Chat with us on WhatsApp. We're just a message away.Self-Guided
at your own pace
5 days
33 km
~7 km/day
easy
Catania
2–12
participants
Casual Inns (3-4★)
Apr – May, Sep – Oct
Discover Sicily's dramatic volcanic terrain on this self-guided walking adventure through the Aeolian Islands and Mount Etna. Your journey encompasses Europe's most active volcano alongside captivating island landscapes including Stromboli, Lipari, Salina, and Vulcano. Walk through ancient craters, witness regular eruptions from the 'Lighthouse of the Mediterranean,' and explore charming coastal villages while soaking in spectacular views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. The rich volcanic soil nurtures vineyards and orchards that dot the landscape. From Taormina's Greek Theatre to Etna's smoking summit, experience the raw power and beauty of Sicily's geological wonders on this unforgettable week-long exploration.
Highlights
Trek across Mount Etna's dramatic craters and lava fields, standing atop Europe's tallest active volcano at over 3,300 meters with panoramic views of Sicily's coastline.
Witness the 'Lighthouse of the Mediterranean' in action as Stromboli erupts every 20-30 minutes, offering spectacular volcanic displays visible from hiking viewpoints.
Explore the diverse volcanic landscapes of Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, and Stromboli, each offering unique geological features from geothermal mud baths to twin volcanic peaks.
8 Days from $1,395
Free cancellation · Up to 60 days before group departure
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Milazzo | Hotel Cassisi (4-star) | - | - | |
| 02 | Lipari | Hotel Oriente | B | 8 km / 5 mi | hiking |
| 03 | Lipari | Hotel Oriente | B | 7 km / 4 mi | hiking |
| 04 | Lipari | Hotel Oriente | B | 6 km / 4 mi | hiking |
| 05 | Lipari | Hotel Oriente | B | 6 km / 4 mi | hiking |
| 06 | Taormina | Hotel Isabella | B | - | |
| 07 | Taormina | Hotel Isabella | B | 6 km / 4 mi | hiking |
| 08 | Departure | - | B | - |
Meals: B = Breakfast · L = Lunch · D = Dinner
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives.
Upon reaching Catania, you'll be transferred north along the coast to the seaside town of Milazzo. Settle into your accommodation and take advantage of free time to wander through this charming coastal community. Explore the historic center, stroll along the waterfront promenade, or simply relax and prepare for the volcanic adventures ahead.
Meals: -
Accommodation: Hotel Cassisi (4-star)
Board a morning hydrofoil to Lipari, the largest and most vibrant island of the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes. Upon arrival, you can choose to relax on the island’s pristine beaches or explore the charming old town, home to narrow lanes, historic architecture, and an impressive archaeological museum. The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace while soaking in the unique atmosphere of this volcanic island paradise.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Oriente
Today's excursion takes you to neighboring Salina, characterized by its distinctive twin volcanic peaks. Trek up to the Fossa delle Felci crater for exceptional panoramic vistas, then continue to Monte Rivi viewpoints where the entire archipelago spreads before you. After exploring this verdant island, return by boat to your Lipari accommodation for the evening.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 7 km / 4 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Oriente
Journey to Vulcano island for an up-close encounter with geothermal activity. Hike to the crater rim where you'll observe hissing fumaroles and sulfurous gas emissions rising from the earth. Afterward, choose to unwind on distinctive volcanic sand beaches or immerse yourself in natural thermal mud baths renowned for their therapeutic properties before returning to Lipari.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Oriente
Set sail for Stromboli, the perpetually active volcano that erupts every 20-30 minutes. Explore the island's dramatic landscape and consider an optional hike up to 100 meters elevation for thrilling views of the volcanic fireworks. Visit the remote fishing hamlet of Ginostra, accessible only by sea, before your evening boat ride back to Lipari.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Oriente
Depart the Aeolian Islands via hydrofoil to Milazzo, where private transport awaits to whisk you southward to elegant Taormina. Perched high on a clifftop, this sophisticated resort town offers the magnificent ancient Greek Theatre with its unforgettable backdrop of Mount Etna and the Ionian coastline. Spend the afternoon exploring boutique-lined streets and sun-drenched piazzas.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Hotel Isabella
Experience Europe's tallest active volcano firsthand as you trek across Etna's otherworldly lunar landscapes. Your guided walk explores both historic and recently formed craters while taking in sweeping views across the Ionian Sea and the dramatic Valle del Bove. Witness the raw geological forces that continue to shape this mighty volcano before returning to Taormina.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Isabella
After breakfast, transfer to Catania airport for your departure flight, carrying memories of Sicily's extraordinary volcanic landscapes and island paradise.
Meals: B
Each accommodation has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.
A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Milazzo, just steps away from the harbor and main promenade. It offers modern, comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal base for exploring the Aeolian Islands.
Lodging
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
Airport Pickup
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport pickup to start your journey. Available only on the tour start date.
Airport Drop
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport drop to finish your journey. Available only on the tour end date.
Meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Catania
Catania
Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)
Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)
Arrival
Arrive at Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), the main gateway to eastern Sicily. A private transfer is included from the airport to your hotel in Milazzo for a smooth start to your journey. Alternatively, Milazzo can also be reached via AST Bus Sicily or Interbus Sicily services from Catania, as well as by train connections via Messina, offering flexible travel options.
Departure
On Day 8, after breakfast, a private transfer is included from your hotel back to Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) for your onward journey. If travelling independently, regular services operated by Interbus Sicily and AST Bus Sicily, along with train connections, provide convenient access between Milazzo and Catania.
Sicily enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny conditions from April to October, making it ideal for walking tours across volcanic landscapes. The best months are April (15–22°C / 59–72°F), May (18–26°C / 64–79°F), September (22–28°C / 72–82°F), and October (18–25°C / 64–77°F), offering pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and fewer crowds.
June (24–30°C / 75–86°F) is also a good time to visit, with long sunny days and lively coastal atmosphere.
The summer months of July (28–35°C / 82–95°F) and August (30–38°C / 86–100°F) fall under mixed conditions, as temperatures can be quite high, especially for volcanic hikes like Mount Etna, though they remain popular for beach and island experiences.
The off-season from November to March (10–18°C / 50–64°F) is cooler with occasional rain and reduced ferry services, making it less suitable for this tour. Overall, spring and early autumn provide the most comfortable and balanced conditions for exploring Sicily’s diverse terrain.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Best
May
Best
June
Good
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Best
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Packing wisely ensures comfort and safety on your hiking adventure. This list covers essential hiking gear, clothing, and travel items to help you handle varied terrain and weather conditions.
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one daypack. Mark your luggage clearly with your name, address, and phone number.
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Check for updates close to departure to avoid last-minute issues.
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance, including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses, and personal liability, travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact through our reservation form. If you cannot provide proof, you'll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Keep your emergency contact number and policy number accessible while traveling.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly. We recommend comparing policies and choosing the one that best fits your needs. A useful place to start is Insured Nomads.
