The 6 Best Island Tours in Sicily, Italy

The ferry ride from the popular port of Messina takes you around the rocky and cave-ridden islands of Lipari. You will cascade through turquoise waters and marvel at the sun-bleached boulders and mountainous islets. Spend the afternoon lapping up seasonal gelato flavours, and walk the classic angular alleyways. You can explore Lipari cathedral, which sits at the end of a steep stairwell and offers a magnificent view of the entire island and expanse of striking cityscape. This area is surrounded by interesting archaeological museums, a miniature Greek-style amphitheatre, plus other cafes and attractions.

Situated on the Aeolian Island of Vulcano and only accessible by boat, both the thermal springs and mud baths of Laghetto di Fanghi are within easy walking distance of the island’s harbour. Offering an extraordinarily alternative spa-day experience, the natural mud is also considered an effective treatment for muscle, joint and bone disorders, as well as a number of skin diseases. Despite the acrid stench, many continue to come here to wallow in the widely celebrated 28°C sulphurous sludge. From the fizzing hot springs of the black-sanded beaches, to the steaming fumaroles and the creamy-beige mud baths further inland, there is no end to the ways in which you can lap up the natural goodness.

If you are all about extreme sport, you’re going to love Stromboli. It is home to an active volcano that you can hike up. Most guides offer either a morning or evening excursion – or you could do both and compare the difference – and you’ll be provided with appropriate shoes, helmets and flashlights. You can hang out afterwards on the black sandy beach and stroll through the small village.

Another of the Aeolian Islands is chic Panarea, which has gained a celebrity following all year round. The charming island is best for relaxing on the beach, ambling through gardens and exploring old mule paths and agricultural platforms. The Bronze Age settlement of Capo Milazzese gives an extraordinary insight into the old ways of life, and from here you can hike up narrow paths for majestic views of the island. Otherwise, spend your time moseying through the cheerful shops and enjoying aperitifs at one of the local bars.

One of the smaller islands belonging to the chain of Seven Sisters, Salina is the greenest and most flourishing of the bunch. It became famous due to the 1994 film Il Postino that was filmed on these unspoiled shores. Cruise ships running from Milazzo will deliver you to the winding vineyards and caper bushes, glistening pebble beaches and bobbing fishing boats. Venture through the rolling verdant hills, visit the pulsing city of Malfa, or go snorkelling in the clear waters to observe underwater volcanoes and craters. Fresh fish is always on the menu, along with salty capers, and Malvasia delle Lipari, a sweet wine that the island is known for, is good to wash it down with.

Although all the islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea vie for your attention, Filicudi captures the essence of tranquillity and has the feel of being untouched by humans. After docking at one of the two tiny ports, you will step into a tranquil atmosphere that encapsulates the island. Here, you can admire the bright hues of the foliage and greenery while exploring the age-old cultivation and plains that create the space. Visit the Grotte del Bue Marino, or investigate La Canna – a magnificent spire that appears to pierce the sky from the serene Mediterranean Sea. Overall, Filicudi is a break from the hustle and bustle of travel.