Stromboli – The fiery volcano of the Aeolian Islands
Stromboli. The name alone sounds spectacular. The island is famous for its active volcano, from which – with any luck – you can see live lava spewing at night. It was our second stop on our excursion to the Aeolian Islands, after the photogenic Panarea. My expectations were high. Because when people have to choose between Etna or Stromboli, you often hear, “Stromboli is really impressive.” But is that true?

My experience on Stromboli
(I did a day trip doing Panarea and Stomboly by night) The crossing from Panarea was beautiful. Along the way we sailed past impressive rocky outcrops in the sea surrounded by crystal clear water. The contrast with the yellowish cliffs and the deep blue of the sea was mesmerizing. But as we approached Stromboli, that idyllic picture quickly disappeared.

On Stromboli, don’t expect a charming village with whitewashed houses like on Panarea. No stylish streets here, no picturesque center. Stromboli is raw, dark and unpolished – and so is the village upon arrival.

We walked up the hill to the church, along a steep path. The view of the sea from the little square in front of the church was nice, but nothing special. The streets are narrow and neglected, and the whole place looks a bit cluttered. The weather didn’t cooperate either: the volcanic summit was hidden in the clouds and hiking up was not allowed due to restrictions.

Rather than continue hiking, we decided to pass the time with a pizza. It was fortunately very tasty, although the prices on Stromboli are quite hefty. After dinner, we walked for a while on the black lava sand beach with the colorful boats – one of the few places that did feel photogenic.

Stromboli by night – the magic only begins in the dark
Fair is fair: during the day Stromboli was disappointing to me personally. But at night everything changed.

When we boarded the boat again and took our spot on the deck, the boat left in the direction of the viewpoint in front of the active crater. By now it was dark. And then it happened: Stromboli started erupting.

Several times we saw lava fountains spewing into the air. A spectacular and primal spectacle. I stood on the upper deck, camera in hand, trying to capture the moment. Like most people, for that matter. We all stood still, focused, in silence. Only the sound of the volcano and the occasional “wow” filled the air.

After anchoring at the viewpoint for about 15 minutes, the boat returned to Milazzo. Around midnight we arrived at the port – tired, cold, but deeply impressed.

🌋 What to do on Stromboli – tips & must-dos
Admire the volcano activity from the boat
This is the reason to visit Stromboli. Get a spot outside, preferably on the upper deck.

Eat a pizza or have a drink on arrival
There are a number of restaurants just off the port. Note that prices are higher than average.

Walk to the church
A short, steep walk with a view. Not the prettiest spot on the island, but a fine activity if you have time to spare.

Walk the lava sand beach
The black sand and colorful boats make this stretch of Stromboli particularly photogenic.

Make sure you have a good camera or phone
The eruptions are spectacular, but over quickly. Be ready!

Bring a warm sweater or jacket
Evenings on the boat can be chilly – especially outside on the deck.

🍴 Great places to get something to eat or drink
Ristorante da Luciano – Simple and authentic, overlooking the sea. Try the pasta alla Strombolana!
Bar Ingrid – The most famous terrace of Stromboli, famous for its view of the volcano. A great place for an aperitivo.
Il Malandrino – For good pizzas and fresh fish. A little pricier, but definitely tasty.
La Lampara – A cozy restaurant by the sea, loved by locals. You eat daily fresh fish, traditional dishes and enjoy stunning views of the sea and sometimes even the volcano.

🛍️ Souvenirs & stores
Emporio della Lava – Gifts and souvenirs inspired by the volcano: lava rocks, t-shirts, ceramics.
La Bancarella – A small market stall on the harbor with handmade jewelry and local products.
Tip: Shops often close in the afternoon – shop when you arrive.

📸 Instagram-worthy spots on Stromboli
The black lava sand beach with colorful fishing boats
The view from the church in the village of San Vincenzo
Sunset with the volcano in the background
Photos from the boat during the “Stromboli by night” moment
🔹 Photo tip: Use a tripod or “night mode” to capture the lava eruptions.

👶 Stromboli with kids
Stromboli is quiet and car-free (there are ape cabs), but hilly and hot in summer.
A baby carriage is not useful due to the bumpy paths – a baby carrier works better.
Viewing the volcanic eruption from the boat is impressive, but possibly exciting for young children.
🥾 Hiking on Stromboli – small hikes with great views
Hike to the church of San Vincenzo – Steep but short. Views of the sea and the harbor.
Via Roma towards Belvedere – Quiet route to a panoramic point.
Sciara del Fuoco (guided only) – Not allowed without a guide, but from the boat you can see this spectacular lava channel well.
🔹 Tip: Good walking shoes, a flashlight (in the dark) and bring plenty of water on hikes are essential.