Our Guide to the Aeolian Islands in Sicily

A popular destination, the Aeolian (or Lipari) islands are a volcanic archipelago north of Sicily. Their name comes from the Greek god of the winds, Aeolus. Formed by volcanic eruptions beneath the sea, there are seven significant islands, all of which have their own unique charms.

Lipari

The largest and most populous of the islands is Lipari which is also the name of its town. This is the ideal place to begin exploring as its harbor is full of boats leading to the other islands. Inhabited for at least 6000 years, Lipari still has defensive walls surrounding the citadel above the town. Make sure to climb the staircase to the top to explore the citadel as well as the Cathedral of San Bartolo. Built in the Norman period, only the arched cloisters remain, the rest of the Cathedral having been rebuilt. The Lipari Archeological Museum of the Aeolian Islands has twenty seven sections that cover the Neolithic period to the present.

Vulcano

The Romans believed Vulcano was the chimney of Vulcan, the Roman god of fire, thus the origin of our word for volcano. With several active volcanoes, it is a fascinating place to visit and well worth spending a day or two exploring the various caldera. Take time to enjoy a mud bath and relax on one of the beaches. There are three villages on the island so you will find accommodations, shops and restaurants.

Salina

The second largest of the islands, Salina is the only one with a natural water source. Quieter than Lipari, it’s mountainous beauty and coastal beaches provide a tranquil escape from more crowded islands. If you feel adventurous, hire a scooter and explore the island. Colorful flowers, caper bushes and cacti are just some of the natural fauna here. The film, “Il Postino,” was shot in Pollara, an old fishing village on the coast but there are several charming villages that offer accommodation and amenities.

Stromboli

An island with an active volcano that has been erupting since ancient times, Stromboli is one of the most dramatic of the islands and well worth a visit. Due to its almost constant action, the island is known as “the lighthouse of the Mediterranean.” You can wander around the main village (“Stromboli”) or take a boat around the island and watch as the volcano ejects clouds of steam and fire, most dramatic at nighttime. If you’re an intrepid adventurer, climb to the crater to watch it in action up close.

Filicudi

One of the smaller islands with a population of just 300, Filicudi is considered one of the least touristy islands in Italy. That doesn’t mean it hasn’t got plenty of options for visiting and enjoying the island’s natural beauty and deep crystal blue grottoes. There are lovely hotels and restaurants offering local cuisine. Visit the Grotta del Bue Marino which you can enter in a small boat, the prehistoric village of Capo Graziano where lichen covers the stone foundations of 27 Bronze Age huts and the imposing rock tower, Scoglio della Canna, which can be viewed from the coast or from a boat.

Alicudi

If you treasure solitude and quiet, visit Alicudi, the second smallest island of the archipelago. There are no cars, only mules for transport and it is as wild as Filicudi. Known as the “island of silence,” there are only 100 inhabitants, two grocery stores, one bar, no streets but plenty of stairs that lead you up to appreciate the stunning views.

Panarea

The smallest of the seven islands, Panarea is a mecca for celebrities and those who appreciate its stunning natural beauty. With lovely beaches, gorgeous views, and restaurants and bars, Panarea combines the allure of nature and the fun of wining, dining, and dancing. San Pietro is the center of urban activities. Enjoy an aperitif at the Banacalii Bar and dance the night away at Raya.

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