best islands to visit for 4 days

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

By Brian Major

I’ve been fortunate to travel widely across the Caribbean over the last 30 years. I’m also a descendant of Caribbean people, so many folks assume I’ve visited every island. Not likely—the Caribbean consists of 28 islands encompassing just over one million square miles. So while I’ve visited most, there are still a handful I’ve yet to encounter. But that’s a good thing. Many know the Caribbean of picture-perfect views —all lush green hillsides, soft beaches, sunny skies, sun loungers, and poolside cocktails. But that’s really just the white-sandy surface of this region, where each island has something distinct to offer. On Dominica , hiking is unmatched, notably its Boiling Lake, a flooded fumarole located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, where you can traverse across the rim of an active volcano. The best island hopping is in the British Virgin Islands , while Barbados is the action island, where the historic Garrison horse racing takes place year-round.

If you’re looking to soak up some winter sun by a pool lounger and nothing more, then any island in the Caribbean will do—the hotels in St Barth's are amongst some of the best in the world. But if you’re willing to dig a little deeper and venture beyond the resort gates, these are the best islands in the Caribbean.

Which is the best Caribbean island for families?

When little travelers are involved, the ease of a resort jam-packed with activities can take the strain off parents and let everyone enjoy the trip. For this reason, Barbados is the ideal Caribbean island for families, and there’s everything from larger, more affordable resorts to smaller boutique offerings. For intergenerational holidays and trips with slightly older children, consider hiring out a villa— Oliver’s Travels allows customers to filter results by ‘great for kids.’

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best island for: action

Barbados might just be one of the best all-rounder islands in the Caribbean. Some of the top hotels in the region are found here, as are some of the best beaches, all accessible to the public—there are no private beaches in Barbados. Poolside beverages are spiked with rum, distilled on the island and best learnt about at St. Nicholas Abbey, a plantation house, museum, and rum distillery. Those looking for more diverse action can find it at the heritage railway, the racing car circuit, and the Garrison Savannah, a popular horse race that takes place throughout the year. And then there are the surrounding reefs, where you can swim with turtles, snorkel with seahorses, and spy whales in winter months.

Where to stay: Sandy Lane Hotel is one of the most glamorous hotels on the island complete with a British or American country club vibe—there are three golf courses on the hotel grounds. For something more low-key, Little Good Harbour ’s rooms feel more like private cottages and its fuss-free restaurant, The Fish Post, is beloved as one of the best in Barbados. For more ideas, consult our list of the best all-inclusive resorts on the island .

Best island for: romance

The Caribbean is synonymous with honeymoons but it's St Lucia that tops them all when it comes to serving up romance. You can thank the island’s mountainous landscape for that—it’s all about a room with a view of the 2,000-foot high Piton mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the island’s calling card.

There’s adventure to be found too, like exhilarating zip lines high above the island’s rainforest canopy or mud baths in Sulphur Springs, a geothermically active basin of hot springs and fumaroles within the the dormant Qualibou volcano in Soufrière.

Where to stay: Coconut Bay is the biggest crowd pleaser on the island—all inclusive and catering to couples, families, and even wedding parties. For something more private, Ladera is an eco-lodge where rustic suites have private plunge pools. See our edit of the best resorts in St Lucia for more.

Best island for: beaches

In a region characterized by beautiful beaches , Anguilla has the best in the region. Partly for their mesmerizing ribbon of blue water but also because their powdery white sands invariably host only a handful of other beach-goers. There are 33 beaches in total, and while each one I’ve encountered has been memorable, the standouts to see include Cove Bay, Maundays Bay, Rendezvous Bay, and Shoal Bay.

Anguilla is also a worthy choice for its culinary scene. Refreshingly there are no chain restaurants on the island. Instead, restaurants and eateries tend to be small family-run businesses. If you visit just one, make it Tasty’s, which serves up a stellar coconut-crusted fish and marinated conch salad by Anguillan chef Dale Carty.

Where to stay: The Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is the newest shiny address on the island, with seven restaurants and bars and a fleet of private jets transporting guests to and from the property. Find more editor-vetted Anguilla hotels here .

British Virgin Islands

Best island for: island hopping

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) territory has few chain restaurants and no large hotels or mass tourism attractions. Instead, you’ll encounter turquoise waters, lush green hillsides, and distinctive cuisine and culture across the four main islands: Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda.

Hopping from island to island—whether via public ferry or private catamaran—is the characteristic way to explore the BVI. On my last visit I sailed to Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay, home to casual beachfront eateries serving dangerously delicious rum cocktails and locally caught fish. Another fantastic spot is Willy T’s Floating Bar and Restaurant near Norman Island. Moored offshore, the cargo ship has been converted into an ultra-relaxed eatery.

Where to stay: Located on a broad, secluded calm-water bay on Virgin Gorda, Rosewood Little Dix Bay has 80 villas and suites each staffed with a personal butler. The Reef House is one of three restaurants and features farm-to-fork dining with fresh provisions sourced locally.

Shannon McMahon

Chris Schalkx

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Best island for: diving

The calm waters surrounding Dominica make it one of the best diving spots in the world. The rainbow-colored seascape is best viewed at Champagne Reef, named for its bubbling waters generated by volcanic thermal springs rising from on the ocean floor. The reef also comprises plummeting cliffs, towering volcanic formations and the remains of a 17th-century Spanish shipwreck.

Another highlight is L'Abym, a dive site located on the island’s southern tip and suited to all skill levels due to Soufriere Bay’s gentle current. Underwater wonders are visible from 20 feet below the surface right down to a 1,500-foot maximum depth. An underwater wall extending its entire length gives the site its name.

Where to stay: Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski is the smartest place to stay on the island. All of the classic hallmarks are here—a full service spa, four swimming pools—but it’s the lush grounds, which incorporate Cabrits National Park, that make this spot memorable.

Best island for: natural beauty

Grenada’s 133 archipelagic square miles are laced with waterfalls, hot springs and tropical rainforests across three main islands: Grenada, Petit Martinique, and Carriacou. Ringed by 45 white- and nine black-sand beaches, the hilly isles are dotted with acres of fruit and spice trees.

One-ninth of Grenada’s land mass is dedicated to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, best seen on a guided hike of Grand Etang Forest Reserve. Sister Island Carriacou is a worthy day trip too, especially for the top-shelf diving and snorkeling.

Where to stay: Few places capture Grenada's understated magic like the Silversands Grenada resort , found at the sleepy end of the two-mile Grand Anse Beach. The biggest draw here is the 330-foot infinity pool, said to be the longest in the Caribbean, which stretches from the hotel’s entrance all the way to the sea.

Puerto Rico

Best island for: history and culture

There’s a distinct energy to Puerto Rico , one that draws upon a fascinating blend of Hispanic, African, American, and Caribbean culture and history. To see it start in colonial San Juan , the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas. Head to the old town where cobblestone streets are lined with colorful Spanish buildings housing trendy bars, boutique shopping and all-night entertainment.

Hundreds of thousands of Africans arrived in Puerto Rico via forced migration in the colonial era. Their contributions to the island’s culture, art, music and cuisine live on today in Loiza, home to Puerto Rico’s largest Black population. You can witness it via the artwork on display at Samuel Lind Studio, or at the Don Rafael Cepeda School of Bomba and Plena which puts on traditional music and dance workshops.

Where to stay: Caribe Hilton is within walking distance of historic Old San Juan and the Condado entertainment district. Designed in tropical modernist style by legendary Puerto Rican firm Toro Ferrer, the grounds incorporate 17 acres of tropical landscaping as well as nine restaurants and an oceanfront pool complex. See our edit of the best hotels in Puerto Rico for more.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Best island for: visiting two islands in one trip

Lush natural beauty and historic attractions are the hallmarks of this twin-island nation. Most travelers visit both islands, as smaller Nevis is a breezy 20-minute ferry ride from larger St. Kitts. Sightseeing on St. Kitts is best done via the scenic train—the only working railway in the Caribbean—which circumnavigates the island on routes that once transported plantation sugar cane. Another highlight is the Brimstone Hill fortress, built of hand-chiseled stones by enslaved Kittitians and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stand among the fort’s ramparts and cannon while taking in panoramic views of neighboring Saba, Statia, St. Maarten, and St. Barths .

Tiny Nevis’ resplendent landscape is overlooked by 3,232-foot high Nevis Peak, located at its center and visible from virtually every point on the island. Mountainside hiking and ATV tours uncover haunting ruins of colonial-era plantations and sugar mills.

Where to stay: Hide away in one of the traditional West Indian–inspired cottages at Belle Mont Farm . As the name suggests, dining here is farm-to-table, serving up freshly foraged organic fruit and vegetables plus seafood plucked straight out of the ocean.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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The 12+ Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in 2023 [Month-by-Month Guide]

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Table of Contents

Why visit the caribbean, when to visit the caribbean, these are the 12 best caribbean islands to visit, best caribbean islands to visit in winter and spring, best caribbean islands to visit in summer and fall, best caribbean islands to visit by month, final thoughts.

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With hundreds of islands, the Caribbean offers an array of destinations for travelers seeking a vacation with sand, sun, and crystal clear waters. Located just southeast of the U.S., it’s relatively easy to get to many Caribbean destinations from numerous U.S. hubs.

From family-friendly islands to honeymoon destinations, affordable escapes, and seasonal options, these are the best islands to visit in the Caribbean.

A Caribbean vacation offers travelers a fun-in-the-sun getaway, but there’s also so much more to get out of a Caribbean vacation. Caribbean vacationers can explore history, culture, cuisine, adventure, and incredible natural landscapes, such as volcanoes, waterfalls, bioluminescent bays, and unique flora and fauna.

It’s easy to get to the Caribbean from many U.S. destinations and airports, and U.S. travelers don’t have to worry about jet lag like they would when visiting islands like Fiji or Bali.

Divers and snorkelers may find the Caribbean especially enticing, as it’s home to some of the most exotic marine life in the world, as well as sea turtles and whales. The islands are also known for having friendly and welcoming locals, as well as iconic Carnival celebrations and festivals throughout the year.

Although the Caribbean islands have a hot and tropical climate year-round, it’s important to understand that most destinations have 2 main seasons: rainy and dry. The dry season from December to May is usually when visitors can enjoy the best weather. The rainy season is from June to November and includes the Atlantic hurricane season. The months of the edges of each of these seasons are considered the shoulder seasons.

Visiting during the rainy or shoulder season may offer better deals on airfare, activities, and hotels. Rainy season could mean sunny skies most of the day with an occasional tropical rain shower, or it could bring a hurricane.

The Caribbean is divided into 3 groups: The Bahamas, Greater Antilles, and Lesser Antilles . Although The Bahamas aren’t technically in the Caribbean Sea, these islands are still considered part of CARICOM, the Caribbean Community. Also, Turks and Caicos is part of the Lucayan Archipelago alongside The Bahamas.

However, most travelers aren’t too particular about such distinctions, so we’ve included both The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos in our roundup. After all, these islands offer what most Caribbean travelers are seeking, such as crystal clear waters and fine white sands.

Read on to learn about the best places to visit in the Caribbean and what type of traveler each island caters to, as well as the best Caribbean islands to visit by season and month.

1. Best Caribbean Island To Visit on a Budget: Jamaica

Excepting Jamaica’s luxurious Sandals resorts, the island can be a rather affordable destination for travelers who want a budget Caribbean vacation . Low-cost air carrier Spirit offers cheap flights from Fort Lauderdale (FLL) or flights with a layover in FLL from hubs including Chicago (ORD) or Dallas (DFW) for less than $280 round trip on select winter dates.

A quick search on Booking.com revealed many hotels under $100 per night, such as the charming Westender Inn , an oceanfront property with a pool and garden. For under $200 per night, you can lounge on the crystalline sands of the Sand and Tan Beach Hotel in Ocho Rios or enjoy grand sea views at the Hotel Grand A View .

Once in Jamaica, there are plenty of affordable activities to do during your stay. Lounge on the blissful Seven Mile Beach (which, despite its name, is actually only 4 miles long), or pop into a reggae bar to listen to the locals jam from your hammock.

If you’re really in the market for an affordable escape, use your points and miles to fly to the Caribbean — we detail the best ways to do so.

2. Best Family-Friendly Caribbean Island: The Bahamas

From pirates to marine life to endless fun in the sun, The Bahamas offers everything a family with young children, teens, or even older adults could ever want. The massive resort complex Atlantis on Paradise Island, home to 5 different hotels, offers family-friendly services like stroller rentals, plus kids 6 and under eat free. There’s also an on-site water park and kids’ club activities. Teens will love the Atlantis underwater video arcade and the teen-only nightclub.

Meanwhile, Nassau is one of the best Caribbean islands for kids, thanks to its interactive Pirates of Nassau Museum , a fit for kids of all ages. You can get up close and personal with wildlife, such as flamingoes at Ardastra Gardens , a wildlife center that also features pigs, monkeys, and other animals. And it’s not just the most developed islands in The Bahamas that cater to kids. The serene stretches of soft sands and calm waters on islands like Exuma or the Abacos are some of the best Caribbean Islands to visit with toddlers, ideal for little kids to run, play, and shout to their hearts’ content.

3. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for All-Inclusive Resorts: Dominican Republic

One of the best Caribbean Islands to visit for all-inclusive hotels is the Dominican Republic , thanks to resort areas like Punta Cana, La Romana, and Puerta Plata, all home to numerous resorts that offer all-inclusive packages.

Punta Cana has endless options for all-inclusive travelers , whether you’re on your honeymoon or on the hunt for a family-friendly all-inclusive resort. Choose from the luxury of the Sanctuary Cap Cana (a Marriott resort), the contemporary, family-friendly Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana (home to a water park), and the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana (adults only), plus 2 new Hyatt Sunscape Resorts opening in 2024 and an all-inclusive, adults-only W Punta Cana coming in 2025 (one of the first all-inclusive W properties in the world).

If you’re hoping to book a Hyatt resort in the Dominican Republic for your next Caribbean getaway, you can save 40% when booking by December 13, 2023 .

What does all-inclusive mean ? Find out how to get your money’s worth at an all-inclusive hotel in our detailed article.

4. Best Caribbean Island To Visit With Friends: Anguilla

Anguilla is known as one of the friendliest islands in the Caribbean , which means visiting with friends will be lots of fun. You can interact with locals at the beach parties of Sandy Ground Beach and enjoy participating in the local culture, including Anguilla’s Carnival celebrations, which happen each summer and include boat races, street jams, and parades. The U.S. State Department has also named Anguilla one of the safest Caribbean islands ( marked as a Level 1 ) to visit, so you and your friends should be able to frolic freely without worry.

Anguilla has quite a bit of diversity in what to do on your vacation. Of course, there are those stunning Caribbean beaches, like the picture-perfect Shoal Bay or the pinkish-hued sunsets of Mead Bay. Friends can also hit up art galleries, visit museums, go snorkeling or diving, birdwatch, and share a meal on the famous island of Scilly Cay, a tiny island home to the Gorgeous Scilly Cay Restaurant , where you can dine on local grilled lobster or Caribbean-inspired surf and turf.

5. Best Caribbean Island To Visit on a Honeymoon: St. Lucia

One of the best Caribbean islands for a honeymoon , St. Lucia’s breathtaking scenery, gorgeous hotels, and impressive natural wonders make it the perfect Caribbean island to visit as a couple . Visitors can admire the island’s emblematic backdrop, the moss-covered Piton Mountains that seem to rise directly out of the sea. Choose from world-class resorts such as Jade Mountain , home to its own chocolate farm and laboratory, and Hyatt’s all-inclusive Zoetry Marigot Bay , flanked with verdant foliage.

Pigeon Island National Park is one of the best spots on the island for couples who want to experience history, a wooded islet home to former British forts. Nature buffs should explore the cascading waterfalls, dense rainforest, and sulfur springs near Soufrière.

The only thing better than a honeymoon in St. Lucia is a free one. You can redeem World of Hyatt points to stay at Hyatt’s AMR Collection properties across the Caribbean. To stock up on Hyatt points, apply for The World of Hyatt Credit Card or earn flexible points that can transfer to the World of Hyatt program with a card such as the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  or  Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card .

6. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for Endless Beaches: Antigua

The Caribbean is indeed known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But not every island is created equal, and some have more beaches and better beaches than other destinations. Antigua wins for quantity when it comes to beaches, with around 365 different sandy stretches — you could spend a year there and never go to the same beach twice!

However, the large number of beaches can make it difficult to decide which ones to visit, especially if your trip is just a week long and not a year. We recommend Half Moon Bay, a crescent-shaped stretch of sand with a reef for snorkeling. Ffryes Beach is the one to visit for photos of sparkling sands and transparent waters, especially beautiful around sunset.

7. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for First Timers: Cayman Islands

Between the 3 different Cayman Islands, first-time travelers can get a true taste of what a Caribbean vacation is all about. Grand Cayman, the largest and most popular of the 3, is the perfect place to start , offering visitors a more curated, traditional resort stay and access to perfect Caribbean sands and waters, as well as plenty of dining, amenities, and activities. We love the Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa , an IHG resort located directly on the famous Seven Mile Beach.

Those looking for something more off-the-beaten-path will also find it in Cayman on the other 2 smaller islands: Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Both of these islands are known for offering incredible marine life accessible to snorkelers and divers, plenty of solitude, and a general far-flung, deserted island feel.

8. Best Caribbean Island To Visit Solo: British Virgin Islands

Some Caribbean islands are safer than others, and solo visitors should feel comfortable heading to the British Virgin Islands : Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke — plus more than 50 other tiny islands and cays. It holds the lowest travel safety advisory rating (a 1) from the U.S. State Department . This means travelers should exercise normal caution.

Often referred to as BVI, these islands offer comfortable and luxurious resorts like the Rosewood Little Dix Bay or Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina (unfortunately, no longer affiliated with Marriott) for those that want to relax in style. There are also plenty of secluded beaches and hidden spots to hide away from more mainstream tourism.

Solo travelers who want to make new friends should head to Cane Garden Bay on Tortola, a picturesque stretch of white sands that features beach bars and hotels with live music, happy hours, and other activities. Another must-see is The Baths in Virgin Gorda, a mix of sea boulders, hidden coves, and white sands accessible by land or boat. Consider heading there first thing in the morning or later in the day to beat the day trippers. For a bit more solitude, consider Anegada, a quieter island known for its wildlife and peaceful beaches.

Don’t have a passport but really want to visit the Caribbean? You can visit the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), which became U.S. territories in 1917: St. John, St. Croix, and St. Thomas.

9. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for Luxury: St. Barts

St. Barts isn’t the easiest Caribbean island to access, which is why high-profile celebrities and athletes often vacation there to get away from the general public and shutter-happy paparazzi. An overseas territory of France, the island oozes French sophistication combined with Caribbean glamour.

Besides the many exclusive luxury hotels, such as   Eden Rock , a seafront property that offers sophisticated amenities like yacht rentals, and the Rosewood Le Guanahani , which feels intimate and secluded, thanks to its 66 rooms and suites, it’s also a paradise for shoppers. Thanks to duty-free status, you’ll pay a lot less tax on luxury goods on the island.

10. Best Caribbean Island for History and Wildlife Buffs: St. Kitts and Nevis

While the 2 islands of St. Kitts and Nevis boast blissful beaches, lush rainforest, and coveted Caribbean waters, the destination is also ideal for those who want to understand more about the culture of the Caribbean . St. Kitts was Great Britain’s first settlement in the Caribbean. Nevis featured the region’s first hotel, the Bath Hotel, which dates back to the 18th century. These days, when it comes to hotels, we favor the elevated Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour .

Learn more about the island’s history at the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Animal lovers may also enjoy the fact that this island is home to hundreds of free-roaming vervet monkeys. Just don’t get too close to them! Between the months of June and September, visitors can spot 3 different species of turtles hatching: the hawksbill, the leatherback, and the green turtle.

11. Best Caribbean Island for Adventure Travelers: Dominica

Known as the nature hub of the Caribbean, Dominica’s viridescent landscape is home to extensive rainforests, tree-covered mountains, dramatic gorges, inviting freshwater lakes and hot springs, and even active volcanoes. The island’s landscape is decidedly unique, from the bubbling saltwater rising up from the sea floor at Champagne Beach to the sulfur springs of Wotten Waven, rumored to have healing properties.

With 3 national parks on the island, there’s much to do in the way of hiking, whether it be to reach a secret waterfall, wander through a cloud forest, or just enjoy dramatic views of the island’s memorable landscape. You can enjoy some of the island’s best natural wonders right from the hotel if you stay at the   InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa , which overlooks the Caribbean Sea and the greenery and volcano of  Cabrits National Park .

12. Best Caribbean Island for Top-Rated Beaches: Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos has some of the very best beaches in the Caribbean, with the whitest, finest sand, and clearest, most enticing waters. Although some may argue that Turks and Caicos isn’t really a part of the Caribbean, we’re including them in this roundup. With 40+ different islands, this archipelago has plenty of sand to go around — and all beaches are public, so you can visit as many as you’d like.

Grace Bay is probably the most famous beach on the islands, often snagging the top spot on best beach lists. It’s home to a reef system, and a portion of it is part of the Princess Alexandra National Park . Long Bay Beach’s winds are ideal for kiteboarders, while families should head to the lagoon waters of Half Moon Bay. AvGeeks should head to Pine Cay Beach, where you can feel the breeze from landing airplanes landing at and taking off from the Pine Cay Airstrip , though definitely don’t expect to spot any 747s.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June until the end of November, so winter and spring are the best times to visit almost any of the Caribbean Islands if you’re looking for sunny, dry weather .

However, with peak season comes peak prices and high crowds, so if you’re visiting during prime time, you might want to consider one of the more affordable Caribbean islands (Jamaica or Dominica) to stay within budget, or one of the more obscure Caribbean islands (Grenada or St. Vincent and the Grenadines) to have a crowd-free Caribbean winter escape.

The ABC islands of Aruba , Bonaire, and Curaçao sit outside of the Atlantic hurricane belt , so they’re less susceptible to major or damaging storms. These are the best places to visit if you’d like to escape to the Caribbean in the summer, which coincides with hurricane season.

The best southern Caribbean islands to visit include St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Barbados, and Grenada, as well as Trinidad and Tobago . These islands are closer to Latin America and are usually less likely to get hit by a hurricane, though they’ve all seen their fair share of intense tropical storms.

Just remember, there are no guarantees when it comes to nature, so if you want to minimize the risk of hurricanes or other tropical storms, visit the Caribbean during the dry season (December to May). The highest risk of hurricanes is from August to October, so you may want to consider avoiding those months in the Caribbean if you’re worried about bad weather.

If you visit the Caribbean during the summer months, make sure to get travel insurance . Don’t forget that many popular credit cards come with travel insurance — we detail some of the best in our guide.

Beyond just hurricanes and budget, there are certain times of year when it’s ideal to visit specific Caribbean islands. From underwater visibility to whale migrations to iconic cultural celebrations, these are the best islands to visit in the Caribbean each month.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in January

Foodies should head to the Cayman Islands in January for the Cayman Cookout , which brings together revered chefs, mixologists, and spirits connoisseurs from around the world (January 9 to 15, 2024). This year’s event also includes a musical performance from the Goo Goo Dolls.

Grenada is another island to visit in January (and the beginning of February), as the destination hosts Grenada Sailing Week . The event (January 28 to February 2, 2024) consists of sailing races and lots of parties back on dry land.

January is one of the sunniest and driest months in the Caribbean, so you’ll likely have excellent weather on all of the islands. Just book ahead to get the best prices, and know that you may encounter crowds this month and in the months following, especially around spring break .

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in February

It’s prime sperm whale season throughout the Caribbean, but especially in Dominica between November and March. Head out on a boat around areas like Scotts Head, Roseau, Layou, and Point Round to admire these gentle giants — just make sure not to lure the animals. You may also spot spotted and spinner dolphins.

For those that want an iconic Carnival experience outside of Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival event (February 12 to 13, 2024) is famous worldwide, featuring parades, partying, and some of the most elaborate costumes you may have ever seen.

Finally, celebrate the leap year and welcome in the month of March with the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta (February 29 to March 3, 2024), home to 4 days of sailing and lots of cuisine and Heineken beer.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in March

March is another perfect month in the Caribbean, with smooth seas for sailing and excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling. Head to Antigua for the Superyacht Challenge (March 11 to 17, 2024) to see boats race for the win.

Or, focus on the delights of the underwater world, diving and snorkeling around the Turks and Caicos Barrier Reef , Grenada’s Molinere Bay  Underwater Sculpture Park , or Bonaire, where the capital of the island, Kralendijk, translates to coral reef.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in April

April brings continued sunshine to the Caribbean, as well as the BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival (April 1 to 7, 2024), home to sailing and lots of fun.

For a unique Caribbean experience, let’s not forget about Cuba , a country a few hundred miles away from Florida. April brings the island’s Afro Cuban Dance Festival (March 30 to April 9, 2024) to Havana. U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba if they meet one of the 12 categories of travel set by the U.S. government , which include things like educational activities, support for Cuban people, public performances, and workshops.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in May

May is an excellent month for travelers looking for the best Caribbean islands to visit on a budget — although there’s just slightly more rainfall, the prices are usually more affordable, and the crowds start to dissipate. It’s the perfect time to visit St. Lucia thanks to the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festiva l (April 30 to May 9), which blends jazz, blues, R&B, swing, calypso, and Latin music with cuisine, dance, craft markets, and more.

This month also brings one of Antigua’s most notable events: Antigua Sailing Week (April 27 to May 3, 2024).

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in June

As the Atlantic hurricane season gets its start, the ABC islands, which have more stable and drier weather, become more popular as they reside outside the Atlantic hurricane belt. This is why heading to Bonaire’s Rum Week (June 12 to 17, 2024) is the optimal plan for travelers who want a trip focusing on Caribbean spirits, cigars, cuisine, and sunshine.

Pineapple lovers should travel to The Bahamas for The Bahamas Pineapple Festival (June 7 to 8, 2024). Here, you can chow down on this flavorful fruit alongside other Bahamian desserts and beverages.

Concerned about the possibility of a hurricane? Consider getting one of these cancel for any reason travel insurance policies .

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in July

July is a month for celebration in the Caribbean . Enjoy Carnival celebrations in St. Vincent and the Grenadines ( Vincy Mas , July 4 to 10, 2024), St. Lucia (July 10 to 17, 2024), and Antigua (July 26 to August 6, 2024).

St. Kitts and Nevis celebrates Restaurant Week (July 13 to 23, 2023), where restaurants around the island will offer special menus around a theme ingredient. The upcoming festival’s ingredient is pineapple.

Finally, Jamaica gets festive with its Reggae Sumfest (July 16 to 22, 2024), featuring nonstop concerts and events.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in August

Brave the heat and humidity to attend Anguilla’s Summer Fest (August 1 to 11, 2024) , celebrating the 50th anniversary of the island’s Carnival history. Events include the Miss Anguilla competition, boat races, concerts, parades, and more.

Both the British Virgin Islands and St. Kitts and Nevis honor their Emancipation Days in August. To celebrate, these destinations feature several days of music, parties, and more.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in September

Hurricane season lasts about half the year. However, the most common time for cyclone activity is around September 10, according to the National Hurricane Center. Still, that doesn’t mean storms will definitely occur around that time. If you’re willing to brave the possibility of hazardous weather (most often intermixed with plenty of sunshine), September happens to be prime turtle-hatching season on many Caribbean islands . Spot them on islands such as Aruba, St. Kitts and Nevis, The Grenadines, and even in Mexico, Florida, and Puerto Rico , too.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in October

Remember, even during the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, the ABC islands often see much less inclement weather , so October is a good time to visit.

If you’re willing to brave a bit of rain, visit St. Lucia, which celebrates its Creole Heritage Month in October. Festivities begin October 1 with Oktoberfest and end on the last Sunday in October to celebrate Creole Day. Or, vacation in Barbados , known as the birthplace of rum. The island celebrates its Food and Rum Festival each October.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in November

November welcomes the final month of hurricane season, so you may see clear skies as the end of the month approaches. Families and adults alike can celebrate at the Pirates Fest in the Cayman Islands . It’s celebrated on all 3 islands (Little Cayman, November 3 to 5, 2023; Grand Cayman, November 9 to 19, 2023; and Cayman Brac, November 24 to 26, 2023). The merriment includes parties, cultural events, turtle releases, costumes, dancing, and plenty of pirate fun.

Those looking for a slightly higher-brow experience than “Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum” can find it in St. Bart’s. The annual St. Barth’s Gourmet Festival (November 7 to 12, 2023) welcomes top chefs and hungry foodies from around the world.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in December

Spending the holidays in the Caribbean is the ideal winter getaway. The weather starts improving, so those in search of winter sun will find warm and drier conditions in nearly all of the Caribbean Islands . However, we suggest a visit to The Bahamas, where 16 of the islands celebrate Junkanoo , which includes dancing, music, and elaborate costumes. The festival occurs on the day after Christmas annually.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Virgin Island of St. Croix celebrates the Crucian Christmas Carnival , which begins in December and culminates on Kings Day, which is January 6.

If the beach and sunshine don’t inspire you around the holidays, consider a trip to Europe, home to some of the world’s best Christmas markets , instead.

With so many islands in the Caribbean, it’s easy to find the right one for you . Whether you’re on a budget, looking for the best beaches, or want to travel in a specific month or season, the wide range of Caribbean islands offers something for every traveler.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What caribbean island should i visit first.

Most Caribbean islands are ideal for first-time visitors, but we suggest heading to the Cayman Islands, which offers a little bit of everything. Islands such as the U.S. Virgin Islands are also easy for first-timers, as you don’t need a passport, and most locals speak English.

What is the cheapest and safest Caribbean island to visit?

One of the most affordable Caribbean islands is Jamaica. Dominica, a more under-the-radar destination, is also cheaper. Visiting any of the Caribbean islands during the low season (June through November) means you may get better prices. The safest Caribbean islands are the British Virgin Islands, ideal for solo travelers, and Anguilla, which markets itself as a very safe Caribbean destination.

Which is the nicest part of the Caribbean?

If you’re looking for a luxury vacation, the nicest part of the Caribbean may be St. Bart’s, an island frequented by the rich and famous. If you’re traveling with your family, The Bahamas is the best Caribbean island to visit with toddlers, children, and teens, with lots to do and see.

Where is the prettiest place in the Caribbean?

The prettiest place in the Caribbean is debatable. Antigua and Turks and Caicos are known for beaches, while islands like Bonaire may be most beautiful underwater, with extensive marine life. If you love natural wonders like waterfalls, hot springs, and rainforests, St. Lucia and Dominica are 2 of the prettiest Caribbean islands.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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• World's Best

The Top 25 Islands in the World in 2021

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite islands in the world .

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The best islands in the world, according to T+L readers, are the kind of Instagram-perfect destinations that travelers fantasize about on winter evenings: dreamy, sun-drenched landscapes surrounded by the bluest waters . And since there's an island destination for everyone, what constitutes "paradise" likely boils down to specific interests — history, culture, heart-pumping adventure, or something else entirely.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.

Looking to spot iguanas lazing about and sea lions playing with snorkelers in the waters off the white beaches? The Galápagos (No. 10) is for you. For unrivaled diving, there is Koh Samui in Thailand (No. 7) and the Philippines' Palawan (No. 19). If you're hoping to spend your days indulging in homemade pasta and wine from local vineyards, consider Sicily (No. 6) or Sardinia (No. 16).

Plenty of options abound for those who want to stay closer to home. "Bring a camera, lots of reading material, and walk the fabulous powdery beach," said one reader of Harbour Island (No. 17), a Bahamian paradise renowned for its pink sands. Another favorite: the volcanic island St. Lucia (No. 20). "Anse Chastanet Beach is beautiful with the black sand and small snorkeling area," shared a voter. "You have to pay a fee for usage, but it is worth it."

As in so many years, it was a Greek island that emerged as readers' top choice. Find out why they consider Mílos No. 1 among the best islands in the world.

1. Mílos, Greece

Located in the middle of the Cycladic islands, Mílos rose from its No. 3 spot last year thanks to friendly locals who welcome visitors to explore the quaint villages (Trypiti is famous for its windmills, Plaka for its sunsets), extraordinary tavernas, and dozens of picturesque beaches that vary in color depending on whether they are formed from shells, stones, or sand. Visitors will find many options for lodging. "We stayed at a small B&B right on the water," shared one reader. "Great location." But if you're looking to spoil yourself, consider splurging on Milos Cove, a minimalist 42-room aerie where private pools offer unrivaled views of the Aegean.

Score: 95.50

2. Folegandros, Greece

Score: 95.47

3. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Score: 91.69

4. Madeira, Portugal

Score: 91.56

5. Andaman Islands, India

Score: 91.24

6. Sicily, Italy

Score: 90.49

7. Koh Samui, Thailand

Score: 90.34

8. Bali, Indonesia

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 90.32

9. Island of Hawaii

Score: 90.06

10. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Score: 90.00

11. Kauai, Hawaii

Score: 89.88

12. Maui, Hawaii

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 89.76

13. Santorini, Greece

Score: 89.61

14. Maldives

Score: 89.55

15. Hvar and the Dalmatian Islands, Croatia

Score: 89.10

16. Sardinia, Italy

Score: 88.75

17. Harbour Island, Bahamas

Score: 88.74

Score: 88.72

19. Palawan, Philippines

Score: 88.63

20. St. Lucia

Score: 88.41

21. Mallorca, Spain

Score: 88.39

22. Anguilla

Score: 88.25

23. Eleuthera, Bahamas

Score: 88.20

24. (tie) Seychelles

Score: 88.00

24. (tie) Sri Lanka

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

Related Articles

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Cape Cod Itinerary

Published on February 7, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a 2, 3 or 4 days in Cape Cod itinerary is one of the best ways to experience the gem of coastal Massachusetts. A picturesque peninsula nestled just south of Boston and east of Providence, Cape Cod is one of the East Coast’s most sought-after destinations.

An iconic area of coastal New England, Cape Cod boasts charming seaside villages, beautiful beaches, and a fascinating maritime history.

Whether you’re keen to indulge in local seafood, swim in the Atlantic, wander around local galleries, or enjoy the peninsula’s abundant nature, Cape Cod is a fantastic East Coast vacation destination.

Table of Contents

How Many Days on Cape Cod?

Deciding on how many days to spend in Cape Cod is a crucial step in planning your trip. For a shorter weekend getaway, a well-planned 2 days in Cape Cod can offer a wonderful experience by focusing on a specific town or area.

However, 3 days in Cape Cod or even 4 days are often ideal if you’re seeking a balanced experience, providing the opportunity to visit multiple towns, including the nearby islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard.

This time frame allows you to immerse yourself in the unique charm, historic landmarks, and history of the region.

For those who prefer a leisurely pace, extending your trip to over a week allows you to fully savor each stop and explore the diverse offerings of the area.

Getting To & Around Cape Cod

Thanks to its convenient location near the urban hubs of Boston and Providence, getting to the peninsula of Cape Cod is a pretty easy journey.

Unless you’re visiting from local areas or traveling by car, you’ll most likely be arriving at Cape Cod by air. The closest major airport, Boston Logan International Airport, is approximately a 90-minute drive from the Cape. Alternatively, Providence’s T.F. Green Airport is about a two-hour drive away.

Another option, although seasonal, is to take a ferry from Boston, Providence, or Plymouth to the Cape.

Due to these journeys being seasonal and quite busy tourist routes, prices can be high for some routes, but are completely worth it if you’re hoping to have easy transportation as well as stunning views over Cape Cod. You can book tickets here from Boston.

Without a doubt, the best way to get around Cape Cod is by car. With a car, you’ll be allowed the flexibility to go to/from the various towns and islands as you please, and with Cape Cod being an area that’s meant to be savored slowly, this will only enhance your trip to one of America’s first settlements. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices if you need to rent a car.

If you don’t have a car during your visit, Cape Cod also offers an extensive public transportation system, including buses and ferries, making it fairly easy to navigate without your own transportation.

The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides local bus services, connecting the peninsula’s major towns and attractions.

Additionally, if you’re keen to visit Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard, ferry services are available year-round, bringing you from the stretching peninsula to the charming islands.

Moreover, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll have the opportunity to take advantage of the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a scenic bike path that spans the length of the peninsula.

The classic New England scenery is unrivaled, and the route is quite easy to navigate, whether you’re an experienced cycler or rookie. Even if you’re not keen to ride from town to town on Cape Cod, getting around by bicycle is a great and local way to navigate around each town or island that you stay in.

2, 3 or 4-Day Cape Cod Itinerary

Easily one of the most beloved vacation destinations on the East Coast of the United States, Cape Cod is the ideal blend of charm, history, nature, and culture.

Day 1 – Sandwich

As Sandwich is one of the first towns on the peninsula in the upper cape, as well as the oldest town, it’s a wonderful starting point for your trip.

Town Neck Beach & Sandwich Boardwalk

An ideal way to begin a day in Sandwich is with a visit to the enchanting Town Neck Beach. Here you’ll have the opportunity to catch fresh, Atlantic views and breeze, as you stroll along the sandy shores of Town Neck Beach.

The beach itself is usually quite calm, with few crowds and long stretches of sand to relax, so there’s no worry about having to squeeze for space and tranquility.

After spending time at Town Neck Beach, make sure to head to the nearby Sandwich Boardwalk, a historic landmark that extends over the marshes and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and stunning natural beauty of the Cape.

If you’re an early riser, this is easily one of the best spots in the area to capture a breathtaking sunrise, painting the sky with hues of gold and pink.

Scusset Beach State Reservation

Having enjoyed the morning at Town Neck Beach, venture to the Scusset Beach State Reservation if you’re further drawn to the area’s uninterrupted natural beauty. Alternatively, for a dive into history, visit the Hoxie House.

Scusset Beach State Reservation is easily one of the most popular and visited parks/reservations in the Sandwich area, and with good reason.

With panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay and the Sagamore Bridge, this serene state reservation offers 1.5 miles of sandy shores, pristine waters, and picturesque trails. While entry to the park is free, parking fees are incurred between May 14 through October 30.

Hoxie House

One of the best ways to dig deeper into Cape Cod’s colonial history is to visit Hoxie House, one of the oldest homes in Cape Cod.

Dating back to 1675, it stands as one of the oldest homes on Cape Cod, preserving the 17th-century architecture, saltbox-style dwelling, constructed by Reverend John Smith’s son-in-law. The house showcases noteworthy furnishings and artifacts, giving a glimpse into everyday colonial life, and a visit makes a great start to a trip to the historic Cape Cod region.

Tickets typically include a short guided tour, depending on when you visit.

Sandwich Village

After a morning and afternoon of natural and historical exploration, make your way through Sandwich Village for a pleasant shopping experience, where you’ll find a wide array of local gifts and shops.

From handmade jewelry to Cape Cod-inspired art, the village shops provide an opportunity to take home a piece of Cape Cod with you.

End your day with a delicious meal at one of Sandwich’s charming and well-renowned restaurants, savoring fresh seafood or regional specialties. The Belfry Inn and Bistro is a great choice, with a varied selection of dishes set in homes from the 1800s.

Day 2 – Provincetown

Next, you’ll head to likely one of the most well-known towns on Cape Cod, on the far end of the outer cape, Provincetown. Best known for being home to the site of the Mayflower’s landing in 1620, Provincetown is now a town rich in both history and modern culture.

Depending on where you’re coming or going from, consider a stop in the town of Yarmouth or at the iconic Chatham Pier Fish Market while en route to Provincetown.

Provincetown Museum & Pilgrim Monument

A wonderful way to begin your day in Provincetown, is with a visit to the Provincetown Museum & Pilgrim Monument, to better acquaint yourself with the area and its history.

Located atop High Pole Hill, the museum provides panoramic views of the town and harbor, while the Pilgrim Monument, the tallest all-granite structure in the United States, offers the chance to experience sweeping views across Cape Cod and the Atlantic Coast.

Here, you’ll be able to explore the exhibits showcasing Provincetown’s colonial and maritime history, as well as the influential role it played in early American theater.

Although only seasonal, like many museums on Cape Cod, it’s undoubtedly worth a visit.

Lunch at the Lobster Pot

After spending time learning about Provincetown and its history, indulge in a quintessential Cape Cod dining experience at the Lobster Pot.

Nestled on the main street of Provincetown – Commercial Street -, this iconic seafood restaurant has been serving up delectable dishes – including lobster rolls, fresh oysters, fried clams and more – since 1979. With an endearing waterfront location, there are few better spots in Provincetown to enjoy some delicious, New England fare.

Race Point Lighthouse

After a satisfying lunch, head to Race Point Beach to explore the iconic Race Point Lighthouse.

Perched on the rugged edge of Provincetown and on the National Register of Historic Places, Race Point Lighthouse stands as a proud guardian overlooking the Cape Cod coast of the Atlantic Ocean.

Dating back to 1816, the lighthouse has guided ships through the treacherous Atlantic waters, giving it a pivotal role in maritime history. Over the years, this iconic Provincetown landmark has become a symbol of Cape Cod’s seafaring heritage, offering a glimpse into the rich maritime legacy while providing stunning views of the surrounding Atlantic Ocean.

Tours and entry to the lighthouse are free, with donations suggested to help manage the upkeep of the lighthouse, and more information can be found here.

Cape Cod National Seashore

Just about 30 minutes outside of Provincetown, is the peninsula’s pride and joy, as well as the only national park in the area, the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Discovering the Cape Cod National Seashore offers a wide array of outdoor experiences and spans the upper and lower cape, from untarnished beaches and salt marshes, to sand dunes, and historic lighthouses lining the Atlantic coast.

Spanning an expansive 40 miles of shoreline, the seashore holds a strong appeal for both nature lovers and history buffs, whether you prefer wandering the park’s trails, dazing at the beach, or learning about the area’s maritime history.

Whale/Dolphin Watching

One of the best ways to end your day in Provincetown is with a whale and dolphin watching adventure.

Provincetown is renowned for its whale and dolphin watching opportunities, and venturing into the wild Atlantic offers an up-close experience with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain insights into their behavior and habitat. This excursion not only offers a thrilling encounter but also will give you a deeper understanding of marine life and conservation in the area.

Day 3 – Martha’s Vineyard

While the first two days of your trip to Cape Cod will be spent on the mainland peninsula, the second two are best spent further on the area’s islands, first on Martha’s Vineyard

There are multiple ferries from the mainland leaving from both Hyannis and Woods Hole, but keep in mind that if you’re travelling by car, ferries with car transport are less common than pedestrian ferries, so make sure to reserve in advance.

You can organise a group island tour or a private tour once you arrive on the island.

Oak Bluffs Campground

Begin your day trip to Martha’s Vineyard by exploring a unique part of the island’s history at the Oak Bluffs Campground. Oak Bluffs Campground holds a rich history dating back to the 19th century.

Originally established as a religious retreat, it then evolved into a charming community of over 300 iconic, Victorian cottages adorned with intricate gingerbread trim.

While visiting, you can explore this historic area while admiring its unique architecture and learning about its significance in the island’s heritage. Guided tours are available, offering a look into the camp’s past, as well as how it’s used in the present.

After exploring the distinctive Oak Bluffs Campground, head to Edgartown, a quaint, historic whaling town that will transport you to a bygone era with its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and classic New England charm.

While in Edgartown, head to the picturesque harbor, visit the Edgartown Lighthouse, and learn more about the island’s seafaring history at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum.

Aquinnah Cliffs

Your next stop will be at Aquinnah Cliffs, one of the island’s most popular spots for visitors and locals alike.

Here you can marvel at one of the most stunning natural formations on Martha’s Vineyard, where vibrant clay cliffs overlook the Atlantic Ocean. While in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic Gay Head Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views.

The town of Aquinnah is also quite lovely and is home to the Wampanoag Tribe, offering a stunning natural escape and a chance to appreciate the island’s natural beauty, not far off from the mainland.

Vineyard Haven Harbor

For dinner, I suggest going to Vineyard Haven Harbor, a picturesque harbor on Martha’s Vineyard, with bustling marinas, charming waterfront shops, and panoramic views of the harbor.

There is nothing more akin to a quintessential Martha’s Vineyard experience than eating fresh seafood with a brisk Atlantic breeze while watching elegant sailboats and yachts drift by.

Day 4 – Nantucket

From the Hyannis ferry terminal on the mainland, Nantucket is about an hour away by ferry. While Martha’s Vineyard is the much larger island, Nantucket is an exciting destination in its own right, with further history, nature, and serenity.

Whaling Museum

One of the best ways to understand Nantucket’s captivating maritime past is at the Whaling Museum, an institution that preserves and showcases the island’s rich seafaring heritage.

Within a historic candle factory, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through time, with exhibits detailing the island’s pivotal role in the whaling industry.

In the museum, you’ll witness artifacts ranging from scrimshaw and harpoons to intricately crafted ship models, each telling a story of Nantucket’s deep connection to the Atlantic Ocean, marine life, and coast.

Guided tours are available, giving an even deeper understanding of the importance of the whaling industry to the local area and the Industrial Revolution.

Sconset Bluff Walk

For a dose of Nantucket’s stunning scenic beauty, head along Nantucket’s enchanting coastline with the Sconset Bluff Walk, a picturesque trail that winds its way through the quaint village of Siasconset.

As you meander along the cliffside path, you’ll have the treat of breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out to the horizon and the charming rose-covered cottages that line the bluffs, with their vibrant hues contrasting against the rugged coastal landscape.

Cisco Brewery

While Nantucket is deep in natural and historic appeal, it’s also a popular spot for craft beer aficionados, with a few craft breweries on the island.

Nestled amidst Nantucket’s stunning landscapes, Cisco Brewery offers a laid-back ambiance with deliciously crafted local beers. Founded by a group of friends with a shared passion for brewing, the brewery has become a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.

Outside the brewery, the sprawling beer garden buzzes with energy, with live music performances, food trucks serving up delectable bites, and friendly locals, happy to be enjoying the Nantucket sun with friends and family.

Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply seeking a laid-back afternoon, Cisco Brewery offers a quintessential Nantucket experience that’s not to be missed.

Sunset Harbor Cruise

As the sun begins to descend over the shimmering waters of Nantucket Harbor, one of the best ways to round out your 4 days in Cape Cod, is on a sunset harbor cruise for an unforgettable evening.

These cruises offer a relaxing and scenic way to unwind after a day of exploration and a wonderful trip. With various operators offering cruises departing from the harbor, you’ll have options to choose from based on your preferences and schedule.

Typically lasting around 1–2 hours, these cruises provide ample time to enjoy the breathtaking views of the sunset casting its warm glow over the harbor and surrounding coastline. Be sure to book your cruise in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your spot as these book up quite quickly.

Where to Stay in Cape Cod

Pilgrim House – Located right on Commercial Street in Provincetown, this quaint B&B is a great base in Cape Cod. There are several queen rooms, king rooms and suites available along with an on-site restaurant and bar.

Frederick William House – Situated in the town of Falmouth, this plush inn is great for visitors after an upscale stay. There are lots of rooms to choose from (along with a two-bedroom house) and the property offers free bikes, free parking and breakfast daily.

Private Rental – If you’d like your own apartment or house – like this beachside bungalow in Provincetown – there are countless options available in Cape Cod.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cape Cod hotels!

Cape Cod’s wonderful blend of natural beauty, interesting history, and coastal charm makes it a destination that promises a memorable vacation for every kind of traveler.

Are you planning to visit Cape Cod? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

17 Best Stops on a Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Boston Itinerary

Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket: Which Island to Visit?

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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• Travel Inspiration

8 Caribbean Resorts for a Short Getaway From the East Coast

See recent posts by Toby Orton

Whether you’re looking to break up the long, cold winter or simply think the sound of a weekend beach break is the ideal way to start the new year, a short Caribbean getaway should do the trick. Sure, a week in the sun seems ideal, but there are several destinations that are perfect for all those times you just need a quick fix. From Puerto Rico to Punta Cana, the Caribbean getaways that are best for a short break are the ones that will give you the most from your limited time. Below, we’ve factored in resort locations, quantity and quality of activities, and flight durations from New York City, Boston, and Washington, D.C. to bring you eight of the best Caribbean resorts for a short getaway.

1. San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Puerto Rico

The Pool at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino/Oyster

Direct flight time from New York City, Washington, D.C., and Boston: Approximately four hours 

While the flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico is not a hop on, hop off affair (it’s approximately four hours direct from New York City, Washington, D.C., and Boston), once you arrive, you’ll realize it’s worth the travel time. The vibrant city of San Juan has everything you need for four days of fun. San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino , which happens to be about a 10-minute drive from the airport, has direct access to Condado Beach, several restaurants and bars, and a casino if you’re feeling lucky — which, let’s face it, you are because you’re in Puerto Rico. The resort has enough to explore (there’s a spa with sauna, a pool complex with swim-up bar, and more), but there’s plenty of culture to be found beyond it. The historic Old San Juan and its attractions are a short, 15-minute car ride away. While there, take in the pastel colors and colonial houses, sculptures, museums, and more.

Pricing for San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Dominican Republic

The Sun Pool at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana/Oyster

When you only have a limited amount of time, staying in a place that has plenty of first-class amenities can be a dream. The all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Punta Cana is one such spot. And after an approximately four-hour flight plus a 35-minute taxi ride to the resort, guests will appreciate having everything they need close by. With 1,790 rooms, 13 pools, multiple restaurants, 23 bars, an 18-hole golf course and mini-golf course, casino, a kids’ club, and not to mention, a spectacular beach, the resort gives you the option of staying on-site for the entire duration of your stay. As cliche as it sounds, there really is something for everyone here. However, if you do want to explore Punta Cana, a fun way to get around is by water taxi, which will pick you up from your resort and sail you along the coast.

Pricing for Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana

3. Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort

Grounds at the Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort/Oyster

Direct flight time from New York City: Approximately four hours

Direct flight time from Washington, D.C.: Approximately three-and-a-half hours

Direct flight time from Boston: Approximately four-and-a-half hours

The 295-room Grand Cayman Marriott Beach may not be the flashiest hotel on Seven Mile Beach, but it’s a favorite among travelers. Why? With direct beach access, solid amenities, and a convenient location, it caters to both families with kids and couples. Rooms are comfy and have balconies, and other resort features include a well-sized pool, two restaurants serving international fare, a small spa, and fitness center.

Pricing for Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort

4. Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa, Hamilton Parish, Bermuda

Beach at the Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa/Oyster

Direct flight time from New York City and Boston: Approximately two hours

Direct flight from from Washington, D.C.: Approximately two-and-a-half hours (during summer months)

Sure, Bermuda is only an honorary or associate member of the Caribbean region (it’s a British Overseas Territory), but being so close to the U.S., this tropical destination can’t be overlooked. Plus, Bermuda has loads of history to go along with its tropical good looks. Calm and quiet, this vacation spot is more about poolside lounging than all-night partying. Recharge your batteries at the Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa , a family-friendly retreat that not only has a large beach with calm waters, but is also mere minutes from the airport. Excursions can be arranged from the hotel and the on-site dive shop offers kayak and snorkel gear rentals. And if your idea of fun means relaxing by the pool with a cocktail in hand, head to the swim-up bar at this bang-for-your-buck resort.

Pricing for Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa

5. Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa

The Aerial Photography at the Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa/Oyster

Direct flight from Boston: Approximately four-and-a-half hours

Direct flight from from Washington, D.C.: Approximately three-and-a-half hours 

Located about a one-hour drive west of Montego Bay, the Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa is a family-friendly all-inclusive resort enjoys a somewhat secluded location on a man-made (rocky) beach. Guests will find little reason to leave, thanks to the 86,000-square-foot pool complex offering an adults-only pool, water park, and whirlpools, a stellar spa (fee), 11 restaurants, late-night entertainment, and several bars. Suites are spacious, and come with furnished balconies or terraces, whirlpool tubs, free minibars, and free Wi-Fi.

Pricing for Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa

6. The Sands at Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos

Beach at the Sands at Grace Bay/Oyster

Direct flight time from New York City: Approximately three-and-a-half hours

Direct flight from Boston: Approximately four hours

One of the most affordable upscale resorts in the area, Sands at Grace Bay holds prime real estate on stunning Grace Bay Beach. The laid-back property has a respectable lineup of facilities, too, including three excellent pools, an above-average restaurant, and a small spa and fitness center. Meanwhile, the 114 studios and suits are well-maintained and modern, featuring kitchens or kitchenettes as well as spacious living areas.

Pricing for The Sands at Grace Bay

7. Melia Habana, Cuba

The Pool at the Melia Habana/Oyster

Direct flight time from Washington, D.C.: Approximately five hours 

Direct flight time from Boston: Approximately six hours 

Combining a resort vacation with a city break, Havana offers two-for-one appeal. And it’s not just the lift on travel restrictions that will lure you to Havana, which is just 20 to 30 minutes from the airport. The historic sights and architecture of Old Havana are enough to fill a weekend, as are the beaches and nature hikes available in the iconic city. Stay at Melia Habana , an upscale resort with sea views and a huge pool that’s the largest of any hotel in the city. Combining resort relaxation and the city’s numerous pleasures is easy thanks to a shuttle bus that runs to Old Havana six times a day. Bonus: Katy Perry and Mick Jagger have both stayed at the Melia Habana — if celebrities are your thing.

Pricing for Melia Habana

8. Melia Nassau Beach — All-Inclusive, Bahamas 

The Premium Oceanview Room at the Melia Nassau Beach Resort/Oyster

Direct flight time from New York City and Washington, D.C.: Approximately three hours

Direct flight time from Boston: Approximately four hours 

Located on beautiful Cabbage Beach, a 15-minute drive from the airport, the sprawling Melia Nassau Beach attracts a mix of families with kids, couples, retired folks, and young groups of friends. Although it’s not within walking distance of other attractions, the property does have three pools (one with a swim-up bar), six restaurants, daily activities, and entertainment. The rooms and suites are tastefully decorated, and have lovely views from balconies. It’s worth noting that there are some tradeoffs that come with a resort of this size — an impersonal feel and long waits for check-in, to be more specific.

Pricing for Melia Nassau Beach - All Inclusive

What to Bring to the Caribbean: Supergoop! Sunscreen

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Best 4-day Krabi Itinerary: What to do in Krabi

This 4-day Krabi itinerary combines adventure, fun, and relaxation, all within a short amount of time. Find all the best things to do in Krabi in 4 days or more!

The Krabi Province is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes. Think jagged limestone cliffs jutting from the ocean, beautiful white-sand beaches , panoramic viewpoints, lush jungle, and the list goes on!

Although 4 days is hardly enough to explore the Andaman coast of Thailand , this Krabi itinerary will show you how to maximize your time to explore some of the most beautiful places, plus a few lesser-known spots. 

So, if you want to know how to spend 4 days in Krabi, here’s a suggested Krabi 4-day itinerary that can easily be modified according to your preferences!

Krabi Travel Essentials

Top Experiences and Tours in Krabi:

• 4 Island Hopping Tour
• Krabi jungle tour: Emerald Pool, Hot Springs, and Tiger Cave Temple
• Hong Island & Hong Lagoon boat tour
• Koh Phi Phi day trip from Krabi

Best Hotels in Krabi:

• Centara Ao Nang Beach  – Luxury
• Ao Nang Cliff Resort – Luxury
• Wake Up Ao Nang – Mid-Range
• Pop-In Hostel – Budget

Get from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang fast by pre-booking your private airport transfer here ( cheaper than booking at the airport! ) or hire a rental car here .

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Read more about Krabi:

• 20 best things to do in Krabi Thailand
• What area is best to stay in Krabi?
• The best Krabi islands to visit
• Ultimate list of the best beaches in Krabi
• 8 Cheap and easy Krabi day trips
• How to travel from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang?
• Most beautiful beaches in Ao Nang Krabi
• Top things to do in Krabi Town Thailand

Table of Contents

4-day Krabi Itinerary Overview

• Day 1 : Railay Beach and Sunset Cruise
• Day 2 : Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill, Tiger Cave Temple, Hot Spring, Emerald Pool, and Thai cooking class
• Day 3 : 4 Island Tour and Krabi Town Night Market
• Day 4 : Hong Island and Pai Plong Beach
• (Optional) Day 5-6 : Koh Lanta

Krabi Itinerary Day 1: Railay Beach and Sunset Cruise

Let’s start this 4-day Krabi itinerary with Railay Beach since it’s very quick and easy to arrange a boat trip from Ao Nang . You can buy tickets along Ao Nang Beach and they cost only 100 baht (US$ 3.30) one way. 

The boat is available anytime from 8 a.m to 6 p.m, but if you leave Railay Beach after 6 p.m, you’ll have to pay 150 baht (US$ 4.95).  

I have a guide on exactly how to get from Ao Nang to Railay Beach , so make sure to check it out.

Once you’re on Railay Beach, the possibilities are endless! Head out to explore the beaches, do some rock climbing or hike to the viewpoints. There’s so much to do on Railay that you’ll probably need to spend the whole day there!

CHECK PRICE FOR A ROCK CLIMBING ACTIVITY ON RAILAY

Railay West

This is where you’ll get the iconic Railay Beach photo with the tall limestone cliffs in the backdrop! The beach is lined with hotels, beach bars, and restaurants, making this spot very busy during the day.

Related post: How to get to Railay Beach + Top things to do!

Tonsai Beach

Located on the right side of Railay Beach, Tonsai is more laidback and less touristy. The beach is accessible on foot during low tide or you can charter a boat to take you there.

Although Tonsai is a popular rock climbing spot, the beach is rarely crowded. There are also a few restaurants and bars close by.

Railay East Viewpoint

This short hike takes you to one of the best viewpoints in Railay! The trail is very steep and slippery, so make sure to wear good hiking shoes. 

Related post: 20 Top attractions in Krabi

Hidden lagoon (Princess Lagoon)

Located within the same area as the viewpoint, the lagoon is completely enclosed by tall limestone cliffs and is best visited during high tide. 

Princess Cave

This must be the weirdest and most popular attraction in Railay! The cave is home to hundreds of wooden phallic shrines!

Phra Nang Beach

This is one of my favorite beaches in Krabi ! The white-sand beach is perfect for swimming and during low tide, you can even walk to the limestone cliff found in the middle of the ocean. There’s also a viewpoint on the western side of Phra Nang beach that’s worth checking out. 

If you want to visit Phra Nang beach as part of a tour, I recommend taking a Krabi 4 Island tour which includes visits to Koh Poda, Chicken Island and Koh Tub.

CHECK PRICE FOR A KRABI 4 ISLAND TOUR

Related post: Guide to visiting Phra Nang Beach & Cave

Krabi Sunset Tour

End the first day of your Krabi itinerary by taking a sunset tour  to some of the most beautiful islands in Krabi . You can simply relax on the boat or jump into the ocean for a swim.

The tour includes a delicious BBQ dinner as well as a selection of fruits and drinks. Snorkeling gear is also provided.

CHECK PRICE FOR A KRABI SUNSET TOUR

Related post: 15 most beautiful beaches in the Krabi Province

Krabi Itinerary Day 2: Jungle Tour + Cooking Class

On day 2 of your Krabi itinerary, take a break from the beaches to explore inland. There are many things to do in Krabi but one of the most popular activities is to go on a jungle tour  which includes visits to the Tiger Cave Temple, Hot Spring, and Emerald Pool. 

CHECK PRICE FOR A KRABI JUNGLE TOUR

Tiger Cave Temple

If tackling 1,237 steps in the Thai humidity doesn’t scare you a bit, the Tiger Cave Temple (also known as Wat Tham Suea) is right up your alley!

This Buddist temple sits on top of a mountain and offers a 360-degree view of the Krabi Province. The steps are steep and uneven in some places, but you won’t regret it when you see the view from the top!

The temple is free to visit but you can leave a small donation. 

Krabi Hot Spring

Head in for a cleansing dip in these natural “hot tubs” averaging between 35 and 40 degrees Celsius. Located in the Khao Phra-Bang Khram Nature Reserve, the hot springs are heated by underground volcanic chambers and join together to form a small waterfall.

The entrance fee is 200 baht for adults and 100 baht for children.

Emerald Pool

In contrast to the hot springs, the Emerald Pool is a large cool lake with crystal-clear water. The pool is located within the same nature reserve and can be reached by taking the 800-meter or 1.4-km trail through the jungle.

The entrance fee is 400 baht for adults and 200 baht for children.

Related post: 8 Best Krabi tours and day trips

Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill Nature Trail (Dragon Crest)

If you don’t want to visit the Tiger Cave, you can instead hike the Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill (also known as Dragon Crest Mountain).

Located only 30 minutes from Ao Nang, this is a great hike if you prefer doing something less touristy during your 4-day Krabi itinerary. The hike leads to the famous hanging rock with one of the best panoramic views in Krabi.

There are signs along the way to guide you but keep in mind that the hike requires a moderate level of fitness due to the very steep incline. The entrance fee is 200 baht for adults and 100 baht for children. The trail is open daily from 8 a.m to 4 p.m. 

Tip : On this Krabi adventure tour , you can visit Dragon Crest mountain, explore the Krabi jungle on an ATV, and kayak among mangroves.

CHECK PRICE FOR A KRABI HIKING AND ATV TOUR

Related post: How to hike Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill?

Thai Cooking Class 

If you love Thai food and want to recreate some authentic Thai dishes at home, you can take a  cooking class  with a professional Thai chef. Classes are conducted either in the morning or afternoon. You’ll get the opportunity to learn some famous Thai dishes like Massaman Curry, Pad Thai, Tom Yam and more.

If you’re staying in Ao Nang, you’ll also get a free hotel pick-up.

CHECK PRICE FOR A THAI COOKING CLASS

Krabi Itinerary Day 3: 4 Island Tour and Night Market

Day 3 is all about exploring some of the most beautiful islands in Krabi. You can book a 4-island tour online  or anywhere along Ao Nang main walking street or rent a private longtail boat. 

Tours normally include a visit to Koh Poda, Tub Island, Chicken Island, and Phra Nang Beach but you can customize your trip if you hire a private boat. 

Before getting on the islands, you’ll have to pay a national park fee of 200 baht for adults and 100 baht for children.

The most unique feature of this island is the tall limestone cliff jutting from the ocean. The main beach on Koh Poda is usually crowded during lunchtime, so if you hire a private boat, plan to get there first thing in the morning or ask to be dropped off at this secret beach instead!

Chicken Island

Here you can swim with colorful fish or take a quick hike to a viewpoint that offers a bird’s eye view of the neighboring islands.

This small island is connected to both Chicken Island and Ko Mor by two sandbanks. It’s the perfect spot to swim and relax.

Related post: 11+ best islands in Krabi Thailand

Krabi Night Market

If you happen to visit Krabi on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, make sure to visit the Krabi Night Market located in Krabi Town . 

From 6 p.m to 10 p.m, the market will be packed with hawkers selling not only clothes, artworks, and souvenirs but also delicious Thai food! The live performances and fire show also help to keep the atmosphere fun and exciting.

You can book a shared minivan from Ao Nang for about 150-200 baht (US$ 4.95-6.60). I bought mine from a street stall here for 150 baht. Alternatively, you can  hire a private taxi to take you there .

Krabi Itinerary Day 4: Hong Island and Pai Plong Beach

Hong island.

End your Krabi itinerary by taking a day trip to Hong Island . Located about a 45-minute to 1-hour boat ride from Ao Nang, Hong Island is home to some of the most pristine beaches in Krabi! 

Before getting to Hong Island, the boat will enter through an emerald lagoon that’s completely enclosed by limestone cliffs.

After spending some time swimming and snorkeling, you’ll be taken to Hong Island where you can relax, wander around the walking trails, or snorkel near the beach.

You can buy a boat ticket to Hong Island for 500 baht from the operators on Ao Nang Beach or rent a private longtail boat for about 2,500 baht.

Alternatively, you can join a guided group tour of Hong Island and other nearby islands by longtail boat or speedboat.

Note that you have to pay a national park fee of 300 baht for adults and 150 baht for children to enter the island.   

CHECK PRICE FOR A TOUR OF HONG ISLAND

Related post: How to visit Hong Island?

Pai Plong Beach

If you want to extend your beach day, head to Pai Plong Beach next. Although this is technically a private beach owned by the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villa , you can visit it for free. 

Pai Plong Beach is located about a 20-minute walk from Ao Nang beach and is accessible through a small jungle trail. I personally prefer Pai Plong to Ao Nang since it’s cleaner and less crowded.

Related post: Complete guide to Pai Plong Beach, Ao Nang

Krabi Itinerary Day 5-6: Koh Lanta

Ok, I know this is a 4-day Krabi itinerary guide, but what if you want to spend 5 days in Krabi or even 6 days? Luckily, I have some options for you below. 

One complaint that people have about Thailand is that it’s either too touristy or too crowded. Located about 4 hours from Ao Nang is Koh Lanta, the perfect Thailand getaway for those who want to skip the crowds! 

You can get to Koh Lanta by taking a shared minivan from Ao Nang or Krabi Town for about 400 baht.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A SHARED MINIVAN TO KOH LANTA

There’s quite a lot to do in Koh Lanta, so I recommend a minimum of 2 days. Below are a few activities to do in Koh Lanta :

Beach Hopping

The best Koh Lanta beaches are mainly found on the west coast. They are usually empty and rugged which adds to the charm of this underrated destination. Bamboo Bay, Nui Bay, and Ba Kantiang Beach are some of the best beaches on the island!

Related post: Top 12 beaches to visit in Koh Lanta!

Visit the Mu Koh Lanta National Park

The national park is home to the iconic Koh Lanta lighthouse perched on top of a cliff. Entrance costs 200 baht (US$ 6.60) which keeps the crowds low.

Koh Talabeng Kayaking tour

Although group tours might sometimes feel crowded and rushed, this one is the complete opposite! Talabeng Sea Kayaking provides small group tours to the secluded island of Koh Talabeng. The tour includes rock climbing on Koh Phee (Ghost Island), kayaking, a visit to a secret beach plus a delicious lunch, and a return transfer for only 1,300 baht (US$ 42.90).

Related post: Koh Lanta bucket list: 18 epic things to do

Take an Island Tour

Koh Lanta is surrounded by other smaller islands that are also worth visiting. Spend a day snorkeling on Koh Rok or visit the Emerald Cave which is only accessible by swimming through a pitch-black cave!

CHECK PRICE FOR A SNORKELING TOUR OF KO ROK

CHECK PRICE FOR A 4 ISLAND AND EMERALD CAVE TOUR

How to get to Krabi?

Krabi is well connected to other countries thanks to its international airport. Direct flights are available from different parts of Thailand including Bangkok and Chiang Mai and from Malaysia and Singapore as well. 

Plane tickets are quite cheap since the route is serviced by low-cost airlines such as Air Asia and Vietjet Air. You can check out 12go.asia to compare prices and book your plane ticket.

Once you get to Krabi airport, take a shared minivan to Ao Nang for about 150 baht or a private taxi for 500 baht (read this guide to getting from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang for more details). If you want to book your transportation in advance, you can do so by clicking the link below.  

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TRANSFER FROM KRABI AIRPORT TO AO NANG

Where to stay in Krabi?

Buri tara resort, ao nang.

Buri Tara Resort is located on Nopparat Thara beach, within walking distance of the main Krabi attractions but far enough to ensure a quiet night’s sleep.  Each room has a clean and modern look with all the necessary amenities including, a mini-fridge, TV, kettle, etc. 

CHECK LATEST PRICE ON BOOKING.COM OR AGODA

Railay Princess Resort & Spa, Railay Beach

Railay Princess Resort & Spa is located about a 10-minute walk from Phra Nang beach. Each room features a double bed or two twin beds, TV, mini-fridge, a private bathroom, and balcony. The hotel also has a rooftop pool with a panoramic view of the limestone cliffs.

CAT Bungalow, Koh Lanta 

For a budget stay in Koh Lanta, you might consider CAT Bungalow . The rooms are very spacious and all have a private bathroom. The location is ideal with Klong Khong beach and several convenience stores and restaurants within walking distance.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN KRABI

Related post: Best places to stay in Krabi for families, couples, and backpackers

Best time to visit Krabi

The peak season in Krabi is usually around November to March which means near-perfect weather but more tourists. 

If you don’t mind the occasional rainfall (luckily, they don’t last very long), you can visit Krabi during the shoulder season; that is, April/May or September/October. 

Did you find this Krabi 4-day itinerary helpful? I hope it gave you some ideas on how to plan your trip to Krabi and remember that you can always switch up the activities according to your preferences. If you have any questions, just ask in the comments below.

Read more about Thailand:

• A detailed 10-day itinerary for Thailand
• 5 Best Krabi to Koh Phi Phi tours for any budget
• Ultimate 4 days in Bangkok itinerary
• Ayutthaya from Bangkok day trip
• Koh Hong Krabi travel guide
• Phra Nang Beach Krabi travel guide
• Guide to visiting Pai Plong Beach and Monkey Trail in Ao Nang
• How to find the Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill trail?
• How to travel from Ao Nang to Railay Beach?  
• 9 things to see and do in Koh Lipe
• 18 fun things to do in Koh Lanta  
• Complete guide to 12 deserted beaches in Koh Lanta  

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

Guide to Pai Plong Beach in Ao Nang Krabi

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Aeolian Islands, Sicily: A Detailed Travel Guide

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Have you heard of the Aeolian Islands in Sicily? I’ve been dreaming about traveling to the Aeolian Islands ( Isole Eolie ) since my semester in Florence in 2004. I huddled over my Let’s Go: Italy guidebook, reading about a Sicilian archipelago with lava-spewing volcanoes and black sand beaches.

Finally, I got my chance 17 years later. I traveled to the Aeolian Islands for two weeks in July 2021. While this was a vacation, my intention was to write a comprehensive Aeolian Islands travel guide.

Planning your trip to the Aeolian Islands last minute?

The Aeolian Islands tend to book up quickly. Book ahead to avoid disappointment!

💃🏻 Top Experiences and Tours in the Aeolian Islands:

• Climb Stromboli Volcano (The most epic thing to do in Sicily!)
• Take a boat trip (Tours go to different islands each day – plan ahead!)
• Watch Stromboli’s lava from a boat (Great way to end the day!)

🛌  Top-Rated Hotels in the Aeolian Islands:

• Hotel Ravesi (My favorite hotel in Italy!)
• Agriturismo Solemare (Great agriturismo on Stromboli)
• Hotel Residence La Giara (Convenient location on Lipari)

The best way to get to and around Aeolian Islands is via ferry. Check the prices and schedule here.

I visited all seven Aeolian Islands, staying overnight in Salina, Stromboli, and Lipari, and spent a few days on Milazzo on the mainland as well. I hiked multiple volcanoes, rode around on a scooter, took several boat day trips, and threw myself into the ocean whenever possible!

I was in love. The Aeolian Islands lived up to those 17 years of fantasy built up in my mind.

But there was a problem. I did a lot of research before getting to the Aeolian Islands — but a lot of what I read wasn’t true. At all.

Why is this the case? The state of travel publishing in recent years means that lots of people are doing online research without visiting the destination itself. Legitimate outlets have shrinking budgets; content farms chase traffic without being diligent about accuracy.

Plus, when it comes to Italy’s most popular seaside destinations, Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast, travel writers are always passing through. The Aeolian Islands? Not so much, particularly for the English language market.

As a result, though I had done a lot of reading on the Aeolian Islands, I frequently felt like I had been misled. Descriptions of hikes didn’t talk specifically about the fitness level required; the two most frequently cited beautiful beaches were two of the worst beaches on the islands.

Most guides sent travelers to restaurants deemed tourist traps by locals (though admittedly, that one does happen everywhere). And guides were silent about the mass tourism of two islands in particular.

As a result, I have been determined to create an honest, comprehensive travel guide to the Aeolian Islands designed with you in mind. You deserve to have the best trip ever — so you should go in with your eyes open.

Again, I adored the Aeolian Islands! I had some less-than-great moments, but overall these islands are absolutely magical, with almost inconceivable natural beauty, and one of the treasures of Italy. I can’t wait to go back.

So come join me in a land of lava explosions and plump fresh capers, of bowls of granita, picturesque villages, and black sand beaches. You are going to love it here.

This post was most recently updated in January 2023.

You can also take a look at the video of our Aeolian Islands trip here! Charlie shot most of the raw footage for his company, JayWay Travel, and their brilliant filmmaker Petra edited it into a masterpiece. You will love this Aeolian Islands video!

Table of Contents

Where are the Aeolian Islands?

The Aeolian Islands are a volcanic archipelago off the northeast coast of Sicily in the Tyrrhenian Sea. The islands were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 for their natural environment — namely, their volcanic formation and ongoing volcanic activity to this day.

The best way to get to the Aeolian Islands is to fly to Catania Airport, take a two-hour shuttle from Catania to Milazzo, and take a ferry from Milazzo to the island of your choice. See all ways to get to the Aeolian Islands here.

Climb Stromboli’s volcano and admire the lava, explore Salina by scooter, take boat excursions to the other islands.

I recommend staying in Salina for most of your trip and a few nights in Stromboli. Hotel Ravesi on Salina is my favorite hotel in Italy!

I recommend at least one week in the Aeolian Islands. See my one-week itinerary here. A lot of people only stay for a few days, and they’re really missing out.

It helps to know the geography of the Aeolian archipelago when planning out your day trips. For example, Panarea and Stromboli are often paired together because they’re close to each other and distant from the other islands. Panarea is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Stromboli.

Visiting Alicudi and Filicudi from Stromboli on a boat trip excursion? Or vice versa? No. Nobody operates those routes because they’re too far apart.

Salina and Lipari are centrally located in the archipelago, however, and you can day trip pretty much anywhere from there. Vulcano has day trips to all of the islands, too.

Let’s start with an overview of all seven islands.

Salina is the green island. Located close to the center of the archipelago, beautiful and upscale, with several interesting towns, I think Salina makes the best base on the Aeolian Islands. It’s also my personal favorite.

Salina Pros: Excellent boutique hotels, excellent restaurants, perfect level of development, vineyards, easy to explore by motorbike, feels very local.

Salina Cons: Limited beaches.

Salina felt like home from the moment I arrived — and part of me wished I had stayed here for the entire trip! It just feels so much nicer than the other islands.

Thanks to freshwater reserves, the island of Salina is much greener than the other Aeolian Islands, and there are lots of Malvasia vineyards here. But Salina also has an upscale feel that you don’t get on the other islands. There isn’t any of the overdevelopment or overtourism you see on Lipari or Vulcano.

Salina is a fairly large island with several different towns, each with their own personality. It’s easy to get around by using the bus system, or by renting a motorbike and enjoying nearly traffic-free roads.

You can also hike here — Monte Fossa Felci is the highest peak in the Aeolian Islands.

I recommend staying in the charming town of Malfa, which has lots of restaurants and boutique hotels, beautiful views, and a lovely pedestrianized area. Plus, while the main port is Santa Marina Salina, many boat trips will come pick you up right in Malfa!

But a huge part of why I enjoyed Salina so much was Hotel Ravesi . I have wanted to stay at this hotel for years because of its infinity pool overlooking Panarea and Stromboli — and it was SO worth it. More on Hotel Ravesi in the “where to stay” section.

Kate recommends: Hotel Ravesi in Malfa for accommodation, Salina Relax Boats for boat trip excursions, Fenech Winery in Malfa for wine tasting, caper testing with Giuseppe in Leni, Rando Manuela in Malfa for pizza, La Pinnata del Monsú in Malfa for quirky high-end dining with a view, Bar Malvasia in Malfa for casual dining and drinks, Il Gambero in Lingua for the best granita and pane cunzatu in the Aeolian Islands.

Stromboli is the island with the active volcano! Stromboli is exactly what you expect a volcanic island to be — tall and conical, edged with beaches, crowned with a volcano that spews bright red lava every night.

Stromboli Pros: A once-in-a-lifetime experience seeing lava explosions at night, not too developed, sparkling black sand beaches.

Stromboli Cons: Limited restaurant selection, drivers that speed around corners, not much to do beyond the volcano.

The volcano is the main attraction of Stromboli. While many people plan a day trip to experience the island, you’re best off spending a few days here and experiencing it a few different ways: hiking, seeing it from a boat, and enjoying it from Osservatorio Restaurant.

Stromboli is a car-free island. Most of the main Stromboli settlement is walkable, and if necessary, people get around on golf carts or ape (those tiny one-person mini trucks you see in Italy). You just need to watch out as drivers often tear around corners on narrow streets.

Aside from the volcano, Stromboli is a very chilled out island. The beaches here are the best in the Aeolian Islands, shimmering like black diamonds. My personal favorite is Spiaggia Lunga.

While most travelers stay in the main Stromboli part of the island, the village of Ginostra on the other side of the island might be even more off-the-beaten-path than Alicudi. Accessible by only water and home to around 15-30 year-round residents, many of them artists, this is as remote as Sicily gets.

Kate recommends: Agriturismo SoleMare for accommodation, climbing Stromboli if you have a good fitness level, Osservatorio for great pizza with a view of the lava, Il Malandrino for granita and coffee right by the port, Bar Ingrid for casual eats with a view, La Tartana Club for the lunchtime buffet.

Panarea is the rich island. A longtime celebrity hotspot, Panarea is the smallest and most expensive of the Aeolian islands — and attracts a crowd of moneyed people looking for privacy.

Panarea Pros: Limited development, high-end shopping, beautiful views, privacy.

Panarea Cons: Very expensive, feels dead in high season, tiny, no good beaches.

From the moment I stepped on Panarea, I could see it was a beauty. Everything was a bit neater, a bit tidier, a bit more manicured. Chic boutiques sold chandelier earrings and designer flowy dresses. It felt rich.

We set out for the 45-minute walk to the Prehistoric Village and famed beach Cala Junco. And I was struck by just how quiet Panarea was. Not a pleasant kind of quiet — it was almost hushed. This place felt dead in the heart of high season.

Cala Junco was the biggest shock of all. This famed beach that all the guides were raving about, saying it was the most beautiful beach in the Aeolian Islands. This beach was filled with giant boulders. You could barely walk on it, let alone lounge on it!

Me: “Yep, this guide also says it’s ‘strewn with stones.'” Charlie: “Strewn? STREWN?! Maybe strewn if you meant COMPLETELY COMPOSED OF!”

There were more little things. The beach bar that we got a coffee at just to use their toilet…then found out there are no toilets for customers, so we had to double back to the Bridge Club. The granita bar that was lovely, but charged us 12 euros ($13) for two granitas, roughly double the price of elsewhere.

Beyond that, I didn’t see anything that showed me why Panarea was more special than the other Aeolian Islands. It didn’t have a bad vibe so much as it had…no vibe.

Honestly, I don’t get why Panarea gets so much hype. If I were rich and wanted an Italian island getaway, I’d go to Capri instead.

Panarea is best suited as a day trip — you can either book a boat excursion to Panarea (which often comes paired with Stromboli) or just take the ferry. I took the ferry from Stromboli, a 30-minute journey, and didn’t feel like I missed out.

Kate recommends: Panarea Bakery for pane disgraziata (a sandwich lined with lots of meats and cheeses), Bar Da Carola for delicious but expensive granita, Bridge Club Panarea for the last bathroom before the beaches.

Lipari is the largest island. Population-wise, that is. Lipari has an actual city, also called Lipari, and as a result, it has a different feeling from the other islands. It’s urban and grittier than the other islands. Sometimes the Aeolian Islands are called the Lipari Islands.

Lipari Pros: Most extensive selection of day tours, good restaurants, accommodation at a variety of price points, good for families.

Lipari Cons: Overtouristed, overdeveloped, lowbrow atmosphere, can be loud.

As the main island of the Aeolian Islands, Lipari surprised me, and not in a good way. Visiting in high season, I was stunned at the overdevelopment and mass tourism. The other islands I had visited were mercifully empty and had kept development at a reasonable level.

Lipari was crowded. SO crowded. I felt like I was in a rave. And especially popular with families, due to the cheap beach holiday deals here, so there were a lot more kids than on other islands.

The town of Lipari had a really nice walking street lined with restaurants and boutiques, a good archaeological museum, and we found a wonderful cat sanctuary called Il Gatti di Lipari that was one of the highlights of the trip.

Canneto, the town next door, was grungy and felt like cheap beach holiday central. Crowded, dirty beach; cheap hotels and guesthouses pressed up against each other.

Getting there was absolutely hellish — we took a bus from Lipari, which had zero air conditioning, was packed to the gills, and between the heat and our masks, we burst out early rather than subject ourselves to that torture any longer.

Just past Canneto is White Beach, a beautiful beach that requires an up-and-down trek to get there. The beach is actually gray, not white, but it’s much nicer than anything else I saw on Lipari. There are chairs with umbrellas; we just staked out a spot on the pebbles.

One big disclosure: I didn’t visit Lipari beyond Lipari town and Canneto. I’ve heard that it has nice scenery to explore on your own. That said, the traffic is much heavier on Lipari than the other islands (and borderline highway in parts), so I personally would be nervous about driving a motorbike in those conditions.

My big recommendation: You don’t NEED to stay in Lipari because it’s the largest and best-connected island. I thought I had to. I was wrong. Salina is just as convenient and a million times nicer.

Kate recommends: Residence La Giara for accommodation, Il Giardino di Lipari for interesting cocktails and offbeat eats, Officina del Cannolo for cannolis (skip the restaurant and order them to go).

Vulcano is the sulfurous island. Vulcano is characterized by yet another active volcano — but instead of Stromboli’s lava, this volcano emits smoke and a sulfurous smell that engulfs most of the island. Vulcano is also home to the best views in the Aeolian Islands.

Vulcano Pros: The most affordable island, closest to the Italian mainland, beautiful views.

Vulcano Cons: Lowbrow holidaymaker atmosphere, overdeveloped, limited dining options, awful sulfur smell.

I’ll be frank — Vulcano reeks. The smell is part of what “gives Vulcano its character,” as some travel writers say, and I’ve heard that the smell isn’t bad in some parts of the island, but for me, the smell would be a dealbreaker.

Throughout the day, I would be dealing with the constant low-grade smell — then a gust of wind would brush in more rotten eggs and I felt like I was going to throw up. I couldn’t imagine being stuck with that for a whole week.

That being said, Vulcano is home to some truly gorgeous nature. Not only is the crater a worthy climb that you can do independently, you can enjoy views of all seven Aeolian Islands from the top. You can’t see that anywhere else in the archipelago!

Then you get back to the bottom, explore the main town of Vulcano itself — and it’s super crowded with a lowbrow atmosphere. Even more lowbrow than Canneto. Lots of cheap hotels and restaurants, and again, more families. Vulcano has some of the lowest-priced accommodation in the Aeolian Islands. BECAUSE OF THE SMELL.

I was especially disappointed in Sabbie Nere, a black sand beach so many travel guides raved about. I expected a sparkling paradise similar to Stromboli’s beaches — only to find an overcrowded, dingy beach that was gray at best.

One thing I wished I had done was rent a vehicle (open jeeps are popular in Vulcano) to explore the island in more depth, taking in more views and nature. There is a giant pit where you can take warm mud baths, but it was closed during my visit, and I had also heard that it ruins your bathing suit and makes you smell for days.

Go to Vulcano on a day trip to enjoy the crater, the views, and the nature. Explore the whole island if you have time. But between the mass tourism and the smell, it’s not worth staying overnight.

Kate recommends: Il Gelato di Antonio for gelato (the Aeolians are all about granita, not gelato, but this is the one gelato place in the archipelago that I recommend).

Alicudi is the most remote and least developed island. The westernmost island, far from everything, almost everything on the island is built into a small settlement near the port.

Alicudi Pros: Quiet and remote, few people, donkeys.

Alicudi Cons: Far from everything with limited connections, no cars.

If you truly want to get away from it all in the Aeolian Islands, Alicudi is the place to go. There are few restaurants and places to stay in the summer; if you come here in the winter, your best option is to board with a local family, because everything else is closed.

But if you want an island getaway with few things to do and even fewer people, just a few quiet beaches, Alicudi makes a marvelous choice.

Alicudi is another car-free island, and there aren’t even roads — just stairs built into the steep hills. So how do you transport your luggage? DONKEYS. Man, I wish I had been able to see the donkeys! They usually only come by when ferries arrive.

Most travelers visit Alicudi and Filicudi paired in a single boat trip excursion from Salina or Lipari. I did so with Salina Relax Boats, and in addition to visiting Alicudi itself, I appreciated that we sailed around it to view the red-brown volcanic formations on the other side.

Kate recommends: The restaurant at Hotel Ericusa for fresh pasta.

Filicudi is the second most remote island. You are still significantly off the beaten path, but there are more services, more places to explore, and cars are allowed on this island as well.

Filicudi Pros: More developed than Alicudi, clear blue water.

Filicudi Cons: Far from everything with limited connections.

Filicudi is known for its clear blue water, which you’ll notice as soon as you dock in the port! This is one of the best islands for swimming spots, which you can enjoy on a boat trip excursion (ideally paired with Alicudi, coming from Salina or Lipari).

The big difference from Alicudi is that it’s a bit more developed, there are a few different settlements, and the island can be explored by car. Though it’s so small, you’d probably be better off renting a motorbike or just hiring a taxi when you need one.

I spent the least time on Filicudi out of all of the islands. I can tell you that the bakery by the port has an awesome selection of pastries (seriously, I got homesick because it reminded me of Italian-American bakeries in Boston and New York!).

This is one island where I’d love to return and stay for a few days.

Kate recommends: The bakery right by the port.

Things to Do in the Aeolian Islands, Sicily

I love that there are so many cool things to do on the Aeolian Islands. They’re not the kind of place you go to laze away every day by the pool or on the beach.

If you’re an active person, you should absolutely prioritize climbing both Stromboli and Vulcano. You can continue the climbs, if you’d like, with hikes across the other islands.

If you’re into food, you can visit wineries, go caper-tasting, or make it a mission to find the best granita or pane cunzatu in the archipelago.

And if you really want to relax, rent a beach chair for the day or try a spa treatment at one of the high-end hotels like Hotel Signum on Salina.

Here are some of the best things to do on the Aeolian Islands:

Climb Stromboli

One of the most epic things to do in Sicily — if not all of Italy — is to climb Stromboli, the lava-spewing volcano! Stromboli is a reliable volcano and every evening, giant plumes of blood-red lava spew across the dark sky, putting on an incredible show.

Climbing Stromboli is the best way to experience this up close. There is a hike to 400 meters, which gives you an excellent view of La Sciara del Fuoco (the “scar” of ash running down the volcano) and the lava-spewing crater itself. A guide is required for this hike.

The show really starts once the sun goes down, and you can enjoy a burst of lava every 20 minutes or so.

(In the past, there were even more intense hikes to the crater at 750 meters, but these have been suspended since 2019.)

It’s a two-hour hike to the viewpoint, and while many guides say you need “average” fitness to participate, I would not classify this as an average fitness hike. You will be climbing very fast, with few breaks, and lots of stretches both uphill and downhill.

Do you need to be in good shape to do the Stromboli hike? Yes, I think you do. I was surprised that different companies made different claims — some said “all you need is average fitness” and some said “excellent fitness required.” I, as a former hardcore gym-goer who is only moderately active these days (thanks COVID!), I struggled a LOT on this hike.

The guide pushes you to go very quickly, and the breaks are brief. It wasn’t enough downtime for me. At one point I was gulping for air so hard that a nearby Italian stopped to help me catch my breath! We were with a group of super-athletic Germans, but at one point we got pushed back to the next group of Italians, many of whom seemed to be struggling similarly to me or worse.

But I am incredibly glad we got to the top of the volcano. We watched the show for 90 minutes or so, then hiked down in the dark with headlamps down a path that was mostly cobblestone stairs.

Does this hike sound like it’s too much for you? No worries! You can enjoy Stromboli’s volcano in different ways! More on that below.

For climbing Stromboli, you should wear hiking/workout clothes appropriate to the day’s weather, as well as an extra sweater for the top once the sun goes down. Many companies provide hiking boots and/or hiking poles. While I rented their hiking boots, I wish I had brought my own trail runners in retrospect.

You can book the Stromboli hike here.

Take a Boat Trip Excursion

During your time on the Aeolian Islands, you should try to visit some of the other islands! And while you can take the ferry to other islands for the day, it can be much more fun to take a boat excursion: a day trip by boat with a tour provider.

This way, you get to visit new islands, but you also get to see more of the islands and landscapes (the ferries are all indoors so you can’t see much), and most trips include a few different swimming stops.

On my boat trip from Salina to Alicudi and Filicudi for the day, we not only got to swim three times, including swimming into a cave on Filicudi, but we got to circle an unusual rock formation and see the craggy red-brown veins of Alicudi’s uninhabited side.

There are lots of boat companies leaving from all the islands. I recommend Salina Relax Boats , which does pickups on both Santa Marina Salina and Malfa in Salina. The boat, the Lady Salina , was high-quality and had a bathroom on board; it was airy with both shaded seating and an open roof; and the crew were all very nice, professional people who kept us safe.

To book, email them or drop by their booth in Malfa’s square. They visit all seven islands but do different tours on different days of the week, so you may want to plan in advance.

Several companies offer private boat trips as well, which are much more expensive, but could be worth it if you have something special planned (maybe a proposal?) or have a group splitting the cost.

Explore Salina by Scooter

Exploring an Italian island by scooter — or motorbike, as some call them — is a fabulously romantic thing to do! I knew the whole time that I was going to wear my 50s housewife dress! I felt like I was in The Talented Mr. Ripley ! Minus the murder.

So which islands are good to explore by scooter? The only three islands I where would recommend doing this are Salina, Vulcano, and Lipari — though Lipari only if you’re comfortable driving in traffic. All three of these islands are a good size and have a lot to explore. The other islands are too small; it wouldn’t be worth it.

Salina, though, is my top recommendation. Salina feels wonderfully empty, it has lots of wonderful views and dynamic places to see, and each town is different and has something worth exploring: Malfa, Leni, Rinella, Pollara, Santa Marina Salina, Lingua.

Riding past verdant vineyards, stopping at cool-looking churches or cute beaches. Riding along cliffs and being overcome by the sheer beauty of this place. Getting granita at Il Gambero in Lingua was the perfect conclusion!

This was my first time on a scooter in Italy, though I’ve done a lot of motorbiking in Southeast Asia (including one terrifying experience on Vietnam’s highway at sunset). And what made it special was doing it on electric scooters — a totally new experience for me. Hotel Ravesi offers electric scooter rentals to its guests.

Hike to Panarea’s Prehistoric Village

Panarea may have rubbed me the wrong way — but there is no denying it’s a gorgeous island. For this reason, I recommend making time for one activity in Panarea: hiking to the Prehistoric Village.

This hike (really more of a walk, though it does include a lot of stairs at one point) takes about 45 minutes from the port. Follow the signs to Cala Junco. Once you climb the staircase past Spiaggia Zimmari, the big beach with brown sand, you’ll have an incredible view of Punta Milazzese, the peninsula above. This is one of my favorite views in the Aeolian Islands.

You cross the narrow land bridge to the Prehistoric Village, Bronze Age ruins of Mycenaean origin. It’s free to visit. If you’re into ruins, you’ll probably love it; if not, no worries in skipping it. Just be sure to take photos of Panarea from every angle.

Cala Junco, as I wrote above, was enormously disappointing — it was a beach of boulders. It’s right beneath the Prehistoric Village.

From there, we turned around and headed back toward the port. That was enough to enjoy the essence of Panarea.

One thing for certain, though: Use the bathroom BEFORE you get to Spiaggia Zimmari . We got a coffee at the bar on Spiaggia Zimmari with the intention of using their bathroom but were told there were NO BATHROOMS! We had to double back to Bridge Club Panarea, order a bottle of sparkling water, and use their bathroom before moving on.

Eat Pane Cunzatu

If there’s a signature dish of the Aeolian Islands, it’s pane cunzatu (also called pane cunzato ). Meaning “seasoned bread,” pane cunzatu starts with a round piece of flat bread, topped with fresh local toppings.

What toppings do you get in the Aeolian islands? Capers, tomatoes, anchovies, olives, eggplant, tuna, mozzarella, ricotta infornata, fresh herbs and seasonings. Sometimes a selection of those toppings, and sometimes ALL OF THEM AT ONCE. It rarely sticks together, so be sure to hold it carefully!

My big piece of advice is to double-check how big it is before you order. Some pane cunzatu are sized for one person, but many are big enough to be shared. Splitting one with your travel partner is one of the best cheap meals you can have in the Aeolian Islands.

So where should you get a pane cunzatu? It seems like every guidebook recommends Da Alfredo in Lingua, a village in the southern part of Salina, but locals told me nobody with self-respect actually goes to Da Alfredo. Instead, go to Il Gambero, also in Lingua.

I had several pane cunzatu over the course of my stay, on several of the islands. They were always delicious — and always an adventure!

Stroll Lipari at Night

Fun fact: wherever you are in Italy, any street named after Vittorio Emanuele II is pretty much the main street in town. Lipari’s Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is no exception — this is the biggest shopping and dining street in all of the Aeolian Islands.

While I wasn’t a big fan of Lipari island, and didn’t think it was necessary to add city time into a wonderful island trip, I enjoyed walking this street in Lipari town.

Plus, part of traveling in Italy is enjoying the passeggiata — the time around sunset where everyone comes out to stroll the streets and see and be seen. Go for a stroll and grab yourself a spritz for aperitivo, too!

And if you’re looking for souvenirs, whether it’s a long paisley one-size-fits-all dress from a street seller (hello!) or some Sicilian crockery to bring home, this street is your best bet.

Feel the Remoteness of Alicudi and Filicudi

Is it worth going to Alicudi or Filicudi? It depends on how long you’re going and what kind of traveler you are. If you’re a completionist like me, you’ll want to go to all seven islands. If you’ve got limited time or don’t really care about them, you can skip them.

But even more than that, these islands fascinated me. I loved exploring them and imagining what it would be like to live here, so cut off from everything. They have a pristine nature.

Plus, if you can’t stand the overtourism of Lipari or Vulcano, there’s no better antidote than these two.

I think Alicudi and Filicudi are better suited to day trips than overnight trips, unless you want to stay somewhere REALLY remote. You could visit by ferry, but you’ll get more out of your day with a boat trip to both islands from either Salina, Lipari, or Vulcano. (Stromboli and Panarea are too far away.) I enjoyed my trip from Salina with Salina Relax Boats.

Honestly, though, I think it would be cool to stay on either island overnight on a future trip!

Climb Vulcano’s Smoking Crater

Stromboli isn’t the only volcano you can climb in the Aeolians! You can also climb to the top of Vulcano’s smoking crater, the source of all the sulfurous smells on the island. It’s a big achievement to tick off — and you’re rewarded with what I think is the most spectacular view in the Aeolian Islands.

This volcano is a much easier undertaking than Stromboli. You don’t need a guide, it’s free to climb, and you can go at your own pace. However, most people climb it by day, and there’s very little shade, so be sure to wear tons of sun protection, drink lots of water, and take shaded breaks whenever you can.

After struggling through the Stromboli hike, Vulcano was so much easier. Mainly because we weren’t racing and we were able to take breaks whenever we wanted.

Easier is the word, though — not easy. There were some sections that required scrambling on hands and feet.

But the view at the top of the volcano is perhaps the best view in the Aeolian Islands. One of my favorites, at least. You can literally see all seven islands simultaneously!

Like the Stromboli hike, I recommend wearing trail runners or hiking boots, though you could get away with sneakers, too. I wore sports sandals, which weren’t super bad on the way up, but were much worse on the way down, as they filled with tons of gravel.

At the base of the volcano is a food truck selling orange and lemon juice and granita. Get ready to have the most satisfying juice and granita of your life!

Find Your Favorite Swimming Spot

Sure, there are beaches in the Aeolian Islands, but some of the best swimming spots are far from beaches, sometimes in the middle of the sea itself.

The island of Strombolicchio (wow, that’s fun to say! Strombolicchio !) off the northern coast of Stromboli is good for swimming and snorkeling.

Filicudi has a Blue Grotto — Grotta del Bue Marino — that you can actually swim into. It’s far from settlements on Filicudi, so you’ll need to go as part of a day trip. Just be cautious because it takes a lot of effort swimming back to the boat against the tide.

Piscina Venere on the western side of Vulcano — Venus’s Pool — is an oasis of clear blue-green water in the middle of an otherwise unremarkable rocky coastline.

Pollara, the Il Postino beach on Salina , has tall cliffs that you’ll recognize from the movie, though the beach itself has eroded over time. The cliffs are lit up in gorgeous warm colors at sunset.

A boat trip excursion is the best way to visit these swimming spots. In fact, it’s often the only way you can reach them.

And the Aeolian Islands are a good place to pack more swimsuits than you think you need! I swam almost every day there.

Wine Tasting at Fenech

Before coming to Salina, we got a tip that Fenech Winery was right in the town of Malfa and a good place to sample the local Malvasia wine. We also heard that owner Francesco Fenech was a bit of a character. Yep, we were sold!

We casually strolled up to the winery, where Fenech was pouring different local wines for two visiting couples. He welcomed us and served the Aeolian salad of potatoes, capers, tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs. Then he spoke to one of the guys and got up to leave.

Turns out Fenech had to do some errands, so he told one of the couples they were in charge now. With a dozen half-full bottles of wine and spirits on the table. Leaving us with all the wine to drink as much as we wanted.

Well. THAT was a fun wine tasting!

We poured each other bottle after bottle, telling stories and laughing. Why not? We were left in charge! Eventually Fenech came back and he joined in the conversation. Turns out his grandfather immigrated from Italy to Boston, as my great-grandfather did, so we had a lot to talk about.

Fenech’s Malvasia wines are outstanding. (As are the grappas. Oh, and the limoncello.) But it was the casual, convivial atmosphere that I’ll always remember. All wine tastings should be this fun!

Watch Stromboli’s Lava from a Distance

Not up for the volcano climb? I don’t blame you. It’s definitely not for everyone. But there are other ways to enjoy views of the lava without subjecting yourself to that challenging hike. In fact, the best places to view the lava require little physical exertion at all! Keep in mind that it won’t be dark enough until 8:30 or 9:00 PM at the earliest.

My top recommendation is dining at Osservatorio — a restaurant halfway up the volcano with killer views. Sitting here, eating pizza and drinking wine and watching explosions, was one of my favorite moments of the trip!

I recommend making a reservation; ours was at 8:30 PM, and we were among the first people there. If you don’t want to walk up the path (35 minutes from the town of Piscità), you can book a free shuttle in their ridiculously tiny minivan, which looks like a clown car!

The pizza at Osservatorio is quite good; I wasn’t crazy about the fish dishes. And say hi to the little gray tabby cat who loves spending time with guests. We named him Salvo.

A second way to view the lava is to climb the walkway to 290 meters. This is a long cobblestoned road with stairs cut into it, making switchbacks along the volcano. (Osservatorio is roughly at the halfway point.) 290 meters is as far as you can legally go without a guide. It’s a long walk but much easier than the climb.

Since you’ll be coming back in the dark, you may want to bring a headlamp — or at least use your phone’s flashlight.

A third option is seeing the lava from a boat. There are many boat trip excursions from other islands that conclude with a stop in front of the volcano. If you’re not staying on Stromboli overnight, this is your only option.

If you’re staying on Stromboli, there are many evening boat trips that leave from the main port or Ficogrande, take you to view the lava, and return later. Some trips include a visit to Ginostra, the tiny isolated town on the other side of Stromboli, for dinner or aperitivo. This is one activity I wish I had done; I’m so curious about Ginostra!

Eat All the Granita

Italy may be all about the gelato — but Sicily is all about the granita . This icy dessert is similar to slush, sometimes a bit more watery. Granita is a treat, but Sicilians often eat it for breakfast with brioche! You can find it in almost any bar in Sicily.

The most common flavors of granita are Sicilian specialties: pistacchio (pronounced pee-STAH-kee-oo), mandorla (almond), limone (lemon), mandarino (mandarin) and caffè (coffee, sweet but not milky).

One special flavor from the Aeolian Islands is pesca Malvasia — peach and Malvasia wine.

If you want a truly decadent treat, I recommend caffè granita con panna — with cream. It might be whipped cream like the photo above, but the absolute BEST is when they pour liquid cream on top. The sweet and dark coffee granita with the smooth, silky cream? INCREDIBLE. This may be my favorite thing to eat in Sicily!

So where do you get a good granita in the Aeolian Islands? My favorite was Il Gambero in Lingua, Salina (yes, the same place with the top-rated pane cunzatu!). I had a caffè granita con panna, the cream was liquid, and it was SO good that I finished it and then ordered a fragola granita (strawberry).

We also had wonderful granita at Bar da Carola in Panarea, right across from the port. They had a long list of artisanal flavors; I had anguria (watermelon). Then we got a bill of 12 EUR ($13) for two. That’s Panarea.

Also: get yourself into a granita state of mind because there isn’t a lot of good gelato in the Aeolian Islands. Most of the gelato I saw was low-quality; you can tell by the too-bright artificial colors. I did have one good gelato at Il Gelato del Antonio in Vulcano, on the road to the crater.

Visit a Cat Sanctuary in Lipari

Do you like cats? Have I got the spot for you. You should visit I Gatti Felici di Lipari — Happy Cats of Lipari — a wonderful cat sanctuary and colony in Lipari! We totally came across this place on a whim, led by the cats relaxing outside, and we later returned when they were open to pet the kitties and spend time with them.

Happy Cats was founded by three friends who wanted to serve the local population of abandoned and stray cats. They sterilize them, feed them, care for them, and give them lots of attention. There are about 30 cats living here, and occasionally they have puppies too.

I’m the kind of person who gets upset at shelters because so many animals won’t find a home. But Happy Cats was so much better. The cats are available for adoption. But if that never happens, they’ll be okay. They have a home with good food, good friends, and they will always be taken care of.

Humans are allowed to visit from 8:30 to 9:30 AM year-round and 6:30 to 8:00 PM in the summer. And they are grateful for donations to keep the kitties fed and happy.

Aperitivo at Hotel Ravesi

Hotel Ravesi was wonderful for many reasons — but I especially loved the aperitivo, which drew visitors from around the island.

Aperitivo is basically Italy’s version of happy hour. You order a drink and you get served some small snacks to go with it. They’re usually pretty simple — tiny sandwiches, bite-sized pizza, something small and fried, a little ramekin full of potato chips.

Hotel Ravesi brings it to the next level with craft cocktails that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

And the food? Spoonful-sized servings of pasta alla norma or Trapani-style couscous. Arancini stuffed with ragu and cheese. Mini savory cannolis! SAVORY cannolis! I’ve never had a savory cannoli before.

If you’re staying on Salina at any point of your trip, especially in Malfa, you should hit up Hotel Ravesi. (And if you’re staying there, they also offer their guests an aperitivo cruise at sunset! We did that and got to enjoy the food with wine on a boat.)

Eat All the Capers

If there’s any one food associated with the Aeolian Islands, it’s the caper! They grow wild all over the islands, especially green Salina.

You’ll find capers in everything. But if you want to eat a lot more, book a caper-tasting experience! We found one in the town of Leni on Salina on Airbnb Experiences and booked it on a whim, and it was the perfect addition to our day of motorbiking the island.

Our guide, Giuseppe, was great, and showed us about how capers grow before serving us a tasting that was really the size of a meal, with all kinds of capers as well as Aeolian specialties. Lots of crostini, meats, and cheeses. And that gorgeous Aeolian salad of potatoes, capers, olives, and tomatoes.

You can book it here. And please tell Giuseppe Kate and Charlie say hi!

Best Beaches in the Aeolian Islands

A lot of people come to the Aeolian Islands to enjoy the beaches! That being said, I would not call the Aeolian Islands a strong beach destination. The beaches here are good, but not spectacular.

Most of the beaches here are small and made of large pebbles. They’re beautiful to look at, but rarely comfortable or practical, and often overcrowded. In Italian style, many have chairs you can pay for. Again, good, but not the expanses of white sand people expect.

In fact, I found two of the most-written-about beaches of the Aeolian Islands — Cala Junco on Panarea and Sabbie Nere on Vulcano — to be terrible. Cala Junco on Panarea looks beautiful from a distance, but it’s made of giant boulders. Sabbie Nere is grungy, overcrowded, and a dull gray rather than sparkling black.

The best beaches in the Aeolian Islands are on Stromboli — black sand beaches that shine like diamonds. Of Stromboli’s beaches, the best one is Spiaggio Lunga (Long Beach) — a long expanse of sparkling black sand.

Take a look at some of the beaches to see what you think:

Overall, the beaches on the Aeolian Islands can be nice — but there is so much more to this region than beaches. Active volcanoes! Motorbiking! Pane cunzatu! Boat trips and granita and hiking!

If you’re looking to do a lot of interesting things on your trip, and also spend some time on the beach, the Aeolian Islands might be a good destination for you.

But if you’re planning to spend the bulk of your trip camped out on the beach, I would choose another destination.

Where to Stay in the Aeolian Islands

Where’s the best place to stay in the Aeolian Islands? I think the best place to stay in the Aeolian Islands is Hotel Ravesi . I had wanted to stay at this hotel for quite a long time; it was SO worth it. More on that in a bit.

Best Island to Stay on in the Aeolian Islands

But first — what’s the best island to stay on in the Aeolian Islands? I highly recommend spending the bulk of your stay in Salina. Salina is the nicest island, it’s not overcrowded, it’s home to some of the best hotels and restaurants in the archipelago, and it’s convenient for day trips to all six of the other islands.

In short, if you’re only staying on one island, it should be Salina.

That said, I think you should stay overnight on Stromboli at least one night so you can experience the lava. The lava show takes place at night, and while there are some night boat trips to Stromboli from Salina and other islands, basing there will give you more options.

Should you stay on other islands? I don’t think it’s necessary. Salina and Stromboli should be your two priorities. But if you want to, go ahead! I think I might like to spend a few days on Filicudi next time.

I do not think staying on Panarea is worth the sky-high prices, and I do not think staying on Vulcano is worth the horrible sulfur smell.

One thing, though — you may be considering staying on Lipari because it’s the “main” island. I certainly did. But you don’t need to stay there — Salina is just as convenient, as well as a million times nicer.

See all accommodation in Salina here and see all accommodation in Stromboli here .

Hotel Ravesi, Salina

I planned my trip around Hotel Ravesi , and it is now my favorite place I’ve ever stayed in Italy. This boutique hotel is a good choice for both luxury travelers and mid-range travelers looking to splurge without breaking the bank.

The hotel is in the heart of Malfa, the best part of Salina. The rooms are simple but nice. That infinity pool overlooking Panarea and Stromboli is incredible! And the staff are excellent and make you feel at home.

The hotel has 18 rooms, which I think is the perfect size. It feels small and special but you don’t feel like you’re in a fishbowl.

And then there were the activities — the scooter rentals! Small boat trips around the island on their own boat! And the excellent aperitivo. It was far more than just a place to stay; it showed us the best of the island.

The only downside of this place is that Malfa is a lengthy drive to the main port of Santa Marina Salina, so it’s not as convenient for day trips by ferry. (Salina Relax Boats picked us up for our excursion right at Malfa’s dock.)

I’d stay there again in a heartbeat.

See more places to stay on Salina here.

Agriturismo Solemare, Stromboli

In Stromboli we stayed at Agriturismo Solemare . Agriturismi, or farmstays, are a popular way for Italians to travel — you stay on property and enjoy local produce for breakfast and sometimes dinner as well.

Hidden deep in the alleyways of Stromboli, far from the water, we had this tiny guesthouse with only a few rooms, and a lovely owner who took care of us. Cats and dogs lounged around and loved to cuddle with guests.

Our room was simple — the typical agriturismo with simple furnishings and patterned sheets — and came with a nice terrace.

Best of all was the breakfast — FAR beyond the typical Italian breakfast of caffe and cornetto. We had frittatas, crostini, fresh capers, tons of fruit, homemade jams and honeys from the produce grown on the property.

The main downsides of this place: a long walk from the port (though we got golf cart taxis when we had our luggage at 10 EUR/$11 each), no pool.

See more places to stay on Stromboli here.

Hotel Residence La Giara, Lipari

On Lipari we stayed at Hotel Residence La Giara . While I wasn’t a fan of Lipari as a destination, this was quite a decent mid-range hotel: good prices, a pool, a kitchenette, and the destination was a short stroll from Lipari’s main walking street and just a three-minute walk from the port.

Best of all: this resort comes with a fluffy cat named Bartolina! She loves cuddling guests and even has her own little house on the grounds.

The main downsides of this place: traffic noise and lots of screaming kids. I wouldn’t choose to hang out here or lounge by the pool with a book, but it made a convenient, well-priced place to stay (and it was nice to take a dip after a hike).

See more places to stay on Lipari here.

How to Get to the Aeolian Islands

Getting to the Aeolian Islands can be time-consuming depending on where you’re coming from. Because of this, you may want to spend a night in Milazzo to break up your journey before taking a ferry the next day.

The most common way to get to the Aeolian Islands is to fly to Catania Airport, take a shuttle bus or van to the port of Milazzo (about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic), then take a ferry to the island of your choice. You can see the Liberty Lines ferries here.

We booked a group transfer with Eoglie Booking for 55.75 EUR ($65) for two people. You can book a private transfer here for about $120 or so.

Should you get a private transfer? If you have a group, it’s worth it. If you can’t find a group departure close to your arrival, it’s also worth it. If you’d prefer avoiding a van full of people and just riding in a car, it’s worth it once again.

Honestly, our bags were 45 minutes late coming out of the plane (classic Sicily!) and we came SO close to missing our departure. We were texting our driver in a panic as he kept saying he could only wait a few minutes more…then we got there and found out we were the only people on board. Go figure.

From Milazzo there are departures to all of the Aeolian Islands on Liberty Lines.

Ferry times from Milazzo: Vulcano is 45 minutes, Lipari is 1 hour and 5 minutes, Salina is 1 hour and 35 minutes, Filicudi is 2 hours and 20 minutes, Alicudi is 2 hours and 50 minutes, Panarea is 2 hours and 5 minutes, Stromboli is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

See all ferries to the Aeolian Islands here.

Other ways to get to the Aeolian Islands: Another option is to take the train from Catania to Milazzo, which takes about 3.5 hours and costs about 15-20 EUR ($18-23), plus a taxi from the train station to the port (about 10 EUR or $12). We did this on the way back from the Aeolian Islands to Catania.

The trains were better quality than I expected, with air conditioning, but there often aren’t elevators in Sicily train stations, so you’ll have to carry your bags up and down multiple flights of stairs in each station.

Is it worth taking the train? Personally, I don’t think so. Booking a shuttle is faster, more straightforward, and it doesn’t cost much more than the train. Plus they drop you off right at the port in Milazzo!

Other ferry options: In the summer months, you can take a ferry from Messina to Lipari, from Palermo to Lipari, or even from Naples to Stromboli! I love the idea of a Naples to Stromboli ferry. They should call it the Volcano Express. See all the ferries here.

Finally, there’s the rich people way: take a private helicopter! Air Panarea does charter helicopter flights from Catania, Taormina, Reggio Calabria, and other destinations in Italy. Contact them directly for rates. It might be worth it if you have enough people to fill a helicopter and some extra cash to burn.

How to Get Around the Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian Islands are surprisingly easy to get around! The ferry system is easy and comprehensive. You can see the Liberty Lines ferries here.

First off, do not bring your car! Having a car on the Aeolians is a huge pain. Only Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, and Filicudi allow cars, and you can get by with a mix of taxis and rentals on the larger islands. There are several parking garages in Milazzo.

Should you buy ferry tickets in advance? You definitely should for your ferries between the islands and the mainland. These are the most important ones, and they tend to be busy.

If you’re doing more impromptu trips — say, a spur-of-the-moment day trip from Stromboli to Panarea — you’ll have an easier time getting tickets last-minute. We bought most of our tickets last-minute.

You can buy tickets online up until a few hours before the ferry. If not, buy them in person at the Liberty Lines office. There’s a Liberty Lines office by the port on every island.

On the smaller islands, you get around with by walking, but every island has at least golf carts (or donkeys, in Alicudi’s case!) to schlep your belongings. The larger islands have buses, taxis, and scooter rentals are a fun and very Italian option.

See all ferries between the Aeolian Islands here.

And don’t forget Milazzo, the gateway to the Aeolian Islands! This port city was one of the best surprises of my Aeolians trip. After our flight was moved two days earlier, we realized that we would be spending three nights and two full days in Milazzo, not the one night we had planned.

You may want to book a night’s accommodation in Milazzo if you have a long or complicated journey to the Aeolians. Even for us, flying direct to Catania from Prague, we were glad to have this time to pause and ease into vacation mode.

Like many port cities, Milazzo is much nicer once you get away from the port itself. The city is a narrow peninsula with a tall ridge running down the middle. This elevated region is home to a castle, elegant villas, and lovely neighborhoods.

The western side of the peninsula is home to Tono, a neighborhood with a long, beautiful beach and several beach clubs.

I recommend checking out the Castello di Milazzo, a beautiful and ruined building with interesting history and glorious views. There’s even a tuna production museum on site! Additionally, be sure to explore the villa-filled neighborhoods on the high part of the ridge, and drive to Capo di Milazzo to see the end of the world, and another Piscina di Venere (just like Vulcano’s).

And be sure to have the dinner of a lifetime at Ngonia Bay .

We stayed at Ngonia Bay for three nights before traveling to the Aeolian Islands. Ngonia Bay reached out to me and offered to host us for a stay; in the end, they partially covered our three-night visit.

This hotel is outstanding. A stunning luxury boutique hotel with just six rooms. The well-manicured grounds gave me Southern California vibes. A pool on the grounds, and a rooftop pool on top of the building.

But the food is what makes Ngonia Bay truly special. The best food I have EVER had in Sicily was at this hotel! We enjoyed a glorious tasting menu on the rooftop, overlooking the sea. It’s local, innovative, and playful.

But our favorite dish was one we had to order a second time: bucatini pasta with pistachio pesto, burrata, and Mazara del Valo red shrimp. I dream of that dish today.

Ngonia Bay was an absolute treat, and because it was on the mainland, it cost much less than a similar place in the Aeolian Islands would have cost. If you want a special place to break up the long journey, this is a wonderful choice. And if it’s out of your price range, at least go for dinner!

Best Time to Visit the Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian Islands are extremely seasonal. As a summer destination, they receive the vast majority of their tourists between June and September. That especially goes for the month of August, when many Italians head to the beach for their traditional month off.

Of course, the summer months can be crowded (stupefyingly so on Lipari and Vulcano, less so on the other islands) and it’s the most expensive time of year to visit. But if you’re looking to lie on beaches, take boat trip excursions, and swim in the sea, summer is the time to go.

Sicily in the summer is notoriously hot, but the Aeolian Islands tend to be a bit cooler than the mainland — even a few degrees cooler than nearby coastal towns like Milazzo.

Shoulder season in the Aeolian Islands can be another nice time to visit — think April, May, and October. You won’t be in full-on sizzling summer mode, but the islands will still be beautiful to explore with nice weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

Some tour companies will still run boat trip excursions, though not as often or to as many islands. You could still visit several islands if you visited in shoulder season.

I think shoulder season would be a nice time to visit if you didn’t care about beaches or swimming (though frankly, I would TOTALLY swim in the Aeolians in October), and I think this would be the ideal time of year for hiking.

In winter, the Aeolian Islands are very quiet and most businesses catering to tourists are shut down. Panarea, Alicudi, and Filicudi are essentially ghost towns. If you’re visiting during the winter, know that Lipari, the Aeolian Islands’ largest city, is your best bet for places to be open.

Sicily can be a very pleasant place to visit in the winter, though you do get more rain at this time of year. But if I were doing a Sicily trip in winter, I would stick to the mainland and avoid small islands and beach towns. They’re just too dead at this time of year.

Like I say for most European islands, don’t travel to the Aeolian Islands in the winter unless you have a reason — like you need to write a novel without distraction.

So what is the best time to visit the Aeolian Islands overall? I personally recommend June or September to enjoy the summer activities without the peak crowds of July and August.

How Much Time Do You Need in the Aeolian Islands?

Most people only come to the Aeolian Islands for a few days — which I think is a huge mistake. The islands have SO much to see and do. They should be the main dish, not the side dish!

A lot of people schedule on a few days in the Aeolian Islands as a coda to a longer Sicilian trip. If you’ve already planned that out, that’s fine — but you might start thinking about the next trip.

Overall, I recommend spending at least one week in the Aeolian Islands if possible. I spent two weeks (including three nights on the mainland in Milazzo) and it was fantastic.

Aeolian Islands Itinerary

What makes a good itinerary in the Aeolian Islands? I recommend spending the bulk of your time in Salina with at least one night in Stromboli to experience the lava to the fullest. And spend at least one day on a boat trip.

Here are some sample itineraries I recommend:

Three Days in the Aeolian Islands

If all you have is three days, I recommend spending two nights in Salina and one night in Stromboli.

Day One: Explore Salina! Travel to the other villages by scooter rental or by bus. Visit Fenech Winery or do a caper experience with Giuseppe. Spend sunset on the beach at Pollara.

Day Two: Take a boat trip excursion to the island of your choice. I recommend Salina Relax Boats. Enjoy aperitivo at Hotel Ravesi or try one of the high-end restaurants. Night in Salina.

Day Three: Take the ferry to Stromboli. Drop your bags at your accommodation, spend some time on Spiaggia Lunga, the nicest beach in Stromboli. The evening is all about the LAVA. Either do the Stromboli hike if you’re in good shape, or view the lava from Osservatorio Restaurant or on an evening boat trip excursion. Night in Stromboli.

One Week in the Aeolian Islands

If you have a week, you could visit all seven islands if you wanted, though it would be a bit tight. I recommend spending five nights in Salina and two nights in Stromboli.

Day One: Explore Salina and relax! Travel to the other villages by scooter rental or by bus. Visit Fenech Winery or do a caper experience with Giuseppe. Spend sunset on the beach at Pollara. Night in Salina.

Day Two: Take a boat trip excursion to Alicudi and Filicudi. Night in Salina.

Day Three: Take a boat trip excursion to Vulcano, or just go by ferry. Climb the volcano if you’re up for it, or rent a motorbike or open jeep to explore the island’s landscapes. Night in Salina.

Day Four: Spend a day vegging out in Salina! You deserve a day by the pool or on the beach.

Day Five: If you want another day trip, take a boat trip or ferry to Lipari. Otherwise, stay on Salina and enjoy it. Night in Salina.

Day Six: Take a ferry to Stromboli in the morning, spend some time on the beach at Spiaggia Lunga. Either hike Stromboli, if you’re in good shape, or take a boat trip to watch the lava from the water. Night in Stromboli.

Day Seven: Take a day trip to Panarea and hike to the Prehistoric Village. Come back in the afternoon, get in some beach time if you want, and make a dinner reservation (and van reservation, if you want one!) to Osservatorio, where you can eat pizza and drink wine while watching the lava.

Two Weeks in the Aeolian Islands

I recommend spending two nights in Milazzo, three nights in Stromboli, six nights in Salina, and three nights on the island of your choice.

Days One and Two: You have arrived after a long trip! Ease yourself into vacation mode by hanging out at your hotel’s pool or head to a beach club in Tono. Explore Milazzo’s sights, like the Castello di Milazzo and Milazzo’s Piscina di Venere (not to be confused with the one with the same name on Vulcano).

Days Three to Five: Take the ferry from Milazzo to Stromboli. Use these days as your base in Stromboli. Spend your days on the Aeolians’ best beaches and enjoy the small town. Check out the isolated village of Ginostra, too, and Stromboli is the ideal base for a day trip to Panarea. Enjoy three nights of lava three different ways: by hiking, by boat trip, and by dining at Osservatorio.

Days Six to Eleven: Take the ferry from Milazzo to Salina and use Salina as your base. Explore the island by motorbike or bus, enjoy the beaches, eat all the capers and pane cunzatu, go wine tasting, veg out by your hotel pool — and take as many day trips to other islands as you’d like!

Days Twelve to Fourteen: Explore the island of your choice! Get truly far away from the world in Alicudi or Filicudi, explore the wild landscapes of Vulcano, spend all of your money on Panarea, or spend time enjoying Lipari’s restaurants and shops.

Day Trip to the Aeolian Islands

Can you take a day trip to the Aeolian Islands? You can! Of course, I want you to spend much longer than just one day, but if all you have is a day, you can make it work.

Here are some popular day trip options:

Aeolian Islands Day Trip from Milazzo: From Milazzo you can visit Vulcano and Lipari , the two closest islands to the mainland, or take a longer trip and visit Panarea, and Stromboli by night to see the lava . (2023 Update: This tour no longer exists but you can visit Panarea and Stromboli are

Aeolian Islands Day Trip from Tropea: Stromboli is the closest island to Tropea , on the mainland in Calabria, and night tours to see Stromboli’s volcano explosions are popular. This Stromboli night tour from Tropea comes highly recommended. (2023 update: Unfortunately, the Stromboli night tour I recommended is no longer running.) Alternatively, you can visit Vulcano, Lipari, and Stromboli on a single day trip from Tropea. (Not familiar with Tropea? See my post about this beautiful town here. )

I do not recommend doing a day trip to the Aeolian Islands from other parts of Sicily. It takes too long, there are too many moving parts, and Sicily travel can be aggravating even when everything goes according to plan. You don’t want a delayed train or traffic jam to cause you to miss your boat.

Packing List for the Aeolian Islands

Are there some things you need to pack for the Aeolian Islands? Most definitely.

In terms of clothing, you should pack whatever you like to wear in a hot island climate (if you’re visiting in summer). It’s not necessary to buy special travel clothes; the hikes here are low-key enough that you can wear typical workout clothes.

Keep in mind that Italians and Europeans tend to dress neatly, even when on vacation. If you want to fit in, think long sundresses rather than cheap rompers, nice button-downs rather than old t-shirts, and quality sandals rather than plastic flip-flops.

Here’s what I suggest packing:

Water shoes — Most of the Aeolian Islands’ beaches are rocky; even the scintillating black sand beaches in Stromboli have rocky patches near the water. I was much more comfortable swimming in water shoes.

Trail runners or other hiking shoes — I chose to rent hiking boots for the Stromboli hike, but I wish I had brought my own trail runners (like a combination of sneakers and hiking boots, which works equally well for working out and hiking) for Vulcano and other hikes.

Insect repellant — Yes, unfortunately mosquitos have a presence in the Aeolian Islands.

Sports sandals  — An easy, comfortable way to get around, much better than flip-flops, especially for climbing the rocky beaches.

Insulated water bottle  — Stay hydrated without adding to the plastic waste problem.

Reef safe sunscreen  — The Aeolians may not have coral reefs, but reef safe sunscreen is much better for the environment as a whole.

Wide-brimmed hat  — Especially for boat trips when you get little protection from the sun.

Dry bag  and/or  waterproof phone bag  — Essential for boat trip excursions! (I always promote dry bags because mine saved me when  I was shipwrecked in Indonesia in 2011 .)

Portable safe  — Keep your valuables in here and lock it to something sturdy in your room.

Speakeasy Travel Supply Scarf  — Stylish enough for Italy, with a great function — a hidden pocket for valuables. No purse necessary and no thief will ever pickpocket you!

Travel Insurance for the Aeolian Islands

A lot of people don’t think it’s necessary to get travel insurance for Italy — after all, it’s a safe country with decent healthcare. But you need it for one VERY big reason: if you get seriously ill or injured in the Aeolian Islands, you will be transferred to a hospital by helicopter. And that’s not cheap.

If you get sick or injured on your trip, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin.  I have used World Nomads for past trips to Italy.

While Italy’s hospital prices aren’t anywhere near what the US would charge you, you could end up paying a lot of money for a serious medical issue. But travel insurance protects you and refunds you for your costs.

It’s the kind of thing you don’t know you need until you need it.  See if World Nomads is right for you here.

Are the Aeolian Islands Worth It?

Oh my God, the Aeolian Islands are SO worth it! So many times over!! So much that you can plan a two-week trip entirely to the Aeolian Islands and know that you made a great decision.

I can’t wait to return to the Aeolian Islands, and I know these will remain a special destination for me in my favorite country.

Go and enjoy your dreamy trip to these volcanic islands. Then come back and tell me all about it.

Planning a Trip to Italy:

• What NOT to Do in Italy
• Solo Female Travel in Italy: Is it Safe?
• Ultimate Guide to Driving in Italy
• How to Stay at an Agriturismo in Italy
• 40 Italy Landmarks to Experience Once In Your Lifetime
• 30 Stunning Mediterranean Islands To Visit In Your Lifetime
• 30 Italian Cities To Visit Once In Your Lifetime

Cool Places in Southern Italy:

• Tropea, Italy: A Spectacularly Situated Beach Town
• The Stunning Trulli of Alberobello, Italy
• 16 Fun Things To Do In Sorrento
• 17 Fun Things to do in Bari, Italy
• 16 Fab Things to do in Lecce, Italy
• 15 Best Things to do in Monopoli, Italy
• 17 Fun Things to do in Matera, Italy

Cool Places in Sicily:

• 22 Best Places to Visit in Sicily
• The Joys and Challenges of Traveling in Sicily
• Where to Go in Eastern Sicily
• 23 Fun Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily
• Aci Trezza: A Laid-Back Coastal Town in Sicily
• Visiting Sicily in the Winter: Worth it or not?
• 30 Iconic Dishes To Try In Sicily

Cool Places in Northern Italy:

• Three Weeks in Northern Italy: An Itinerary
• Parma, Italy: A Colorful, Artsy, Delicious Town
• Where to Stay in Rome: Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation
• Three Days in the Dolomites: A South Tyrol Getaway
• Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy
• The Immaculate, Bursting Mosaics of Ravenna, Italy
• 25 Best Food Experiences in Emilia-Romagna, Italy
• 23 Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy

Have you been to the Aeolian Islands? What do you suggest? Share away!

Which Islands to Visit in Azores?

Deciding which are the best islands to visit in Azores? Confused about which ones to go and how to get around? Let me give you a hand and save you some precious time planning with my tips and itineraries I’ve crafted.

Any local would say all the islands in Azores are beautiful, each in its own way. That’s not a lie, the highlights and landscapes across each island are vastly different.

However, from a visitor point of view, some of them are indeed more interesting than others. No shade. Just being honest here.

This article will give you an overview of what each island is Azores is all about so you can decide which ones to visit.

I’ve also included sample first-time itineraries with several different durations: 7, 10, 14 and 21-day trips.No need to read extensive guides or spend days of planning.

Where are the Azores?

First of all, a quick intro. The Azores are a Portuguese group of 9 islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. They’re mostly known for its raw natural scenery and untouched landscapes of lakes, waterfalls, and green meadows.

You can get to Azores flying directly from mainland Portugal , United States, Canada, or a few other European countries like Germany, Sweden or the UK.

If it’s your first time visiting, I strongly recommend reading my intro guide to Azores as well as the main things you should know before your trip .

One of them is that getting around the islands can be costly and time-consuming .

It’s essential to plan efficiently and avoid FOMO (fear of missing out). If you’re always on the go rushing from point A to point B, it won’t be nearly as rewarding, trust me. Part of the true Azores experience is being able to chill and have time to take it all in.

What is the best island to visit in the Azores?

9 islands of Azores have an incredible range of stunning landscapes with a wide array of outdoor activities and things to do , so I highly recommend you visit at least 2-3 of them to have a good grasp of life in the islands.

That said, if your time is limited and/or don’t want to spend too much time in logistics, pick São Miguel island. Apart from being the easiest to fly to, it offers the largest amount of things to do and see.

Pre-filtered list of hotels with top reviews and location with parking and free WiFi included.

Let’s start… small. With a population of only about 420 😱, Corvo is the tiniest island in Azores . The entire island is an extinct volcano and the product of its past eruption(s). Fun fact: only in 1973 (!) the inhabitants got electricity!

But don’t let its size fool you. This remote and peaceful island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with protected waters, making it a place of excellence for snorkeling and diving. It’s also a great option for birdwatching, but to be fair, most visitors are attracted simply by the novelty of exploring such a remote and tiny island.

Corvo Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Caldeirão . The crater of the extinct Corvo ‘s old volcano. If weather collaborates, sunset here is incredible.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: There is a small airfield in Corvo with flights to Faial and Flores.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: An Atlântico Line ferry to Flores runs daily in summer months (but only twice/week in winter). Takes about 45 minutes. Book your tickets ahead.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Pirates Nest (how cool is this name?).
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Birdwatching, diving, hiking.
• 👌 Go here if…: you want to experience what true remoteness feels like.

The westernmost territory in Europe, Flores is well off the beaten track. It’s raw, exotic and remote and a top-notch paradise for birdwatchers. I loved my time there because it allowed me to connect to nature even more.

In fact, the entire island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with dozens of waterfalls, lakes, and massive rock formations. Flores is the place where your adventurous side takes over, powered by the dramatic landscapes, lush hills, and the charming roads embellished by vibrant hydrangeas. Read on more on my Flores guide .

Flores Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Poço da Alagoinha . Many large waterfalls in an area with lush green mountains and rock formations, this one of the most breahtaking natural sceneries in the Azores.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: There is a small airfield in Corvo with flights to other islands. It’s a 1h10 flight to Ponta Delgada .
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: Flores is connected to Corvo (all-year round) and to Faial (summer months) via Atlântico Line ferry.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Sítio da Assumada .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Birdwatching, canyoning, hiking.
• 👌 Go here if…: you like nature at its rawest form.

With the second-largest population after São Miguel , and known as the party island of the Azores, there is always something happening to keep you busy in Terceira . The highlight happens in June, where the massive street party of Sanjoaninas takes over the downtown of Angra do Heroísmo.

Terceira is much more than partying though. Make your way inland and you’ll find colorful architecture examples – look for impérios -, relaxing real-life desktop screensavers of meadows and forests, scenic lookouts like the pasture patchwork in Serra do Cume , and the volcanic chimney of Algar do Carvão .

Or perhaps take a dive underwater to explore the dozens of centuries-old shipwrecks that can be found around the island.

Also make sure you indulge in its famous food delicacies, a subset of Azorean food where the king dish is alcatra .

Terceira Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Angra do Heroísmo . The pretty port city with colorful buildings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Angra is decently connected to almost all the islands in the Azores, as well as the mainland Portugal (Lisbon and Porto). Azores Airlines also operates direct flights to the US.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: During summer months, Terceira is connected directly to Graciosa, São Jorge and São Miguel via Atlântico Line ferry.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Terceira Mar Hotel .
• 🏨 3 activities to try: Diving, speleology, paragliding.
• 👌 Go here if…: you’re looking to add a killer food&party break to your vacation.

Remember when I said in the beginning that not all islands in the Azores are equally as interesting for a first-time visitor? Unless you have a whole month to go around the islands, I’m afraid Graciosa would have to be your first one to go.

The island is roughly the same size as Manhattan and oh boy, could they be any more different!

For starters, it’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and exudes authenticity – food, people, culture, ways of living – and the fact it’s not changing anytime soon is reassuring. The kind of place where farmers still get around by donkey on their daily commute to their pastures.

Don’t get me wrong – there’s a special charm about such an off the beaten track like Graciosa. It’s just if we measure what to see and do vs the effort to get there, it would be a smart choice to pick other Azorean islands first.

Graciosa Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Carapacho . Waters in this modern thermal spa reach 40°C allowing for a therapeutic and 100% natural thalassotherapy experience.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Graciosa is connected to Terceira island.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: During summer months, Graciosa has direct Atlântico Line ferries from both Terceira and São Jorge.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Casa da Beira Mar .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Diving, fishing, speleology.
• 👌 Go here if…: you want to escape the crowds and experience te full authentic Azores.

São Jorge is very narrow island – with only 8km width! – but encapsulates an incredibly diverse cocktail of captivating sceneries. From cliffs and ravines to lakes and surfing spots, its main feature is the almost vertical coastline interrupted by small plains formed by lava flows called fajãs .

Apart from this rough landscape which potentiates all sorts of adventurous activities, it’s also known for its pastures, the birthplace of the famous unpasteurized cheese – Queijo de São Jorge . Don’t leave the Azores without trying it, it will ROCK YOUR WORLD.

São Jorge Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo . Apart from the majestic scenario, the waves here are considered one of the best for surfing and body boarding in Europe.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: SATA Air Açores has direct flights to São Jorge from Terceira and São Miguel airports.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: Decently connected to Faial and Pico all year round as well to Terceira and Graciosa in the peak season.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Intact Farm Resort .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Apart from ingesting cheese in biblic amounts, surfing, mountain biking, hiking.
• 👌 Go here if…: you want some of most dramatic landscapes in Europe.

The landscape of Pico is undeniably dominated by Mount Pico , the highest peak in Portuguese territory. In fact is this unique combination of perfectly in-sync mountain and sea sceneries that makes Pico so special.

This island is home to unique vineyards that literally grow in lava rocks and stretch out all the way to the ocean, as well as century-old volcanic caves and tidal pools to refresh body and mind.

Last but definitely not least, Pico is a top whale-watching destination worldwide, an activity that (fortunately) has replaced the old whaling tradition in the 20th century. If you’re to do it anywhere in the islands do it here.

Pico Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Mount Pico . With 2351m, it’s the highest mountain in Portugal. The hike to the top is deceptively tricky and takes at least 5 hours (in total). If weather cooperates, you’ll be rewarded with glorious views over the Atlantic Ocean and nearby islands. A guide is recommended and I recommend Atípico .
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Pico is well-connected not only to other islands, but also has direct flights from Lisbon too.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: The Atlântico Line operation runs throughout the entire year connecting Faial, Pico and São Jorge.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Adegas do Pico . I stayed in this area for 4 days, stunning scenery!
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Whale-watching, hiking, wine tasting.
• 👌 Go here if…: you are up for a mountain climb challenge.

Some people say the best of Faial is the view of Pico (THE SHADE IS REAL 😈).

While you don’t want to spend more than 3 full days in the island, there are some quite interesting and diverse sights for at least 1/2 days. From the moon-ish volcanic landscapes in the Capelinhos area to the natural sea pools or even the impressive crater of Lagoa da Caldeira , Faial has some quite cool photo moments.

Plus, there’s the maritime connection. All the islands in Azores obviously have a strong connection with the ocean, but Faial takes it to a whole new level.

Horta has been a pivotal hub for yachts and sailboats in transatlantic journeys between Africa, America, and Europe. Pay a visit to the marina’s breakwater where the insignias of hundreds of sailors are displayed in all formats and shapes. Sort of a sailor’s guestbook.

Faial Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Capelinhos . The last eruption in 1957 made Faial gain a land extension of about 3 square kilometers.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Faial has direct flights from some islands like São Jorge, São Miguel and Terceira and from Lisbon too.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: The Atlântico Line operation runs throughout the entire year connecting Faial, Pico and São Jorge. On summer there are also connections to Flores.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Casas da Fajã .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Sailing, whale-watching, mountain biking.
• 👌 Go here if…: you’re looking for the most recent trace of a volcanic eruption.

My home island! (promise I won’t be biased).

The largest island of the archipelago has a LOT to do outdoors as well as a lot of different things to taste .

São Miguel is a trip by itself and a gateway to the Azores as it contains a little bit of everything the entire archipelago has to offer.

4 days is the bare minimum to scratch the surface of São Miguel , but there’s enough to keep you busy here for at least a week.

Beyond the maritime city of Ponta Delgada , there are majestic lakes reminiscent of ancient volcano craters, dark volcanic sandy beaches and outdoor hot springs to relax in. Pasture and herds of happy cows chilling on the lush hills are the most common scenery though – after all this is the “green island” for a reason.

The island is also a paradise for hikers, with dozens of official trails making their way across all kinds of landscapes in various shapes, sizes, and difficulty levels.

São Miguel Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Sete Cidades . The twin lakes of Sete Cidades can’t always be seen on all its glory amongst the foggy weather up in the mountains, but if you’re lucky, it’s a breathtaking moment.
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: You can get to São Miguel from almost all the other islands, as well as from Madeira, Lisbon and Porto. International direct connections are gradually more common, with flights rom US, UK, Germany and Nordic countries. Besides Azores Airlines, companies flying direct to São Miguel include TAP, Delta, Ryanair and Primera Air.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: During the peak season, there are ferries to São Miguel from Santa Maria and Terceira.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Out of the Blue . Hotel Azor for a more premium experience.
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Hiking, surfing, paradliging.
• 👌 Go here if…: you don’t want to miss on some of the major highlights of Azores.

Santa Maria

While the rest of the islands are stuck in an endless unpredictable and ever-changing weather – locals call it the “4 seasons in a single day” weather -, Santa Maria laughs out loud from its warmest and sunniest southeastern spot.

Santa Maria emerged from the Atlantic 10 million years ago, way before than any other island in the Azores, so it’s geologically quite different. The highlights are the golden beaches and tidal pools allow great swimming spots, above water; and world-famous diving spots like Gruta Azul , underwater.

The island comes alive in August, during the music festival Maré de Agosto , but in the rest of the year remains faithful to its “chill getaway” vibe.

Santa Maria Overview

• ⭐ Top Attraction: Praia Formosa . One of the best beaches in Azores, located in a picturesque bay with crystal clear waters. Might very well be the best spot in the islands to relax and work on your tan!
• ✈️ Getting there by plane: Direct flights to Santa Maria are available exclusively from São Miguel.
• 🛥️ Getting there by boat: There is a ferry connecting São Miguel and Santa Maria during summer.
• 🏨 Where to stay: Casa da Boa Vista .
• 🏌️ 3 activities to try: Swimming, diving, paragliding.
• 👌 Go here if…: you want to add a bit of quality beach and swimming time to your trip.

Ready-made Azores itinerary for your trip

Here are some ready-to-go sample itineraries you can use as a template for your trip. Some might say you can cover a lot more, but I truly believe a place like Azores is not to be rushed. Embrace the opportunity to fully appreciate nature. Don’t spend your day on planes, cars and roads, you have enough stress on your daily life already.

The example itineraries blow are tailored for first-time visitors and are designed to give the best overview possible of Azores in each amount of time.

Less than 7 days

My advice here is stick to São Miguel . Don’t worry, there’s a lot to keep you busy – use my 4-day itinerary of São Miguel as a guide for your trip.

There’s no point in trying to squeeze in another island – basically, you’ll pay more to rush your experience in both islands.

7 days Azores Itinerary

• São Miguel (5 full days)
• Santa Maria OR Terceira OR Pico (2 full days)

With a week to spend in Azores, there are 2 options. You can either splurge your time in São Miguel only and have extra time to tour the main things to do as well as do outdoor activities such hiking trails, diving, or canyoning .

If you are keen on including more stops on your journey, be strategic: a week is not a lot of time.

Santa Maria makes more sense logistically as is just a 3-hour ferry away. Adding Terceira or Pico can also be convenient as you can book an open-jaw flight to mainland Portugal (saving time and money of a flight back to São Miguel).

For the latter option though, if you plan to climb Mount Pico , this might be too tight and rushed. You’ll want to make sure you have enough buffer time in Pico to 1) choose the day with the best weather to make the climb 2) RECOVER from the demanding climb.

10 days Azores Itinerary

• Faial (1/2 full days)
• Pico (3/4 full days)

This is where you can start to get ambitious guys.

With 10 days in the Azores, invest a big chunk of the time in São Miguel and Pico. There’s experiences not to miss in Pico , as well as many outdoor activities to try in São Miguel .

As for the remaining 1/2 days, stick to an island close to Pico . Faial is the obvious choice as there are frequent ferries between Horta (Faial) and Madalena (Pico).

This means a doable itinerary would be Lisbon ► São Miguel ► Faial ► Pico ► Lisbon . You can shuffle the order of the 3, as long as São Miguel is either in the beginning or at the end of the trip to take advantage of the ferry connection in the Triangle islands.

The first is that Flores is much more remote and may need an additional return flight to Lisbon, complicating the logistics. The other is that these 2 islands, despite breathtaking, are quite similar in terms of landscape. Faial and Pico add more contrast to your experience and gives you a more well-rounded overview of the islands.

14 days Azores Itinerary

• São Miguel (6 full days)
• Pico (3 full days)
• São Jorge (3/4 full days)

2 weeks is the perfect time to visit São Miguel as well as the three triangle islands – Faial, Pico and São Jorge. SATA Air Açores has frequent flights from São Miguel to any of these islands and once you’re there, it’s fairly easy and cheap to travel between them by ferry. Efficiency FTW.

This itinerary also combines some of the best features of Azores: the impressive lakes of São Miguel, the volcanic landscape of Faial, the unique mountain-and-wine combo scenery of Pico and finally the majestic cliffs and fajãs in São Jorge . It’s a lot to awe on a single trip!

So if you’re coming and returning from Lisbon, it’s perfectly doable to do a Lisbon ► São Miguel ► Faial ► São Jorge ► Pico ► Lisbon open-jaw trip. Again, shuffle as you like, just leave São Miguel for either the beginning or the end of the trip to optimize your logistics.

21 days Azores Itinerary

• Faial (2 full days)
• Flores (2/3 full days)
• Terceira (2/3 full days)

Ok, this is where we can go crazy!

Definitely use the previous 2-week itinerary of São Miguel, Faial, São Jorge and Pico and maybe even add a day or two in the first and the latter islands.

As for the rest of the days, it’s time to (finally) add Flores. This island is a smaller, greener and more remote version of São Miguel and has got some of the most incredible waterfalls and lakes in the Azores.

For the couple of days that are still left, including Terceira will give your trip a different side of Azorean food and if you got your time right, a bit of partying around too. The island is known as the party island of the archipelago!

Alternatively, you can replace Flores with Santa Maria for more chances of sunny weather and some beach bum time. It will also reduce travel time and overall costs a bit as you can hop on a ferry from São Miguel.

Azores itinerary summary

Here’s a quick summary of some example itineraries in Azores based off the number of days you have.

• Less than 7 days: São Miguel
• 7 days: São Miguel OR São Miguel + Pico OR São Miguel + Terceira
• 10 days: São Miguel + Faial + Pico
• 14 days: São Miguel + Faial + Pico + São Jorge
• 21 days: São Miguel + Faial + Pico + São Jorge + Flores + Terceira

Planning a trip to Azores independently

Booking your flight.

If you are not from the US or simply not into vacation packages, you’re better off by booking your flight independently.

As a rule of thumb, flights to Azores are considerably cheaper from Porto, Lisbon or London. Ponta Delgada airport has the highest number of flight connections. From there you may be entitled to a FREE connecting flight to other islands – check this page for more info.

Booking a hotel

For hotels, you can start off with this pre-filtered list of hotels, guesthouses and villas in Azores . Or explore on your own:

Booking a car

Taxis and tours can be costly and public transportation is not reliable. Also local guides take away the fun factor. If you ask me, the best way to get around in Azores is definitely by renting a car .

Plus, an island road trip will add a sense of adventure to make your trip truly memorable!

Other useful resources when planning a trip to Azores

The ultimate itinerary of são miguel island (made by an azorean), the top azores hot springs & thermal baths in sao miguel, furnas, azores: unique things to do in the furnas valley.

• Ponta Delgada, Azores: 12 Things To Do In My Hometown
• The 13 Most Beautiful Azores Beaches
• When Is The Best Time to Go To Azores?
• Hiking in Azores: An Insider Guide
• São Miguel, Azores: Full Travel Guide by a Local
• The Best Hotels in São Miguel, Azores For All Kinds Of Travelers
• Azores: 20 Travel Tips To Know Before You Go
• Atlântico Line – the ferry company in Azores
• SATA/Azores Airlines – the regional airline company
• Visit Azores – official tourism board

My travel tips valid anywhere

• 🏨 To find the best deals and book your stay with free cancellation, I recommend Booking.com (from my experience, often cheaper than Airbnb)
• 🚗 Always compare car rental prices before you book anything (and if possible use local rental shops!)
• ☑️ Travel insurance is a must these days – don’t overlook it! I recommend Allianz or Safety Wing if you’re always on the go
• 💰 Use Revolut to save in exchange rates and payments abroad; it’s a game-changer!
• ⚙️ Amazon has the largest offer in travel gear, clothing, and accessories – check out my Travel Store !
• ✈️ Are you dealing with a delayed or cancelled flight? Airhelp may help you get a compensation for it!

Which islands in the Azores did you visit? How many days did you had? Share your itinerary!

You might also like these articles 💬

Destinations🌎

A first-timer’s guide to Vancouver Island

May 8, 2024 • 11 min read

Explore stately Victoria (pictured), hike long-distance trails, catch a wave in Tofino and much more besides on Vancouver Island © Aaron Black / Getty Images RFC

Once dismissed as a sleepy retirement home for aging Anglophiles, Vancouver Island has acquired a racier profile in recent years, courtesy of its free-spirited surfing towns, pastoral wineries, community-built biking networks and extravagantly eccentric accommodations.

If you’ve ever spent time fantasizing about “hanging ten” in Tofino , sleeping in spherical treehouses, visiting Canada ’s only commercial tea farm or climbing above the forest canopy on a wooden skywalk, welcome to heaven.

Here's everything you need to know before you visit Vancouver Island for the first time.

When should I go to Vancouver Island?

Most of Vancouver Island has a relatively mild climate. Victoria , in the south, is the balmiest city in Canada, while the nearby Cowichan Valley, famed for its viticulture, is practically Mediterranean. These two areas can be visited year round, although late spring and summer are the driest times. Tofino is another year-round destination with surfing conditions at their best in September and October. The storm-watching season runs from November through February when the winter squalls are spectacular.  

Read more:  A postcard from Vancouver Island: a storm-watching trip in photos

The months of July, August and September enjoy dry, semi-drought conditions, perfect for east and west coast beaches and long-distance hikes such as the West Coast Trail (open May 1 to September 30). Most of the island’s rain falls between mid-October and April. For Mt Washington skiers, the winter season usually runs from early December to early April.

For the best prices, avoid high summer and public holidays (Canada has one every month). Some of the island’s smaller towns – most notably Tofino – can get very crowded during the school summer holidays (July and August), meaning you’ll need to book accommodations months in advance.

How much time should I spend on Vancouver Island?

Short island breaks from Vancouver can be spread over a long weekend, although once you’ve factored in ferry travel, you probably won’t get much further than Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula. To take in additional highlights, such as the Cowichan Valley and Tofino, bank on at least five days. If you’re aiming to visit the island’s wilder north coast and/or indulge in some backcountry adventures, one week is the bare minimum.

How do I get to Vancouver Island?

The only way to get to the island from the mainland is by ferry or airplane. Victoria International Airport has connections to major Canadian cities, plus Seattle in the US. Small planes serve airports in Port Hardy, Campbell River, Tofino and Nanaimo . Harbour Air runs seaplanes between Vancouver and Victoria harbors.  

The main ferry services are run by BC Ferries , which operates vessels between Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and Swartz Bay (for Victoria); Tsawwassen and Duke Point (Nanaimo); and Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) and Departure Bay (Nanaimo). There’s also a smaller central island ferry that runs between Comox and Powell River on the Sunshine Coast. All Vancouver Island ferries carry cars.  

Direct international ferries connect Port Angeles in Washington State , USA, with Victoria. The  Black Ball car ferry runs four times a day in either direction in the summer and twice a day in the winter. The journey lasts 90 minutes. The passenger-only  Victoria Clipper ferry operates daily between Victoria and Seattle, USA.

Is it easy to get around Vancouver Island?

In short, yes. While the island has a relatively scant road network, especially in the north and west, the main highways are in good condition and a car will get you to most places that are of interest to travelers.

The island’s main north-south highway runs between Victoria and Port Hardy – a total distance of 500km (311 miles). It’s called Hwy 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) between Victoria and Nanaimo and Hwy 19 further north.

Vancouver Island Connector has one daily bus in either direction between Victoria and Tofino, stopping at Nanaimo, Port Alberni and several other towns.  Island Link offers a more comprehensive service running multiple buses between Victoria and Tofino, Victoria and Campbell River, and Campbell River and Port Hardy. Book at least a day in advance. 

There are currently no public trains operating on the island.

Top things to do on Vancouver Island

Surf or storm-watch in tofino.

Abutting the turbulent seas of the Pacific Ocean with a necklace of broad sandy beaches,  Tofino is, inarguably, the best place in Canada to go surfing. From semicircular Cox Bay (host of numerous surfing competitions) to blustery Long Beach inside Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, the swells are legendary – and not just for their wave-riding potential. Backed by a smattering of low-rise accommodations, Tofino has become a popular storm-watching destination in recent decades, with its winter tempests perfectly complementing the elemental surroundings.

Sit down to afternoon tea in Victoria

While Victoria is an increasingly diverse city, it still clings in part to the British traditions of its past, a legacy reflected in its grand legislative building, “royal” museum and local penchant for afternoon tea. The tea ritual prevails in an array of refined cafes and tearooms scattered around town, where fluffy scones and dainty cakes are paired with refreshing cups of orange pekoe sipped from fine china.

The poshest – and also most expensive – place to partake in the repast is the  Fairmont Empress Hotel , where “high tea” (finger sandwiches, homemade pastries and fresh scones) is served in a regal lounge.

Visit a cidery in the Cowichan Valley  

The Cowichan Valley is Vancouver Island’s own Provence, where gentle hills and a warm Mediterranean-like climate provide a fertile environment for vineyards, farm-to-table restaurants and craft drinks. A notable innovator is  Merridale , a craft-cider maker and microdistillery in the farming community of Cobble Hill, whose rustic grounds are speckled with a gnarly orchard and large, gabled barns. Inside, there’s a tasting bar dispatching samples of the fruity booze, a patio bistro serving crusty apple pie and posh yurts for overnight stays.

Feel the full force of nature on the West Coast Trail

Muddy, swampy and slow-going for much of its course, the perennially popular  West Coast Trail is one of Canada’s most celebrated hikes. The 75km (47-mile) trail of ladders, bridges, creek crossings, rock-hopping and beachcombing hugs the Pacific shoreline for most of its course and incorporates large tracts of Indigenous land. You’ll need a permit, camping equipment and between five and seven days to complete it, but despite fickle weather and the ruggedness of the beaches and adjacent forest, the rewards are immense. Book your passage well in advance.      

See one of Canada’s best Indigenous cultural museums in Alert Bay

Head north to Alert Bay on tiny Cormorant Island to see one of the best manifestations of Indigenous culture in Canada. The  U’mista Cultural Centre is a unique museum modeled on a wooden longhouse that displays a vast collection of Kwakwaka'wakw artifacts – including masks, carvings and totems – reclaimed after being confiscated by Canadian authorities in the early 20th century, when potlatch gift-giving ceremonies were prohibited.

Climb above the forest on the Malahat Skywalk

Opened in 2021 and built in collaboration with the Malahat Nation, this novel Skywalk rises like a giant wood-and-glass basket above the forest just off Hwy 1, 30km (19 miles) northwest of Victoria. A 600m-long (1969ft) elevated walkway leads through arbutus forest to the 32m-high (105ft) multi-tiered tower that's been fitted with multiple viewpoints, a bouncy adventure net and a helter-skelter-style slide that’ll shoot you back down to the bottom in 15 seconds.

Looking for more great experiences? Here are our top picks on Vancouver Island  

My favorite thing to do on Vancouver Island  

I’m no daredevil mountain biker, but the extensive and unique trail network around the central-island village of Cumberland is my favorite place for downhill practice (and boy do I need it). The trails were built by a local nonprofit called the  United Riders of Cumberland in the early 2000s with the cooperation of Canadian timber companies. Around the same time, an enterprising group of village residents purchased an adjacent portion of old growth forest to save it from logging and furnished it with walking trails.  

To support the two-wheeled and two-legged tourists, Cumberland’s once downbeat main street of mining-era buildings has sprouted a cool array of independent shops and restaurants. Last time I was in town, I stayed at the  Riding Fool , a friendly hostel with bike rentals available at the adjacent  Dodge City Cycles .

How much money do I need for Vancouver Island?

Prices on the island mostly reflect those of mainland British Columbia (BC) and the rest of Canada. Travelers from the US, Eurozone and the UK may find things slightly cheaper than at home.

How much money you’ll need will depend on the season, your location and your choice of activities. Hit tiny Tofino in the summer for whale-watching and a dinner of baked halibut washed down with a bottle of Muscadet and things could get pricey. But visit nearby Ucluelet in the shoulder season to sample beer in the local brewpub and hike the elemental Wild Pacific Trail for free, and you’ll have some cash left in the coffers.

If you’re just visiting the Victoria area, you can stretch your budget by ditching the car (meaning no parking fees), traveling “walk-on” with the ferry and taking the cheap public bus from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal into Victoria.  

Typical prices:

• Ferry fares for cars/walk-on passengers: from C$50/19.85
• Front-country camping per night: C$20–35
• Backcountry camping: C$5
• Room for two in mid-range hotel: C$180–240
• Kayak rental (two hours): from C$50
• Victoria – Tofino bus ticket: C$73
• Local bus fares: C$2.50
• Coffee: C$3–5
• Fish ‘n’ chips: C$16–22

Are there any wild animals?

There are plenty. Zodiac boats leave direct from Victoria’s Inner Harbour on whale-watching excursions year round. Tofino and Telegraph Cove are also known for their wildlife cruises, and sightings of dolphins, otters and whales are common.  Prince of Whales is the best island operator.

Black bears are present across Vancouver Island and are regularly spotted on popular wooded hikes such as the West Coast and Juan de Fuca trails. There are no grizzly bears on the island itself, but boat trips operated by  Tide Rip run during summer from Telegraph Cove to Knight Inlet on the mainland, where grizzlies are relatively common.

Unbeknownst to many, the island has the highest concentration of cougars in North America.     

What's the bike culture like?

Vancouver Island is one of the most bike-friendly places in Canada. Urban Victoria has a large and growing network of dedicated bike lanes that crisscross the downtown core and complement a wider web of multi-use trails, including the 55km (34-mile) Galloping Goose Trail and the 29km (18-mile) Lochside Trail, both of which are built on top of old railway lines. Further north, the twin surf towns of Tofino and Ucluelet are linked by the newer ʔapsčiik t̓ašii (pronounced “ups-cheek ta-shee”) trail that passes all the best Pacific beaches.  

For off-road action, Cumberland has one of the most comprehensive single-track mountain biking networks in BC, with 170 named trails and a strong reputation among cyclists for its diversity and competitive edge.   

How English is Victoria?

Victoria isn't as English as it used to be, but you can still enjoy several genuine British-style pubs in the BC capital, including such downtown haunts as  The Sticky Wicket (with a cricketing theme), where the menu still lists bangers and mash.

Craigdarroch Castle is a grand neo-Romanesque mansion that once belonged to a British coal baron. It wouldn’t look out of place in the Scottish Highlands.

Fish ‘n’ chips is a local staple, and authentic versions can be procured at the floating food shacks of Fisherman’s Wharf . Afternoon tea is also popular – Murchies Tea & Coffee on Government St does a cheap version.

Look out for games of cricket in Beacon Hill Park in the summer and don’t miss the world-class floral displays at  Butchart Gardens in nearby Brentwood Bay.   

What are the best long-distance hiking trails?

The island has three multiday backcountry hiking trails, all regarded as classics.

The West Coast Trail is world famous and was once used as a rescue route for shipwrecked sailors. It’s open from May to September, and aspiring hikers must book in advance to secure a space.  

The 47km (29-mile) Juan de Fuca Trail is a lesser-known southern extension of the West Coast Trail with no prior reservations necessary.

The newer, more remote 43km (27-mile) North Coast Trail links sandy coves, empty beaches and thick, wind-contorted rainforest via a rough, unkempt path that utilizes sections of boardwalk and cable cars to cross creeks and rivers.

The all-encompassing  Vancouver Island Trail runs south to north from Victoria to Cape Scott, though it still lacks proper signage in some places. See the trail website for details.    

Are there any national parks?

There are two national parks on Vancouver Island: Pacific Rim National Park Reserve , established in 1970, and Gulf Islands National Park Reserve , designated in 2003. The former abuts the stormy west coast between the twin surf towns of Tofino and Ucluelet and is split into three sections: the West Coast Trail (a hiking route), Broken Group Islands (only reachable by boat) and the more accessible Long Beach Unit, where there’s a visitor center and a raft of beach activities.

The Gulf Island National Park Reserve consists of numerous disconnected areas spread across a dozen landfalls on the so-called Gulf Island archipelago between Vancouver and Victoria. Pender and Mayne Islands are the easiest to reach on the public ferry network.  

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Wander-Lush

A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting the Aeolian Islands: Things to Do & Aeolian Islands Itinerary

My Aeolian Islands itinerary and Aeolian Islands travel guide offers up-to-date advice about visiting Salina island and Sicily’s Isole Eolie.

Just off Sicily’s western coast in the southernmost part of Italy, an ancient landscape of sulphur, pumice and obsidian emerges from the inky waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The Aeolian Islands ( Isole Eolie ) is an archipelago of seven UNESCO-protected islands formed by volcanic activity over the course of millennia.

Sparsely populated and slow-moving, the Aeolian Islands offer spectacular landscapes, fascinating traditions, sweet villages, and good honest food. Capers, figs, olives, wild fennel and lemons bigger than your fist grow abundantly in the dense volcanic soils. A glass of Malvasia sweet wine, the islands’ biggest export, is the perfect sun-downer.

Each of the seven Aeolian Islands has its own distinct landscape and offerings. Hiking extinct (and active!) volcanoes, bathing on black sand beaches, and touring the incredible rock formations and caves off the coast are just some of the highlights.

The Aeolian Islands have all the beauty and grandeur of Capri or Sardinia – but without the overdevelopment, and for most of the year, without the crowds either. It’s by no means an ‘undiscovered’ destination, but I do think it’s a bit of a hidden gem .

This is exactly the kind of travel destination we love. But a visit to Sicily wasn’t ever on the cards. That was until my aunt married a local and bought a house on the island of Salina.

More inspiration: My best photos of the Aeolian Islands.

That was way back in the early 2000s. Years later, I finally got around to visiting them – and I’m so glad I did. Basing ourselves at my aunt and uncle’s house in Malfa on Salina, Ross and I spent a week soaking up Sicilian life and hopping between five of the seven islands.

This guide to Salina and the Aeolian Islands draws on my experience and everything my aunt and uncle taught us during our visit.

I hope it will inspire you to visit this magical part of the world!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

What & where are the Aeolian Islands?

The Aeolian Islands are a set of small volcanic islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the coast of northern Sicily. The nearest city on mainland Sicily is Milazzo.

The islands are part of Messina province, and six of the seven (with the exception of Salina) are administered by the Commune of Lipari. Salina is a bit different – it has three separate communes: Malfa, Leni, and Santa Marina Salina.

Like most towns in Sicily , the Aeolian Islands are a mixing pot of European, North African and Middle Eastern influences.

If you’re trying to decide which Aeolian Island to visit, here is a quick summary of the seven islands and what they’re best known for:

• Vulcano: Closest to mainland Sicily, this island is popular for hiking, thermal mud baths and black sand beaches. My favourite overall landscapes in the islands and a great place for a road trip. Perfect for adventure lovers and outdoor travellers, as well as families and budget-conscious travellers.
• Lipari: The oldest island is also the busiest and most developed. Highlights include Lipari Castle and the wonderful archaeological museum. Lots of accommodation options. Best suited to families, and history and culture buffs.
• Salina: Laid back island with the best food scene and a good balance of infrastructure and pristine nature. Excellent boutique hotels. Perfect for relaxation and local experiences; well-suited to foodies and wine buffs. Salina is the overall best Aeolian Island to visit in my opinion!
• Panarea: The most fashionable and polished island. Perfect for a luxury or romantic getaway, shopping, and also a good base for swimming and diving.
• Stromboli: Best known for its active volcano which can be viewed by trekking to the crater or from a boat the water. Home to lots of artists and creatives. Perfect for hikers and adventure seekers.
• Filicudi & Alicudi: The furthest islands from mainland Sicily are the most remote. With no roads, locals get around on donkeys. Perfect for anyone who wants to get really off the beaten track.

What to do in the aeolian islands: Highlights

Before I get into the nitty gritty, here’s a little taste of what the Aeolian Islands are all about.

• Long walks up extinct volcano craters
• Hiking Stromboli , an active volcano, to see the lava flow
• Tasting Malvasia sweet wine at the family vineyards on Salina
• Sipping spritz and people-watching for the nightly La Passeggiata
• Taking a mud bath on Vulcano
• Swimming, snorkelling and diving in the Tyrrhenian Sea
• Whizzing between islands on a ferry
• Driving the windy roads on Vulcano and Lipari, stopping at dizzyingly beautiful lookouts
• Hopping between Sicilian cafes on Lipari and Salina, and eating the best cannoli, granita and semifreddo of all time
• Shopping in sweet boutiques for leather shoes, traditional ceramics and linen clothes

Planning an Aeolian Islands trip

How to get to the aeolian islands from sicily.

The Aeolian Islands are linked to Sicily and the Italian mainland by high-speed hydrofoil. The easiest way to get to the islands is by taking a Liberty Lines hydrofoil from Milazzo (10-12 boats daily; 1.5 hours to Salina) or from Messina (1-4 boats daily; 2.5 hours to Salina).

The hydrofoils are huge, but since there’s only one way for tourists and locals alike to get around, they can and do sell out. Extra services are put on during the high season (July to mid-September) but it’s still a very good idea to book tickets online if you’re going to the islands in summer.

I recommend using Direct Ferries to pre-book online. Search for Milazzo to Salina tickets here or tickets for Messina to Salina here .

In the summer months, there are direct ferries to the Aeolian Islands from Sicily’s capital city , Palermo (3.5 hours to Salina), and from Naples (5.5 hours to Salina).

The closest airports to the Aeolian Islands are in Catania, Palermo and Reggio Calabria. There are shuttle and bus services from each of these airports to the docks at Milazzo and Messina.

If you’re on a road trip around Sicily , your best bet would be to drop your hire car off in Messina (where most rental agencies have their offices) and catch a hydrofoil from there.

Milazzo and Messina both have train stations. If you have time, the train journey through Sicily is quite spectacular. After snagging cheap flights from Thessaloniki to Naples , we caught a train that originated in Rome down to Milazzo, stayed the night, then jumped on a hydrofoil to Salina the following morning.

Milazzo itself is a pleasant city (with the best gelato shop on earth ) and worth spending a few hours if your schedule permits. We stayed at Le Soleil , a great self-contained apartment walking distance from the wharf.

On our way back, we took a hydrofoil to Messina then jumped straight on a bus to Bari. We stayed the night at Il Priscio before boarding the ferry to Albania .

Day trip to the Aeolian Islands from Sicily

If you’re short on time or only interested in a short visit, it’s possible to visit the Aeolian Islands on a day trip from the mainland.

If you’re planning a DIY day trip by hydrofoil, I recommend choosing just two islands with good transport connections. Try to squeeze in any more than two islands and you’ll be rushed off your feet. Inter-island ferries often sell out as well, so it’s essential to book your tickets in advance if you’re travelling in summer (see the next section for links).

Pre-organised day trips to the Islands are an easy alternative. They are also surprisingly affordable.

From Tropea in Calabria (mainland Italy), this evening tour of Stromboli allows enough time for a swim at one of the famous black sand beaches before taking in the volcano’s light show. Also departing Tropea, this incredibly well-priced boat tour takes visitors to three of the Aeolian Islands: Vulcano, Lipari and Stromboli.

This full-day tour of Lipari and Vulcano – two of my favourite islands in the archipelago – departs from Milazzo. Highlights include a dip in the sulfur baths and a view of the epic faraglioni rock formations off the coast of Lipari.

There are also day trips to the islands departing Taormina on the east coast of Sicily. This private boat tour of Panarea and Stromboli is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the two best-known islands.

If you’d prefer to wander a charming old town as an alternative to shopping in Panarea’s boutiques, this full-day tour from Taormina sweeps visitors between beautiful Vulcano and historic Lipari.

What is the best time to visit the Aeolian Islands?

The Aeolian Islands are extremely seasonal. High season obviously falls in summer (early June to early September). Although the islands are inhabited year-round, many residents choose to leave for the winter. Most bars, restaurants and shops close as a result.

In the off-season, heavy rain and storms are not uncommon. The hydrofoil schedule is pared down and tourists boats cease, which makes it difficult to get around.

Summer, by contrast, is extremely busy. The weather might be sunny and warm, but queues are long, prices peak, and hydrofoils often sell out days in advance. If that doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, shoulder season might be the best option.

We travelled in the last week of May, which by all accounts is one of the best times to visit the Aeolian Islands. The mornings were cool enough for hiking, and the afternoons warm enough for a swim. And we were just in time for the annual caper festival on Salina , one of the region’s biggest foodie celebrations.

Everything was opening up for the new season, but the bulk of the tourists were yet to arrive. The weather was a bit mixed, but we had plenty of sunny days and really enjoyed seeing the wildflowers on Vulcano.

Similarly, my dad visited the islands in November and really enjoyed travelling at that time of year.

What is the best Aeolian Island to stay on?

Most people who visit the Aeolian archipelago base themselves on one island and visit the other islands as day excursions. As I already mentioned, we stayed with family in the village of Malfa on Salina Island.

For me, Salina is far and away the best Aeolian Island to stay on. It offers a great mix of restaurants/bars and nature/tranquillity. It’s got a very local feel, especially in the smaller villages of Malfa, Lenni and Pollara.

Boat connections are good, and public buses make it easy to get around. There are some lovely boutique hotels as well as reasonably priced options and even a campground!

Where to stay on Salina

Hotel Signum in Malfa is a gorgeous boutique hotel with the island’s only Michelin Star restaurant. Hotel Principe Di Salina , also in Malfa, is another boutique hotel with panoramic ocean views.

In Santa Marina, the larger village on the island where the hydrofoils dock, Hotel I Cinque Balconi is within walking distance of excellent restaurants, bars and shops.

La Locanda Del Postino at Pollara is more isolated but absolutely stunning (we were lucky enough to get a tour when we were there). I highly recommend it for a romantic getaway.

The campground at Il Borgo di Rinella is currently closed for renovations but should re-open next summer.

How do you get around the Aeolian islands?

Aeolian islands ferry service (hydrofoil).

Liberty Lines, the same company that transports passengers from Sicily to the islands, runs regular hydrofoils between all seven islands. Tickets cost between 12-35 Euros one-way depending on the route. Prices go up in summer.

You’ll also notice a big variation in travel times depending on the time of day. Generally the morning hydrofoils are a lot faster so try to stick to early services if you can. Popular routes have up to a dozen hydrofoils per day while the smaller islands (especially Filicudi and Alicudi) might only have two or three services.

There are ticket offices at every dock, or you can pre-purchase tickets online through Direct Ferries (recommended in summer).

Here are the most popular inter-island travel routes for those based on Salina:

• Salina to Lipari: 20-60 minutes; from 19 Euros; search tickets here
• Lipari to Vulcano: 10 minutes; from 11 Euros; search tickets here
• Salina to Panarea: 30-90 minutes; from 20 Euros; search tickets here
• Salina to Stromboli: 1-2 hours; from 32 Euros; search tickets here
• Salina to Filicudi: 25-40 minutes; from 25 Euros; search tickets here
• Filicudi to Alicudi: 30-50 minutes; from 22 Euros; search tickets here

Summer and winter timetables change each year and are usually finalised a few weeks out. Check here for the latest schedules.

Aeolian island tours

There are a few small companies that run day tours to multiple islands (usually two at a time). I call them tours, but in reality it’s just transport on a private boat with a bit of narration and perhaps an on-board meal thrown in. These are a really terrific way to get around without having to stress over hydrofoils or wait in long queues. It’s also a nice way to meet other travellers.

Typical itineraries departing Salina are for Filicudi plus Alicudi, and Panarea plus Stromboli. We did the latter itinerary with Salina Relax and really enjoyed it. They have two kiosks where you can book, one in the plaza at Malfa and another to the left of the ferry terminal at Santa Marina.

Boats are limited, so itineraries tend to alternate for different days of the week. If you have your heart set on a particular island and you’re visiting for less than a week, you’ll want to check this in advance.

Your accommodation should be able to help with schedules and reservations, or you can contact Marco or Simone directly. As with the hydrofoils, boats might not run in inclement weather.

Local buses

Salina has a terrific bus system called CITIS. Frequent departures (at least every hour) from around 6.30am until 1am in summer run a loop around the island, connecting Lingua, Santa Marina (the main dock), Malfa, Leni and Rinella. A second, less frequent bus runs from Malfa to Pollara. Tickets cost a couple of Euro and can be purchased from the driver as you board. Download a timetable for the current year here .

Lipari’s bus service is called Urso (timetable and more info here ) and on Vulcano, buses are operated by Scaffidi Bus (no website; find info signposted on the island). Filicudi, Alicudi and Panarea are simply too small for buses, and Stromboli is walkable.

Hire car, moped or quad bike

It really pays to have your own wheels in the Aeolian Islands – especially on Vulcano and Lipari. Instead of using the car ferry, it’s much more convenient to hire a vehicle when you arrive on each island. We did this on both Lipari and Vulcano (as well as driving in my uncle’s car on Salina). Roads are generally quiet and safe, and hiring a car will give you access to some of the more remote (and beautiful) spots.

If you plan on hiring a car in the Aeolian Islands, remember to bring your driver’s license and carry an international driving permit, which is a legal requirement in Italy.

Charter boat

Chartering a boat is another option for travelling between the islands. If you’re interested in diving, this is a great way to go. More info here.

What should you pack for the Aeolian Islands?

In summer, the islands are hot and exposed, so proper sun gear (a hat, water bottle, sunscreen and insect repellent) is essential. Reef shoes are a good idea if you plan on spending a lot of time on the beach (those volcanic rocks can be rough on the feet!).

It does get chilly at night, especially if you’re out on the water, so remember to bring a scarf or light cardigan. In shoulder season, you’ll want to pack a waterproof jacket as well.

If you want to trek to the craters on Stromboli or Vulcano, proper hiking boots are essential (you won’t be allowed to do the Stromboli climb without them). If you don’t want to carry heavy boots around, you can hire a pair on the island – just remember to bring your own performance socks plus a torch/headlamp and poles if you need them.

And if you’re going to take advantage of the thermal baths on Vulcano, pack a set of old clothes to wear in the mud pool. The sulphur smell is notoriously tough to wash out – you wouldn’t want to ruin your best swimming costume! A bag like this is handy for carrying wet items home.

Island hopping in Sicily: Suggested Aeolian Islands itinerary

Most people pick a couple of islands that take their fancy. If you’re a finisher (and you don’t mind springing for the boat tickets), it’s possible to visit all seven islands in a week.

I recommend basing yourself on Salina.

• Day 1: Arrive – half day on Salina
• Day 2: Day tour to Panarea & Stromboli – option to overnight on Stromboli
• Day 3: Full day on Salina
• Day 4 : Salina to Lipari by hydrofoil – full day on Lipari
• Day 5: Salina to Vulcano by hydrofoil – full day on Vulcano
• Day 6: Day tour to Alicudi & Filicudi
• Day 7: Depart

Things to do in the Aeolian Islands

The best things to do in the Isole Eolie – including nature, culture and food recommendations – plus my suggestions for how to divide your time between Sicily’s seven Aeolian Islands.

Salina: The green island

Salina has a distinct double-dome shape – but it is in fact a group of six extinct volcanoes that make up the island. Named by the Romans for the vast amounts of natural salt found there, Salina is also abundant in produce, wildlife, and just about everything else. Its natural beauty rivals any of the other Aeolian Islands.

Salina is the only island with autonomous administration. It has a distinct, more independent feel and a great sense of community. People here are proud of their identity and heritage . Salina is not only my recommended island to stay on, it’s also my favourite in the entire archipelago.

Salina is widely considered the greenest, most fertile of the islands. The food scene here is unmatched because of it. Capers and caper berries, Malvasia sweet wine grapes, peaches, figs, fennel and all kinds of yummy things grow wild in the volcanic soils.

Many locals make a living as artisanal farmers or commercial wine-makers, and you’d better believe that every house has a spectacular vegetable garden.

Our experience of Salina was completely unique because we were staying with family. We were lucky enough to have two locals to show us around. And it must be said that my aunt and uncle are impeccable hosts.

Still, my experience on Salina wouldn’t be too difficult to replicate if you’re a visiting tourist.

Things to do on Salina Island

Explore the island’s biggest village, Santa Marina Salina. There’s a lovely main street and plaza to discover, plus a range of wonderful boutique shops (the best in the Aeolian Islands, in my opinion). Made in Salina on the harbour front is full of treasures crafted by local artisans and designers.

Salearancio, Shanti and Amanei all stock boho-style homewares and beautiful linen clothing. Elsalina is the place to buy traditional Sicilian ceramics, including the fantastically camp Moorish heads, La Testa di Moro . Try the newly opened Casa Lo Schiavo for local wine, capers, and other produce.

The smaller village of Malfa is a nice contrast to Santa Marina. It’s much quieter and more local with fewer shops, but some lovely cafes and bottegas. Food prices here are generally cheaper, making it a great spot to eat.

Eat lunch at Alfredo In Cucina in Lingua, certainly Salina’s most famous restaurant. The pane cunzato (the ‘Salina’ with baked ricotta is pictured below) is legendary, as are their fresh fruit and nut granita. This was our first traditional breakfast in the Aeolian Islands and one I’ll never forget!

In Malfa, have an aperitif in the garden at Hotel Ravesi. On summer weekends, access to a complimentary tapas buffet comes included with every drink purchase.

Join in a local food festival, such as the annual Caper Festival. We were lucky enough to attend in 2019. I’ve never eaten so much food in my life!

Take a walk around the island. The long downhill pathway from Valdachiesa to Leni and Rinella, the island’s second, smaller port, is particularly nice.

In Valdachiesa, don’t miss the Sanctuary of Madonna del Terzito, built in the 6th century by a Byzantine monk.

Walk along Via Pantano behind Alfredo’s for a view of the old salt pans at Lingua.

Summit the extinct Monte Fossa delle Felci crater. The pathway to the top, which opens up behind the Sanctuary, is lined with chestnut trees planted in the Roman period.

Pollara on the island’s northwestern coast (pictured at the start of this section) is without a doubt the most impressive landscape in Salina. From the elevated viewpoints above the village you can clearly see the shape of the volcanic crater and the spot where the other half fell into the sea, creating a cliff face.

The cult movie Il Postino was partly filmed in Pollara, and there are various tributes dotted around town, including two murals in the main plaza. Walk down the steep stairs to visit the ‘fishermen caves’ which were re-constructed for the film. A private house that also featured in the movie is sometimes open to visitors (I’m lucky my aunt knows the owner!).

Pollara is a terrific place for sunset. Grab a drink from the Oasis Bar and soak it all in.

Where to stay on Salina Island

Boutique hotels Hotel Signum and Hotel Principe Di Salina , both in Malfa village, are solid choices. In Santa Marina, the larger village where the main port is located, Hotel I Cinque Balconi is within walking distance of most restaurants, bars and shops.

La Locanda Del Postino at Pollara is more isolated but absolutely stunning, especially if you want to soak up as many of those stunning Sicilian sunsets as you can.

Lipari: The historic island

The biggest and most developed of the Aeolian Islands, Lipari was the first to be settled by humans and thus has a long and rich cultural heritage. The castle complex and archeological museum are first-rate and reason enough to justify a visit.

Lipari looks and feels more commercialised than some of the other islands. On the plus side, there are loads of excellent cafes and restaurants.

The main town, Lipari, has all the characteristics of a charming Italian village. Personally, I could have spent an entire day just wandering the steep streets, hunting down street art and pausing to photograph the million-odd picture perfect houses and apartments!

I strongly recommend hiring a car on Lipari to drive the single 30km loop road around the entire island as well. This can comfortably be done in an afternoon.

Things to do on Lipari Island

Castle Rock, the oldest part of Lipari, is a conglomeration of Spanish, Greek, Norman and Roman fortifications. The elevated complex contains the ruins of Lipari Caste (Castello di Lipari) and several stunning churches.

San Bartolomeo Cathedral features Gothic-style Norman Cloisters and the remains of a Benedictine Abbey. If it’s closed for lunch, make sure you come back – it’s a must-see. Every August, a feast day festival for the Aeolian Islands’ patron saint is held here.

The Museo Archeologico Eoliano L. Bernabo’ Brea’, Lipari’s Archaeological Museum, is housed within the castle. It contains a vast collection of cremation vessels, pottery, clay theatre figurines and other objects. I’m not a huge museum person anymore, but this is without a doubt one of the most impressive collections I’ve ever seen.

Stroll down Via Garibaldi, Lipari’s prettiest street, stopping off at the many ceramics workshops and gift boutiques along the way.

Eat lunch Restaurant Filippino. Open since 1910, this seafood restaurant is the most famous eatery in the Aeolian Islands. Alternatively, stop at one of the pizza parlours or seafood restaurants on the main square, Piazza Mazzini.

Whatever you choose, finish with a fresh cannoli from Pasticceria D’Ambra Giovanni. One bite, and you’ll be fantasising about them for the rest of your days!

Hire a car and drive up to Acquacalda. Lipari’s northern coastline is dominated by an old pumice quarry that looks quite striking set against a white cliff (Versace once did a photo shoot here). Vecchio Pontile, the landing jetty once used to transport pumice onto ships, is still standing.

Continue driving west to Quattropani and Pianoconte for more dazzling views. At Pianoconte, you can visit Terme di San Calogero , a thermal spa that dates back to Roman times.

Belvedere di Quattrocchi is Lipari’s most famous viewpoint. The natural ‘balcony’ offers iconic views of Valle Muria beach, the Monte Guardia cliffs and Formiche rocks. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount Etna.

Where to stay on Lipari Island

In town, the 4-star Hotel Bougainville is a stunning example of Mediterranean architecture. Hotel Residence Mendolita is a bit more modest, but closer to the harbour and castle. There are dozens of sweet B&Bs set in the heritage apartment buildings in Lipari town. Casa Malfada is an excellent choice.

Further out, Case Vacanze Margherita and La Casa del Mandorlo are walking distance from some of southern Lipari’s most scenic viewpoints.

Vulcano: The scenic island

Of all the Aeolian Islands, Vulcano is the one that resonated with me the most. I don’t know if that’s just because we had such an awesome day driving around in an open-top jeep – or if it’s the amazing lunch we had at a restaurant on the island – but our day on Vulcano couldn’t be beat.

Like Stromboli, Vulcano gives off a special aura. It’s hard to not get taken in by the island’s dramatic natural beauty.

I call Vulcano ‘the scenic island’ because it’s basically a set of extremely beautiful landscapes and views strung together by winding roads. Vulcano is closest to the Sicilian mainland so it’s popular a day trip, but most tourists don’t make it past the harbour area, which is honestly quite touristy.

As soon as you get out of the port area and up into the national park around Vulcano Piano, you feel like you’re on a different planet. A hire car is critical for Vulcano if you want to take in these magnificent views (and believe me, you do).

Things to do on Vulcano Island

Hike to Solfatare di Vulcano (approx. 4km return) to look down into the island’s extinct Gran Cratere di Vulcano. Good shoes are essential. The trailhead opens up behind the port, near Casa Genovese.

Drive to Belvedere Capo Grillo for an unbeatable view of Punta Luccia and Vulcano’s capes with Lipari Island in the background.

Stop off at Caseificio La vecchia Fattoria to sample farm-fresh, hand-made goat’s cheese. There are plenty of goats on Vulcano, and this is the best cheese producer.

Take a therapeutic dip in the sulfur mud baths, I Fanghi di Vulcano. The bathing pools are located just to the north of the hydrofoil port.

Swim in the natural sea pools around Piscina di Venere on the island’s west coast.

Drive through Vulcano Piano, stopping for the view at Monte Saraceno along the way.

Eat lunch at Ristorante Il Diavolo Dei Polli, a fantastic Slow Food restaurant that specialises in chicken but also does yummy seafood. If Malvasia semifreddo is still on the menu, make sure you order it!

Drive down the windy road to the southern tip of the island until you reach Gelso Beach (Spiaggia del Gelso) . Have a swim, or walk south along the shore to reach the lighthouse, Faro di Vulcano, and a sweet church, Chiesa della Madonna delle Grazie, hidden in the undergrowth

Where to stay on Vulcano Island

If I were to stay the night on Vulcano, I would definitely opt for accommodation outside the main port area. Maria Tindara ‘La Locanda’ is an Agriturismo-style hotel, with modest rooms and an on-site restaurant. It’s location in Vulcano Piano is ideal.

If you want to stay near the port, Vulcano Blu Residence and Rojas Bahia are both good boutique options walking distance from restaurants and shops.

Panarea: The chic island

Covering just 3 square kilometres, Panarea is the smallest and most densely populated Aeolian Island. In recent years, petite Panarea has earned a big reputation as a playground for the rich and famous.

Artist Anish Kapoor and Princess Caroline are counted among regular visitors. Tech billionaires and European media moguls jet in on Air Panarea and might stay at Hotel Raya, the cult accommodation responsible for transforming Panarea into Italy’s latest ‘it island’.

I must admit that Panarea isn’t my favourite island. I don’t generally enjoy the ‘luxury island’, all-inclusive vibe. Instead of local boutiques, there’s expensive brand name shops and overpriced cafes. Having said that, it is pretty easy to get away from the hubbub simply by taking one of the olive tree-lined paths that lead up above the town.

Panarea’s tripartite of tiny villages are linked by a single road. Electric vehicles (glorified golf buggies) race up and down the narrow streets, which aren’t wide enough for cars. Because it is more wealthy, the houses here are really quite stunning. It’s not all bad!

An hour or so is all the time you’ll need to see Panarea’s main attractions.

Things to do on Panarea Island

Explore San Pietro, the largest town where boats and hydrofoils dock, taking time to appreciate the lines and details of its white sugar-cube houses that are reminiscent of Greek Island architecture.

Visit the pastel-coloured Chiesa di San Pietro, one of the most beautiful churches in the archipelago.

Window shop at Panarea’s flashy boutiques, including Boutique Raya. Hunt down a pair of the island’s handmade leather sandals or visit the local weaving studio.

Cala Junco Beach at the southern tip of Panarea is home to a natural swimming hole enclosed by lava cliffs.

Near Calcara Beach, a small cove on the northeast part of the island, see the fumaroles that stain the rocks yellow and ochre with their sulphuric steam. Watch as gas bubbles rise from the sea bed and dance on the surface of the water.

Hike up Punta Del Corvo (about 3 hours return) for magnificent views of neighbouring Stromboli Island.

Hire a boat to visit Basiluzzo, and islet off the coast where you can see the remains of an Imperial Roman villa.

Visit the volcanic rock formations off Panarea’s coast, including the pyramid-shaped Dattilo. Sulphur and allum were once mined here, leaving little holes and caves in the surface of the rock. The niches have since been used as beehives, with residents luring swarms there and collecting their honey at sea.

Where to stay on Panarea Island

For the full Panarea experience, don’t look past Hotel Raya. Rooms are plushly decorated Mediterranean-style, and the property boasts an infinity pool and stacked terraces for the best sea views. Rates are quite reasonable (especially in shoulder season) if you book in advance.

The elegant Quartara Boutique Hotel is equally as beautiful as Hotel Raya and has a lower price tag. Budget accommodation is tricky to come by, but there are a few bed and breakfasts for under $100, including B&B da Luca.

Stromboli: The spiritual island

Stromboli is probably the best-known of the seven Aeolian Islands. The only active volcano in the archipelago, it’s one of the most-studied volcanoes on earth.

It’s not just geologists and volcanologists who are drawn to visit Stromboli. The sense of ultimate ephemerality and being subject to nature’s will is alluring to many. Stromboli has a mystique and an energy that’s palpable as soon as you get off the boat. This has long attracted artists, musicians and other creatives to the island.

Their will is often tested – lava eruptions are not at all uncommon (there have been two major events since our visit). Eruptions can usually be anticipated and the island is evacuated if the situation is serious enough.

Gorgeous plumes of smoke and ash bellow from Stromboli’s cone at all hours of the day and if visibility is good, can be observed from the other islands. At night, you can often glimpse ribbons of red lava, too. Stromboli hosts a popular crater summit hike, or you can view the activity from a safer distance on the water.

The island’s main port town, simply called Stromboli, resembles other authentic Aeolian villages: meandering streets, cafes, and a beautiful church. Striking black sand beaches ring the island and look wonderful dotted with colourful fishing boats.

Things to do on Stromboli Island

If conditions are right, summit the crater with an experienced guide to see the active volcano up close. The hike takes about 6 hours and a reasonable level of fitness is required. Book here.

If you’re not up for the trek, grab a front row seat for the light show from a boat off the island’s coast. We chose this option and really enjoyed it!

Sciara del Fuoco, the ash scar that runs down Stromboli’s northern face, can be seen from the water or from a viewpoint an hour’s walk out of town. Instructions here .

There are some fascinating rock formations off the coast of the island including Strombolicchio, which is topped with a tiny white lighthouse. I highly recommend exploring the area by boat to see the rocks and natural archways up close.

Stromboli’s black sand beaches are the best in the archipelago. Spiaggia di Ficogrande, a popular swimming spot, is a 10-minute walk from the hydrofoil dock.

Wander the streets of Stromboli village, stopping off to look inside Chiesa di San Vincenzo Ferreri and people watch on the main plaza. The area is all abuzz in the early evening when trekkers start assembling to prepare for their excursion.

Grab a cafe freddo or sccop of gelato on the terrace at Da Luciano for spectacular views of the harbour below.

Visit some of the artist ateliers and gift boutiques dotted along Stromboli’s narrow streets. Hunks of local pumice stone and soap embedded with lava (natural exfoliation!) make for great Italian souvenirs .

If you have more time, visit the Cinema Museum of Stromboli and the lovely San Bartolomeo church.

Where to stay on Stromboli Island

If you’re trekking to the crater, the walk finishes very late in the evening so you’ll need to spend the night on Stromboli. Most hikes finish in Stromboli village, where there are a multitude of bed and breakfasts that cater to trekkers.

Pedra Residence is a solid budget choice, with sea views and complimentary breakfast. Hotel Ossidiana , an iconic property right on the waterfront, is a good boutique option.

Alicudi & Filicudi: The remote islands

The two westernmost islands in the Aeolian archipelago, Alicudi and Filicudi, see far fewer tourists than any of the others. Rugged and remote, these islands are known for their natural beauty, clear-water beaches and rustic villages.

Hire a scooter on Filicudi to access the more remote pebble beaches and the viewpoint at Fossa delle Felci. There are three small villages on the island where you can find restaurants and a few hotels, including the sweet Da Nino Sul Mare . Caves and rock formations around the island are best observed from the water. You can hire a boat and driver at the port.

Less than half of neighbouring Alicudi is inhabited. In the absence of roads, locals get around on donkeys, giving the island a charming ‘lost in time’ feel. From the port, you can access trails that lead up the island’s 700 metre-tall volcanic cone. If you want to spend the night on Alicudi, Hotel La Canna comes highly recommended.

We didn’t get a chance to visit Filicudi and Alicudi this time around – but they’re top of our list for our next visit to the Aeolian Islands!

Final thoughts: Are the Aeolian Islands worth visiting?

It’s no exaggeration to say that our time on the Aeolian Islands was the trip of a lifetime for Ross and I. It fell towards the end of our 10-month trip – right at the point where we were feeling exhausted and ready to go home. Our time in Sicily was re-energising, fulfilling in every sense of the word, and reminded me what travel is all about.

We were beyond lucky to be hosted by family who made the experience that more memorable.

We never would have thought to travel to the Aeolian Islands were it not for my aunt and uncle’s invitation. And to be completely honest, we never could have afforded to do a proper trip in the islands were it not for their generosity.

The Aeolian Islands aren’t cheap, but compared to other parts of the Italian coast, the value you get is incredible. Money aside, this part of Italy is really special – people are so friendly, the food is divine, and I don’t think you can find landscapes quite like those on islands anywhere else. It’s not every day you get to wake up to a view of an active volcano puffing smoke, or walk along a black sand beach, or summit an extinct crater.

In short, the Aeolian Islands is an incredible part of the world. If you’re tossing up whether to go or not, just do it!

I hope this guide has helped convince you, or at the very least answered some of your questions about logistics and planning. If there’s something I’ve forgotten or something else you’re curious to know, please leave a comment below and I’ll do my best to answer.

Aeolian Islands Travel Guide: Pin it & Share it

11 Comments

What a find your blog is! Can you recommend a good source for booking a hotel in Salina? A travel agency, book, or tourist office?

Hi Sandra, thanks! Booking dot com works just fine! I have linked to suggested hotels throughout this guide. I hope you can find something that suits!

This is great information for our upcoming trip in September. We are staying in Lipari and would like to do the sunset hike up Stromboli. Is there a tour that leaves from Lipari and returns after the hike – probably 9pm or so? Thanks, Mike

Hi Mike, as far as I know (and this was the case when I visited and when my dad did the hike later) there is not a late boat back from Stromboli. Unless something has recently changed, you need to spend the night on the island after the hike. I hope this helps.

Hi Emily – this is a really fabulous guide to the Aeolian Isalnds. We are great friends of Libby and Santino. They were the first people we met when we first visited Salina over 10 years ago! And of course we go back every year. We met you last year very briefly at our house. Just one very very very very small correction, and that is that the aperitivo in the garden with complimentary snacks is at Hotel Ravesi, not Hotel Signum. I hope you are enjoying your ongoing Wunder-Lush! Best Paul and Kathryn

Hi Paul and Kathryn!

Of course, I remember meeting you! What a coincidence that you found my website. Thank you so much for the kind words and correction, I’ve fixed that error up now.

Were you able to make it over this year?

Thanks again, Emily.

Wow! Amazing post with amazing pictures. The islands are wonderful. I hope that next time while visiting Sicily we will also go there. We’ve been only in the Southeast part of Sicily and we’ve brought a lot of great memories to our blog. Maybe you will find some inspirations there?

Which of the aeolian islands are the best for sitting on the beach and swimming / scuba/

Great question. All the islands have nice beaches – I really liked Salina’s beaches because they’re a bit quieter/more secluded.

Hi Emily I’ve just began exploring the idea of going to Sicily next year for a holiday. I have only just learnt about the Aeolian Islands and the idea of visiting these islands is very exciting. I was considering an 8 day cruise on a gulet but since reading your blog, i like the idea of staying on Salina and using this as a base. My question is – can we take daily cruises from Salina to explore the other islands? From what I’m looking at it seems all the daily boat trips leave from Milazzo. We are not big spenders, so I am not after luxury – both in our late 50’s. kind regards Leanne (Perth, WA)

I highly recommend visiting the islands and doing it DIY. You will save a lot of money, and I think it will be a better experience if you can take it at your own pace.

To answer your question – yes, you can get to all the other islands from Salina without having to go through Milazzo. If you have a look on the Liberty Lines website, you can access the exact schedules. There are usually at least 3-4 boats per day from Salina to each of the other islands.

I hope this helps!

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The 15 best Cyclades islands (Greece)

The 15 best cyclades islands to visit.

You want to visit the Cyclades islands during your next trip to Greece ?

Great choice!

Located in southern Greece, between Athens and Crete , the Cyclades consists of 39 islands , of which 24 are inhabited . With their white and blue houses and churches, their narrow and winding alleys, they really offer the typical Greek postcard scenery.

You’re dreaming to enjoy the sunset in Santorini ? To party in Mykonos? To visit the less known islands such as Amorgos , Paros , Naxos , Tinos or Andros ?

Then this travel guide is for you!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the best Cyclades islands to Visit. For each islands, I will tell you more about the best things to do, points of interest and must-see attractions. I will also give you detailed itineraries to visit the Cyclades in 1 week, 10 days or 2 weeks.

So, which Cyclades islands to visit?

Let’s find out!

1. Santorini

4. paros and antiparos, 13. serifos, 14. folegandros, 15. the small cyclades, how to choose the perfect cyclades islands to visit, cyclades islands itineraries, renting a car in the cyclades, renting a boat in the cyclades, tourist map of the cyclades, greece tours, cyclades (greek islands), top cyclades islands: the definitive guide.

In order to help you plan your stay in the Cyclades islands, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
• Itinerary: Greek Island Hopping routes – The best 2 weeks itinerary to visit the Cyclades

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

If you’re planing a trip to Greek Islands, then you definitely have to visit Santorini! It’s by far the most famous and visited island in the Cyclades archipelago.

Sure, you will probably spend some time waiting in line to take THE perfect picture of its iconic white church with a blue dome you can see on every postcard. And when you will go admire the sunset, it can be hard to find a good spot in the middle of the crowd. But once there, you will see that it’s clearly worth it: the volcanic island of Santorini is truly magnificent!

Also, doing the Caldera hike from Fira to Oia to admire the breathtaking panoramic views from the villages is clearly a must-see attraction during your itinerary in the Cyclades.

The best things to do in Santorini are:

• Fira: you can go to the top of the caldera and enjoy the many viewpoints over Santorini. From Fira, walk for 30 minutes to reach Firostefani and Imerovigli villages. And if you want to enjoy the shops, restaurants and cafés, you can go to Golden Street.
• Imerovigli: often nicknamed the balcony of Santorini, this village is located at the top of the caldera, 300 meters above the sea.
• Oia: it’s clearly the best place to admire the sunset. When walking in Oia’s alleys, you will take beautiful typical pictures of Santorini!
• Black Beach: a volcanic black sand beach
• Red Beach, named after the ochre cliffs surrounding it
• Nea Kamini: you can do a boat-trip around this volcano, and swim in the hot springs
• The archaeological site of Akrotiri, one of the most important in Greece.

Santorini is clearly the best Cyclades island to visit for couples or during a honeymoon.

You will find detailed information about Santorini in my article: Visit Santorini: the definitive guide.

If you want to admire the sunset in Oia, you should get there at least 1 or 2 hours before. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, keep it carefully!

Mykonos is the perfect island to party in the Cyclades. With more than 1 million tourists every year, it is, along with Santorini, the other most visited Cyclades island.

On the island, you can party all day and night long with world famous DJs! If you want to enjoy Mykonos, don’t forget to plan a significant budget as the prices can be really high, especially in summer.

Mykonos is also famous for its beaches, considered as some of Greece’s most beautiful. Once more, you won’t find any small cove to take a dip and stay alone. In Mykonos, going to the beach means enjoying hip techno bars and jet-setters on their yachts!

If you’re looking for this kind of party atmosphere, you should go to the beaches of Elia, Paradise, Super Paradise or Psarou.

If you want to go on a trip with your friends in the Cylades, Mykonos is the best destination for you.

Delos is a small uninhabited island.

To get there, you have to take the boat from Mykonos. As it’s forbidden to spend the night on the island, you can only visit it during a 4-hour tour.

Delos is famous for its ancient archaeological site. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was considered as Apollo’s and Artemis’ birthplace. Then, it became dedicated to the worship of the gods. The oldest temples were built during the 8th century B.C.

Here are the best places to see when you visit Delos, in the Cyclades:

• The temple of the Delians: the biggest temple dedicated to Apollo
• The Terrace of the Lions , and its alignment of Lion’s statues along an alley
• The Sacred Lake, where Apollo is said to be born
• The Sanctuary of Apollo
• The Sanctuary of Dionysus
• The temple of the Athenians
• The House of Dionysus
• The House of Masks
• The House of the Dolphins
• The Archaeological Museum

You can visit Delos without a guide, but doing a guided visit is clearly the best way to enjoy the place . As there are many remains and monuments on the island, the guide will help you understand what you’re seeing and give you historical explanations.

Let’s continue this Cyclades travel guide with Paros.

Located in the heart of the Cyclades, Paros is known for its many sand beaches, beautiful nature landscape and typical villages. In Ancient times, Paros was also renowned for its high-quality marble, used for many masterpieces, such as the “Venus de Milo”!

The best places of interest to visit in Paros are:

• Parikia, the capital. Don’t miss its churches and the Kastro.
• Naoussa, a fishing village with chic small shops and restaurants.
• Lefkes: a remote mountain village, famous for its magnificent view over the sea. From the village, take a stroll on the 3km-long Byzantine trail that goes from Lefkes to Podromos, through the olive trees.
• The port of Piso Livadi, where you can eat great fresh grilled fish.
• Paros Park: walk along the 3 marked trails, and discover the nice view of the coast and the lighthouse. There, you can also enjoy a really beautiful beach with shallow water.

From Paros, it’s really easy to reach Antiparos, the small island located right in front. The ferry takes only 10 minutes to go from Pounta town to Antiparos, and you can even cross with your rental car. In summer, you can also reach Antiparos from Parikia (without your car this time!)

In Antiparos, there aren’t many things to do: just relax, enjoy the beaches and take a stroll in the main village. You can also visit the Cave of Antiparos, and admire Europe’s most ancient stalagmite.

If you want more information about Paros, you should read my detailed article: The 10 best things to do in Paros.

Naxos is the biggest island in the Cyclades. There, you can enjoy many beautiful beaches and discover remote mountain villages.

Here are the best things to do in Naxos:

• Chora of Naxos: the island’s main city. Walk in the Kastro district, discover the Old Market alleys and admire the Portara (at the port entrance).
• Filoti: a picturesque mountain village.
• Halki: another mountain village. From there, you can walk on many marked trails. Don’t miss the church, accessible by a 10-minute walk through the olive trees! (just follow the signs).
• Apiranthos: another pretty mountain village. Take a stroll in its alleys, and enjoy its small museums.
• The Kouros of Apollonas: a 10-meter high statue of Dionysus or Apollo.
• The hike to reach the summit of Mount Zeus, the highest point of Naxos.

And if you want to enjoy the best beaches in Naxos, you can try:

• Agiassos: a large and quite wild beach, with many parking spaces and a tavern.
• Between Agiassos and Pyrgaki, you will find 3 small sand coves. The place is really beautiful and quiet. It’s perfect to take a dip.
• Pyrgaki: a vast sand beach.
• Kastraki: another large beach, with a view of Paros.
• Mikri Vigla: 2 windy beaches (south and north) and a great spot for kitesurf.
• Agia Anna: a thin sand beach. There, you can choose between the public beach, and the private one with deckchairs and umbrellas.
• Agios Prokopios: an half private/half public beach. During my stay in Naxos, it was the most crowded.

You will find all the detailed information about Naxos in my article:  The 10 best things to do in Naxos.

What is the best Cyclades Island to go hiking?

This island is renowned for its many marked walking trails. For example, you can hike from the Monastery of Chozoviotissa to the village of Potamos, or reach the Timios Stavros Chapel from the village of Langada. These 2 hikes are among the most famous in Amorgos.

You can also follow a 9-km long marked trail to discover 3 beautiful villages: Potamos, Langada and Tholaria.

You will find more information about these marked trails on Amorgos’ official website.

Besides hiking, here are the best places to see in Amorgos:

• Chora, Amorgos’ capital. A very beautiful village, with several cafés and typical restaurants. Enjoy your stroll, and walk up to the ancient windmills located above the village.
• Katapola and Aegiali: the island’s 2 ports, with a few shops and restaurants.
• The spectacular Byzantine Monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa, built under a high cliff and overlooking the sea.
• Agia Anna cove, a very small rocky beach. The area is very photogenic thanks to the small white chapel nearby.
• Mouros Beach, sheltered from the wind.
• Kalotaritissia: it’s for me the most beautiful beach in Amorgos! You will love its fine sand and turquoise waters.
• The ship wreck of “The Big Blue” movie. As you may know, a part of this movie with Jean Reno was filmed in Amorgos.

If you want more details about the best things to do in Amorgos, you should read my article: Visit Amorgos: the definitive guide .

Syros is the administrative centre, the capital and most populated island of the Cyclades, even if it is one of the smallest one!

When walking down Ermoupoli, Syros’ main city, you will discover a few neoclassical buildings including the city hall , located around Miaouli Square. Don’t miss the Municipal Theatre “Apollo”: it looks like a small replica of “La Scala”, in Milan !

Then, take a stroll in Vaporia district, located on the Eastern side of Ermoupoli. There, you will admire many beautiful neoclassical mansions.

The other best things to see in Syros includes:

• The village of Ano Syros, and its numerous viewpoints, churches and monasteries.
• Azolimnos Beach, located close to Ermoupoli.
• Galissas: from there, you can walk to the top of the hill, and enjoy a great panoramic view over the village.
• Finikas Beach, a sand beach with many tourists!
• The beaches of Kini, Delfini, Aetos and Lia.

The volcanic island of Milos is famous for its coastline: the strange rock formations and high cliffs plunging down to the sea are really breathtaking!

You may not know it, but Milos offers the largest number of beaches in all the Cyclades.

However, the interior of the island is unfortunately less interesting, as mining is highly developed: Milos is the first place of extraction of perlite and bentonite in the European Union.

The best places to visit in Milos, in the Cyclades, are:

• Adamas, Milos’ main port, with numerous restaurants and hotels.
• Plaka: the best place to admire the sunset in Milos, and the starting point of beautiful hikes.
• Klima and its lovely colored fishermen’s houses, directly carved into the cliff.
• Tripiti and its view over the gulf.
• The Roman Theatre: there, a farmer discovered the famous “Venus de Milo”, exposed at the Louvre, in Paris.

As I said earlier, Milos is also renowned for its magnificent beaches. With white rocks and transparent waters, Sarakiniko beach is for sure the most famous! You can also enjoy the beaches of Kiriaki, Provatas or Papafragas.

And if you want to try Milos’ must-see attraction, just do a boat-trip around the island to admire its many strange rock formations. During this tour, you will also discover a lot of beaches and coves inaccessible by car such as Kleftiko beach.

Many cruises are available in Milos: with different stops, on small or large motor boats, yachts or even catamarans. Choose according to your preferences and budget! The prices are starting from 35€ per person.

If you’re looking for a luxury boat trip , you should have a look at this one. The value for money is outstanding!

Tinos is one of the major pilgrimage site for Orthodox Greeks. Every year, thousands of people are coming there to pray at Panagia Megalochari or Evangelistria churches.

Even if you’re not much into religion, there are many beautiful places to see on Tinos. Here are some of the best places to visit on this Cyclades island:

• Hora , the capital city. Its church, built with Tinos white marble, is truly beautiful. You can also enjoy many boutiques and restaurants.
• The monastery of Kechrovouni, organized like a small village, with several houses.
• Volax: a small village, surrounded by large round grey rocks.
• Kardiani: the village and the road to get there offers many beautiful views over the bay and the beaches below.
• Pyrgos, Tinos’ largest village, renowned for its marble.
• Panormos, a really cute port, with many restaurants on the seaside.
• Tarambados, and its famous pigeon towers.
• Kolimbithra with its 2 nice sand beaches.

If you want to plan your trip to Tinos, you should read my detailed article: The 10 best things to do in Tinos.

If you want to hike in the Cyclades, but also enjoy beautiful beaches, then Andros is the perfect island for you.

There are 18 marked trails of various length (from 30 minutes to 6 hours) and difficulty level (easy or moderate) on the island. The easiest way to plan your hikes it to get the Andros hiking map, in one of the souvenir shops.

And if you want to know more about Andros’ marked trails, you can also check Andros Route website .

The other best things to see in Andros are:

• Gavrio: the port where you will arrive, with restaurants and boutiques.
• Batsi: a cute seaside resort and a nice beach.
• Andros, the capital city: just take a stroll in the main street, down to the bridge and the small island.
• Apikia, the starting point of many hikes.
• Felos beach: a large and pretty shingle beach located in a bay
• The many sand beaches on the road between Gavrio and Batsi: Agios Petros, Chrissi Amnos, Kipri.

And if you want to discover all the best things to do in Andros, you should read my article: Visit Andros: the definitive guide.

Ios can be considered as Mykonos’ little sister. If you want to enjoy an incredible atmosphere and party all night long , it’s clearly a great place to visit.

On Ios, your program will be quite simple: during the day, just relax at the beach and get some rest. Then, when the night comes, party until sunrise in the island’s many trendy bars! Most people coming to Ios are rather young and from Northern Europe.

In Ios, you will enjoy the best nightlife in summer, between June and September.

And if you want to take a dip, there are many beautiful beaches on the island. For example, you can try Mylopotas Beach, Kalamos Beach or Manganari Beach.

Sifnos is mostly renowned for its ceramics and fine cuisine. The food there is known to be among the best in the Cyclades!

The island is also famous for being an hiker’s paradise.

There are nearly 100 km of marked trails and a dozen itineraries around the island. From a short walk to a really long hike, you will always find a trail that suits you. Once on the island, don’t forget to buy the marked trails Map for 5€.

One of the best hikes on the island goes from Apollonia to Mount Profitis Ilias. Another great itinerary goes from Artemonas to the Panagia Poulati Monastery and the village of Kastro.

The best things to do and see in Sifnos are:

• Kamares: the ferries’ port of arrival. If you’re on a family trip, you will love its beautiful beach with shallow water, it’s ideal with children.
• Apollonia, the capital city, is a real labyrinth of alleys full of small shops, restaurants and cafés.
• Artemonas, one of the most beautiful villages in Sifnos with its typical Venetian houses.
• Kastro: a medieval village.
• Faros: a small fishing port. From there, you can walk to the Chrisopigi Monastery.
• Plati Gialos Beach, the longest sand beach in all the Cyclades archipelago!

You’re looking for peace and quiet during your holidays in the Cyclades? Then, you should definitely go to Serifos.

Serifos isn’t really a tourist place. There, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the island’s mountains and arid hills.

During your stay in Serifos, you can visit:

• The port of Livadi
• The beautiful Livadakia Beach
• Hora, the capital
• Moni Taxiarchon Monastery
• Panagia village and enjoy its views over the plains
• The beaches of Karavi, Avlomonas, Lia, Agios Sostis and Psili Amnos

In Folegandros, you will discover one of the most beautiful villages of the Cyclades. Hora is a typical Cycladic village, with white and blue houses and lively squares. Don’t forget to go to the church above the village to enjoy a beautiful panorama of the island.

There are also many beaches in Folegandros, but the most beautiful ones are only accessible by foot or by boat. If you want to discover them, you can do a 1-day boat trip around the island with many stops to take a dip!

The Small Cyclades are a group of islands located between Naxos and Amorgos.

It’s a small archipelago of 4 islands inhabited islands (and dozens of smaller ones). Here are the main islands:

• Iraklia: accessible by boat from Amorgos, Naxos or Paros. If you want to hike and enjoy the calm, it’s the place to visit!
• Schinousa is famous for its beaches. You can get there from Amorgos, Iraklia, Naxos and Paros.
• Koufonisia and it’s amazing beaches is becoming more and more famous every year
• Donousa: just relax at the beach, or enjoy beautiful strolls on this calm island.

Travelling to the Cyclades

During your Cyclades itinerary , you will take the ferry at least once, unless you’ve chosen to visit only Santorini or Mykonos and took the plane to get there.

• During high season, the ferries offer many connections between all the Cyclades Islands.
• In winter however (low season starts in November), there aren’t many boats.

If you want to reach the Cyclades from Central Greece, you can travel from the ports of Piraeus or Rafina. Both are located close to Athens . You will have the choice between several companies, offering different travel times. As you may expect, the fastest boats are the most expensive!

So I prefer to warn you: price differences are really important depending on the company.

Some boats directly go from Piraeus or Rafina to the island of your choice. Other boats are making stops on one or several Greek Islands before you reach your destination.

When planning my trip to Greece , I’ve booked all my boat trips in advance on  FerriesinGreece website. It’s simply the best one to compare prices, travel time and find the best schedules for your trip.

If you don’t want to book in advance, all the companies have ticket offices in every port in Greek Islands. However, during high season, the boats might be full, or really expensive. That’s why you should book your tickets in advance!

Even if you book in advance, you will have to exchange your confirmation e-mail for a real ticket at the company’s desk before departure.

Do you want to reach the Cyclades as fast as possible? Then, I’ve got a good news: some of the Cyclades islands have an airport!

Where to land in the Cyclades ?

• Santorini: there are direct flights to Santorini from France, Italy , Netherlands, Germany or United Kingdom for example. You can also go to Athens and then take a connecting flight to Santorini.
• Mykonos: the  2nd international airport of the Cyclades. There are direct flights from France, Germany or United Kingdom, or connecting flights via Athens.
• Naxos, Paros, Syros and Milos have a national airport. You can get there directly from Athens or Thessaloniki .

Flight prices to the Cyclades vary greatly, so it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . You will be sure to get the best price!

On the results page, don’t hesitate to compare several websites to ensure that no fees are added to the final rates.

If you’re seasick, choose the slowest boats, as they’re bigger and more stable.

In the Port of Piraeus, Santorini, Naxos or in any other island, the waiting lines for the ferries aren’t well organized. To stay polite, it’s a big mess!

Ferries are arriving and leaving all the time. The place is really crowded, and there are no signs or vocal announces to guide you to your boat. Check out the arrival of every boat, to be sure you won’t miss yours and don’t hesitate to ask the staff if you’re taking the right boat.

Every island in the Cyclades offers a completely different atmosphere and an unique landscape.

If you want a brief summary, here are the Greek Islands you should visit if you like:

• Best Cyclades Islands for families: Naxos, Paros, Amorgos, Andros
• Best Cyclades Islands for couples : Santorini, Amorgos (for a calm stay)
• Best Cyclades Islands for honeymoon : Santorini
• Best nightlife Cyclades Islands: Mykonos, Ios
• Best Cyclades Islands for hiking: Amorgos, Andros, Sifnos
• Best Cyclades Islands for beaches: Naxos, Milos, Andros
• Best unknown Cyclades Islands: Sifnos, Serifos, Folegandros or the Small Cyclades
• Best Cyclades Islands for teens: Santorini, Mykonos, Ios, Naxos, Paros
• Best Cyckades Islands for island hopping: Santorini, Amorgos, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos
• Visiting archaeological sites: Delos

In order to help you organize your stay in the Cyclades , I have written 3 detailed itineraries . They are ideal for a 1st time stay on the islands!

In each article, you will find detailed descriptions of the best things to do , a list of the best accommodations for each stage of your trip as well as all my best tips to make the most of your stay.

• Itinerary: 1 week in the Cyclades – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Cyclades Islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks Cyclades Island hopping route – The best 14-15 days itinerary to visit the Cyclades

Is it really useful to rent a car in the Cyclades? The answer is definitely yes!

You might think that the Cyclades islands are quite small, and it’s easy to get around them on foot,  by bike or quad bike. Some people are using scooters, quads or buggies on the islands, but I wouldn’t recommend it.

It won’t be pleasant, as the Cyclades Islands are often very windy. With a car, you will also be able to travel a lot faster and discover more of the islands. In addition, using a scooter or a quad bike on the narrow and winding mountain roads is often slow and always dangerous!

You can always rent a quad bike for a few hours to go explore the remote beaches and coves.

If you want to rent a car in the Cyclades, you should use Rentalcars.com website. It allows you to:

• Easily compare all rental cars agencies prices and customer’s reviews.
• Get a “Full Protection Insurance” and get refunded in case of theft or accident
• Cancel or modify your booking for free
• They offer the “Best Price Guarantee”: If you find a similar car cheaper elsewhere, they will refund you the difference.

It’s simple, it’s the website I always use when I travel!

If you don’t find any available cars on Rentalcars, it’s because there might not be any affiliated car rental agencies on the smallest islands. In that case, you can rent your car directly at the port when you will arrive.

An important note: You will have to rent a different car in every Cyclades Island you want to visit, as you can’t take the ferry with a rental car.

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Greece, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Greece? 😊

To help you picture the Greek Islands a little better, here is a Tourist Map of the Cyclades. This map lists every island I’ve talked about in this Top 15 of the best Cyclades Islands. If you want to display the map legend, just click on the top left button (the one with a little arrow).

And you, which islands do you plan to visit in the Cyclades? 

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Greece by yourself. (Click here to read all my articles about Greece)

However, if you prefer to book a Greece tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Greece tours by clicking the button below:

Greece travel guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
• The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Greece – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Greece
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Santorini!
• Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Central Greece in 9-10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + Cyclades (Santorini)
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + even more Cyclades islands!
• Itinerary: 1 month in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Greece in a month!
• Road trip in Greece – The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days.
• Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
• Thessaloniki: The 12 best places to visit
• Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
• Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
• Naxos: Top 10 things to do
• Paros: The 10 best places to visit
• Santorini: The definitive guide
• Tinos: The 10 best things to do
• Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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2, 3, 4 or 5 Days in Puglia: The Perfect Itinerary (+ My Tips)

Discussion 2 comments.

Hi Vincent, Tks very much for the great information about the Cyclades ! I’m actually planning a trip on the islands next September, and I have 2 questions for you: We will most likely arrive in Santorini, stay 3 nights there, then hop on to Milos (3nights), Paros/Naxos (4 nights), Mykonos (3 nights), then Athens… My questions are: – in the Paros/Naxos part, we are planning 4 nights there because we want to take one day to go on the other island (since they are pretty close), so I would like your advise on which one we should actually stay? Book 4 nights in Paros and take a day tour in Naxos, or book in Naxos and day trip to Paros?? – after Santorini, do you suggest to go first to Milos and then Paros/Naxos, or first P/N then Milos?? Waiting for your answer, Thank you very much Serge

Thank you! I’m glat that my article with the best cyclades islands to visit helps you plan your trip in Greece.

Regarding your questions:

– I preferred Paros so I’d say stay in Paros and do a day trip to Naxos. But it’s really up to you. I advise you to read my detailed articles on the 2 islands, I think it will help you choose. Here are the links: – Things to do in Naxos – Things to do in Paros

– To choose which island to go to after Santorini, you really need to look at what’s feasible with the ferry timetable for your specific travel dates and see what’s most convenient. You can take a look here: FerriesinGreece

Enjoy your stay in the Cyclades!

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

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4 Days In Ireland: 56 Different Itineraries To Choose From

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

Yes, we have  56  different 4-day Ireland itinerary guides for you to choose from…  

Why 56 you ask?! 

The reason for this is that we’ve covered  every  (we hope…) possible want or need you could have. 

Each of our 4-day guides:

• Has been meticulously planned
• Follows logical routes we’re confident you’ll love
• Has a detailed hour-by-hour itinerary
• Makes planning a trip to Ireland easy

In the guide below, you can pick a 4-day Ireland itinerary based on:

Please take 15 seconds to read the graphic above as it’ll help you pick the most suitable Ireland itinerary down below!

As you can see, we have 4-day Ireland itinerary guides that cover every angle we could think of.

All you need to do to find your perfect itinerary is read the section below  carefully .

How to browse our Ireland in 4 days itineraries

The handiest way to browse our itineraries is to select, from the list below, where you’re starting your road trip from/near.

We’ve used the main entry points to Ireland for those of you flying in or arriving by ferry.

Simply click one of the start points below and you’ll be taken to 4 days in Ireland itineraries that start at that location:

4 days in Ireland from Dublin

If you’re looking to explore Ireland in 4 days and you’re starting from County Dublin, this section is for you.

There are two sections below, split depending on how you plan on getting around Ireland .

As we explained in this graphic , ‘Fast Trips’ are for those of you looking to see/do as much as possible and who don’t  mind moving hotel regularly and ‘Slow Trips’ are ones where you’ll move accommodation as little as possible.

For those of you with a car

• A 4-day slow trip for those with good fitness
• A 4-day slow trip for those with low fitness
• A 4-day fast trip for those with good fitness
• A 4-day fast trip for those with low fitness

For those of you using public transport

An overview of the route from dublin.

Photos via Shutterstock

If you’re starting your 4-day Ireland itinerary in Dublin, the route above is hard to beat.

Although it varies slightly depending on how you’re getting around Ireland, both the car rental and the public transport itineraries take in many of Ireland’s top sights.

Over the course of your 4 days in Ireland you’ll:

• Explore the many things to do in Dublin
• Explore the Clare Coast, including Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher
• Take a day trip to Wicklow, Meath and Louth
• See Galway City, Connemara and Cong
• Tackle the Ring of Kerry Drive , explore the Dingle Peninsula and see a chunk of West Cork

4 days in Ireland from Shannon

If you’re looking for a 4-day Ireland itinerary that kicks off in Shannon, this section should tickle your fancy.

We’ve split up the different itineraries to ones for those of you using a car and ones for those of you that aren’t.

As we mentioned in this graphic , our fast 4 days in Ireland itineraries are for those of you looking to explore as much as possible and who don’t  mind moving about a lot.

Our slow itineraries are ones where you’ll move accommodation as little as is physically possible.

An overview of the route from Shannon

A lot of people start their 4-day Ireland itinerary from Shannon due to the convenience of flying into Shannon Airport.

One of the benefits of starting from here is that you’re kicking off your 4 days in Ireland a stone’s throw from some of the country’s most popular attractions.

If you follow our route from Shannon, you’ll:

• Explore Connemara National Park
• See the mighty Inis Mor Island
• Visit Bunratty Castle before heading into the ancient Limerick City
• See Killarney National Park and it’s many attractions
• Visit Blarney Castle and tackle the many things to do in Cobh

Ireland itinerary 4 days from Belfast

Another great way to tackle Ireland in 4 days is to fly/get the ferry into Belfast and take it from there.

Belfast is a great starting point for a road trip as you can explore the Antrim Coast before continuing on to Derry and Donegal.

Like we explain in this graphic , we split up our itineraries below into two sections – 1 section is for those using a car and the other is for those that aren’t.

An overview of the route from Belfast

This 4-day Ireland itinerary is one of my favourites in this guide as it takes in some of the most scenic parts of the country.

You’ll kick things off by spinning along the Antrim Coast, with a whole host of stops to choose from along the way.

If you follow our route from Belfast, you’ll:

• Explore the Causeway Coastal Route
• Tackle some of the best things to do in Belfast
• See the best of the Boyne Valley
• Spin around a good chunk of the Wild Atlantic Way

4 days in Ireland from Rosslare

If you’re spending 4 days in Ireland and you’re arriving into the ferry terminal at Rosslare, we’ve plenty of itineraries ready for you.

Now, as was the case with the ones above, we’ve split them into 2; 1 section is for those of you with a car and another for those of you using public transport.

If you’re wondering what ‘Fast Trips’ and ‘Slow Trips’ are, refer to this graphic at the top of the guide.

An overview of the route from Wexford

Now, this 4-day Ireland itinerary varies a lot  depending on whether or not you’re getting around in a car.

The public transport around some of the more remote parts of Wexford, in particular, are what causes there to be such a contrast in the different itineraries.

If you follow our route from Wexford, you’ll:

• See the glorious Hook Peninsula
• Ramble around the town of Kinsale
• Tackle some of the best things to do in Killarney
• Explore the mighty Dingle Peninsula

4 days in Ireland from Cork

Our 4-day Ireland itinerary guides that kick off in Cork take in some of the best that Ireland has to offer.

You can choose (or opt out of) some magnificent walking trails, soak up spectacular scenery and step back in time at heritage sites.

These are some of our more popular 4 days in Ireland itineraries. As usual, we’ve split them up for those of you with a car and for those of you without one.

An overview of the route from Cork

Photo left: The Irish Road Trip. Others: Shutterstock

Cork is a great starting point for a road trip. At the start of the trip, you can spend a bit of time in the city before moving into the wilds of West Cork.

Our itineraries from Cork then take you around the coast, into Kerry and up towards Limerick before heading to Dublin and back to Cork.

If you follow our route from Cork, you’ll see:

• The beautiful Beara Peninsula
• Wild West Cork
• The Ring of Kerry
• A chunk of Limerick, Tipperary and Clare

Ireland in 4 days from Knock

Although there likely won’t be a huge number of people looking for a 4-day Ireland itinerary that starts in Knock, we felt it important to include it as a start-point.

I can safely say that the public transport road trips from Knock were  very  tricky to research and map out. However, it was worth it.

Below, you can pick a 4 days in Ireland itinerary kicking off in Mayo based on trip speed, your fitness and how you’ll get around (we explain how to browse the itineraries in this graphic ).

An overview of the route from Knock

If your 4-day Ireland itinerary kicks off in Knock, you’re in luck – Mayo is home to an endless number of adventure opportunities.

Now, the public transport itineraries vs the car itineraries vary a fair bit due to the lack of buses and trains in places, but both versions pack a punch.

If you follow our route from Knock, you’ll:

• Explore Achill Island
• Tackle some of the best things to do in Galway
• See some of the finest beaches in Ireland
• Spend time in Sligo and plenty more

4 days in Ireland from Donegal

The last of our 4-day Ireland itinerary guides kicks off in Donegal.

This was by far the hardest one to map out for public transport and as a result the itineraries vary a lot.

As always, we’ve split the different itineraries up into sections for those of you with a car and for those without.

An overview of the route from Donegal

The route from Donegal for those of you driving is a peach. You’ll see parts of the county that rarely make it into tourist guidebooks and you’ll see many of Donegal’s historic sites.

You’ll then move into Sligo before heading to Mayo, Galway and beyond. For those of you using public transport, the route is  very  different due to Donegal’s poor public transport.

If you follow our route from Donegal, you’ll:

• Explore some of the best things to do in Donegal
• Soak up some of Sligo’s finest views
• See the Connemara coast

FAQs about exploring Ireland in 4 days

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Is 4 days in Ireland enough?’ to ‘What route should I follow?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Is 4 days in Ireland too long?

No. If anything, it’s no where near enough. Although Ireland is small in comparison to the likes of the US, there’s endless things to see and do scattered right the way across the island. 4 days will only scratch the surface.

What to do in Ireland for 4 days?

This will depend on whether you want a a busy or an easy 4 day Ireland itinerary. You could see a lot of Ireland in 4 days, but you’d be driving constantly. You’re best off following one of our itineraries in this guide.

Where to spend 4 days in Ireland?

Again, this depends on you and what you want to see and do. If you follow our route from Dublin, Belfast or Shannon in this guide, you won’t go wrong.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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6 of the best active pursuits on Cape Cod and the Islands

From morning hikes along Martha’s Vineyard's towering bluffs to sunset sails on Nantucket Sound, this picturesque pocket of New England is perfect for an active getaway.

By land or by sea, the great outdoors beckons in the seaside paradise of Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. This natural New England beauty is incredibly scenic, with a rugged coastline and golden dunes, surrounded by the mesmerising blue-grey expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. From kayaking across the yacht-filled waters of Nantucket Harbor to oceanfront golf on Martha’s Vineyard, here are six of the best activities to enjoy Cape Cod and the Islands.

1. Set sail on Cape Cod

Sailing is an iconic New England pastime, and Cape Cod is one of the best places for people to master their nautical know-how. Visitors needn’t be America’s Cup-ready to set sail here — the coastline is navigable for novices looking to sail on their own or learn from an experienced crew. Falmouth, on the north side of the island, is home to placid waters and programmes designed to enhance the sailing prowess of children and adults alike — from individual lessons by Falmouth Harbor to all-women clinics on Buzzards Bay.

2. Whale watch on Cape Cod

Wildlife lovers should follow the ‘arm’ of Cape Cod’s peninsula north to Provincetown, where the first recreational whale-watching in the US originated on the East Coast. Whales are an integral part of Cape Cod’s history and economy, and seeing one in the wild is magical. Cape Cod was established as a whaling community in the early 17th century, but the ever-present humpback whales were almost extinct in the 1960s during an era of commercial whaling. In 1986, a temporary ban was put in place to allow whale stocks to replenish, which is still in place today. Thankfully, they can be spotted today on sailing cruises to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is also a popular feeding ground for fin and minke whales. Peak season is from May to October, and if you’re lucky, you can also spot whales from the shore at Race Point Beach, the northernmost tip of Cape Cod.

3. Hike on Martha's Vineyard

Wide open spaces await amid sprawling meadows, rolling hills and 124 miles of unspoiled seaside on Martha’s Vineyard . An excellent way of exploring this island is by foot — it’s a wonderland of walking trails, with more than 220 miles of forest tracks, cliffside hikes and seaside paths. Though the island may seem quaint, Martha’s Vineyard is the third-largest island on the East Coast, and 40% of its land is protected, making the island a haven for threatened wildlife.  

Birdwatchers are sure to enjoy a morning walk in Edgartown’s Sheriff’s Meadow Sanctuary or amid the 600-plus acres of dunes and woodlands in Vineyard Haven’s Long Point Wildlife Refuge . The Aquinnah Cliffs also have an excellent trail leading to Gay Head Lighthouse along Moshup Beach, while the 311-ft summit of Peaked Hill in Chilmark, renowned for being a Second World War military lookout, offers beautiful vistas.

4. Play golf on Martha’s Vineyard

Hit the links on Martha’s Vineyard, home to an enticing selection of golf courses available to locals and day-trippers alike — no club membership necessary. Head out to the idyllic island of Chappaquiddick for nine holes at The Royal and Ancient Chappaquiddick Links (otherwise known as the Royal Chappy). Don’t let the name fool you — this establishment is anything but uptight and the shorter course allows visitors to spend the remainder of their afternoon exploring the rustic surroundings. For a more upscale outline, Farm Neck Golf Club in Oak Bluffs is a championship-level course favoured by the Obamas, which has pristine views of the Nantucket Sound. Luckily, the club is only semi-private, so you needn’t have the presidential seal of approval to gain entry.

5. Kayak on Nantucket

Nantucket is the best place to take to the sea and be seen, so downtown Nantucket Harbor is, unsurprisingly, a diverting locale for kayakers. Enjoy the terrific people-watching (a classic Nantucket pastime) as you navigate among the mega-yachts and classic sailboats, and take in the Brand Point Lighthouse. Calmer tides await at Sesachacha Pond near Quidnet Beach, where the brackish, shallow water is a paddlers’ paradise — stand-up paddleboarding included. A freshwater oasis awaits kayakers and birders alike at the 132-acre Long Pond in the wetlands of the island’s west side.

6. Cycle on Nantucket

Only 14 miles long and home to more than 35 miles of bike paths, Nantucket is the perfect spot for biking. It’s not very hilly and the ocean breeze renders the conditions ideal. Plus, it’s the best way to beat the high-season traffic that clogs the roads every July and August — rendering the one-mile Town Lane path downtown is especially valuable. Sconset Path is a scenic, six-mile journey to the island’s eastern end, passing cranberry bogs and hydrangea-adorned Cape Cod houses. Madaket Road Path, on the island's western side, has one of the longer bike trails on Nantucket and it is also one of the most rewarding, especially when you arrive at the marvellously secluded Madaket Beach.

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Which hawaiian island is the best to visit our 2024 ranking.

Though it can be easy to assume the six most visited Hawaiian Islands offer similar experiences, they are more diverse than you can imagine. From Waimea Canyon to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii’s wealth of natural beauty (think: cerulean waters, verdant vegetation and stunning white sand beaches ) is just waiting to be explored. To help you decide which Hawaiian Island is ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News took into account sights, expert opinion and reader input to determine the best Hawaiian Islands to visit. Vote for your favorite island below to have a say in next year's list. 

Kaua'i

Hawaii - the big island, honolulu - oahu.

Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for both couples and families looking for variety in their vacation. Away from the sand, you can drive the Road to Hana, enjoy a bird's-eye view during a helicopter tour , see one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes at Haleakala National Park and get up close to marine wildlife while snorkeling in Honolua Bay or around Molokini. Then, for an experience you won’t forget, relax on the volcanic coastline of Wai'anapanapa State Park, where jet-black sands meet vibrant sapphire waters.

With a more easygoing environment than other islands like Oahu and the Big Island, the Garden Isle lets its wild, natural beauty speak for itself and is perfect for an adventurous getaway. The main attractions here are Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon, otherwise known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." But you also won’t want to miss Kaua'i’s breathtaking Wailua Falls or dreamy Po'ipu Beach. And if a challenging hike is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more scenic than the Kalalau Trail along the rugged Napali Coast. Just remember to pack galoshes and a rain jacket – Kaua'i is one of Hawaii's rainiest islands.

The island of Hawaii's bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions and family-friendly activities makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed itinerary. Not only does the Big Island offer white and black sand beaches , including the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is also home to lush rainforests and two active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. History buffs will love visiting Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site (home to one of Hawaii's largest restored temples) and Kealakekua Bay (where British explorer James Cook first arrived in 1779). Or, head to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian fishponds and green sea turtles.

The least-developed island on this list, Moloka'i was made for those who don’t mind going off the beaten path. With lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world, Moloka'i is a great place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re staying overnight at one of Moloka'i’s quiet oceanfront cottages – there is only one hotel on the island – or visiting on a day trip from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Top activities here include soaking up some sun on secluded Papohaku Beach, snorkeling Moloka'i's 28-mile reef or joining a guided cultural hike through Halawa Valley.

Dubbed The Gathering Place, Oahu is home to plenty of famous sites and a great jumping-off point for first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. On the South Shore, you'll find Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Le'ahi (Diamond Head) State Monument, all in or near the capital city of Honolulu. Meanwhile, the North Shore is home to a more laid-back vibe, as well as the renowned waves at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, which host major surfing competitions every year. After exploring along the coast, head inland to the tranquil Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan.

For a secluded, nature-centric escape, set your sights on Lana'i. Centrally located between Maui and Moloka'i, this remote hideaway makes a great home base for inter-island travel. Travelers can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to spots like Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) and Kaunolu Village, a prehistoric fishing village that was once frequented by King Kamehameha I, or spend their days sunbathing on Polihua Beach. In winter, head to Hulopo'e Bay for terrific whale-watching opportunities. Then, make your way to Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), an enchanting rock garden that was once part of a native dryland forest, for a breathtaking Lana'i sunset. 

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These Are The 10 Best Islands To Retire In Europe

• Retirement paradise awaits on Europe's enchanting islands, from Malta to Martinique, offering idyllic surroundings, warm climates, and rich cultures.
• Explore the beauty and tranquility of Mallorca, Corsica, and Crete, where retirees can embrace the harmonious blend of nature, history, and relaxation.
• The Algarve and Tuscany offer retirees sunshine, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage, creating the perfect backdrop for a fulfilling retirement journey.

People discover their dream retirement in Europe's most enchanting island destinations. From the Mediterranean's sun-soaked havens like Malta, Mallorca, and Sardinia to the precious escapes of Cyprus and Madeira, these islands offer idyllic surroundings, warm climates, and rich cultures. They uncover the relaxed grace of Isla Mujeres and the historic charm of the San Juan Islands. They dive into the lush landscapes of the Azores and explore the Caribbean gems of the U.S. Virgin Islands and Barbados. Whether travelers seek cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, or tranquil shores, these European islands promise a retirement experience tailored to their desires .

Related: These Are The 10 Best Islands To Retire In The World

From sun-kissed Mediterranean shores to charming coastal towns steeped in culture, this article unveils the top 10 European islands that offer idyllic havens for retirees. Whether people are seeking tranquility in quaint villages or vibrant communities with an array of activities, these islands promise the perfect backdrop for their golden years. This journey displays the enticing options awaiting those eager to retire in European paradise.

Malta, Italy

Malta is basking south of Sicily and boasts sun-kissed days and stunning coastal views. English and Italian are widely spoken, and a lively expat community thrives, a blend of Americans and Europeans, notably Brits. Public health care caters to EU citizens, while private options for retirees are excellent. They can enjoy water sports, golf, and rich culture amidst historic sites and museums.

• Popular Places To Visit: Valletta, Mdina, Gozo
• Accommodation: Palais Le Brun
• Address: 101 Old Bakery Street, Valletta
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Free Wi-Fi, Business center

Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca, the largest Balearic Island, presents a fusion of Catalan charisma and Spanish warmth. Sun-drenched beaches, mountain vistas, and a rich cultural tableau invite exploration, while healthcare stands as a pillar of excellence and living costs remain within reach. With the promise of long-term visas and a canvas for property ownership, Mallorca beckons retirees to script their next chapter amidst its welcoming embrace.

• Popular Places To Visit: Palma de Mallorca, Serra de Tramuntana, Alcúdia
• Accommodation: Iberostar Selection Llaut Palma
• Address: Avenida America 2, 07600 Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca
• Amenities: Adults only, Outdoor pool, Indoor pool, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi

Martinique, France

Martinique is the "Island of Flowers." Stunning beauty awaits. People find accommodation, secure plane tickets, and explore this Caribbean gem. Fort-de-France, Le Diamant, Saint-Anne, or Les Trois Ilets offer perfect retiree stays. These locales offer a blend of tranquility, culture, and coastal beauty, creating an idyllic haven for those seeking a relaxed yet vibrant retirement.

• Popular Places To Visit: Fort-de-France, Les Trois-Îlets, Saint-Pierre
• Accommodation: Simon Hotel
• Address: 1 Rue Loulou Boislaville, Fort-de-France 97200
• Amenities: Fitness center, Bar/Lounge, Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi

Related: This Is Why Martinique Island Is Worth Visiting Over Any Other

Istria, Croatia

Istria, north Croatia, near Slovenia and Venice, beckons retirees. Sun, relaxation, gastronomy, sea, forests, truffles, and wine define the lifestyle. People explore Rovinj, Pula, Motovun. With affordability, quality of life, and wonderful connections, Istria is simply ideal for a peaceful retirement. The picturesque towns of Rovinj, Pula, and Motovun await exploration, each offering its unique blend of history and beauty. With a balance of affordability, quality of life, and excellent connections, Istria stands as an enticing destination for a peaceful and fulfilling retirement journey.

• Popular Places To Visit : Pula, Rovinj, Poreč
• Accommodation: Residence Del Mar Emotion
• Address: Uvala Kuje, Liznjan, Pula 52100
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, Beachfront, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking

Corsica, France

Corsica, nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, offers a diverse tapestry of natural beauty. From the stunning red cliffs of Piana to the turquoise waters of the Lavezzi Islands, Corsica presents a paradise for retirees seeking tranquility and adventure. The island's rich history and vibrant culture blend seamlessly with its picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal retreat. Whether strolling through historic towns like Bonifacio or immersing oneself in the serenity of the Restonica Valley, Corsica promises an enchanting retirement experience.

• Popular Places To Visit : Ajaccio, Bonifacio, Calvi
• Accommodation: Hotel San Carlu Citadelle
• Address: 8 Boulevard Danielle Casanova, 20000 Ajaccio, Corsica
• Amenities: Beachfront, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Business center

Crete, Greece

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, invites retirees to bask in its rich history, captivating landscapes, and warm Mediterranean charm. From the ancient treasures of Knossos to the idyllic beaches of Elafonissi, Crete offers a harmonious blend of culture and nature. Retirees can savor the island's renowned cuisine, explore charming villages like Chania, and take in breathtaking sunsets over the sea. With a pleasant climate and a relaxed pace of life, Crete beckons retirees to embrace the beauty of island living.

• Popular Places To Visit : Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno
• Accommodation: Dom Boutique Hotel
• Address: Almirou 14, Heraklion 712 02
• Amenities: Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Business center

Algarve, Portugal

Sunshine and nature make the Algarve a European retiree's sanctuary. Brits, French, and Germans love it. History, gastronomy, and friendly locals add allure. Whether people choose a hotel, villa, or apartment stay, the riches of the Algarve unfold as retirees uncover its coastal wonders, creating cherished memories amidst the sun-drenched splendor.

• Popular Places To Visit: Faro, Lagos, Albufeira
• Accommodation: Hotel Faro & Beach Club
• Address: Praca D Francisco Gomes 2, 8000-168 Faro, Faro
• Amenities: Snorkeling, Outdoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Free Wi-Fi

Related: This Country Has Been Voted The Best Place To Retire For The 11th Time (& Why You Should Visit)

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany's stunning landscapes are legendary. Florence, San Gimignano, Siena are simply wonders to explore. People delve into real estate opportunities and decide. They definitely prefer Tuscany's warmth for retirement over other wet countries. With a climate that beckons outdoor exploration and a rich cultural heritage, many retirees find Tuscany's warmth an irresistible draw, making it a perfect place to retire, where every corner becomes a canvas for a fulfilling retirement journey.

• Popular Places To Visit: Florence, Siena, Pisa
• Accommodation: NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa
• Address: Via Porta Rossa 19, 50123 Florence, Tuscany
• Amenities: Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Business center

New Aquitaine, France

Bordeaux, Arcachon, Biarritz is where people discover "La Nouvelle-Aquitaine" in southwest France. Rich history, quality of life, and warm welcomes await. People picture retirement in vineyard-rich Bordeaux or seaside Arcachon. Best-price hotels stand ready to accommodate people's journey, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience in this corner of France.

• Popular Places To Visit: Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Biarritz
• Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Bordeaux
• Address: 63 rue Lucien Faure, 33300 Bordeaux, Gironde
• Amenities: Spa and wellness center, Restaurant, Restaurant, Restaurant

Related: 10 Countries Anyone Would Be Happy To Retire To

Samos Island, Greece

Samos Island, a Greek gem near Turkey's coast, beckons retirees. They discover stunning beaches and quaint fishing villages. With Turkey's beauty nearby, they secure their spot in Samos for a sun-soaked, peaceful retirement. The island's captivating landscape and warm Mediterranean spirit create a unique backdrop for a retirement experience filled with relaxation , exploration, and unforgettable moments.

• Popular Places To Visit: Vathy, Pythagoreio, Kokkari
• Accommodation: Stratos Hotel
• Address: Pythagorion Area, 13km From Samos Town, Pythagorio
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Free toiletries, Coffee machine

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