Panarea
Latest update: 25 March 2023
Each of the seven Aeolian Islands has its own character and Panarea is no exception to that. This is an island that has a glitzy, VIP feel to it and it's a favourite summertime spot for the rich and famous who come here to party, sunbathe and shop.
If your wallet can cope with the demands you'll find plenty of opportunities to empty it in the designer boutiques but the real charm of Panarea comes in its natural beauty. At 3.4 km² this is the smallest island in the group with a fittingly small population of around 280 lucky souls. |
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Exploring Panarea
From the arrival port of San Pietro a series of paths lead east or west. Take either path and you'll be rewarded with stunning views and a beach at the end of it. The western path eventually leads to two of Panarea's main sights: the bay and beach at Cala Junco, before which is a fascinating prehistoric village.
Back in the port itself you'll find a great selection of places to eat and drink as well as some accommodation options with a small number of hotels supplemented by holiday apartments.
From the arrival port of San Pietro a series of paths lead east or west. Take either path and you'll be rewarded with stunning views and a beach at the end of it. The western path eventually leads to two of Panarea's main sights: the bay and beach at Cala Junco, before which is a fascinating prehistoric village.
Back in the port itself you'll find a great selection of places to eat and drink as well as some accommodation options with a small number of hotels supplemented by holiday apartments.
Finding your way to Panarea
Panarea is nestled between fellow Aeolians: Salina, around twenty kilometres to its west and the fiery Stromboli, twenty five kilometres to the east, each of which can be reached by ferry or hydrofoil. To get here from the Sicilian mainland the most sensible option is the hydrofoil from Milazzo which takes an hour and 25 minutes but there are also further crossing options available via the other islands.
If planning a day of island hopping, there are direct connections to Salina (both Santa Maria Salina and Rinella), Vulcano and Lipari, the latter of which can be used as a hub for reaching Alicudi and Filicudi.
It's also possible to take a hydrofoil from Naples (around 5 hours) which brings Naples Airport into the reckoning if flights to Catania or Palermo are unavailable/expensive.
Panarea is nestled between fellow Aeolians: Salina, around twenty kilometres to its west and the fiery Stromboli, twenty five kilometres to the east, each of which can be reached by ferry or hydrofoil. To get here from the Sicilian mainland the most sensible option is the hydrofoil from Milazzo which takes an hour and 25 minutes but there are also further crossing options available via the other islands.
If planning a day of island hopping, there are direct connections to Salina (both Santa Maria Salina and Rinella), Vulcano and Lipari, the latter of which can be used as a hub for reaching Alicudi and Filicudi.
It's also possible to take a hydrofoil from Naples (around 5 hours) which brings Naples Airport into the reckoning if flights to Catania or Palermo are unavailable/expensive.
Province: Metropolitan City of Messina
Region: Sicily Population: around 280 Size: 3.4 km² Highlights: San Pietro, archaeological site Recommended accommodation: Hotel Cincotta |
Arrival port: San Pietro
Journey time from Sicilian mainland: 1 hr 25 mins (from Milazzo) Distance from nearest Sicilian mainland port: 71 km |
Arrive by: ferry, hydrofoil
Arrive from: Milazzo, Salina, Stromboli, Lipari, Vulcano, Messina Fly to: Catania Airport, Palermo Airport, Naples Airport |