How to Get There
If you’re starting your journey from Milan, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach the Aeolian Islands:
Step 1: Travel from Milan to Naples
To begin your adventure, you’ll first need to reach Naples, the city where most ferry services to the Aeolian Islands depart from. Fortunately, there are several transportation options available:
- By Air: Book a domestic flight from Milan Malpensa Airport to Naples International Airport. Major airlines like Alitalia, easyJet, and Ryanair operate regular flights on this route.
- By Train: Take a high-speed train from Milano Centrale station to Napoli Centrale station. The journey takes around 4 hours, and trains are quite frequent throughout the day.
- By Car: If you prefer a road trip, you can drive from Milan to Naples. The distance is approximately 800 kilometers and takes around 8-9 hours, depending on the traffic and route you choose.
Step 2: Reach the Port of Naples
Once you’ve arrived in Naples, you’ll need to make your way to the port, from where the ferries to the Aeolian Islands depart. Here’s how you can get there:
- By Taxi: The most convenient option is to take a taxi from the train station or the airport directly to the port. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- By Public Transport: You can also use public transport to reach the port. Take a bus or the metro from the train station or the airport to the Molo Beverello or Calata di Massa stops.
Step 3: Take a Ferry to the Aeolian Islands
Now that you’ve reached the port of Naples, it’s time to catch a ferry to the beautiful Aeolian Islands. Several ferry companies operate regular services to the islands, including SNAV, Liberty Lines, and Tirrenia.
The journey duration varies depending on the specific island you’re heading to:
- To Lipari: The largest and most accessible island, Lipari, is usually the main entry point for tourists. The ferry ride from Naples takes approximately 2.5-3.5 hours.
- To Vulcano: If you want to experience the island’s famous mud baths and volcanic landscapes, take a ferry from Naples to Vulcano. The journey time is around 2-3 hours.
- To Stromboli: Known for its active volcano, Stromboli attracts adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The ferry ride from Naples to Stromboli takes approximately 5-6 hours.
- To Salina, Panarea, Filicudi, and Alicudi: Ferries are also available to these lesser-known but equally stunning islands. The journey durations vary between 3-5 hours depending on the exact destination.
Final Thoughts
Reaching the Aeolian Islands from Milan may require a bit of planning and travel, but the experience is truly worth it. From the moment you set foot on these enchanting islands, you’ll be greeted by unparalleled beauty and tranquility.
So pack your bags, book your transportation, and get ready to discover the Mediterranean paradise that awaits you in the Aeolian Islands!