Aeolian Islands — Volcanoes in the Sea

The Aeolian Islands (Isole Eolie) are an archipelago of seven volcanic islands off the northeast coast of Sicily — a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 and one of the most fascinating travel destinations in the Mediterranean. Each island has its own character, and all combine volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and an atmosphere of timeless seclusion.

Stromboli is the star: The eponymous volcano (924 m) is one of the most active volcanoes on Earth — every 15–20 minutes it hurls glowing lava fountains into the night sky. The ascent to the summit (from 2024 only with a certified guide, about €28, 5 hours round trip) at sunset, to watch the eruptions from above in the darkness, is a natural spectacle like no other. Alternatively: Charter a boat and watch the Sciara del Fuoco (Fire Slide) — the flank where the lava flows into the sea — from the water at night.

Lipari is the largest and liveliest island: a pretty harbor town with a castle, an archaeological museum (one of the best in the Mediterranean for prehistoric finds), good restaurants, and the pumice stone beaches of Canneto. Vulcano smells of sulfur and offers a unique experience: The ascent to the Gran Cratere (391 m, 1 hour) passes steaming fumaroles and rewards with views of all seven islands. At the foot of the volcano are the famous Fanghi — natural sulfur mud baths where you can bathe (smelly, but good for the skin).

Salina is the greenest and most culinary interesting island: Here, the famous capers of Salina (Slow Food Presidium) are grown, and the Malvasia delle Lipari (amber dessert wine) is one of Italy's best dessert wines. Panarea is the small jet-set island with white houses and exclusive bars — Sicily's answer to Mykonos. Filicudi and Alicudi (the westernmost islands) are wild, lonely, and car-free — for individualists seeking the end of the world.