The Aeolian Islands, with their dramatic volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, are a playground for travelers seeking memorable tours. Whether you want to sip local wines, hike active volcanoes, or cruise around secluded beaches, this archipelago offers a variety of experiences that showcase its natural splendor. Our favorites include the Lipari and Vulcano private boat tour for its flexibility and immersion in nature, and the sunset trekking on Stromboli for witnessing lava eruptions against a breathtaking sunset. These tours emphasize authentic encounters and personalized moments that make your visit truly special. With so many options, you’ll find something that fits your style—whether it’s a quick snorkeling trip or a week-long sailing adventure.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights 15 of the best tours in the Aeolian Islands, covering everything from wine tastings and private boat excursions to active volcano hikes and sailing weeks. Expect private boat trips (like Discovering Lipari by boat) that let you explore at your own pace and guided treks to Stromboli’s Sciara del Fuoco for spectacular volcanic views. For those interested in local flavors, the Wine tasting THE CLASSICS offers a delicious exploration of Lipari’s terroir. Whether your interest is relaxing or adventurous, below are the tours that really stand out.
1. Wine tasting THE CLASSICS
At number 1, the Wine tasting THE CLASSICS captures the essence of Lipari’s wine-making tradition with a guided tasting led by a sommelier. This 2-hour experience offers a deep dive into the Lipari terroir, including a winery guided tour with a short walk through the vineyard, tasting three different wines, and sampling local foods such as cold cuts, cheeses, and artisanal sesame biscuits. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy authentic flavors while learning about the island’s viniculture. The reviews are flawless, with a 5-star rating from 204 travelers, praising the quality of wines and the friendly guide. This tour provides excellent value at just over $52 per person, making it an affordable way to connect with local culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers and those craving a relaxed, educational experience that pairs well with a scenic setting.
2. Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour (7 hours)
For around $634, the Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour offers a full-day, personalized adventure around two of the most iconic islands. Cruising on the elegant mahogany Eoliana, you’ll explore stunning beaches, natural coves, and volcanic landscapes. The itinerary includes stops for swimming and snorkeling, with gear provided, and a dock visit to Vulcano where you can hike to the crater, soak in thermal mud baths, or relax on volcanic sands. Guests consistently highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, with reviews noting the flexibility and intimate nature of the experience. The tour is perfect for small groups or couples wanting privacy and a leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a customized, all-in-one day on the water with plenty of swimming and volcanic exploration.
3. Stromboli: sunset trekking to Sciara del Fuoco – Ashara
Few things match the thrill of witnessing Stromboli’s eruptions at sunset. This sunset trek takes about 5 hours and guides you up to 400 meters — just enough altitude for stunning views of bubbling lava and fiery explosions. The hike, led by experienced volcanology guides, includes safety equipment like helmets and headlamps. What makes this tour special is the combination of adventure and awe, with the fiery spectacle set against a colorful sky. Guests rave about the “breathtaking” eruptions and the “perfect pace” of the guides. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to experience Stromboli’s raw power without the exhaustion of a full volcano climb.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous souls eager to see active lava flows during a spectacular sunset.
4. Vulcano & Lipari southwest – private tour
This private tour covers Vulcano and Lipari’s southwestern coasts with a focus on snorkeling, caves, and volcanic activity. Priced at about $562, it’s a flexible 6-hour experience with stops at beaches, volcanic caves, and the Vulcano center. Guests praise the friendly captain Cristian for his attentive guidance and the scenic swimming stops, which include snorkeling in caves and relaxing on volcanic sands. The tour is great for nature lovers and those who enjoy exploring off the beaten path. Since it’s private, you can customize your experience to focus on your interests.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized exploration of Vulcano and Lipari’s coastal wonders.
5. Discovering Lipari by boat (Private tour)
For a flexible, intimate experience, the Discovering Lipari by boat is a top choice. This 3- to 5-hour private cruise for up to six offers customizable stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing. Highlights include circumnavigating the island, visiting quiet coves like Cala Fico, and enjoying wine and snacks aboard. Reviewers love the “expert skipper” and the “unforgettable” scenery, noting that the trip offers a perfect balance of relaxation and discovery. It’s best suited for those who want to skip large-group tours and design their own day on the water.
Bottom Line: Great for couples and small groups wanting a tailored, scenic day with total flexibility.
6. Vulcano & Lipari south daily Tour – individual participation
This daily tour combines Vulcano’s volcanic beaches with Lipari’s coast for a 6-hour adventure. For about $97 per person, you’ll visit caves, volcanic activity sites, and enjoy time swimming in crystal waters. The tour is especially popular among active travelers wanting to see as much as possible in a day. While some reviews mention the weather conditions affecting the experience, the overall tone is very positive, with guests appreciating the knowledgeable guides and the chance to explore volcanic phenomena closely.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers on a budget who still want a comprehensive, active day exploring Vulcano and Lipari.
7. Lipari & Salina sud – individual participation on the tour
This 6- to 7-hour tour takes you across Lipari and Salina, with stops at Santa Marina Salina and Lingua. For about $127 per person, it offers a mix of landscape viewing, sightseeing, and tasting local culture. Guests praise the “unforgettable” swimming spots and the charming stops at Salina’s villages. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting a balance of island scenery, local flavor, and manageable travel time, especially if they prefer a small group size.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want to explore two islands in one day without a rigid schedule.
8. Short trip – private tour
This short private tour is perfect for a quick escape, lasting around 3 hours for just $344 per group. It offers an easy-going experience focusing on Lipari’s caves, beaches, and snorkeling spots. Reviewers love the laid-back approach and the attentive tour operator. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed, light exploration rather than a packed schedule.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick, laid-back taste of Lipari’s coastlines.
9. Private Boat Tour at Sunset to the Faraglioni of Lipari
For a romantic finale, this sunset cruise offers a 2-hour sail toward the iconic Faraglioni rocks. Priced at $296 for up to six people, it’s perfect for anniversaries, proposals, or simply celebrating with style. Travelers rave about the “spectacular setting” and the chance to enjoy Lipari’s coastline as the sun dips below the horizon. This tour is best suited for couples or small groups wanting a memorable, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: An ideal romantic outing that combines scenic beauty with a touch of elegance.
10. Lipari Island tour – private
This private 4-hour tour offers a comprehensive glance at Lipari’s diverse coastlines, from colorful caves to pristine beaches. For about $582, the trip includes stops for swimming and sightseeing, along with plenty of time to relax aboard. Reviewers mention the “wonderful host” and the chance to see dolphins. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting a premium, personalized experience without rushing.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who desire an in-depth, flexible day exploring Lipari’s natural beauty.
11. Lipari & Salina
This 7-hour tour combines Lipari’s coast with Salina’s unique villages. For about $581 per group, it’s a full-day journey with stops in Santa Marina Salina and Lingua, offering both cultural insight and scenic beauty. Reviewers highlight the “beautiful” stops and the chance to swim in clear waters. Perfect for travelers wanting an immersive day across multiple islands with enough time for sightseeing and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those exploring multiple islands in a single day.
12. Boat Tour to Panarea and Stromboli from Lipari
This 8-hour boat tour is great for volcano and island enthusiasts. Starting at $66.50 per person, it explores Panarea’s exclusive vibe and Stromboli’s erupting volcano, with stops for swimming and sightseeing. Travelers love the chance to see lava explosions and enjoy the dramatic scenery. It’s suitable for those comfortable with longer boat rides and eager to combine luxury and adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers eager to experience both volcanic activity and island sophistication.
13. Aeolian Islands – Sailing week with skipper and assistant
For the adventurous, this week-long sailing trip is the ultimate immersive experience. Priced at over $1,068 per person, it includes daily stops at bays, beaches, and cafes, with a chance to learn about the islands’ mythic and volcanic past. Reviewers mention the “magical” quality of overnight anchoring and the variety of sites visited. It’s best suited for seasoned travelers ready for a full-immersion adventure and comfortable on a boat.
Bottom Line: A once-in-a-lifetime choice for dedicated sailors and travelers seeking a comprehensive, multi-day voyage.
14. Pic-nic in the vineyard
This picnic in the vineyard offers a relaxed 2-hour experience for about $53. It’s a simple yet captivating outing, where you enjoy panoramic views of islands like Alicudi, Filicudi, and Salina from a vineyard, combining scenic beauty with local flavor.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic break with a touch of local culture.
15. Exclusive tour of Stromboli island, Boat tour with Pasqualo
Finally, the Stromboli boat tour with Pasqualo combines exploration and relaxation over 3 hours and up to 4 people. It includes stops at Ginostra, snorkeling spots, and views of the lava flow, with a local skipper sharing stories of island life. Reviewers find it “fantastic,” praising Pasqualo’s detailed knowledge and personal touch.
Bottom Line: Best for small groups or couples wanting a private, in-depth experience of Stromboli’s coast.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you love wine, start with the Lipari wine tasting. For active volcano fans, the Stromboli sunset trek offers a breathtaking spectacle. Those seeking a flexible experience might prefer discovering Lipari by boat, while romantics will enjoy the sunset cruise to the Faraglioni. For multi-day adventures, the sailing week promises a comprehensive immersion.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular boat tours and the Stromboli sunset hike, which fill quickly during peak months. Think about your fitness level and interests—active hikes and snorkeling tours require some stamina, while wine tastings and scenic boat trips suit more relaxed travelers. The key is matching your aspirations with the right tour’s focus and pace.
The Aeolian Islands offer a wide range of unforgettable experiences—whether you want to relax, explore volcanic activity, or enjoy local flavors. For a taste of adventure, the Lipari & Vulcano private boat tour and the Stromboli sunset trek stand out as top picks. If your goal is to soak up culture and scenery, the discovering Lipari by boat and the Salina island tour won’t disappoint. Whatever your preference, the best tours in the Aeolian Islands await—just book early and enjoy every moment.