Off Italy’s northern Sicilian coast, the Aeolian Islands deliver some of the Mediterranean’s most rewarding day tours. After years of exploring these volcanic isles, I’ve found the private boat excursions around Vulcano and Lipari to be absolute standouts. The high ratings (4.9 out of 5) speak for themselves, and the flexible scheduling makes them practical for any itinerary.
What works especially well is the Lipari-Vulcano combination tour – it packs the right mix of geological wonders and local character. Stromboli tours, while slightly less highly rated (92%), offer unforgettable volcanic drama at sunset. I’m also fond of the specialized evening tours, particularly the Faraglioni sunset cruise and traditional squid fishing trips, which showcase authentic island life.
Let’s explore our favorite Aeolian Islands tours in detail…
Good To Know
- The Aeolian Islands offer highly recommended private tours, with a 100% traveler recommendation for the Vulcano & Lipari tour and a 4.9 overall rating.
- Tours feature flexible itineraries, free cancellation, and amenities like snorkeling gear, beach towels, refreshments, and local cuisine.
- Unique experiences include the Sunset Tour to the Faraglioni, Mosaic Tours showcasing cultural heritage, and Nightly Squid Fishing with a traditional fishing experience.
- Pricing varies across tours, with options accommodating different group sizes and catering to diverse demographics, including families, couples, and solo adventurers.
- Reservations are recommended, with clear communication on cancellation policies and tour details provided through the contact information.
Vulcano & Lipari Southwest – Private Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive and personalized exploration of the Aeolian Islands, the “Vulcano & Lipari Southwest – Private Tour” offers an exceptional opportunity.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour provides a unique experience to discover the islands of Vulcano and Lipari.
The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning marine life. Refreshments, including Prosecco, water, and fruit, are provided, as well as a delicious lunch. Participants can also use flapper and diving suits if needed, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
The tour starts and ends at the meeting point in the historic center of Lipari, with private transportation throughout the day.
This private tour caters to your group’s needs, offering a flexible and personalized itinerary. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and an overall 4.9 rating, this tour is an excellent choice for exploring the beauty of the Aeolian Islands.
Read our full review: Vulcano & Lipari Southwest – Private Tour Review
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Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour (7 Hours)
The “Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour (7 Hours)” offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the Aeolian Islands.
This 7-hour private boat tour allows visitors to cruise along the coastlines of Lipari and Vulcano, stopping for swimming and snorkeling. The tour operates on a mahogany boat called “Eoliana” and provides guests with snorkeling gear, beach towels, bottled water, snacks, fresh fruit, and white wine.
Highlights include free time on Vulcano to hike to the crater edge and visit the thermal mud baths. The tour is highly recommended, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 63 reviews. Travelers praise the professionalism and kindness of the hosts, as well as the stunning scenery and well-stocked boat.
The tour is priced from $582.21 per group of up to 6 people and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. With multiple departure times available, this private boat tour is an excellent choice for exploring the natural beauty of the Aeolian Islands.
Read our full review: Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour (7 Hours) Review
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Private Boat Tour at Sunset to the Faraglioni of Lipari
Travelers can embark on a captivating Private Boat Tour at Sunset to the Faraglioni of Lipari, a must-see natural wonder in the Aeolian Islands.
This private boat tour is highly recommended, with 100% of travelers giving it positive reviews. The 5-star rated experience takes guests on a scenic journey around the iconic Faraglioni rock formations at sunset.
The tour includes private transportation, alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and snacks. Guests can enjoy the beautiful scenery and relax as the boat navigates the waters.
The tour is available from May to October, with flexible start times. Priced at $264.64 per group of up to 2 people, the tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This private tour is a great way to explore the stunning Aeolian Islands and witness the breathtaking Faraglioni of Lipari at sunset.
Read our full review: Private Boat Tour at Sunset to the Faraglioni of Lipari Review
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Lipari Island Tour – Private
A private Lipari Island tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of this captivating Aeolian island. Priced at $518.70 for a group of up to 4 people, this tour provides a personalized experience with a German and Italian-speaking guide.
Guests will enjoy a variety of inclusions, such as snorkeling equipment, refreshments, and a delicious lunch. The tour departs and returns to the meeting point at Da Francesco Ristorante Pizzeria Bar, located near the castle wall in Lipari’s historic center.
With a 100% traveler recommendation based on 13 reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the Aeolian Islands. Highlights include sightings of dolphins and an “unforgettable” experience with the wonderful host, Giovanni.
The tour is accessible, with stroller access and service animals allowed, though it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Lipari Island Tour – Private Review
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Exclusive Tour of Stromboli Island, Boat Tour With Pasqualo
Exclusive private boat tours of Stromboli Island allow visitors to explore the island’s inaccessible villages and beaches. With a 92% traveler recommendation based on 13 reviews, this tour offers an immersive experience of the island’s natural beauty and local life.
Highlights include swimming, snorkeling, and learning about the island from a knowledgeable local skipper. The itinerary includes free time in the remote Ginostra village, accessible only by boat, as well as stops to view the Sciara del Fuoco lava flow and the puffing peak of Mount Stromboli.
Private transportation and bottled water are included, and the tour is priced at $296.40 per group of up to 6 people, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour meets at the Pontile in Stromboli, and it’s wheelchair accessible with service animals allowed. While one negative review cited a language barrier and service issues, the host has addressed these concerns, and most travelers have reported a positive experience with the guide’s knowledge and flexibility.
Read our full review: Exclusive Tour of Stromboli Island, Boat Tour With Pasqualo Review
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Mosaic Tour 1
The Mosaic Tour 1 in Syracuse, Italy, offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage. Priced from $423.43 per person, this tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
With a 4.9 rating based on 7 glowing reviews, the tour provides a well-rounded experience, including bottled water, lunch, and various tickets.
The tour starts at 8:30 am, with pickup available from select locations. The tour is accessible, with infant seats, stroller access, and wheelchair-friendly features, allowing most travelers to participate.
While a tourist guide is available on-site for an additional charge, the inclusion of various tickets ensures visitors can explore the city’s renowned mosaics and other attractions with ease.
Booking for the Mosaic Tour 1 is straightforward, with confirmation received within 48 hours, subject to availability. However, it’s important to note that the tour is non-refundable, so travelers should plan accordingly.
Read our full review: Mosaic Tour 1 Review
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Sciara Del Fuoco From the Sea, Night Tour SMALL GROUP
Though Stromboli is known for its magnificent volcanic activity, the Sciara Del Fuoco From the Sea, Night Tour SMALL GROUP offers a truly unique perspective.
Departing from Scari port, this intimate tour (maximum 10 travelers) cruises to the Sciara del Fuoco, allowing guests to witness the island’s incandescent lava displays from the sea. With ample time allocated for viewing and photography, the tour provides a spectacular light show by sea after dark.
Prioritizing safety, the tour may be canceled due to poor weather conditions, with customers being informed six hours prior.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with some guests expressing dissatisfaction with the guide’s engagement and tour duration, the overall experience is highlighted as excellent, with praise for the service and unique opportunity to observe Stromboli’s volcanic wonders.
Priced from $59.28 per person, the tour is accessible for most travelers, including wheelchair users, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Sciara Del Fuoco From the Sea, Night Tour SMALL GROUP Review
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Short Trip – Private Tour
Eager to explore the captivating Aeolian Islands in a more intimate setting? This private tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the archipelago’s natural wonders with a personalized experience.
With a maximum of 2 participants, you’ll embark on a scenic journey, enjoying stunning views and enjoying the islands’ rich history and culture.
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, flippers, and a diving suit, allowing you to venture into the crystal-clear waters and witness the vibrant marine life up close. A delicious lunch is also provided, ensuring you savor the local flavors throughout your adventure.
Departing and returning to the centrally located meeting point, this tour is both convenient and flexible, catering to your preferences.
Boasting an impressive 4.9 overall rating based on 15 reviews, this private tour is a must-consider for those seeking an exclusive and unforgettable experience in the Aeolian Islands.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book with confidence and let the adventure begin.
Read our full review: Short Trip – Private Tour Review
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Volcano Tour
Explore the captivating Aeolian Islands’ volcanic landscapes on this immersive Volcano Tour. With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience as you discover the volcanic wonders of Syracuse, Italy.
The tour earns a stellar 5.0 rating from 9 reviews, ensuring a top-notch experience. Priced from $370.50 per person, the tour includes bottled water and private transportation. An optional tourist guide is available on-site for an additional fee.
Pickup is available daily, with flexible start times to suit your schedule. The tour is accessible, accommodating infants, service animals, strollers, and wheelchairs.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, and the Lowest Price Guarantee ensures you get the best deal. For more information or to book your Volcano Tour, simply reach out to the local provider.
Enjoy the Aeolian Islands’ captivating volcanic beauty on this unforgettable excursion.
Read our full review: Volcano Tour Review
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Mosaic Tour 2
The Mosaic Tour 2 in Syracuse, Italy offers visitors a captivating journey through the region’s rich cultural heritage. This highly-rated tour, with an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 4 reviews, takes participants to explore the stunning Villa Romana Del Casale and the Caltagirone ceramic museum.
The tour, which accommodates up to 8 travelers, is priced from $338.74 per person, with flexible start times to suit your schedule. Included in the tour are bottled water, sanitizing gel, lunch, and various tickets, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
While a tourist guide is available upon request for an additional on-site fee, the tour is accessible to most travelers, including those with infants, strollers, and wheelchairs.
The tour’s highlights, as noted by reviewers, include the awe-inspiring mosaics at Villa Romana Del Casale and the captivating Caltagirone ceramic museum.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, the Mosaic Tour 2 offers a hassle-free way to learn about the rich cultural tapestry of Syracuse, Italy.
Read our full review: Mosaic Tour 2 Review
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Guided Tour of the Stromboli Visitor Center Museum
Travelers embark on a guided tour of the Stromboli Visitor Center Museum, located in the captivating Aeolian Islands of Italy. The tour begins at 3:00 PM at the Stromboli Adventures – Guide al vulcano & Tour Operator, situated in the center of Stromboli, just before Piazza San Vincenzo.
The guided tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, providing them with a bottled water during the experience.
The museum offers an insightful exploration of the region, with the tour guide sharing valuable information. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and service animals are allowed. Travelers can easily access the museum via public transportation. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Most visitors can comfortably participate in the experience.
Confirmation is received upon booking, and travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour starts. The tour offers a lowest price guarantee, starting at $7.41 per person, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
Read our full review: Guided Tour of the Stromboli Visitor Center Museum Review
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Nightly Squid Fishing – Private Tour
What better way to experience the captivating Aeolian Islands than by embarking on a private nightly squid fishing adventure?
This unique tour offers visitors the opportunity to witness the traditional practice of squid fishing under the stars. For $412.84 per group (up to 6 people), guests will be transported to the fishing grounds around the islands, where they’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment to try their hand at catching these elusive creatures.
The tour runs from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM, Monday through Sunday, between March 23rd and November 23rd. Participants can enjoy refreshments, including bottled water, snacks, and a delicious dinner made with the freshly caught squid.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, and infants can sit on laps. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this private tour provides a flexible and unforgettable way to take in the Aeolian Islands’ rich maritime culture.
Read our full review: Nightly Squid Fishing – Private Tour Review
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Lipari & South Salina – Individual Participation in the Tour
Although located in the stunning Aeolian Islands off the northern coast of Sicily, the Lipari & South Salina tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
With an impressive 4.8-star rating from 23 reviews, this full-day excursion promises an unforgettable experience. Highlights include snorkeling amidst crystal-clear waters, enjoying an aperitif and lunch onboard, and exploring the picturesque islands of Lipari and Salina.
The tour provides all necessary equipment, including snorkeling gear, fins, and a diving suit, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
Departing from the historic Centro Storico di Lipari, the tour accommodates up to 12 travelers and is accessible to strollers, though not wheelchair-friendly. Infants must sit on laps.
With a convenient start time of 10:00 am and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and value, starting at $116.44 per person.
Read our full review: Lipari & South Salina – Individual Participation in the Tour Review
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Vulcano & Lipari South Daily Tour – Individual Partecipation
Why not explore the stunning Aeolian Islands with the Vulcano & Lipari South Daily Tour? This highly-rated 4.9/5 excursion takes you on an unforgettable adventure through the picturesque Aeolian archipelago.
With 97% of travelers recommending the tour, you can expect an exceptional experience.
The tour includes top-notch equipment like snorkeling gear, diving masks, and a wetsuit, ensuring you make the most of the islands’ natural beauty. As you cruise the waters, you’ll be treated to complimentary bottled water, Prosecco, and fresh fruit.
The maximum group size is just 10 travelers, providing an intimate and personalized experience.
Departing from the charming town of Lipari, you’ll visit the volcanic island of Vulcano and explore its hidden coves and beaches.
The tour ends back at the meeting point, making it easy to continue your Aeolian adventure.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the stunning Vulcano & Lipari South Daily Tour.
Read our full review: Vulcano & Lipari South Daily Tour – Individual Partecipation Review
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Sciara Del Fuoco From the Sea With an Aperitif to Ginostra, Boat Tour
Cruise along Stromboli’s captivating coastline and witness the awe-inspiring volcanic eruptions from the sea on the Sciara Del Fuoco From the Sea With an Aperitif to Ginostra, Boat Tour.
This small-group experience takes you from Scari to Ginostra, followed by a visit to Sciara del Fuoco, where you’ll see the spectacular incandescent lava flow and steam clouds. Enjoy stunning sunset views, local wine, and Sicilian specialities in the charming village of Ginostra.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour offers a comfortable and personalized experience. Explore the volcanic island’s coastline away from the crowds, and capture photo opportunities of the natural wonders.
At the end of the tour, you’ll return to the meeting point. This tour is wheelchair accessible and allows service animals. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate.
With 25 reviews and an overall rating of 4.0, this tour provides a memorable and unique way to experience the Aeolian Islands.
Read our full review: Sciara Del Fuoco From the Sea With an Aperitif to Ginostra, Boat Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Aeolian Islands?
The best time to visit the Aeolian Islands is typically between May and September when the weather’s warmest and most pleasant. Visitors can enjoy sunny skies, mild temperatures, and the islands’ stunning natural beauty during this peak tourist season.
How Do I Get From the Mainland to the Aeolian Islands?
To get from the mainland to the Aeolian Islands, travelers can take a ferry or hydrofoil service from ports in Sicily or Calabria. The journey typically takes 1-2 hours depending on the island destination.
What Should I Pack for a Trip to the Aeolian Islands?
When visiting the Aeolian Islands, pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and sturdy walking shoes. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the islands’ stunning landscapes and seascapes.
Are There Any Recommended Restaurants or Local Cuisine to Try?
When visiting the Aeolian Islands, travelers shouldn’t miss the chance to sample the local cuisine. Freshly caught seafood, classic Italian dishes, and homemade pastas are highlights. Restaurants featuring Sicilian and Mediterranean flavors are highly recommended for an authentic dining experience.
Is It Possible to See Multiple Islands in One Day?
It is possible to see multiple Aeolian Islands in one day. Many tour operators offer day trips that allow visitors to explore several of the islands, providing a convenient way to maximize sightseeing time during their stay.
The Sum Up
The Aeolian Islands offer a diverse range of tours, from private boat tours to sunset excursions and even night fishing. Visitors can explore the islands of Vulcano and Lipari, marvel at the Faraglioni of Lipari, and witness the Sciara del Fuoco from the sea. These tours provide an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and unique landscapes of this captivating archipelago.