Sicily has 4 groups of islands surrounding its coast all accessible by ferry or hydrofoil, however visitors cannot reach them all by day trip.
The Aeolian Islands are chain of 7 volcanic islands situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the north east coast of Sicily and a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The 3 Pelagie Islands, which include Lampedusa, are located 200km to the south of Sicily accessed by ferry (5/8 hours) from Porto Empedocle, 6km south of Agrigento.
Those visiting the Aeolian Islands will discover a remote and idyllic destination with stunning natural beauty, a brilliant clear light, unpolluted seas teeming with fish and a soporific way of life in romantic isolation. They can be reached most easily from Milazzo but also from Messina, Cefalù and Palermo. The archipelago is made up of 7 volcanic islands each with a different character:
Lipari
At nearly 37km2, Lipari is the largest of the Aeolian Islands and is an ideal base for those looking to explore the other islands. There are a number of restaurants and bars around the port as well as a Norman church, archaeological museum and handful of interesting shops in the town centre. From the port of Milazzo in north east Sicily, it is possible to travel to Lipari by ferry or hydrofoil (journey time approximately 1 hour). Lipari Accommodation >
Vulcano
Gran Cratere hangs menacingly over the island's inhabited northern tip, its plume of vapour a silent reminder of its awesome power. The crater can be climbed in about an hour (given that you are in reasonably good shape) and the mud baths in its natural springs are also worth a visit. There are a number of hotels and restaurants on the island where you can enjoy a quick refreshment before taking the 15 minute ferry ride back to Lipari. Vulcano accommodation >
Salina
Salina is the second largest of the Aeolian Islands and is divided into 3 communes: Santa Marina on the eastern coast, Malfa to the north and Leni to the southwest. Salina is the greenest of the islands and is home to two extinct volcanoes as well as an abundance of violet-flowered capers, grape vines and trees. Salina accommodation >
Stromboli
Having erupted almost continuously since 1932, Stromboli is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Standing at approximately 2,200m, Stromboli is an exceptionally striking sight and yet, despite its somewhat precarious habits, its inhabitants are undaunted people who have always lived beneath it in low, white-washed houses.
Panarea
Panarea is the smallest of the Aeolian Islands and yet is certainly one of the prettiest, surrounded by clusters of islets and clear blue sea. It is almost Greek in aspect, with a surreal feel created by its pristine white houses and pastel doors and shutters. This stunning, exclusive setting has transformed the island into a retreat for the rich and famous, many of whom arrive from the Riviera in their luxurious yachts.
Alicudi
Alicudi is the western-most of the Aeolian Islands, approximately 40 kilometres west of Lipari, and is almost circular in shape. Inhabited only on the eastern slope, Alicudi is an extremely quiet island with a number of pleasant walks and beautiful sights.
Filicudi
Although bigger than Alicudi, this island is considered remote even by the natives of Lipari. However, it is a beautiful island to explore on foot, with spectacular paths criss-crossing their way along mountain terraces with craggy volcanic boulders, flowering cacti and sensational views.
Situated 60km north west of Palermo accessed in 70 minutes by hydrofoil, the island is 9km2 of black volcanic rock with fertile soil producing grapes, olives, figs, wheat and prickly pears.
Ustica used to be a prison island but today is a haven of unspoilt bays and creeks with a few small sandy beaches.
On the west coast there is a marine national park with translucent water, which some consider the best for snorkelling and diving in the Mediterranean.
Just off the west coast of Sicily the closest of the islands Favignana is about 40 minutes by ferry from Trapani; Levanzo is the smallest of the islands 4km north of Favignana; Marettimo is the most remote, right off the beaten track with a rugged coastline dotted with coves, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Located 200km to the south of Sicily, there are 3 islands known collectively as the Pelagie Islands.
Lampedusa is the largest (23km2) where it is possible to watch turtles hatching, see dolphins and if visiting in March migrating Sperm Whales.
Linosa is much smaller (5km2) located 50km north of Lampedusa, mainly a nature reserve with a small population.
The islet of Lampione is uninhabited and only used on fishing and diving trips.
The largest of Sicily's offshore islands (83km2), closer to North Africa than Sicily. It has no beaches but an impressive coastline with opportunities to swim. Inland is the Specchio di Venere, a lake formed in a volcanic crater with a mud beach surround and is fed by hot springs and rainwater.
Ustica
