Getting There & Away: Aeolian Islands

Air Travel to the Islands

Major Airports & Airlines

Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) is the busiest airport in Sicily and the most common gateway. Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO) is another major Sicilian airport. Reggio Calabria Airport (REG) is geographically closer to the islands. Naples International Airport (NAP) offers direct sea routes.

Flight Information

Major European airlines and low-cost carriers (Ryanair, EasyJet) operate flights to Catania and Palermo.
No direct intercontinental flights. Connect through major European cities (Rome, Milan, London).
Flight prices increase significantly during high season (July-August). Book several months in advance.

Airport Transfers to Ferry Ports

Upon arrival at mainland airports, you use land transportation to reach the ferry ports that connect to the Aeolian Islands.

Connecting to Ports

From Catania Airport to Milazzo Port: Giuntabus offers direct services (seasonal); otherwise, Interbus to Milazzo city then local transfer.
Taxi/Private Transfer: Most convenient from Catania Airport, but most expensive (€100-€150).
From Palermo Airport: Prestia e Comandè bus or Trinacria Express train to city center/port.

Cheap Flights

Find great deals on flights with Dollar Flight Club.

Flight Search

Compare flights from multiple airlines using Skyscanner.

Car Rentals

Book your rental car in advance via DiscoverCars.com.

Land Transportation to Ferry Ports

Train & Bus Connections

Milazzo train station connects to major cities in Sicily and mainland Italy. From Milazzo station, a short bus/taxi ride gets you to the port.
Giuntabus (seasonal) offers direct bus services from Catania airport to Milazzo Port. Intercity buses are also available to Palermo, Naples, Reggio Calabria.
Italy is part of the Schengen Area; no internal border checks when traveling within Italy.
Roads leading to main ferry ports are generally well-maintained.

Self-Driving & Restrictions

Car rentals are available at airports. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for non-EU citizens.
Parking can be limited and paid in port cities. Many leave cars in secure lots near Milazzo port.
Vehicle access for non-residents is restricted on most islands during peak season (June-September). Check local regulations.
Renting a scooter or quad bike locally on islands is a common alternative.

Sea Arrivals to the Aeolian Islands

Main Departure Ports

Milazzo (Sicily) is the most frequent and convenient departure point, with year-round connections to all seven islands. Naples, Palermo, and Reggio Calabria also offer connections.

Ferry Companies & Vessels

Liberty Lines (fast hydrofoils) and Siremar (car ferries and some hydrofoils) are the main operators. Siremar offers overnight services from Naples. Hydrofoils are faster but more sensitive to rough seas.

On-Island Connections

Upon arrival at island ports (Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea), expect local bus services, taxis, scooter/quad bike rentals, or electric golf carts.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

There are no general exit fees or taxes for departing Italy as a tourist. Your international flight ticket typically includes any necessary airport taxes.

Timing & Booking

Arrive at the port 30-60 minutes before scheduled ferry/hydrofoil departure.
Booking ferry/hydrofoil tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for peak travel times.
Check weather and sea forecasts before departure day for potential delays or cancellations.

Airport/Station Facilities

Once you return to mainland Italy, major airports and train stations offer standard facilities for departing travelers.

Services Available

Check-in desks and baggage drop-off for flights.
Security checkpoints; allow ample time for screening.
Departure lounges with seating, shops, dining options, and duty-free for international flights.

Departure Reminder

Allow ample travel time from your island departure point to the mainland airport, considering potential ferry delays. For international flights, arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time.

Getting There & Away