Free walking tours in Lampedusa and what to see

Must-sees

Lampedusa is the largest island of the Pelagie archipelago, in the middle of the Mediterranean, closer to Africa than to Sicily. It is a dry limestone plateau, with a southern coast full of clear-water coves and a northern coast of cliffs. Its postcard image is Rabbit Beach, facing the islet of the same name, within the island's nature reserve. It is a nesting area for loggerhead turtles, so access is regulated in summer.

As well as that beach, Cala Pulcino, Cala Croce, Cala Galera and the Tabaccara are worth seeing, best viewed from the water. In town, Via Roma is the hub of nightlife, and by the sea stands the Gate of Europe, a monument by Mimmo Paladino dedicated to migrants who have died at sea. The sanctuary of the Madonna di Porto Salvo, inland, is another place of great meaning for islanders. By boat you can reach Linosa, the archipelago's other inhabited island.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free tours on Lampedusa. The island is discovered mainly from the sea, and that is what Civitatis offers: a pirate boat trip around the coast, with swimming stops in the coves, and a sunset outing to look for dolphins. In the harbour you will see many boats doing the round-the-island trip during the day, and you can also hire a boat or a scooter and get around on your own.

How long to spend

The island is small, but it is not a place to rush. With three days you can take the boat trip around the island, go down to Rabbit Beach and explore the southern coves. If you want to visit Linosa or simply relax, a week is usual. Outside summer it is much quieter, and in winter many services close.

Where to stay

Almost all accommodation is in or near the town: small hotels, apartments and rooms in houses, a short distance from the harbour and Via Roma. Outside the centre there are stone houses and more isolated residences, designed for those hiring a car or scooter. In summer the island fills up, so it is worth booking well in advance.