Free walking tours in Vulcano and what to see

Must-sees

Vulcano is at the southern end of the Aeolian Islands, separated from Lipari by a narrow channel, and belongs to the municipality of Lipari. Its big attraction is the Gran Cratere, also called the Fossa, a volcanic cone you climb on foot along a path of earth and ash. At the top you walk along the rim, among fumaroles that leave yellow crusts of sulphur, and see the other islands of the archipelago.

By Porto di Levante, gas bubbles up under the sea in an area of warm water, and next to it are the sulphurous mud pools, whose access has changed in recent years. On the other side of the isthmus, Sabbie Nere beach is a bay of black volcanic sand. To the north, Vulcanello is a small peninsula born of an eruption, with the Valle dei Mostri and its oddly shaped lava rocks. The interior, at Piano, is greener, and to the south is the Gelso area.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free tours on Vulcano. The activity Civitatis offers is a guided trek up to the Gran Cratere, useful if you want to climb with someone who knows the terrain. Access to the crater depends on the rules set by the municipality of Lipari according to the volcano's activity, so check before you go. From the harbour there are connections to the rest of the Aeolians for getting between islands.

How long to spend

The climb to the crater and back takes about two or three hours, best first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. In a day you can see the crater, swim at Sabbie Nere and stroll around Vulcanello. To also see Piano and Gelso, or use the island as a base for visiting Lipari and Salina, stay two or three nights.

Where to stay

Most accommodation is between Porto di Levante and Porto di Ponente, close to the boats, the shops and the black sand beach. Vulcanello has quieter hotels and houses with views of the sea and Lipari. At Piano you will find rural houses and an inland feel, but you will need a scooter, a car or the island bus.