The Aeolian Islands, also known as the Lipari Islands, are particularly well-known among hikers and are otherwise an insider tip. The archipelago has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of seven cone-shaped islands to the north of Sicily. You can reach the Aeolian Islands by ferry from Sicily. The three central islands are Lipari, Vulcano and Salina.

Lipari is the largest of the islands and almost all ferries dock here. The old town of Lipari offers small bars, cafés and restaurants, a pretty promenade and the Piazza Municipio with a particularly beautiful panoramic view. The town's cathedral and fortress are also worth a visit. There are also great bays to discover all over the island, secluded beaches and crystal-clear water await you here. You can also admire the caper blossom on the southern tip. The pale purple flowers are a symbol of the islands and the fresh capers characterise the local cuisine in particular. The north of the island is sparsely populated and there are still large deposits of obsidian here. Obsidian, also known as volcanic glass, is formed during the eruption of a volcano when the lava is ejected from the volcano. The sparkling black stones have extremely sharp edges and were used to make weapons and tools. The trade in ‘black gold’ once made the island rich. Find beautiful holiday homes and small hotels on the Aeolian Islands here.

Travel to the island of Vulcano, just a stone's throw from Lipari. This very special volcanic island can be reached in 10 minutes by boat. The island makes its volcanic origins clear not only by its name, but also by its topography. The volcanic crater is well worth seeing!

Salina, the second largest island of the Lipari Islands, is also known as the ‘green pearl’. There are hardly any beaches here, but there are two remarkable peaks that can be hiked. A completely different landscape awaits visitors here. It is characterised by forests, ferns and lush greenery. The many shady forest paths make hiking very pleasant. From the highest point on the island, the Monte Fossa peak, you have a wonderful view of the island and its surroundings.

Panarea is also known as the ‘island of the rich and beautiful’. Although the island is the smallest of the Aeolian Islands, it has particularly beautiful vegetation and is a favourite summer hotspot for international and Italian celebrities. In spring, it is an excellent place for hiking and enjoying the beautiful nature. There are also great sandy beaches with crystal-clear water to linger on.

The volcano on the island of Stromboli is the only permanently active volcano in Europe and offers visitors a special spectacle with its regularly erupting lava fountains. Ascents to the crater are only possible with a local mountain guide.

The island of Filicudi is a true paradise for divers. It is very remote and quiet, with only a few accommodations and restaurants. There are numerous sunken ships on the seabed off the island, which makes diving here particularly exciting. There are also great boat trips to the Grotta del Bue Marino.

If you want to get to know a particularly original and authentic side of the archipelago, the island of Alicudi is the right place for you. There are no roads here, as there are hardly any people on this island - a real insider tip for anyone looking for peace and seclusion.

Here is a list of the best hotels and holiday homes to stay in the Aeolian Islands.