Guide to the Routes to Get to Lipari

Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands located in Italy, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich historical heritage. If you are planning a trip to Lipari, it’s essential to know the various routes available to reach this enchanting island. Whether you prefer traveling by air, sea, or a combination of both, here is a guide to the routes that will take you to Lipari.

By Air:

The most convenient way to reach Lipari is by flying to one of the nearby airports and then taking a ferry or hydrofoil to the island. The nearest airports to Lipari are Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) and Naples International Airport (NAP). Both airports have regular flights from major European cities, making it easier for international travelers to reach Lipari.

From Catania Fontanarossa Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Milazzo Port, which is the main departure point for ferries and hydrofoils to Lipari. The journey from Catania to Milazzo takes approximately two hours. Once you reach Milazzo, you can choose from several ferry companies, such as Liberty Lines and Siremar, that operate daily services to Lipari. The ferry ride from Milazzo to Lipari usually takes around one hour and 30 minutes.

If you arrive at Naples International Airport, you will need to reach the Port of Naples to catch a ferry or hydrofoil to Lipari. You can either take a taxi, private transfer, or use the Alibus shuttle service to get to the port. From Naples, you can find various ferry companies, including SNAV and Alilauro, offering frequent departures to Lipari. The journey from Naples to Lipari by ferry typically takes between three to four hours, depending on the type of vessel.

By Sea:

For those who prefer a scenic and leisurely journey, traveling to Lipari by sea is an excellent option. There are regular ferry and hydrofoil services connecting Lipari to several ports in Italy, including Milazzo, Messina, Palermo, and Naples.

If you are traveling from mainland Italy, the Port of Milazzo is the most popular departure point due to its proximity to Lipari. Ferries and hydrofoils operate frequently from Milazzo to Lipari, with a journey duration of approximately one hour and 30 minutes. The routes from Messina, Palermo, and Naples to Lipari are also available, but the journey times are relatively longer.

If you are already on one of the neighboring islands, such as Sicily or the other Aeolian Islands, you can easily take a ferry or hydrofoil to Lipari. The inter-island connections are frequent, and the duration of the journey depends on the starting point.

Combination Routes:

For travelers looking for a more diverse and adventurous experience, taking a combination of air and sea routes is recommended. By flying to a nearby airport like Catania or Naples, you can enjoy the convenience of air travel and then continue your journey by ferry or hydrofoil to Lipari.

Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that Lipari can also be reached by private yacht or chartered boat. The port of Lipari has excellent facilities for docking, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more luxurious and independent mode of transportation.

In conclusion, getting to Lipari offers various routes suitable for every traveler’s preference. Whether you choose to fly directly to Catania or Naples and then take a ferry, travel by sea from one of the nearby ports, or combine air and sea transportation, this guide provides valuable information to help you plan your journey to this mesmerizing island. Once you arrive, be prepared to be enthralled by the natural beauty and captivating history that awaits you in Lipari.