon, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Dine on delicious food and soak up the beauty of this hidden gem in the Aeolian Islands.

Day 6: Filicudi

After breakfast, travel to the North-West side of the island of Salina and anchor in the enchanting bay of Pollara beach. This picturesque beach, made famous by the movie Il Postino, is a sight to behold, with its sheer cliffs enclosed by the natural rock arch of Punta Perciato and the Balate, and ancient fisherman's shelters set in the rock. Next, sail towards the northeast coast of Filicudi island, where you'll be greeted with a quiet, informal, and primordial atmosphere. The cliffs on this coast plunge into the sea, providing the perfect diving spot for nature enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters also offer an incredible naturalistic and archaeological route. Take your time to explore the island at your leisurely pace and head to Belvedere di Stimpagnato to witness the magnificent sunset over the La Canna volcanic sea stack. As the sun sets, descend to the charming village of Pecorini on the southwest side of the island and indulge in an aperitif before returning to Salina for a delectable dinner. 
 

Day 7: Salina

Allow yourself a whole day to unwind and independently explore the island. While Pollara Beach is undoubtedly stunning, there are plenty of other beaches on Salina that are just as picturesque, including Scario, Santa Marina, and Rinella. Each beach has its own unique charm, so be sure to visit them all and see which one is your favorite. For a change of pace, head to the charming village of Malfa. This tiny village is located on the northern coast of the island and is a picture-perfect example of traditional Italian architecture. The village's white houses cling to the slope until they reach the sea, creating a stunning backdrop for your adventures. Don't miss the small beach that adds to the village's charm, and be sure to visit the eighteenth-century church of Sant'Anna. Inside, you'll find a treasure trove of art, including numerous paintings and sculptures that tell the story of Salina's rich history.

Day 8: Milazzo | Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
After one last leisurely breakfast, take a ferry boat to Milazzo and then a private transfer to Catania Airport (CTA) for your return flights home.

Accommodations

Borgo Eolie Hotel

Borgo Eolie Hotel
Borgo Eolie Hotel
Borgo Eolie Hotel

Hotel I Cinque Balconi

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$4,310 2-3 travelers

Notes

Select a Date
Pricing is estimated and fluctuates by season. For the most current pricing and details, please request a quote from a Trip Planner.

Rates may vary based on current exchange rate.

Included
  • 4 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • 6 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Roundtrip Public Ferry Tickets from Lipari to Vulcano
  • Entrance Fee: Archaeological Museum in Lipari
  • Included Lunch in Salina and Dinners in Lipari and Stromboli provide water, soft drinks, 1 glass of wine or beer, and standard coffee or tea service
  • Wine tasting at a local winery in Lipari and Salina
  • Professional local English speaking guides throughout your tour
  • Half-day Private Boat Excursion to Stromboli
  • Shared Night Boat Excursion to Sciara del Fuoco
  • Porterage at all accommodation and all city taxes
  • Full-day Private Boat Excursion to Filicudi
  • Public ferry ticket from Milazzo to Lipari, Stromboli to Lipari, Lipari to Salina, and Salina to Milazzo
  • Half day guided hike in Lipari on Day 2 and Half Day guided hike in Vulcano on day 3
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.

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