From Palermo: Bus & Cruise to Favignana & Levanzo with Lunch

Exploring Sicily’s Egadi Islands: A Practical Review of the Palermo to Favignana & Levanzo Tour

If you’re craving a taste of Sicily beyond Palermo’s bustling streets, a day trip to the Egadi Islands—Favignana and Levanzo—is a fantastic way to add some sea, sand, and sunshine to your itinerary. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a well-organized, value-packed day that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Three things we particularly like about this experience are the stunning coastal views, the authentic Sicilian lunch onboard, and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters. The tour offers a leisurely pace with free time to explore the islands, which is perfect for those wanting a taste of local life and scenic beauty.

A possible consideration is the weather dependency—since boat cruises are sensitive to weather conditions, itinerary changes may occur if the sea gets rough. It’s also a full day, so travelers should be prepared for early mornings and some walking during free periods.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and beach time without the hassle of organizing transport or boat tickets themselves. Perfect for those short on time but eager to see Sicily’s offshore gems.

Contents show

Key Points

Convenient transfer from Palermo takes the stress out of planning
Includes free time on both Favignana and Levanzo for personalized exploration
Enjoys scenic coastal cruises, including stops at the famous Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra
Delicious Sicilian lunch onboard, featuring pasta con pesto trapanese
Swim in the sea at prime spots, with clear waters perfect for relaxing and snorkeling
Weather-dependent—program may change if sea conditions aren’t suitable

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Palermo

The Departure and Transport

The day kicks off bright and early with a bus ride at 07:00 from Palermo’s Politeama Square. The transfer is included, which is a huge plus for those unfamiliar with local transport. The bus, operated by the tour provider EGADI LINES, offers a comfortable and stress-free way to reach Trapani port, where the boat departs at 09:30.

Travelers should note that the email or message you’ll receive the day before contains your specific instructions and ticket, as a simple voucher alone isn’t enough to board the bus. This planning detail ensures a smooth start, but it’s worth paying attention to the instructions to avoid missing the departure.

The Coastal Cruise & Island Introduction

The boat cruise showcases the breathtaking coastlines of Favignana and Levanzo, highlighting iconic sights like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra. These stunning creeks are perfect for photography and, more importantly, for stopping off for a swim. Reviewers mention that splashing in the clear waters was a highlight, with one reviewer noting they swam twice in the waters, which were described as “crystal clear.”

Favignana: Free Time & Highlights

Arrival in Favignana gives you approximately two hours of free time to explore the island’s charming streets, shops, and cafes. The first stop is a chance to soak in the local vibe and maybe pick up some souvenirs. One reviewer mentioned that the island is full of history, especially around the tuna industry, and the town itself is “beautiful with lots of shops, restaurants, and locals.”

While the official schedule doesn’t specify guided tours, the free time allows visitors to wander at their own pace, whether that means relaxing on the beach or learning about the island’s history.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Coastal Tour & Swimming

After a stroll or a quick snack, the boat resumes its cruise along the coast, with stops at the most famous creeks, including Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra. These spots are perfect for swimming and relaxing, with many reviewers emphasizing how enjoyable and refreshing the stops were. The crew’s commentary adds context, enriching the experience with insights into the islands’ natural beauty.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Palermo

Lunch Onboard & Levanzo Visit

The onboard meal is a highlight for many, with a typical Sicilian dish—pasta con pesto trapanese—serving as a satisfying and authentic taste of the region. Reviewers describe the food as “amazing,” and the crew as “friendly and accommodating,” which makes the experience more welcoming.

Following lunch, the boat heads to Levanzo, where you get about one hour of free time. This quieter, less commercial island offers a more laid-back atmosphere, perfect for strolling around or simply enjoying the views from the harbor.

The Final Cruise & Return

The cruise along Levanzo’s coast features more incredible vistas, making for memorable photo opportunities. The boat departs around 5:00 or 5:30 pm, heading back to Trapani, where you’ll catch the bus back to Palermo at around 6:30 pm. Many travelers comment on the well-coordinated timing and the smooth return trip.

Additional Details & Practical Tips

Entry fee to the islands: €5.00 per person, paid separately on the day. This fee grants access to the islands’ protected areas and is not included in the booking.
Weather considerations: As the cruise depends on sea conditions, the program may adjust accordingly. If weather turns unfavorable, the captain might modify stops or delay departures.
Group size & guides: The tour is primarily operated by the crew on the boat, with no dedicated guide onshore. However, reviews mention the crew’s attentiveness and helpful commentary during the cruise.

Authentic Experiences & Genuine Value

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of beautiful scenery, relaxed free time, and delicious local cuisine. Reviewers consistently mention the “friendly crew,” “great value,” and the “beautiful waters,” reinforcing that this is an experience that balances sightseeing with leisure.

While the two-hour stop in Favignana might seem brief, reviewers note that having the flexibility to walk around, explore, or just relax on the beach makes it worthwhile. The cost of €5 for the entry fee, separate from the tour price, is reasonable and expected for access to these protected areas.

It’s also worth highlighting that the timing is tight but manageable — the day is packed, but many travelers felt it was a “good value for money” considering the transportation and activities included. The lunch onboard is a thoughtful touch, offering a taste of Sicilian cuisine without extra hassle.

The mix of scenic cruising, island exploration, and swimming makes this a well-rounded day trip. The reviews indicate that the experience is suited for those who enjoy a bit of everything—nature, culture, and a hearty meal in one package.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see Sicily’s famous off-shore gems. It’s perfect for sea lovers, foodies, and those wanting a relaxing escape from city life.

However, those with mobility issues might want to consider the walking involved during free time on the islands, and travelers should be comfortable with early starts and boat rides. It’s not suitable for children under 5, but beyond that, it’s a flexible, family-friendly option.

If you’re after a low-stress, scenic, and authentic experience that combines the beauty of Sicily’s coastlines with good food and swimming, this tour delivers a solid, well-reviewed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from Palermo included?
Yes, the tour provides a free bus transfer from Palermo’s Politeama Square to Trapani port, which helps streamline the day.

What time does the tour start?
The bus departs Palermo at around 07:00, with the boat leaving Trapani at 09:30. Exact times may vary depending on the day and weather conditions.

How long is the free time on each island?
You get approximately two hours in Favignana and one hour in Levanzo to explore, relax, or swim.

What food is included?
A lunch onboard features pasta con pesto trapanese, a traditional Sicilian dish, praised for its authentic flavors.

Do I need to pay the island entry fee separately?
Yes, a €5.00 fee per person is paid on the day—this covers access to the protected areas of the islands.

Can I swim at the stops?
Absolutely. The tour includes stops for swimming, and many reviews mention how clear and inviting the waters are.

Is there a guide during the island visits?
There’s no official guide onshore, but the crew provides commentary during the cruise, sharing insights into the scenery and local features.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the captain may alter or cancel certain stops for safety.

How should I prepare for the day?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes. The early start means packing a light bag for the day ahead.

In essence, this full-day tour from Palermo to Favignana and Levanzo offers a curated taste of Sicily’s coastal beauty, delicious food, and relaxing sea time. With good reviews backing its value and organization, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a manageable yet memorable island escape.