Hello travellers! I’m Marco – a guy who loves to travel and discover different cultures and traditions. Thanks for stopping by my blog on Lipari Island.
I grew up in Sicily which is a beautiful island in Italy. Many call it “God’s Land” for its beauty and history. My love of travel and photography started in adolescence when I began to discover my own island. I’ve never stopped exploring since. I always have a camera with me ready to take photos.
Lipari is the largest of the Aeolian Islands located off the coast of Sicily and was on my bucket-list for a while. I visited Lipari several years ago but didn’t remember much about it. This year I decided to go back! I was inspired to visit through some amazing photos and videos that my friends sent me.
As soon as I arrived on the island, I was surprised by its beauty. Everyday I would stumble upon beautiful new places. Believe me when I tell you that the most incredible sunsets in the world can be seen on Lipari Island.
Four Lovely Days in Lipari Island
I stayed in Lipari for four days. This island is part of the Aeolian Islands which consist of seven main islands: Lipari, Panarea, Vulcano, Stromboli, Salina, Alicudi and Filicudi. So far I’ve seen four of the islands! Lipari is the largest but the other ones are beautiful too, only smaller in size.
The most wonderful experience in Lipari for me was to arrive at one of the highest and most stunning viewpoints of the island. Its name is “Belvedere Quattrocchi” because of the epic view. I recommend going at sunset when the sun disappears slowly into the sea. You will be amazed by this sunset!
I think when you visit an island you should live like an islander. It was amazing to get lost in the narrow streets and meet the families who stay not only in summer but through winter too. This way you can immerse in the local way of life, away from the mass tourism found on the beaches.
The local people are cheerful and helpful. In general, when you visit Sicily, Sicilians welcome tourists with open arms and the same can be said of Lipari. I was able to taste the typical food there too which was delicious! My favourite dish was “Pane Cunzatu” – a type of spicy sandwich.
7 Best Things To Do in Lipari
The island is centred around the main town of Lipari Town which is the main transport hub. You will arrive at the bustling port and then be introduced to many unique island treasures. There’s a lot to see and do – so let’s get started with the top 7 attractions and experiences of Lipari.
1. Take in the Views from Belvedere Quattrocchi
This panoramic point offers the best view on Lipari. See sailing boats scattered across the blue ocean and look out at the nearby island of Vulcano – one of the seven Aeolian islands. As mentioned before, the sunsets here are breathtaking. I recommend coming more than once!
2. Wander around the Historic Lipari Castle
Lipari Castle is hard to miss. This former Greek acropolis dominates the city and boasts a large wall that dates back to the 15th century. Every civilisation that settled here left an indelible mark on the castle – from the Neolithic era, to the Greeks and Italians. A marvellous place to visit for the afternoon!
3. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Lipari
The Archaeological Museum is a must-see for history buffs as it houses one of Europe’s finest collections of ancient artefacts and art. There are several areas to explore at this museum – each section in a different building. Visitors start in Sezione Preistorica and end in Sezione Epigrafica.
4. Admire the Architecture of Lipari Cathedral
Lipari Cathedral, otherwise known as Cathedral of San Bartolomeo, is located in the heart of the Citadella. This is an attraction you can see while exploring the Lipari Castle. The architecture is stunning and the history of this cathedral is just as impressive. Go inside and admire the interiors.
5. Hike to the Geophysical Observatory in Lipari
A great place to hike to is the Geophysical Observatory which sits in front of the Vulcanello peninsula. This place was an old naval watchtower that got converted into an observatory. Enjoy a spectacular view of Vulcano Island, Vulcanello with its crater and cone, and a nearby isthmus.
6. Go on a Boat Excursion to Stromboli and Panarea
There are a couple of fantastic companies which run boat excursions from Lipari to the surrounding islands. I recommend going to Stromboli with a stop in Panarea on the way. Stop at Calajunco in Panarea and take a swim before sailing through beautiful islets on the way to Stromboli Island.
7. Relax and Swim at the Best Beaches of Lipari
Of course, no trip to Lipari is complete without spending time relaxing and swimming at the beautiful beaches. Some of the best include: Canneto di Lipari, Spiagge Bianche, Porticello Beach, Papesca Beach, Acquacalda Beach, Spiaggia Valle Muria and Campo Bianco, just to name a few!
Delicious Food of Lipari
In Lipari you can eat really well! For starters, as mentioned before, I recommend trying the typical “Pane Cunzatu” from a famous bakery called “Gentile”. Fish lovers, on the other hand, should check out a place called “A Casa Mia”. It’s another popular spot serving all kinds of fresh fish.
Best Places to Stay in Lipari
Lipari is an expensive place in summer but offers a fantastic variety of accommodation. You can rent an apartment or spend more money and stay in hotels. The hotels are beautiful and elegant. Among my favourites are Hotel Tritone, La Settima Luna and Hotel Villa Enrica.
Need to Know Before you Go
For those looking to visit Lipari you should know that in many ways you return to the old days here. Away from computers, mobile phones and other modern devices. As much as I love social media, I must say that it did me a lot of good to switch off and focus on the beauty of nature.
The best memory I have of Lipari was when I took a boat tour with my friends at sunset. You can jump off the boat and while in the water you see huge fish swimming by. In those moments, I realised I was one with nature. Thanks for reading and enjoy your trip to this gorgeous Aeolian Island!
