Things to do in Catania Sicily, Italy: the 10 best experiences

Experience the unique Aeolian Islands with a dinghy excursion to discover Panarea and Stromboli, among crystal-clear waters, volcanic landscapes and one of the most fascinating natural spectacles of the Mediterranean.

The experience begins by sailing to Panarea, an island characterized by hidden coves, clear seabed and striking islets. Along the way there are swimming and snorkeling stops in the turquoise waters between Lisca Bianca, Basiluzzo and Dattilo, in a unique natural setting.

Reaching the village of Panarea, you will have free time to explore the island.

In the afternoon you will continue to Stromboli. During the evening cruise along the Sciara del Fuoco, you will be able to watch from the sea the spectacular eruptions of the volcano, including lights, smoke and striking scenery at sunset and under the night sky.

The return takes place under the stars, after experiencing an excursion that combines nature, sea and spectacle.

The day boat excursion to Vulcano from Lipari allows you to enjoy a unique Aeolian Islands experience and taste local products.

You will coast the southern area of Lipari, where you can admire two rocks in the middle of the sea: the Faraglioni of Lipari, Pietra Lunga and Pietra Menalda, classified as volcanic necks.

You will then head to Cala Formaggio for a swimming stop. After the stop, you will reach Grotta del Cavallo, where at the’entrance you can also admire the beautiful Piscina di Venere. Here you will stop for your second bathroom stop.

Once back on board you will depart for the small village of Gelso, a fishing village dominated by a charming lighthouse. Here you'll make a stop at the Asino Beach, where you can have lunch at the Asino Beach lido/restaurant (not included in the price) and take a few dips in the water. 

Next you will sail to the Levante Harbor, where there will be a stop of about two hours to visit the Vulcan thermal lake, known as “The Mud Pool”, the Hot Water Beach, known for the boiling of the water due to gas emissions from the seabed, and finally stop at the Black Sands, where you can find very fine sand and very shallow waters.

Before returning to Lipari, you will make an additional swim stop at Praia Ferrante. On board you will be offered sesame cookies with local Malvasia.

The day trip by boat to Lipari and Salina departing from Marina Corta in Lipari allows you to experience a relaxing day in the heart of the Aeolian Islands.

You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will tell you stories and interesting facts about the places you will visit.

You will begin your navigation by pushing on to the Cave of Pomice, where the first swimming stop is scheduled, allowing you to cool off in the crystal clear Sicilian waters.

The tour will then continue to Salina: you will stop first at Capo Faro and then at Baia Pollara for more swimming stops. Here you will also see the house where the movie "Il Postino" was filmed.

Later you will arrive at the village of Lingua, where you will moor for a stop of about 1 1/2 hours. You will enjoy an excellent typical lunch in one of the local restaurants (not included in the price), refresh yourself with a swim and admire the characteristic salt lake.

Next you will head to the western part of Lipari, where you will stop for a dip at the Grotta degli Innamorati while admiring the Faraglioni rocks.

Finally, a final swimming stop is planned at the Praia di Vinci beach.

On the return trip to the starting point you will be offered a glass of Malvasia wine accompanied by fresh fruit, water and typical desserts.

The daily shared boat excursion to Panarea and Stromboli departing from Lipari allows you to experience a relaxing day exploring the Aeolian Islands.

The first scheduled stop is at Cala Junco, a natural pool hidden among the rocks, with turquoise and crystal clear waters, a hidden corner protected by the FAI. Here a swimming stop is planned.

Reset aboard, you will head to the picturesque port of San Pietro in Panarea, where you will have about 2 hours of free time to explore the quaint village, savor the island’s unique atmosphere or have lunch at one of the local restaurants (lunch not included).

On returning to the boat, you will begin a scenic tour of the magical islands of Panarea by sea. You will pass by Bottaro, famous for its fascinating underwater fumaroles, and Lisca Bianca, home to the romantic Grotta degli Innamorati, steeped in legends and beauty.

You will continue sailing among the other surrounding islets, where two additional stops are planned to swim in the archipelago's crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip or snorkeling.

Next, you will sail to the majestic Stromboli. From the boat, you will admire the’imposing profile of this active volcanic island before taking another swim in its dark, evocative waters.

You will then land at the port of Scari, where you will have about 2 hours to explore the island on foot, relax on its iconic black sand beaches or dine at a local restaurant (dinner not included).

At sunset, you will re-board and head to Strombolicchio and the Sciara del Fuoco, where you will witness the spectacular eruptions of Stromboli: smoke and tongues of lava will light up the night sky.

Finally, you will return to Lipari's Marina Corta pier around 10 p.m., after a unique day.

Explore Alicudi and Filicudi with this shared boat day tour departing from Lipari.

You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will tell you about local stories and traditions.

You will sail to Alicudi, the westernmost island of the Aeolian Islands, famous for its unspoiled landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. Here a swimming stop is planned.

Once in Alicudi, you will have the opportunity to explore the island from a unique vantage point: its rugged coastline and traditional stone houses that seem to defy time.

Here you will also stop for a rest that will allow you to take a walk or simply enjoy the unique view.

The tour will then continue to Filicudi, the neighboring island, where you will have the opportunity to make a second stop for swimming, perhaps in the vicinity of the famous Sea Ox Cave, where you can snorkel and admire the marine life.

After exploring Filicudi and its wonderful bays, such as Porto Bay, you will take a break ashore of about 1 1/2 hours. Here, you can have lunch at a typical island restaurant (not included in the price) or relax on the beach.

On the way back, there will be time for a toast with a small glass of Malvasia, accompanied by typical Aeolian sweets.

You will return to Marina Corta pier in Lipari at 5:30 p.m., after about 8 1/2 hours of excitement and natural beauty.

This private boat tour to the Aeolian Islands from Milazzo offers you an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Aeolian Archipelago.

The departure is scheduled from the port Santa Maria Maggiore. The first swimming stop will be at Punta dell'Asino, in front of the black sand beach of the same name. The color is originated from lava flows of volcanic nature.

Returning to the coast you will admire the island of Vulcano, characterized by a strong smell of sulfur. Once you reach the Piscine di Venere (Venus Pools) and the Grotta del Cavallo; a second swimming stop is planned.

Resuming navigation, you will proceed to the imposing volcanic hills of Pietra Lunga and Pietra Menalda: the so-called “Faraglioni di Lipari”.

You will then start skirting Lipari with its bright white rock mountains and the very famous pumice quarries.

This tour to the Aeolian Islands from Milazzo is available daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and when booking you can choose between the 5-person and 12-person boat.

Group boat excursion departing from Marzamemi to explore the coast of southeastern Sicily.

On board you will find a large sun deck at the bow to relax and a galley, where dishes are freshly prepared in front of you.

You can choose between two options:
Half-day: lasting 4 hours including an aperitif.
Full day: lasting 8 hours, including aperitif and lunch.

The experience is guaranteed with a minimum of 5 participants; otherwise you will be contacted to move or cancel your reservation.

Embark on a unique excursion to Marzamemi and enjoy an aperitif or lunch on board in excellent company, overlooking Sicily's most fascinating beaches. You can choose from two tours:

Sightseeing Tour (4 hours)

After visiting Tafuri Castle, you will head to the enchanting island of Capo Passero and then return to Marzamemi to explore its quaint old harbor. Afterwards, you will dive into the waters above the ancient Roman columns, then end the day with a refreshing swim at Vendicari Island.

Delicious bruschetta with Pachino cherry along with fresh seasonal fruit, local wine and water are offered on board to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Snorkeling equipment is also provided.

Exclusive (6 hours)

You may also choose to have lunch or dinner on board. The itinerary remains the same and the menu includes:

•    bruschetta with Pachino cherry tomatoes
•    grilled fresh fish
•    peperonata
•    Pachino salad
•    seasonal fruit, local wine, water

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change. The menu is subject to change related to seasonal availability.

Discover the Sicilian coast thanks to this 3-hour group boat excursion departing from Marzamemi.

This evocative tour will allow you to immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters and admire unique landscapes, thanks to stops at the most striking destinations: Capo Passero Island, Marzamemi, Vendicari Nature Reserve.

You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will tell you stories and curiosities of the area.

During the excursion you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products accompanied by a glass of wine, water or soft drinks.

You will board a comfortable boat equipped with seats with cushions, sunshade awning, bluetooth speaker and freshwater shower.

The boat excursion to Marzamemi has a half-day duration departing at 09:00 or 15:00, during which a reinforced lunch or aperitif will be served on board.

The boat tour includes two or three stops in the crystal clear sea of Sicily and offers a unique culinary experience.

In the morning, you will be greeted with a delicious breakfast accompanied later by an aperitif lunch full of typical local products. In the afternoon, on the other hand, some welcome food and an aperitif will be served.

Typical Sicilian dishes include fried foods, fresh fish dishes, bruschetta, fresh fruit, and, of course, drinks.

This boat tour will allow you to explore the sea, enjoy local delicacies, and experience an unforgettable day of boating in Marzamemi.

The sunset boat aperitif in Marzamemi is a unique experience on a private boat with skipper and local food. The tour Starts at 7:30 pm and lasts until 10 pm.

This is a very special sunset aperitif where a magical atmosphere is created. The tour is organized for couples, groups or family members on a private basis.

An aperitif of fish and local products, drinks and seasonal fruits will be served during the tour.

You will enjoy the spectacle of the sun setting on the horizon, accompanied by the relaxing and engaging melody of sax played live on the boat.

Dinghy excursion starting from Avola and sailing up north to discover the Island of Ortigia.

Departing from Avola, you will sail north and skirt the coast visiting the most beautiful coves and caves such as Fontane Bianche beach, the tower of Ognina, Arenella beach, Capo Murro di Porco and Punta della Mola until you reach the island of Ortigia.

During the outing, some stops will be made to swim in the sea and you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products.

You will, in addition, be accompanied for the duration of the excursion by an experienced skipper who can guide you along the coast and tell some anecdotes about the area.

For this experience you can choose between 2 options with the same itinerary:

•    Private excursion with the whole boat exclusively. Duration is about 5 hours, you can choose between morning and afternoon and maximum 6 people can participate.
•    Group excursion with the boat shared with other participants. The duration is about 6 hours and the maximum number of participants is 12 people.