The Aeolian Islands are a treasure trove of natural beauty, volcanic drama, and charming villages. What makes them especially appealing is the variety of guided tours and unique experiences available—each offering a different way to enjoy this stunning archipelago. Whether you’re drawn to sailing around volcanic islands, savoring local wines, or exploring hidden caves, there’s something to match your interests. Among our favorites are the Lipari and Vulcano private boat tour, which combines adventure and relaxation, and the volcanic boat excursions that put you close to Stromboli’s fiery eruptions. These experiences give travelers a rare chance to see the islands from a local perspective and get off the beaten path.
For those who want a taste of local flavor, the wine tasting THE CLASSICS offers a delicious look into the Lipari terroir, guided by a sommelier in about two hours. Meanwhile, private island tours like the Lipari Island tour let you explore caves, beaches, and secret spots with a knowledgeable guide. If time is limited, shorter options like the Aeolian Islands: Vela Experience Half Day Boat Tour provide a fun, relaxed way to enjoy the sea and scenery. Whatever your style, these tours deliver authentic memories and a deeper understanding of the islands’ beauty.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover a variety of tours and experiences in Aeolian Islands. From private boat trips exploring Vulcano and Stromboli, to wine tastings on Lipari, and volcano excursions with lava viewing—each offers something unique. For more details on each, check out the individual links, especially the popular Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour and the Wine tasting THE CLASSICS. Now, let’s dive into the specifics.
1. Wine tasting THE CLASSICS
At number 1 we have the Wine tasting THE CLASSICS, which is a perfect introduction to Lipari’s local wines. For just about $52.14 per person, you get a two-hour guided experience led by a sommelier, who walks you through the island’s best regional wines. You’ll start with a tour of a local winery and a short walk through the vineyards, tasting three different glasses of wine. The tasting is paired with an array of local cold cuts, cheeses, traditional vegetables, and artisanal sesame biscuits, making it a tasty way to soak in the flavors of Lipari. Reviews are outstanding—with a full 5-star rating from over 200 reviews—highlighting the warmth of the guide and the quality of the wines. This tour is ideal for lovers of wine, food, and authentic local stories.
Key highlights are the chance to learn about Lipari’s unique volcanic terroir and how it influences the wine. The tour offers good value for money considering the quality and depth of the tasting, and it’s perfect for those interested in gastronomy as part of their island experience. If you prefer a relaxed, educational experience with a focus on regional flavors, this is a top pick. The only potential downside? It’s a short tour, so those wanting a full day of wine and food might want to combine it with other activities.
Bottom Line: A highly-rated, intimate experience that offers a taste of Lipari’s terroir—ideal for wine enthusiasts and foodies.
2. Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour (7 hours)
At number 2 is the Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour, which is the ultimate way to see these two iconic islands in one day. For around $633.82 per group (up to 6 people), you’ll set off on the elegant mahogany boat “Eoliana” for a full 7-hour adventure. The highlight here is freedom—stop whenever you want to swim or snorkel, with gear and towels provided, and explore the coastline at your own pace. The tour includes visits to Lipari’s famous rock formations like the Lipari stacks and natural arches, along with Vulcano’s lunar landscapes and lava flows. You can also hike to Vulcano’s crater, enjoy thermal mud baths (at your own expense), or relax on volcanic beaches.
The itinerary features stops at Spiaggia Praia di Vinci, the Venus Pool, and Cheese Cove, each offering crystal-clear waters and spectacular scenery. Reviews praise the professionalism of the crew and the personalized experience—”We had the most perfect day aboard this beautiful boat,” says one. The tour’s private nature makes it perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking flexibility and privacy.
Bottom Line: For a flexible, personalized day on the water with plenty of swimming and exploring, this private boat tour hits the mark.
3. Lipari Island tour – private
Number 3 is the Lipari Island tour – private, which offers a more intimate exploration of Lipari’s coastlines. For about $581.55 per group (up to 4 people), this four-hour tour focuses on discovering caves, colorful rocks, and secluded beaches only accessible by boat. The guide, Giovanni, is praised for his hospitality and local knowledge, making this tour both informative and fun.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized cruise around Lipari, with stops at places like the multicolour caves and the turquoise sea of pumice. The highlight is the diversity of scenery—ranging from the official beach zone to secret coves known only to locals. Reviews rave about the unforgettable nature of the trip and the chance to see dolphins—”Lipari is simply amazing,” says one happy guest.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups wanting a tailored, scenic boat ride with opportunities for swimming and cave exploration.
4. Pic-nic in the vineyard
Number 4 on our list is the Pic-nic in the vineyard, a short but memorable experience costing around $53.41 per person. After a gentle walk, you’ll find yourself in a panoramic spot amid the vineyards, overlooking Alicudi, Filicudi, and Salina islands. While admiring these views, you’ll enjoy a simple yet enchanting picnic with local produce, standing in front of the vast sea. It’s a perfect way to slow down and connect with the land and sea, especially if you’re a fan of scenic vistas and local flavors.
This experience is best for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, scenic moment without the need for long tours or physical exertion. It offers a taste of Lipari’s beautiful countryside and a chance to reflect on the island’s landscape with a cold drink and some local snacks. Reviews mention the magic of the setting and the stunning views.
Bottom Line: An ideal short break for nature lovers seeking tranquility and authentic scenery.
5. Exclusive tour of Stromboli island, Boat tour with Pasqualo
Coming in at number 5 is the Exclusive Stromboli boat tour with Pasqualo. For about $332.31 per group (up to 4), this three-hour tour takes you along Stromboli’s coast, exploring lava flows, beaches, and remote villages. Highlights include swimming and snorkeling on spots only reachable by boat, and a visit to Ginostra, a tiny village accessible solely by sea, for a peaceful break. Your local skipper shares insights about the island’s volcano activity and daily life, making the experience both fun and educational.
What makes this tour special is the chance to see Stromboli’s volcanic activity up close—puffing away in real-time. Reviews reflect the quality of the experience, with visitors describing it as a “perfect and unforgettable tour,” especially noting the stop at Ginostra and the lava viewing.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in volcano activity and private, intimate exploration of Stromboli by sea.
6. Sciara del Fuoco from the sea with an aperitivo to Ginostra, boat tour
Number 6 is the Sciara del Fuoco boat tour with aperitivo. For around $77.14 per person, this 3-hour small-group cruise offers the chance to see Stromboli’s erupting volcano from the water. It starts with a sunset stop in Ginostra, where you can enjoy an aperitif paired with Sicilian specialties like cheese, olives, and ham, while watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Then, the boat moves toward Sciara del Fuoco, where you’ll witness lava flows and steam clouds—spectacular even in daylight. The tour balances scenic beauty with a relaxed pace, making it ideal for photography and enjoying the volcanic spectacle from a safe distance.
Reviews highlight the unforgettable sunset experience and the chance to see Stromboli in action. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a combination of scenery, food, and volcano watching in a small-group setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sunset lovers and those keen to witness Stromboli’s eruptions without a long day trip.
7. Aeolian Islands: Vela Experience Half Day Boat Tour
Finally, the Vela Experience Half Day Boat Tour combines sailing, snorkeling, and scenic exploration in a four-hour trip. With a maximum of 8 passengers, it’s a small, lively group that allows for a flexible and relaxed day. You’ll explore the most beautiful corners of the islands, swim in clear waters, and enjoy a delicious onboard lunch or aperitif.
This tour appeals to travelers who want to combine sailing with snorkeling and prefer a more casual, social experience. It’s a good choice if you’re interested in discovering lesser-known spots and enjoying the sea without the intensity of a full-day excursion. Price and availability vary, so plan ahead.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a laid-back, social sailing experience with plenty of swimming and scenic views.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When picking among these varied options, consider your budget, time available, and main interests. For a deep dive into local flavors, go for the Wine tasting THE CLASSICS. If a full-day exploration of Lipari and Vulcano appeals, the private boat tour is hard to beat. For volcano and lava viewing, the Stromboli boat tours or Sciara del Fuoco sunset cruise offer unforgettable views.
Travelers with limited time might prefer the half-day sailing, while those seeking tranquility should consider the picnic in the vineyard. Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot—these tours fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
The Aeolian Islands offer a wealth of experiences for every kind of traveler—whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, culture, or gastronomy. For a balanced mix, the Lipari and Vulcano private boat tour and the volcano boat trips stand out as top choices. For a more leisurely, intimate taste of wine and scenery, the wine tasting and picnic in the vineyard provide memorable moments.
Regardless of your choice, remember that these tours are best booked well in advance during the busy months. With so many options, you’re sure to find a way to experience the magic of the Aeolian Islands beyond just looking at photos—these tours make the islands come alive.