Panarea, the hidden pearl of the Aeolian Islands
Panarea is actually the pearl of the Aeolian Islands. Small, charming and with an atmosphere you won’t experience anywhere else in Sicily. Where Stromboli mainly impresses with its evening eruptions, Panarea conquers your heart with serene beauty, stylish simplicity and the feeling of really being on vacation.

My experience on Panarea
Stromboli was high on my list. As a great lover of Etna and its power, I had high expectations. But fair is fair: Stromboli feels like the somewhat grumpy, dark stepsister of the elegant Etna (at least during the day). But Panarea on the other hand … what a surprise! As soon as I stepped off the boat, I felt it: this is vacation. Brilliant white houses with bright blue doors, stairs and fences. A color palette that immediately cries out to be captured on camera. Combine that with the azure water, brightly colored flowers and the relaxed rhythm of the island, and you have a dream spot.

We had two hours to explore the island – far too short. The walk to the prehistoric village of Capo Milazzese takes about 45 minutes one way. With a 3-year-old child and over 30 degrees on the thermometer in October, we decided to take it easy and just stroll through the streets. And what a lot to see there! Flowers everywhere, palm trees and vistas of the sea.

After walking around for an hour and a half, we had a drink on the terrace by the port (good prices, friendly staff), before boarding the boat again. Note that many small stores close at noon. If you want to buy something, do so immediately upon arrival. Fortunately, the bar and souvenir store at the port are open all the time.

In high season it can be busier. We had all the room we needed on the boat in October, but in the summer you may have to be more careful where you sit, especially if you want to keep your spot during a layover.

⛴️ How to get to Panarea
Panarea can only be reached by boat. Most boats leave from Milazzo, where you can easily take the Liberty Lines ferry. This crossing takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes and often stops first on other islands such as Lipari.

In high season, boats also sail from Messina, Reggio Calabria and sometimes even Taormina or Cefalù, often as day tours.

🔹 Tip: Book your ferry tickets in advance through libertylines.it, especially in July and August.

🔹 Excursion booked through us? Then of course you will receive all info about the right port and departure time by email.

🧭 What to do on Panarea – tips & must-dos
✔ Wander through the village
Enjoy the quiet streets with white houses, blue details, blooming bougainvillea and sea views.

✔ Grab a terrace at the harbor
After your stroll, a drink in the shade of a palm tree is the perfect ending.

✔ Walk to the church
A short climb to the church gives you a beautiful view of the village and the beautiful blue sea.

✔ Visit the prehistoric village of Capo Milazzese
For those with a little more time (and energy) – this archaeological site is located on a cliff with breathtaking views.

✔ Bring a stroller? Do!
The island is car-free, but with small children it can be hot and hilly. A baby carriage is really nice then.

✔ Bring swimwear
Do you have more time or stay longer? Then you can enjoy swimming in crystal clear water at several spots.

🍴 Nice places to eat or drink
1. Da Pina – for a chic lunch or dinner
A household name on Panarea. You sit in a beautiful garden with white tablecloths, and the food is refined. Not cheap, but a culinary experience! Ideal for those who visit the island with a romantic approach. Try the tuna tartare or the fresh linguine alle vongole.

2. Il Macellaio Panarea – surprisingly good and informal
A small butcher shop that also makes warm sandwiches and snacks. Perfect for a quick, tasty lunch. And: friendly priced!

3. Bridge Sushi Bar – Japanese on an Aeolian island?
Yes! With a view of the sea and surprisingly good quality. Great for those who want something different.

4. Bar del Porto – relaxed drink on arrival or departure
Right on the harbor. Ideal for a coffee or aperitif with a view of the boats. This is also a great place to sit with children.

📸 Instagrammable spots in Panarea Panarea is an open-air photo studio in our opinion. The combination of whitewashed houses, royal blue doors, bright pink flowers and deep blue water makes every corner perfect for your camera. Our favourite spots: The view through the church of San Pietro – view of the sea and the village The sea of ​​flowers in Via San Pietro (near the harbour) The rocky coastline towards Drautto Beach Local boutiques with colourful shop windows 🔹 Tip: Go early in the morning or at the end of the afternoon – the light is magical then, and you will often have the streets to yourself. 👶 Panarea with children Panarea is surprisingly child-friendly, especially if you take it easy. The island is car-free, so you don’t have to worry about traffic. However, it can be hot in the summer and some streets are steep. Our tips for families: Bring a pram or buggy (preferably with larger wheels for the stone paths) Make sure you have enough water and sun protection – there is not shade everywhere Walk to the church for a child-friendly mini-hike with a view Variegate your walk with a break on the terrace at the harbour – child-friendly, with space and shade Luckily, there are also ice creams 😉 Are you worried about whether your child can handle it? Panarea is ideal for a relaxing half day at your family’s pace.

• Tip: Many shops close between 1:00 and 4:00 pm, so plan your souvenir hunt in the morning or late afternoon.

🥾 Hiking on Panarea – small hikes with great views Although Panarea is small, you can take surprisingly beautiful walks there. Don’t expect long mountain hikes, but short hikes that reward you with views, peace and atmosphere. 1. To Capo Milazzese & Cala Junco From the harbor you can walk to this prehistoric settlement in about 45 minutes. Right next to it is Cala Junco, a spectacular bay with turquoise water. Ideal for a swim or a picnic. The route runs along the coast and is rocky in some places, but easy to do with sturdy shoes. 2. Walk to Drautto Beach (Real local tip!) One of the most beautiful bays on the island (where you can swim), about 25 minutes walk from the harbor. Along the way you will pass small houses, cacti, flowers and ruins with a view of the sea. The beach is rocky, so bring water shoes – but the water here is really crystal clear. This place is usually less crowded than Cala Junco. 3. San Pietro loop Do you have less time? Then take a walk around the village of San Pietro. You will walk past characteristic houses, small chapels, gardens full of flowers and regularly have a view of Stromboli in the distance. 🔹 Tip: There are few shady spots along the way. Take water, a hat and sunscreen with you, especially in summer.