Looking for a destination off the beaten track? Discover the Aeolian archipelago in northern Sicily and visit the magnificent island of Filicudi!
For a vacation in the sun and away from the usual tourist circuit, Filicudi is an ideal base. In the easternAeolian archipelago, this volcanic island has everything you need for a successful holiday.
Mountainous landscapes rising above the sea, beaches bordered by crystal-clear waters, hiking and water sports are the guarantee of a well-filled trip.
To help you prepare for your trip, we’ve selected the best things to do in Filicudi!
1. Tour the villages
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Filicudi has just 300 year-round inhabitants, spread across the villages of Val di Chiesa, Filicudi Porto and Pecorini a Mare. All three are concentrated in the south-eastern part of the island. They can be reached via the only paved road in Filicudi.
The landscape is typically Mediterranean, with pastel-colored houses built by the sea or on volcanic slopes. Small churches, charming restaurants and sea views await you on this first discovery of Filicudi by car or scooter.
You’ll become familiar with the vegetation and notice the terraced plots of land. These have been built over the centuries to grow staple crops such as legumes, cereals, fruit, vines and olives.
2. The churches of Filicudi
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1. Church of Santo Stefano in Val di Chiesa
On the heights of Val di Chiesa, the church of Santo Stefano enjoys a breathtaking view of the sea. It is a simple church with a three-door façade and a handsome bell tower on the right. Don’t miss a visit to the adjoining cemetery, which is well-maintained and always in bloom.
If you’re lucky enough to visit Filicudi in summer, a procession in honor of the Saint is followed by a village feast every year on August 3. It’s an opportunity to experience traditional Italian Catholic fervor and meet the locals over a meal and a drink!
2. Church of San Giuseppe in Pecorini
Overlooking the village of Pecorini, the parish church of San Giuseppe is worth a visit for the beauty of its interior. Behind the hotel, a statue of the Virgin Mary stands in a cavity carved out of the rock. On either side of the nave, admire the chapels housing magnificent paintings and relics.
3. Grotta del Bue Marino and Perciato rock arch
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During a boat trip, you’ll have the chance to discover these two geological sights on the island’s east coast. The Grotte del Bue Marino is a must-see when visiting Filicudi.
The boats take you as close as possible to the entrance of this gigantic cavern carved out of the cliff. Get into the water and swim to the interior of the cavern. The deeper you go, the darker it gets, making you feel you’re in a mystical place.
At the far end, a small pebble beach awaits you, but you’ll need a waterproof lamp to reach it. The place is said to have been a hideout for pirates. On your way out, you’ll pass the rocky Perciato arch, a gateway carved out of a rock overhang. Even the smallest boats can pass through, guaranteeing great photos to take home in your luggage.
4. Montenassari and La Canna islands
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Less than a kilometer to the east of the island, the rock of La Canna and the islet of Montenassari are among the things to do in Filicudi. La Canna is a remnant of the region’s last volcanic eruptions 40,000 years ago. This impressive rock tower rises 71 metres above the sea, and can only be seen from a boat. It is the lava cone of an ancient volcano, whose slopes collapsed due to erosion.
Not far away, the islet of Montenassari boasts a natural pool on one of its slopes. However, you won’t be able to set foot on either of these wonders, which have been classified as a nature reserve to protect their flora and fauna. They are home to some of the last specimens of the Aeolian lizard, an endangered species found only in the archipelago.
5. Giafante Rock
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Another astonishing geological formation also features in our selection of things to do in Filicudi. In the north-west of the island, near the tip of La Zotta, a rock emerges from the water and resembles the head of an elephant. You can observe it from the coast or during a boat trip around the island.
6. Abandoned village of Zucco Grande
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From Filicudi Porto, the arrival point for boats from the mainland and other Aeolian islands, a path leads along the sea to Zucco Grande. This once densely populated and lush village is now abandoned, but you can imagine what life was like for the inhabitants in those days.
Some buildings are being renovated, but work is progressing slowly. The path leading to Zucco Grande rises above the Mediterranean, offering magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The walk at a leisurely pace will take you around 3h30 round trip and is easily done with children.
7. Climbing the Fossa Felci
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Marco Crupi
With the same name as its neighbor on the island of Salina, the highest point in the Aeolian archipelago, Fossa Felci is Filicudi’s highest peak. At 774 metres, it offers a 360-degree view of the entire island.
There are several trekking trails leading up to it, either from Pecorini or from the port. Starting from Filicudi Porto, you first climb up to the church of San Stefano. You then leave civilization behind and head into the countryside and vegetation. Remember to turn around on the way up to enjoy the views of Capo Graziano.
The last part of the path is more arduous, but reaching the top will reward your efforts. You’ll be able to admire La Canna rock, with Alicudi in the background to the west, and Salina on the other side. To get back down, head south towards Pecorini to complete a loop. The whole itinerary will take you between 5 and 6 hours. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection!
8. Belvedere Stimpagnato
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A path from Pecorini leads to the Stimpagnato belvedere, one of the best places in Filicudi to watch the sunset. The path is very well laid out, with a balustrade protecting you from the void below.
It’s family-friendly and not particularly difficult. You’ll soon reach a platform from which you can watch the sun slowly descend over the horizon and plunge into the sea behind Alicudi Island. Once it’s gone, you’ll have time to return to your starting point before it gets completely dark.
9. Neolithic village of Capo Graziano
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On the Capo Graziano promontory in the south-east of the island, excavations have uncovered the ruins of a village dating back to the Neolithic period. The tools, jewelry and artefacts uncovered testify to a high level of activity and a probable obsidian industry.
You can visit the site during a one-hour walk, following the signposted route and explanatory panels. Then all you have to do is head down to the sea to enjoy a swim in the clear Mediterranean waters.
10. Archaeological Museum Windmill
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The Aeolian Archaeological Museum is located on Lipari, but an annex has been developed on the island of Filicudi. Here, you’ll discover artifacts dating back to the Neolithic period, testifying to the existence of a very ancient settlement in the Aeolian archipelago.
Remains from excavations at the village of Capo Graziano are also on display. An exhibition on the history of the islands is one of the most culturally interesting things to do in Filicudi.
11. Take a boat trip
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Giamka
Boating is undoubtedly one of the must-do activities on Filicudi. Visiting the island from land may be full of surprises, but it’s from the sea that the island reveals its greatest beauty. During a day trip, you can get close to the main attractions listed here.
A guide will explain each spot, and you can even make swimming or snorkeling stops. Depending on the package you choose, some companies even offer a meal on board the boat or in the heart of a small, unspoilt cove.
You can also rent a boat to explore the island from the water and admire the wonderful landscapes Filicudi has to offer!
12. Try scuba diving
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Angelo Giampiccolo
A number of quality dive centers offer diving trips around Filicudi. The variety of dive sites will satisfy beginners looking for their first experience as well as experienced divers. There are 14 dive spots around Filicudi, including the Giafante rocks, the Canna and the Montenassari islet.
An archaeological trail has been laid out on the dry land of Capo Graziano, where you can admire the remains of two shipwrecks, including some magnificent amphorae. The fauna is varied and includes groupers, scorpion fish, moray eels, octopus and nudibranchs, to name but a few. Ideal for a first dive!
If you have the time, you can even opt for a course and pass different levels.
13. Taste local specialities
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Giuma
As throughout Italy, the gastronomy of the Aeolian Islands is well worth a visit. On Filicudi, in addition to traditional pizzerias, you’ll find charming little restaurants offering local, seasonal cuisine. The island’s produce is given pride of place, with capers and olives adding a delicate touch to every dish.
Seafood, sea urchins, shellfish and fish are an integral part of the daily menu of the locals, who have learned to prepare them in the best possible way. The menus are simple and the dishes change according to the catch of the day, a guarantee of quality in any establishment.
So sit back on the terrace and let the chef’s suggestions be your guide! To accompany your meal, why not try a glass of Malvasia? This sweet, mild wine is produced on the nearby island of Salina.
How do I get to Filicudi?
By plane
Filicudi has no airport on the island. The easiest way to reach the island is to fly to Sicily, then take a ferry. The nearest port is in the town of Milazzo, and the crossing to Filicudi will take between 2.5 and 4 hours.
To find a plane ticket at the best price, visit Skyscanner. By entering your preferred criteria, you’ll find the flight that’s right for you in just a few clicks. Choose between Palermo Falcone-Borsellino and Catania-Fontanarossa airports. Once there, take a bus or cab to Milazzo, then board your plane for your dream destination.
By ferry
Every day, several ferry companies offer services between the various islands of the Aeolian archipelago and to the mainland. Filicudi lies halfway between the islands of Alicudi and Salina, just 30 minutes away by boat.
The nearest port is Milazzo, but you can also take a ferry from Palermo or the Italian mainland. The crossing from Naples will take between 5 and 6 hours! If you prefer to fly to Sicily, book a Milazzo-Filicudi ticket in advance.
Where to stay in Filicudi?
The accommodation on offer in Filicudi is concentrated in the southeast of the island, where the villages are located. Choose from charming hotels, guesthouses andAirbnb rentals.
Some individuals also offer bed and breakfast, a good way to discover the island’s culture. To find the perfect place to put your suitcases, we recommend you use a hotel comparator. All you have to do is enter your criteria to find the cozy nest that suits your needs. Swimming pool, sea view, fully equipped kitchen, the choice is yours!
Map of hotels and accommodation – Aeolian Islands,it