The island of Lipari is known for its scenic coastlines and dramatic sunsets, but what else is there to do on the crowning jewel of the Aeolian Islands?
Sicily and its surrounding waters have been shrouded in mystery and legends for centuries. Greek mythology tells of Liparus, the grandson of Ulysses, who fled the mainland of Italy and found himself in a group of volcanic islands just off of Sicily’s northern coast. Liparus settled on the biggest of these, founding the city of Lipari and the island bearing the same name.
Why should you visit the island named after this Greek hero? In short, Lipari has everything you could ask for in a Mediterranean island getaway - gorgeous coastlines, turquoise waters, seaside cafes, and postcard-worthy beaches. It’s also a great choice to base yourself for any trip to this incredible archipelago. If those aren’t good enough reasons on their own, keep reading to discover all the best things to do in Lipari!
1. Visit Lipari Castle and archaeological site
Built on a lava cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, the buildings of Lipari Castle reflect its 15th-century Spanish influence. However, the history of this hilltop citadel dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of a Greek acropolis consisting of houses, temples, courtyards, gardens, and an amphitheater.
Explore the museums and grounds of Lipari Castle to learn more about the fascinating history and geography of Lipari and the surrounding islands. Don’t miss the piazza in front of the castle and a walk along the old fortifications to catch views of the old city port and the stunning cerulean seas beyond!
2. Spend a day at the beach
There is no shortage of beaches along the coastline of Lipari, with close to twenty dotting its shores. Some of the most popular beaches that offer sunbeds and other amenities are White Beach, Spiaggia di Canneto, Spiaggia Acquacalda, Spiaggia di Porticello, Spiaggia della Papesca, Bahia Bella Vista, and Coral Beach.
There are also more secluded beaches that require hiking or walking to reach, such as Spiaggia di Portinente, Spiagga della Secca, Spiaggia de La Forbice, and Spiaggia Valle Muria. Then of course there are others only accessible by boat. If you have time to take a boat tour to one of the hidden beaches, it’s an experience you’ll never forget!
3. Hike to the Geofisico Observatory viewpoint
Although this is a working observatory, the reason you want to visit is for the views! Near the southern tip of Lipari, the observatory offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints on the island, with a direct line of sight to Vulcano’s La Fossa crater. The easiest way to get there is to drive a car or scooter to the parking area, then take a short walk to the observation point. The hike will take about 10 to 15 minutes and is easy if you stay on the path. This is one of the most incredible places in the Aeolian Islands to watch the sunset!
The more challenging way to get to the observatory is to hike from Lipari city. The route is 3.4 miles one way on a paved path; however, it is a challenging trail because it becomes very steep as you get closer to the top. If you attempt to hike this during the summer months, be sure to take plenty of water and plan to take a rest at the top to enjoy the views. For details on this and other hiking trails on Lipari, All Trails is a good resource.
4. Visit a seaside vineyard
Picture yourself walking through a vineyard with views of the deep-blue Tyrrhenian sea as your backdrop, while the sun sinks slowly beyond the horizon. Tenuta di Castellaro offers just that and more! Tour the innovative, bio-energy winery and underground cellars, taste local delicacies with a food and wine pairing, and stay for the sunset. This experience is something truly special!
Winery tours and tastings are available between April and November, and a reservation is required. Check out their website for more information!
5. Eat granita at the old port
Granita is a delicious semi-frozen treat, usually dairy-free and flavored with sugar and natural syrups or juices. It may look like gelato, but don’t be fooled - it is not the same! You’ll find the best granita at a bar, cafe, or gelateria, where they scoop it out like ice cream. Wander down to the old port (Marina Corta) to enjoy some granita with spectacular views!
6. Get lost in the historic center of Lipari city
Stroll down Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, wandering between artisan shops, clothing and jewelry boutiques, souvenir stands, and stores that sell local products. Take a break at a streetside cafe for an aperitivo and some people watching. Explore the crooked side streets and alleyways that wind up to Lipari Castle and down to the old port. Peek inside churches and keep an eye out for sculptures, statues and street art. End your day at a local ristorante to enjoy a typical Sicilian meal!
7. Indulge in typical desserts and delicacies
Immerse yourself in Sicilian culture by sampling some of its traditional food and wine. Some of the best Sicilian dishes you should try in Lipari are caponata (vegetable dish with eggplant, onion, celery and tomato), parmigiana (baked eggplant with tomato sauce and cheese), pasta alla norma (pasta with eggplant) or pasta allo scoglio (pasta with mixed seafood), pane cunzato (thick-crusted seasoned bread with local toppings), or insalata Eoliana (potato salad with onions, olives and capers).
Don’t forget to finish your meal with something sweet! Start out with one of Sicily’s delectable desserts - cannoli, cassata, or granita. Then top it off with a glass of sweet Malvasia or Passito wine! To learn about all the best desserts in Sicily, check this out!
8. Drive the scenic road around the island
Whether on your own or with a tour, do not miss the opportunity to drive the coastal road around Lipari, stopping at all the panoramic viewpoints. I highly recommend that you rent a scooter for the best experience! We always start our trip at the ferry port in Lipari city and take a circular route. Click on each location for a Google Maps pin!
Spiaggia di Canneto Coffee, lunch or beach time.
White Beach - Lido Secluded beach with a cafe and sunbed rentals.
Capo Rosso Roadside viewpoint with a food stand that sells local products.
Belvedere Quattropani Pull off to the side of the road for incredible views.
Chiesa Vecchia di Quattropani A historic church with a large piazza and viewpoint.
* Take the path to the right of the church for a hidden lookout with rock formations.
Belvedere Quattrocchi Stop for snacks, drinks, and views of the Faraglioni.
Osservatorio Geofisico di Lipari Observation point with views of Vulcano.
Terminal Navi e Aliscafi Use this pin to get back to the ferry port.
9. Take a boat tour
Frequent ferry routes connect Lipari to the other islands for taking day trips, and there are quite a few local boat tours available. You’ll see tour stands set up near the ferry port and tour agency offices along the main street. If you speak enough Italian, you can also wander down to the old port and try your hand at haggling with some of the smaller tour operators. However you decide to do it, seeing the coast of Lipari from the water is an absolute must!
10. Watch the sunset
In case you haven’t caught on yet, sunsets in Lipari are pretty incredible. Whether you watch it from a panoramic viewpoint, a rocky beach, a vineyard by the sea, or the terrace of your hotel, it’s a memory you’ll never forget!
How to get around on Lipari
One of the best things about Lipari is that personal transportation isn’t necessary, especially if you stay in or near the historic center of Lipari city. Lipari city is very walkable, from the new port to the old port, and everywhere in between. Anywhere else on the island you want to go can be reached by booking a tour, taking a taxi, or renting a car, jeep, or scooter.
That being said, if you do have a personal vehicle or rental car, you can either pay to store your car in a private, secure lot or transport it on the ferry with you.
How to get to Lipari
The Aeolian Islands are easily accessible by ferry from ports on the larger island of Sicily, as well as the mainland of Italy. The closest airport to the Aeolian Islands is Catania-Fontanarossa, with direct bus service to the port of Milazzo through Giunta Bus. The bus route to Milazzo is 2 hours and costs $15 one way or $26 for a round trip. It drops you off right at the port of Milazzo, where you’ll take a ferry to the islands.
The main ferry operator from Milazzo is Liberty Lines, which has passenger-only routes that get you to Lipari in about one hour on a super-fast hydrofoil. Additional routes offered by Siremar take about twice as long, but do allow you the option of taking a vehicle.
Liberty Lines also has ferry routes from the ports of Palermo and Messina in Sicily, and Reggio Calabria on the mainland. Siremar offers ferries from the port of Naples; however, this route is a 14-hour, overnight journey. The frequency of routes varies by season, so make sure a route will be available on your chosen day of travel before making plans. Regardless of which line or route you choose, I recommend that you buy tickets in advance to guarantee the departure time you prefer, especially during July and August when many Europeans are on summer holiday.
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Check out some of the other articles on my European Destinations page or read more about my Sicilian adventures below!
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