Things to do in the Aeolian Islands: the 15 best ideas for your vacation in 2026

The horseback ride along the seashore of Catania's Playa is also suitable for children and beginners.

The hour-long horseback ride starts from the stables and takes place on the shoreline of the long beach in the Gulf of Catania: the Plaja.

In front of you you will admire the volcano Etna towering over the city, making a unique panorama, perfect for your souvenir photos.

Recommended clothing includes long pants and closed-toe shoes. The facility will provide you with all the equipment you need to ride a horse, including helmet (mandatory).

Visit the Bay of Taormina aboard a wooden gozzo boat that will transport you to the most striking beauty of the Mediterranean, passing by Sicily's most fascinating caves and coves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Grotta degli Innamorati.

The excursion departs from Giardini Naxos and will have you explore the Isola Bella Marine Reserve, the Blue Grotto, the Grotta degli Innamorati, and the Grotta dei Coralli. You will also discover the bays of Mazzarò and San Nicola, cruising the Sicilian coast around Taormina.

During the navigation you will be offered an apericena on board based on typical Sicilian products.

During the navigation you will be able to search for and spot dolphins, with a little luck. You can finally take a dip in the water during one of the stops on the itinerary.

Maximum capacity: 24 people.

Visit the Bay of Taormina aboard a wooden gozzo boat that will transport you to the most striking beauty of the Mediterranean, passing by Sicily's most fascinating caves and coves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Grotta degli Innamorati.

The excursion departs from Giardini Naxos and will have you explore the Isola Bella Marine Reserve, the Blue Grotto, the Grotta degli Innamorati, and the Grotta dei Coralli. You will also discover the bays of Mazzarò and San Nicola, cruising the Sicilian coast around Taormina.

During the navigation you will be offered an aperitif on board based on typical Sicilian products. In addition, during the different stops you will be able to swim in the waters of the Reserve and snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean.

Maximum capacity: 24 people.

If you are looking for a boat excursion to Taormina, don't miss the opportunity of this boat tour to sail along the Sicilian coastline and delve into all its most renowned bays and caves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Lovers' Grotto. 

Sailing departs from Spisone Beach.

The excursion with tasting includes visits to the Taormina Caves, ala Baia delle Sirene, Scoglio dell'Elefante, Mazzarò Beach, Isola Bella and Giardini Naxos. In addition, the tour will be accompanied by a tasting of three different types of wine (prosecco, white wine and red wine), paired with a board of typical Sicilian cold cuts and cheeses.

The boat tour è suitable for everyone and you can decide to swim or relax on the beaches near the caves you will visit, so you can have a totally relaxing time.

Maximum capacity: 24 people.

Enjoy a romantic moment on the Taormina coast by visiting the most fascinating caves and Naxos Gardens in the company of your other half. With any luck, you may spot dolphins playing and chasing each other.

The boat tour departs from Spisone Beach the itinerary touches all the area's most renowned bays and caves, such as Grotta Azzurra, Grotta dell'Amore and Isola Bella. The navigation also touches on destinations such as Cape Taormina and Giardini Naxos.

The excursion takes about 2 hours and includes some bathroom stops during which you can dive into the crystal clear waters and snorkel with the equipment provided by the facility. You will also enjoy a delicious sunset aperitif with local products and views of Mount Etna.

The experience can be arranged on a shared or exclusive basis. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stages may change.

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

The snorkeling excursion along the bays of Giardini Naxos and Taormina will have you exploring the Mediterranean's most fascinating beaches aboard a comfortable boat with snorkeling facilities.

The boat departs from the port of Giardini Naxos, and the itinerary includes two swim stops in the bays of Taormina and Giardini Naxos. It continues to the Faraglioni del Capo and the Isola Bella Marine Reserve, passing by the Blue Grotto and the Grotta degli Innamorati.

Light refreshments with drinks, snacks and fresh fruit will be provided during the excursion.

On board you will be provided with equipment for snorkeling and underwater biowatching, a form of eco-tourism to observe the behaviors of marine animals on the seabed. Otherwise, it will be possible to stay on the boat or take a swim in the sea.

The boat trip can be arranged on a shared basis (3 hours) or an exclusive basis (4 hours). Both options are suitable for everyone, even those who have never snorkeled before.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

Maximum capacity: 20 people.

Half-day sailing excursion from Palermo to Mondello Bay or Capo Zafferano

Set sail aboard a comfortable sailboat that can accommodate up to 10 people.

Depending on the weather conditions, you will head for Mondello Bay or Capo Zafferano.

In the first case, you will pass by the striking caves of Villa Igea, which can be reached by tender for a refreshing swim.

In the second route, you will land at Capo Zafferano, where you can swim at the beach of the Frenchmen or in the crystal-clear waters of Lido del Carabiniere.

Day trip by sailboat to the Gulf of Mondello from Palermo.

Board a comfortable sailboat that can accommodate up to 10 people and be guided by an experienced skipper, who will share with you stories and trivia about the places you will visit.

Sailing to Mondello Bay you will pass through the fascinating caves of Villa Igea, which you can reach by tender for a refreshing swim.

During the day you can explore the coast by SUP or engage in snorkeling, admiring the colorful seabed and crystal clear waters of Sicily.

The day will be enhanced by a lunch on board with typical products.

If conditions permit, on your return you can enjoy a picturesque sunset over the sea before returning to port.

The boat tour departing from Palermo allows you to admire the Sicilian coast from the sea while visiting some of the island's best-known spots, such as the Gulf of Mondello.

You will sail aboard a modern boat that holds up to 8 people and features a swim ladder, awning, deck shower, stereo system, sundeck, aft platform and teak deck.

Leaving from the "Trapezoidal Pier" located in the center of the city of Palermo, you will sail along Palermo's coast where you can admire the crystal clear waters and enjoy the sea breeze.

You can choose between the group tour (lasting 4 hours) and the exclusive tour (lasting 4 or 8 hours).

You will be offered prosecco, soft drinks, fruit and various snacks on board.

Group tour

The first scheduled stop is the Virgin Mary beach, characterized by the presence of golden sand and crystal clear turquoise waters.

The navigation will continue towards Addaura and then arrive in the Gulf of Mondello where, in addition to stopping for a swim, you can enjoy a delicious aperitif.

You will later reach the promontory of Capogallo, and you can admire a series of breathtaking views until you reach the Grotta dell'Olio, a cave created by the incessant force of the waves.

Here you will have the opportunity to explore this unique cave and observe the play of light reflecting off the rock walls and snorkel.

This picturesque corner will be the perfect place for another rejuvenating break: you can swim in the crystal clear waters and explore the seabed.

Finally, you will return toward the port of Palermo by making the last stop: Grotta della Regina, one of the jewels of Palermo, a fascinating and mysterious place.

Private tour

For the private tour the itinerary is flexible and customizable, to be agreed with the skipper.

The boat tour departing from Palermo is a perfect opportunity to admire the Sicilian coast from the sea, with stops at some of the island's most beautiful places, such as the Gulf of Mondello.

You will board a modern boat, with a maximum capacity of 6 people, equipped with all comforts: swim ladder, awning for shade, outdoor shower, stereo system, sunbathing area, stern platform and teak deck.

Departure is from the "Trapezoidal Pier," located in the center of Palermo. From here you will start sailing along the coast, where you can enjoy the views, crystal clear waters and sea breeze.

Two options are available: the group tour, which lasts 4 hours, or the private tour, which can last 4 or 8 hours.

During the tour you will be offered prosecco, soft drinks, fresh fruit and various snacks.

Group tour

The first stop is Virgin Mary beach, with golden sand and a clear turquoise sea.

You will continue to the Addaura area, then arrive in the Gulf of Mondello, where a stop for a swim and an aperitif on board is planned.

You will then continue to the Capogallo promontory, where the landscape changes and becomes even more evocative, until you reach the Grotta dell'Olio, a natural cavity carved out over time by the waves of the sea.

Here you can explore the cave, snorkel and observe the play of light reflecting off the rock walls. This will also be an ideal time for another swim stop at a very special spot.

The last stop before the return is the Grotta della Regina, a fascinating and mysterious place, considered one of the hidden jewels of the Palermo coast.

Private tour

In the private tour the itinerary is free and fully customizable, to be decided together with the skipper according to your wishes.

Discover the beauty of the Palermo sea aboard a comfortable boat for a half-day excursion to discover hidden beaches and pristine bays of the Sicilian coast.

The excursion lasts 4 hours and will introduce you to hidden beaches and coves and you can also admire the Sicilian coastline from the sea.

Bath stops are planned in the crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and diving in the seabed with the snorkeling kit provided. Stops planned by the excursion are Mondello, Addaura, Capo Gallo and Grotta dell'Olio. 

Cool drinks and fruits will be served during the tour to make your day even more enjoyable.

In case of bad weather, the facility may change or cancel the itinerary and its duration.

Discover the Gulf of Palermo on board a beautiful boat with the best amenities, perfect for groups of friends or families with children.

Departing from Mondello pier you will avoid long queues that can form at the port of Palermo, so you can optimize your time and stay on board longer.

The itinerary guarantees pleasant swimming stops and a tour of the Capo Gallo marine reserve and, when the waves allow, the Grotta dell'Olio, making for a full immersion experience in the beautiful coastline.

On board you will find:

•    seats with cushions for a comfortable ride
•    deck and bow space for sunbathing
•    effortless access to the sea via a swim platform and convenient ladder
•    snorkeling equipment
•    sun canopy for relaxing in the shade
•    Bluetooth speaker
•    freshwater shower
•    on-board toilet

During the outing you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products both hot and cold. In addition, on board you will find beer, local wine, water or refreshing soft drinks to go with your aperitif.

An experienced skipper will accompany you throughout the outing and can tell you the best trivia about the area.

This day trip by group boat departing from Marsala allows you to admire Favignana and Levanzo.

Departure is scheduled from Marsala marina at 9:00 am. Once embarked, you will be served a breakfast of various croissants and coffee.

The first scheduled stop is in Favignana. Here you can relax with a refreshing swimming or snorkeling break in two bays: Cala Azzurra and Cala Rossa.

Next you will reach the port of Favignana for a free tour of the town lasting about 1 hour.

On your return to the ship, you will enjoy an aperitif of mixed bruschetta with matarocco, olive patè and sun-dried tomato patè accompanied by chips, pretzels and a local prosecco.

Following that, you can enjoy a lunch consisting of:

•    Antipasto (eggplant caponata, seasoned local olives, seafood salad, slices of local pecorino cheese, sun-dried tomatoes)
•    1 first course (seafood pasta or fish or vegetable couscous)
•    seasonal fruit
•    water
•    wine
•    Coca Cola
•    coffee

The next stop will be the nearby island of Levanzo. Here a swimming and snorkeling stop is planned in a bay (Cala Fredda or Cala Minnola).

Before returning to the port of departure, a final swimming stop is planned in a bay on the island of Favignana (Grotte Marine or Bue Marino).

Return to the Marsala marina is scheduled for about 5:30 pm.

During the return navigation to Marsala, a typical Sicilian dessert (Cannolo di ricotta) accompanied by a typical fortified wine (Zibibbo or Passito) will be offered.

The itinerary and times may be modified and agreed with the group according to needs and weather conditions.

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

This excursion allows you to have a unique experience in the Egadi Islands, admiring Favignana and Levanzo.

Check-in is scheduled at 09:30 am. At 10:00 a.m. you will set sail from the port of Trapani.

From the moorings, after about 30 minutes of navigation, you will reach the island of Favignana, where all the swimming stops in the most beautiful areas of the Egadina island will be carried out, under the coast and in total safety.

Specifically, you will visit: the Preveto islet, Marasolo, Cala Lido Burrone, Cala Azzurra, Bue Marino, Cala Rossa, Scalo Cavallo, Cala del Pozzo, Cala Rotonda, Grotta degli Innamorati, Grotta dei Sospiri, Grotta Azzurra and Grotta Dolce.

At about 1 p.m. there will be a stop in the village, where a lunch break will be taken. 

After the lunch break, it will be possible to visit the island of Favignana, admiring the eighteenth-century villages, the tuna fishery Florio, the Florio palace, the Mother Church of Maria SS. Immacolata, the castle of Santa Caterina and much more! 

At about 3 p.m. we will depart with direction Levanzo Island; you will also explore under the coast and in total safety all the bathroom stops in the most beautiful areas of the island.

Specifically, you will visit: the beautiful Cala Tramontana, Grotta del Buco, the Faraglione, Cala Camaro, a short scenic stop in the village and then conclude the tour on Cala Fredda, Cala Minnula and Cala Calcara.

Each passenger will be offered a welcome toast consisting of prosecco and typical local products, all accompanied by good music and lots of merriment on board.

You will reach the departure point at approximately 6:30 pm.

Experience a boat excursion around the island of Marettimo, in the heart of the Egadi Marine Protected Area, among clear waters, cliffs and sea caves.

During the navigation you will skirt the island and admire the many caves that characterize the coast, including rock formations, inlets and natural views. The tour allows you to get an up-close look at an environment that is still very authentic, immersed in a setting of great naturalistic value.

Throughout the experience you will be accompanied by an experienced guide, who will tell you about the geological peculiarities of the island and the marine biodiversity of the protected area.

The boat tour of Marettimo caves with Walter, the skipper, is a unique experience of relaxation and wonder. Walter deeply loves the Egadi island and wants to share its beauty with everyone. You will explore the main caves and Zone A of the island.

Two boat tours are available departing from Scalo Nuovo in Marettimo: one in the morning at 10:30 a.m. with return at 2:15 p.m. and the other in the afternoon from 3:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Following a natural itinerary, we start with a visit to the Camel Cave, the Thunder Cave and the Pipe Cave, among the most famous in Marettimo.

After a 15- to 20-minute swim stop at Cala Libano, we continue to Cala Bianca, one of Marettimo's most picturesque areas. This is followed by Grotta Perciata, Grotta Ficaredda, Grotta del Presepe, Grotta della Palma and finally the spectacular Grotta degli Innamorati, where you can take a dip.

Continuing on, you will visit the Bombarda Cave and conclude with a stop at Sea Fennel for another dip before returning.

embark on a not-to-be-missed excursion in a motorboat equipped with every comfort and experience a mini cruise in the crystal clear waters of Sicily.

Leaving from Trapani, the motorboat trip will take you to different destinations, visiting the most famous caves and enjoying a typical lunch on board.

During the excursion to Favignana and Levanzo you will skirt the most beautiful and suggestive coves of Favignana such as Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra. There are also two shore stops: a 2-hour stop in Favignana and a 1-hour stop in Levanzo.

You will be scheduled to have lunch on board before reaching Levanzo. Here you will visit Cala Fredda, Cala Minnola and the small fishing village.

Don't miss a unique opportunity to swim in the waters of the Mediterranean and visit the Egadi Islands as a group or as a couple.

Maximum capacity: 185 people.

Bark on a not-to-be-missed excursion in a motorboat equipped with every comfort and experience a mini cruise in the crystal clear waters of Sicily.

Departing from Trapani, you will visit the best-known caves and enjoy a typical lunch on board.

During the excursion to Marettimo you will visit the pebble beaches on the slopes of Punta Troia and other sandy coves such as Cala Bianca and Cala Nera. With a bit of luck, you may spot rare Mediterranean monk seals.

The excursion lasts a full day and includes an onboard lunch of typical Sicilian products.

The excursion to Marettimo è guaranteed upon reaching a minimum of 40 participants.

Don't miss a unique opportunity to swim in the Mediterranean waters and visit the Egadi Islands as a group or as a couple.

Maximum capacity: 185 people.

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.

Morning boat excursion, leaving from Avola and skirting the beaches and coves to Marzamemi.

You will leave by about 9:00 a.m. and visit from the sea Noto Marina, Calamosche, the Vendicari Nature Reserve, San Lorenzo and Marzamemi until you arrive at Capo Passero Island. Return is scheduled for 1:30 pm.

There will be several stops for swimming in the sea and you will be able to use the equipment on board for snorkeling.

In addition, you will be served an aperitif on board based on typical Sicilian products accompanied by prosecco.

For this experience you can choose from 3 options with the same itinerary:

•    Excursion shared with other participants on board a raft, for a maximum of 12 people
•    Private excursion with the entire raft exclusively, for up to 10 people
•    Private excursion aboard a boat, for a maximum of 5 people

In each of these cases, an experienced skipper will accompany you throughout the outing and can assist you with any of your needs.

The group experience is guaranteed with a minimum of 6 participants.

Boat excursion until sunset, departing from Avola with a stop in Marzamemi.

You will leave for about 3:30 pm and visit from the sea Noto Marina, Calamosche, the Vendicari Nature Reserve and San Lorenzo.

Once you arrive at Marzamemi you will make a stop and get off the boat to visit the small town. You will then get back on the boat until you arrive at Capo Passero Island.

Return is scheduled for 8:00 pm.

During the outing you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products accompanied by prosecco to be consumed on board.

In addition, there are several stops to swim in the sea and you will be able to use the equipment on board to snorkel.

For this experience you can choose from 3 options with the same itinerary:

•    Shared excursion with other participants aboard a raft, for a maximum of 12 people. The boat must carry at least 6 people on board.
•    Private excursion with the entire raft exclusively, for a maximum of 10 people
•    Private excursion aboard a boat, for a maximum of 5 people

In each of these cases, an experienced skipper will accompany you throughout the outing and can assist you with any of your needs.