If you are looking to learn about the most beautiful Sicilian islands, you are in the right place!
After exploring far and wide, we can say that Sicily is much more than its history and the sea. These islands really do seem to come out of a dream. With their spectacular sunsets and water that’s one thousand shades of blue, these destinations are perfect for disconnecting from the daily routine.
So, what exactly are the most beautiful islands in Sicily? From Pantelleria, with its volcanic landscapes and Lake Venus, to Lampedusa, with the wonderful Rabbit Beach, each island has something special that makes it unmissable. Are you thinking about your next vacation to the Sicilian islands? Keep reading to discover five islands that are absolutely worth a visit and be surprised by their extraordinary beauty.
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Sicily’s Most Beautiful Islands: 5 Destinations Not to be Missed
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The most beautiful islands of Sicily have left us with unforgettable memories, each with its own special character. They are places where the sea envelops you and every corner hides a surprise. We discovered wonderful landscapes and authentic atmospheres that make these islands truly unique.
Here are five Sicilian islands that we can say with certainty deserve to be visited at least once!
- Lampedusa: One of the most beautiful Sicilian islands, perfect for those who love the sea.
- Salina: One of the greenest Sicilian islands in the Aeolian Islands, a trekking paradise.
- Pantelleria: Among Sicily’s top islands to visit, famous for its natural hot springs.
- Ustica: The island off the coast of Sicily which is ideal for diving and snorkeling.
- Lipari: The largest of the Sicilian islands in the Aeolian archipelago, which is rich in history.
1. Lampedusa: Perfect for those who love the sea
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Lampedusa is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting Sicilian islands, which will win you over as soon as you arrive. Among the most beautiful beaches in Italy, Spiaggia dei Conigli left us speechless with its white sand and clear water. Visiting this island between May and October is ideal for soaking up the sun and diving into its spectacular sea.
We spent whole days exploring hidden bays such as Cala Pulcino and Cala Creta, perfect for some relaxation away from the crowds.
Diving was an incredible experience, with a marine reserve full of color and life. Among the best islands in Sicily, Lampedusa is truly a piece of paradise worth every moment. If you’re looking for islands in Sicily to visit, trust me, this is one not to be missed!
How to get to Lampedusa
Reaching Lampedusa by ferry is easy and the ride is scenic. Connections depart from the port of Porto Empedocle (Agrigento) with several weekly crossings. The trip duration ranges from 4 hours and 15 minutes to 10 hours and 15 minutes, and ticket prices vary between 40 and 60 euros depending on the season and the type of accommodation chosen. Lampedusa is perfect for those who want to start relaxing right away!
2. Salina: A trekking paradise
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Salina immediately struck us with its lush beauty, and it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful islands in Sicily. Famous for its scenic trails, it was one of our favorite stops among the best islands in Sicily for those who enjoy hiking. The ideal time to visit is from May to September when you can enjoy long, warm, and bright days.
The trek up to Mount Fossa delle Felci offers incredible views of the other Aeolian islands. After a long walk, we relaxed at Pollara Beach, a true corner of tranquility. Then we explored the picturesque villages of Santa Marina and Malfa, where Malvasia wine won us over with its intense flavor. If you are looking for a destination that encapsulates the most authentic essence of Sicily, Salina is a place you will fall in love with!
How to get to Salina
To get to Salina, you can take a ferry or hydrofoil from Milazzo, one of Sicily’s main ports with daily connections to the Sicilian Aeolian islands. The ferry trip duration ranges from 1 hour 30 minutes to 3 hours 50 minutes, while the hydrofoil takes 1 hour 40 minutes.
Prices start at about 20 euros for the ferry and 30 euros for the hydrofoil. The ferry to Salina is a journey that takes you straight to the green heart of the Aeolian Islands!
3. Pantelleria: Famous for its natural hot springs
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Pantelleria is an island that surprised us with its volcanic landscapes and authentic atmosphere. Among the islands off the coast of Sicily, Pantelleria is perfect for a different kind of vacation, especially between June and September, when the weather is milder.
During our stay, we relaxed in the thermal waters of Lake Venus and explored the natural saunas of Benikulà. The cliffs and coves are perfect for those who enjoy swimming and snorkeling, although Pantelleria is not famous for its sandy beaches. Sicilian island vacations would not be complete without a stop here, where we also enjoyed the famous Passito, a local sweet wine that is the perfect accompaniment to summer evenings. If you are looking for a Sicilian island full of experiences, Pantelleria will surprise you!
How to get to Pantelleria
Pantelleria can be reached by ferry from the port of Trapani. Night crossings take about 7 hours, while day crossings take about 5 hours.
The ticket price starts at 40 euros for an armchair seat and may increase if a private cabin is chosen. It is an ideal trip for those seeking relaxation already on the way to this volcanic island.
4. Ustica: Ideal for diving and snorkeling
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Ustica, one of Sicily’s most beautiful islands, offers a very special experience. Located north of Palermo, it is the perfect destination for those who love the sea and tranquility, especially between May and October. During our visit, we explored the island’s extraordinary seabed, making it one of the most popular destinations for diving and snorkeling.
The clear waters and sea caves, such as the Blue Grotto, were among the most fascinating parts of our trip. Although Ustica does not have large sandy beaches, its rocky coves offer spectacular views. Among the most beautiful islands in Sicily, Ustica is a hidden gem perfect for those seeking a relaxing break. There is no doubt that this small island deserves a place on the list of the best Sicilian islands to visit.
How to get to Ustica
To reach Ustica, hop on a ferry from the port of Palermo. The duration of the crossing ranges from 1 hour and 30 minutes to 3 hours, while the hydrofoil takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes. Prices vary between 27 and 38 euros, depending on the vessel type that is chosen.
Thanks to its excellent connections, Ustica is one of Sicily’s most beautiful islands and it’s perfect for a one-day getaway or a longer vacation.
5. Lipari: Rich in history and beaches
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Lipari welcomes visitors with its vibrant character and natural wonders. As the largest of the Aeolian islands, it offers a wide variety of experiences. The best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is perfect for exploring its beautiful beaches.
Among our favorites is the Spiaggia Bianca, with its clear sand and clear waters. During our visit, we couldn’t resist taking a boat tour and discovering hidden caves and spectacular views.
Walking through the historic center, we visited the Lipari Castle, which adds a touch of history to this fascinating island.
Among the most beautiful and fascinating Sicilian islands, Lipari is a place that combines relaxation, beauty, and adventure in an unforgettable way. If you would like to find out more about the other wonders of the archipelago, read our article dedicated to the most beautiful Aeolian Islands.
How to get to Lipari
Lipari, the largest of the Sicilian islands, is well connected to major Sicilian ports such as Milazzo, Messina, and Palermo.
From Milazzo, the ferry duration ranges from approximately 1 hour to 2 hours and 15 minutes, while the hydrofoil is faster, taking only 50 minutes. Prices start at 19 euros for the ferry and 27 euros for the hydrofoil. This is a crossing that takes you straight to the heart of the Aeolian Islands!
Book your ferry to the most beautiful islands of Sicily!
After visiting these islands in Sicily, it should be abundantly clear that each one has something special to offer. Lampedusa is perfect for those who love the sea, while Salina enchants with its paths among the greenery. Pantelleria, Ustica, and Lipari will reveal fascinating and different aspects of Sicily. If you are looking for your next destination, these islands are the perfect choice.
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