Aeolian Islands Checklist
The Aeolian Islands, scattered off the coast of Sicily, are a dream destination for anyone who loves nature, history, and the sea. On our upcoming trip, we’ve created an Aeolian Islands checklist, which is a list of the top experiences we hope to have — from climbing an active volcano to swimming in bays that look like postcards. This Aeolian Islands checklist will guide our adventures. Here’s what’s on our Aeolian bucket list:
Stromboli
1. Nighttime Volcano Climb
Hiking Stromboli after sunset is one of the most thrilling adventures in the islands. Watching glowing lava bursts under a starlit sky is something we don’t want to miss.
2. Sciara del Fuoco & Strombolicchio from the Sea
Seeing Stromboli from the water is equally dramatic. We plan to sail along the Sciara del Fuoco (the “Stream of Fire”), where eruptions cascade down to the sea, and admire the tiny volcanic outcrop of Strombolicchio.
3. Visit Ginostra
This tiny village, accessible only by boat, promises quiet charm and views that feel like stepping back in time as noted in our Aeolian Islands checklist.
Panarea
4. Cala degli Zimmari & Prehistoric Village
We’re excited to relax at Cala degli Zimmari, the island’s only sandy beach, and then hike to the nearby prehistoric settlement that overlooks the sea.
5. Cala Junco Bay
This sheltered, turquoise cove is said to be one of the most beautiful spots in the Aeolians — perfect for swimming or just soaking up the view.
6. Panarea Village of San Pietro
San Pietro is the heart of Panarea. We’ll wander its chic whitewashed streets, browse boutiques, and enjoy an aperitivo at sunset.
7. Lisca Bianca, Lisca Nera & Bottaro Islets
Just southeast of Panarea, these little islets are famous for their underwater fumaroles — streams of gas bubbling up from the seabed. Snorkeling here is like swimming in a glass of champagne, and Bottaro islet even creates a “smoking sea” effect visible from the surface.
Salina
8. Pollara Bay
We can’t wait to see Pollara’s dramatic cliffs and swim where the movie Il Postino was filmed. The views are said to be unforgettable at sunset.
9. Hauner Winery
Salina is famous for Malvasia wine, and we’re planning a stop at Hauner Winery to taste it straight from the source, as recommended in our checklist.
Lipari
10. Lipari Old Town & Castle
The island’s main town is full of history. We’re looking forward to exploring the castle and wandering its lively streets.
11. White Pumice Beach (Spiaggia Bianca)
Lipari once exported pumice all over the world. Today, its chalk-white beaches and turquoise waters look like the Caribbean.
12. Faraglioni Rock Formations by Boat
Sailing past Lipari’s towering sea stacks is high on our list for iconic views. It’s a must on our Aeolian Islands checklist.
Filicudi & Alicudi
13. La Canna Sea Stack
Rising dramatically from the water, La Canna is one of the Aeolians’ most photographed landmarks. We’ll make sure to circle it by boat.
14. Cala di Capo Graziano
On Filicudi, we’re hoping to swim in this crystal-clear bay and maybe spot ancient archaeological remains nearby.
Vulcano
15. Black Sand Beach
We’ll start with a swim at Vulcano’s volcanic black-sand shoreline.
16. Gran Cratere Hike
Climbing to the rim of Vulcano’s main crater for sweeping island views is an adventure we can’t miss.
17. Mud Baths
Even though they may be closed, we’d love the chance to try the famous (and very smelly!) sulfur mud baths.
Why This Trip Feels Special
The Aeolian Islands are the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation with volcanoes, history, beaches, and wine all in one place. This list is our personal guide to the experiences we’re most excited about, detailed in our Aeolian Islands checklist, and we’ll see how many we can cross off once we’re there.