If you’ve never heard of Lipari or the Aeolian Islands, you’re in good company. We traveled to the island of Lipari for the first time in August knowing nothing about it prior to visiting. I’d always wanted to explore Sicily and more of the south of Italy, and my opportunity had finally arrived.
We spent a week in Lipari traveling around the island and seeing neighboring attractions. Stick around to find out what to do in Lipari, and the sights and attractions you shouldn’t miss.
Lipari guide for first-time travelers
Where is Lipari?
Lipari is part of the Aeolian Islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the north coast of Sicily. It’s the largest island of the group but not the only one worth seeing. Other surrounding islands to visit include Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea and Salina. The name ‘Aeolian’ is Greek in heritage, honoring its ancient past, and the first settlers that came to call the island home.
How do I get to Lipari, Sicily?
Reaching the Aeolian Islands is pretty straightforward departing from Sicily. The closest airport is Catania Fontanarossa. International flights to Palermo and Catania operate daily but fares vary depending on the time of travel ie summer.
Get to Lipari Sicily to catch views like this…
Flying to Catania shortens the journey in order to reach the ferry port at Milazzo (approximately 1 hour by boat). From Palermo, the ferry ride takes around 4 hours. There are several carriers from Milazzo to Lipari, like Liberty Lines. However, I found little difference between them when it came to price. The important thing to note is the timetable when traveling during public holidays.
Traveling to Lipari in August
We made the mistake of traveling on 15 August – a national holiday called Ferragosto. The Italian holiday is a 3-day weekend, which means that many transport services are reduced or closed. There’s the occasional bus or train that operates on Ferrogosto, but be prepared for long waits and unreliable timetables. Taxis are expensive in Sicily, so plan ahead, or better yet avoid, wherever possible.
Where can I stay in Lipari?
The month of August is traditionally holiday time for most Italians, meaning that the good accommodation places will already be booked.
Renting small apartments is quite popular – particularly those in close proximity to a beach. We were lucky to stay in a home with magnificent views, and also with a Jacuzzi overlooking the sea.
View from our Jacuzzi in our villa in Lipari
Boutique hotels in Lipari
Lipari is home to some stunning boutique hotels, and at very reasonable prices too. Hotel Villa Enrica is located atop a hill, providing views of the Mediterranean Sea. The 4-star boutique hotel’s also surrounded by 30,000m2 of fruit trees and flowers.
Facilities include an infinity pool with hydromassage plus a sun terrace where you can relax, or take aperitivo. There are family rooms available for those traveling in larger groups, and it’s also pet friendly!
My second choice is the quaint and sweetly named La Settimana Luna Hotel. There are just 7 bedrooms in this Lipari boutique hotel, so you can expect a truly personal experience.
Its location is just 50 yards from the beaches and coast. There are 2 terraces at the hotel, both with a bar overlooking the sea, and one with a hot tub. This one’s great for couples wanting some privacy, and also for families looking for beachfront accommodation.
How long should you stay in Lipari?
We stayed for a week in Lipari, but you can stay 2 to 3 nights and see plenty. It’ll give you enough time to fully explore the island, and also see at least one of the neighboring attractions. Each island in the group has its own charm and character, giving you a first-hand experience of the Aeolian Islands.
Things to do in Lipari, Sicily
Exploring Lipari can be divided into two parts: land and sea. For the former, it’s worth renting a scooter or another form of motor vehicle to get around the island. The costs are reasonable depending on what you choose. What’s more, it gives you the freedom to explore Lipari at your own leisure.
Explore Lipari by land
Scooting around Lipari by bike/car is in itself a perfect day trip. Head towards Chiesa Vecchia di Quattropani, an old church situated high in the north of Lipari.
As beautiful as the old isolated and historic church is, wait till you see the views surrounding the church. There’s a ‘WOW’ effect that forces you to stop and pay attention. Enjoy the view with a big slice of quiet and the clear blue skies above.
Chiesa Vecchia di Quattropani, Lipari, Sicily
I also highly recommend driving to the Lipari Osservatorio Geofisico. The building is, as the name suggests, an observatory, providing guests with unspoiled views of Lipari and beyond. The observatory’s the highest point of the island, and offers a tranquil – yet breezier – side of Lipari. It’s the ideal place to grab a moment of clarity, and to photograph the scenery without anyone in the shot.
Visit Lipari town centre:
There’s no question that you must visit the historic town centre. Italy, in general, is ideal for getting lost in the maze of narrow colourful streets and hidden side streets. The same applies to Lipari.
The residential streets are full of historical churches and apartment buildings with Baroque-style architecture. Pay particular attention to the buildings where they’ve tried to recreate the historic style (pillars etc) – but with far less authenticity.
Get lost in the streets of Lipari – best things to do in Lipari Sicily
Discover the old churches around Lipari
Best things to eat in Lipari, Sicily
The town centre of Lipari has everything you would expect from a small, mainly holiday, island. There’s a wide variety of restaurants, bars, cafes, and a new found love of mine, the rosticceria. You can only find a rosticceria in Sicily, so if you come across a good one, don’t pass by without paying a visit.
Refresh your palate with a Lipari favorite, peach granita
Here, you can try traditional Sicilian food such as Arancini with Ragu (stuffed rice ball with meat, tomatoes and cheese). I also urge you to try a slice of focaccia (the Sicilian version of pizza) and the refreshing granita. Most Sicilians eat this crushed ice with fruit for breakfast, but you can also have one mid-morning.
There are many rosticceria in Lipari to choose from, so keep sampling till you find one you like. A particular favorite of mine is Mancia E Fui on Via Vittorio Emanuele. Everything served is budget-friendly, delicious and is also homemade.
What to do in Lipari town centre – Marina Corta
A short walk from the town centre is Marina Corta. You can easily identify the marina from the large statue of Saint Bartholomew (San Bartolomeo) as you enter the piazza. The piazza’s home to many restaurants and cafes overlooking the sea.
What to see in Lipari Sicily – Marina Corta
At night, the area lights up with market stalls on the steps leading to church, Chiesa delle Anime del Purgatorio. Marina Corta is great for relaxing on a warm summer’s evening while sipping on a chilled glass of wine and enjoying the view.
Visiting other Aeolian Islands
The town centre’s full of tour companies eagerly waiting to take you on boat trips to neighboring islands. Find the best deal for your budget and needs, and be sure to book. This is one experience you don’t want to miss.
One of the best things to do in Lipari – take a boat trip
Even if you’re not a boat savvy type – like me – the boat trips were one of the highlights. Just ensure you’ve taken your Dramamine prior to boarding! Try the black sands on the volcanic island of Vulcano, or a night trip to the magical island of Stromboli.
What shall I pack for Lipari?
Lipari can get very hot in the summer months (late June to September), ranging from 29-35°C (84-95 F°). Saying that, it’s best to stay out of direct sunlight during peak hours (12-3pm). Pack plenty of shorts, t-shirts, swimwear and sunscreen, and don’t forget your sunhat.
For ladies, bring a light shawl for the evenings. I also found it useful for protecting my shoulders from the sun on boat trips. Nights can get cooler, so take a light jersey or cardigan, particularly if you plan to sitting outdoors for a long time.
Would you like to visit Lipari? What do you think of this Sicilian island destination? Leave a comment in the section below or get in contact – I’d love to hear from you!
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I’m exactly one of those who have never heard of Lipari or the Aeolian Islands. Good thing that I’m eading about it now. I really like the idea of having a small home with the gorgeous sea view somewhere on a small Italian island. This whole post gives such a lovely Italian idyll feeling. 🙂
Thanks Anete! It’s so beautiful there, I feel very lucky I managed to see it for myself.
Such a fresh post on Lipari island which looks like intetesting offbeat destination. View from observatory is worth watching because blue skies and blue waters. Walking around historic street in town centre would be my favourite activity. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Yukti! It’s a marvellous place, and a real gem in the Mediterranean. I feel I lucky I got to visit.
wow way to shed some light on a part of Italy that hasn’t been that explored. The best parts of Italy are always the towns away from the main tourists destinations. You get that true Italian charm.
I totally agree with you Mimi. There’s so many little hidden spots in Italy that are just for the Italians. This is when you know it’s authentic!
Italy has something to offer for every single visitor! I also never heard of Lipari but after reading this post I just know I will make it there one day 😉
Great! I hope you do Lien, Lipari is so beautiful, and a real hidden treasure in the Mediterranean 🙂
Wow, this was great info Lisa, i will take August in consideration for i was actually planing a trip to Sicily. The pictures you took look amazing. !
Thanks Karen, if you do go in August, be prepared for a busy holiday season! August is traditionally holiday time for Italians, so the beaches are very packed!
Oh wow, I had never heard of Lipari. I love Italy and am always trying to explore new regions so I’m adding this to my list. The historical town looks beautiful and I would definitely try to visit Stromboli.
Always happy to enlighten Sasha! It’s such a special place, and I feel so lucky I’ve seen it for myself.
Glad to discover yet another Mediterranean gem. Love that lonely church at the top, there is something about it that I can’t express in words. ALso, love the sheer azure of the sea.
I’m happy to help! The church is so pretty, it really adds to the view at the top 🙂
I had been to Sicily but never heard about Lipari. It’s a perfect guide for anyone to plan a trip there. Love the church pic and your cover shot. really pretty.
I have heard a lot about Sicily and how beautiful it is. But this is the first time I read anything about Lipari. What a gem and I bet it isn’t overcrowded with tourists.
Thanks Katharina, Lipari is a gem, and I’m lucky I managed to visit. It isn’t crowded with tourists, just Italians 😉
I like learning about these new places. Lipari sounds like a great island getaway. I would definitely like to stay for a couple of days and go swimming or sailing.
It’s wonderful, and really a place where only locals go.
Although Italy has been on my wish list for a while now, I really wasn’t aware of Lipari prior to reading this post. This really emphasizes to me the importance of allowing time to get away from the mainland to enjoy what the islands in the south have to offer. The photos you took to illustrate this article really show how lovely this place is.
Thank you! Lipari is gorgeous, and the surrounding islands too. Like you said, there’s so much more to Italy than Rome, Naples and Milan 😀
You are right, I’ve never heard of it too. But it is equally beautiful as other more touristy cities in Italy. I love it since you can enjoy the same beauty and architectural features without the crowd. That view from your accommodation is out of this world! I love the historic side streets too – so romantic!
It’s a very romantic place, and one I recommend everyone to consider visiting. It’s always easy to take good photos when the landscape is really stunning.
There are so many places which we know nothing about and yet mesmerise us. Lipari looks exactly such a pick. Wow, the sea with clear blue waters, the historic church, the hidden streets just added themselves to my bucket list. Thanks so much for sharing such a wonderfully pictured and detailed post.
You’re welcome! It’s a wonderful place and one I’d recommend everyone to see.
What a great place in Italy to spend a holiday. Thanks for noting the busy times and the august 15th holiday so I can make sure not to go during those days. Great idea to stay at a rented property and the one you featured looks perfect. Great information.
You’re welcome 🙂 No transport seems to work on Ferragosto, so travel before or after 15 August!
We find islands very enticing for the amazing coastline and fresh air, and Lipari sounds equally beautiful. We would love to explore the historic towncenter and its Baroque churches. We are completely in awe of the apartment you stayed the views are breathtaking.
Thank you! I’m very lucky because the house actually belongs to my partner’s friends. It’s beautiful there.
You had me at jacuzzi! OMFG! I’m thinking of travelling here next year, taking a ferry from the North and road tripping back up, and these views are just too incredible to pass down! Thanks for sharing!
Excellent, that’s wonderful to hear. You must add it to your itinerary, it’s really stunning.
This is such a detailed guide, love reading posts like this! Looks like a great place and what an amazing view! Definitely wish that Jacuzzi was included though! thanks for sharing 🙂
The jacuzzi is amazing, especially with the views! Thanks for commenting, I really appreciate it.
Sounds absolutely lovely even though I have never heard of these two places? I’m assuming the food would be amazing too with its Sicilian influence? I’d love to wander on scooters and just soak it all in:)
It’s a part of Sicily, so totally Sicilian influence! And trust me, the island is so great you’ll love it.
Lipari, just happens to be the name of my favourite Italian restaurant on our home town, it is a small, simple and not fancy place run by the most wonderful little old lady. I wonder if the family are originally from Lipari, I must ask next time we are there. I think I will add it to my ever growing Italy travel bucket list. Thanks for sharing
Oh wow, you must ask her! I love the island, and not many non-Italians go there!
I’d never heard of Lipari before reading this post, but it seems like a great place to visit. I could use some warm Med weather right now!
You and me both Jim! Lipari’s a lovely island, and with not many non-Italian tourists either 😀
I had not heard of this place ever before. Oh boy, it looks so serene. And, this is like a complete guide for visiting Lipari. Amazing!!!
Thank you! I loved Lipari, and I’m sure you will too.
Luckily Italy is close to Lisbon, where I live, so I’ve been a few times there. The last one I went to Sicily but not to this island that you spoke … Next time!
How lucky you are Catarina! Lipari is just as beautiful as Lisbon, but in Italian 🙂
I confess I had never heard of Lipari before, but I’m glad you wrote a post about it, because it’s delightful! I really enjoyed my time in Italy, but I just stayed in the north of the country and I’ve heard the south is a completely different experience. I like the idea of renting a scooter and enjoy those sunsets. The view from the observatory was simply beautiful. As usual, thank for the insight, Lisa!
You’re very welcome! I loved my time here, and would return in a heartbeat. I just know you’d enjoy it too 🙂
This looks amazing! I’ve been to Italy a few times, but haven’t ventured out of the main cities. I’d never heard of Lipari until this post. Sicily has always been on my bucket list, but now I’m adding Lipari!
Perfect! It’s a gorgeous little island in Sicily, and very family friendly too 🙂
I had never heard of this area either, but it sounds right up my alley! I haven’t been to Italy in years, but I’d love to go back and see some of the smaller towns like this after hitting all the big cities my first time. Thanks so much for the tips and I hope I’m able to use them soon because that room with a jacuzzi is calling my name 🙂
You’re welcome! And yes, the jacuzzi has the best view of the island! Hope you get to return soon.
I definitely had never heard of Lipari before reading this post, but you certainly convinced me to give it a try. The old town looks so beautiful, like going back in time. And of course the color of the water is simply spectacular. I think I probably would try to not visit in August, since it is such a popular time for Italians to go there.
It’s full of Italians, but I take it as a good sign! Lipari’s an amazing destination, and a little unknown outside Italy 🙂
I’d never heard of Lipari before, and I actually lived in Italy and studied its language and culture as part of my degree – oops! It looks lovely though, and definitely an alternative option to the parts of Sicily normally visted in the summer.
Super jealous you managed to snag a place to stay with a jacuzzi – i’m Yet to get so lucky!
I feel like a bit of a fraud, as the house with the jacuzzi belongs to a family friend! However, there are equally beautiful places to stay on the island, and you won’t regret visiting.
While I’ve been to Italy, I haven’t really seen the south of the country (except for a short stay to see Pompeii). I’ve wanted to visit back again some day to see Sicily. I had not heard of Lipari before, but after reading your post, it perhaps makes sense to bundle the Island along with Sicily the next time I manage to visit.
You must! Lipari’s an hour away by boat from Messina and totally worth the trip.
Lipari sounds like the perfect spot for a holiday! I have never heard of it before, but wow is it beautiful. You suggestion on renting a small apartment near the beach sounds great – and holy wow you lucked with that view! Scootering around the island sounds like fun – especially around the historic town centre with is colorful buildings. Italy is truly far up my bucket list- I will get here one day!
Aw I hope you do get here one day! I love to be back, and everything is delicious too 😀
Lipari is so beautiful. It has such gorgeous views. Especially your accommodation with jaccuzzi, that was enough for me to fall in love with this place.
Thank you, I was very lucky to stay there!
Yep, I’m definitely one of those in the good company of having never heard of the Aeolian Islands before! That’s a tad embarrassing, considering Italy is one of our favorite countries to travel in, lol. We do generally concentrate more on the north half of the country, but we hope to change that soon! We’ve talked about a Sicily trip for a while, and now I think that some of the Aeolian Islands, including Lipari, would have to be part of that!
You’ll have such a good time! Trust me, it’s that kind of island that you can’t help but fall in love with.
This looks very interesting; my favorites were the Historical side streets and that view from the apartment. Great write-up and photos!
Thank you! It’s a pretty island and worth knowing about for sure.
Nice to know first time about Lipari. It looks this destination is the beautiful one and worth to explore for nature lovers. Cool landscape!
I’m happy to share my knowledge about the island! Hope you get to visit one day soon.
This article was a great read as I have never heard of Lipari! I love Italy and will surely go back! Thank you for sharing! 🙂
Perfect! Hope you visit soon; August is its busiest month 😀
It’s my first time to hear about Lipari. Though I know Italy. Wow! Such an awesome place. The sea is so blue that means it’s so clean. And I like the old buildings. Is the volcano in the mid of the ocean? It’s great to experience. Thanks for sharing. My family has a plan of visiting Italy, but I’m sure it’s only in the city. Wish I can explore this island Lipari. Thanks for sharing
The volcano is actually on its own island! It’s definitely worth experiencing, but if you plan to visit the cities, I also have plenty of content on my site 🙂
That’s an amazing draft about Lipari, Great to know about this city from your blog post!
Really nice blog. Now heading to your other posts as well 🙂
Brilliant work done!
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed it 😀
What a gorgeous place. I NEED to go to Sicily the next time we’re in Italy. We went to Rome the last couple of times, and I want to see something new.
Lipari is so stunning and somewhere not many non-Italian visitors see!
I have been to Sicily, to various places, but not to Lipari … perhaps the most traditional and true Sicily. What a dream!
It’s so true Cristina, you must visit x
omg Sicily is gorgeous!!! I mean i knew it was gorgeous but i had no idea it was thaaaat beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
It really is, and much bigger than people realise!
Wow I love that shared with us a part of Italy rarely talked about. The photos are stunning!
You’re welcome! Lipari is super stunning!
Thank you for sharing photos and your lovely description of this beautiful destination. It all makes me want to jump on a plane, now! if only, if only.
Aw who knows, maybe one day soon xx
This looks and sounds so wonderful. I was in Italy 2 years ago and didn’t get to explore this part of Italy. I do wish we explored Sicily instead of Rome. This sounds way more beautiful and relaxing than the city.
I have to say I agree! Rome is beautiful but too touristy for me. Maybe next time you can visit Sicily instead!
I an avid traveler and not yet been to Sicily but heard so much about this place. This is in my bucket list and thanks for sharing the information, very useful.
You’re welcome, I hope you visit soon!
Wow this is incredible. Thanks for sharing what one should pack. I always overpack or forget something.
You’re welcome!
Such amazing captures and views! What a pretty place! Definitely on my list to visit now!
That’s great to know! You won’t regret visiting 🙂
Lipari looks beautiful! It sounds like a wonderful place for a vacation (as long as it isn’t in August). The view from the apartment you stayed at was stunning. There’s so much to see & do!
There really is, and it’s the perfect Mediterranean holiday in so many ways 😀
Oh wow! This is a stunning place that I want to save my bucket lists. And I love to do things you have shared.
Thank you! You really must see it for yourself one day.
I have now seen so much of Sicily that it is my cherished dream of visiting this place soon.
That’s really great to know, hope you visit soon!
oh Sicily! I belive there is so much more to do there. It must be a very enjoyable place!
It is and there’s plenty to see 🙂
Sicily is def on my bucket list. articles like this make me want to go even more!
You should definitely visit!
Looks like an amazing trip to Italy. I never been to Sicily but I always wanted to visit.
Add it to the list!
The architecture here is absolutely stunning. Thanks for sharing all the amazing things that you can explore and enjoy while visiting.
You’re welcome! And you need to see it in person, it’s even better!
I’ve never been to Sicily before, but would love to visit someday! What a fun way to explore!
It is! And so beautiful too
I’ve been to Sicily once but never to Lipari! This place is so beautiful I definitely need to go there!
You do! We loved every second