Lipari (Sicily) is the ideal destination for those who come for the first time to the Aeolian islands and want to take advantage of its central position for trips and excursions to the other islands. Hiking, extinct and active volcanoes, bathing on black sand beaches, and touring the incredible rock formations and caves off the coast are just some of the highlights. The Aeolian Islands are a set of small volcanic islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the coast of northern Sicily.

Sparsely populated, the Aeolian Islands offer spectacular landscapes, fascinating traditions, picturesque villages and good food.

Lipari is famous for its scenic beauties and its unrivalled sunsets over the sea, its peaceful, intimate atmosphere and the unique flavours of its food and wine.

Here our selection of the best things to do in Lipari, Sicily.

If you are a history lover, you can’t miss Lipari Castle and the wonderful archaeological museum. The moment you arrive in Lipari, you should head right to the 15th century Lipari Castle.

It rises majestically on the lava rock upon which it sits, this is a must visit when you’re in Lipari and you’ll gaze in awe and imagine the countless lives spent living in this amazing castle.

Within the complex you find the Cathedral of St. Bartolomeo, the Archaeological Park (do not miss the incredible view from the terrace) and the Aeolian Museum, one of the most important in the Mediterranean.

The museum is divided into sections relating to the history of the islands and it has the largest collection in the world of theatrical masks.

Among the rooms also have a dedicated to obsidian, the famous natural glass erupted from volcanoes.

There are few sights beyond the soaring clifftop citadel and archaeological museum, but it’s lovely to stroll the labyrinthine alleyways with the sun on your face and nothing to do but enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Don’t miss the lights of the sea promenade late in the evening or a quick dip in the crystal-clear, warm waters of the Valle i Mura beach. Valle i Mura beach is simple enough to hike down to or reach via boat.

It’s an amazing beach, with a gorgeous offshore view, giving you the opportunity to take great shots of the rugged coastline and the numerous offshore islands, not to mention towering cliffs covered in typical Sicilian vegetation.

If you love wines, check out Tenuta di Castellaro for some great wine tasting opportunities! Here, you can go on a small tour of the cellar and production area, and even get up close and personal with the vineyard, with exceptionally knowledgeable tour guides who always have a fun story up their sleeves.

After the tour of the winery and a short walk through the vineyard, you will reach a Belvedere, where you can admire the sunset while enjoying a good glass of White Pumice accompanied by a first course of selected typical products (fresh provola, fresh peppered Primo Sale and canapés with our homemade caper pate).

This is a magical experience to live with the glorious sunsets and views of the valley and surrounding islands!

For a stunning view in Lipari, Sicily: Head the village of Monterosa by car or scooter. From here, with a walk of 40 minutes you get to the Cross A wonderful view of the seafront of Canneto and Lipari centre and the island of Vulcano will accompany you all the way!

The Aeolian Islands are linked to Sicily and the Italian mainland by hydrofoils (large, high-speed boats). The easiest way to get to the islands is by taking a hydrofoil from Milazzo (10 boats daily; 1.5 hours to Salina) or Messina (3 boats daily; 2.5 hours to Salina).

The closest airports to the Aeolian Islands are in Catania, Palermo and Reggio Calabria. There are shuttle and bus services from each of these airports to the docks at Milazzo and Messina.