Panarea: Day Trips and Tours from Taormina

Panarea is not only known for its natural beauty, but also as a popular destination for the international jet-set.

While blessed with some lovely beaches, there are also a lot of history, architecture and fun activity to discover in the island’s picturesque San Pietro District. Take a tour from Taormina to Panarea and Stromboli, and you can experience the delight of Panarea Island.

Here's all you need to know about visiting Panarea, one of the most exciting destinations for day trips from Taormina.

How to get to Panarea from Taormina?

By ferry

The only way to get to Panarea and the other islands is by ferry. The two ports of Panarea and Ginostra are both connected to Sicily via the ports of Palermo, Milazzo and Messina, and to the other Aeolian Islands.

The connection from Taormina to Panarea is seasonal with 3-4 daily crossings. Check here ticket prices and ferry schedules.

Guided tours

Your most hassle-free way to get to Panarea is through one of the day trips and tours from Taormina.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Panarea from Taormina?

Meet at the Bus Terminal at Via Pirandello, Taormina. Cruise by private motorboat to Panarea, on to Calajunco Bay and Zimmari Beach. Explore Panarea’s attractive streets and beaches, then continue to Stromboli, and marvel at the eruptions from ocean and island viewing points.

You’ll see the picturesque little village of Ginostra and later explore the historical center of San Vincenzo. At sunset, head to sea to watch the volcanic eruptions before returning to Taormina by boat.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Panarea?

From Taormina: Chic Panarea and Stromboli day tour

Enjoy a full-day cruise to explore two of the UNESCO-proclaimed Aeolian Islands on this bus-, motor boat- and walking tour from Taormina.

Explore the attractive streets of Panarea, known for the presence of the international jet-set, and marvel at the force of the volcanic Stromboli. Also wander through Ginostra and the historical center of San Vincenzo.

Meet at the Taormina Bus Terminal and depart from Milazzo Harbor on a private motorboat, and relax on your cruise to the islands. You’ll arrive at Panarea onto Calajunco Bay and the small Zimmari Beach. Celebrities such as Giorgio Armani, Will Smith, Katy Perry, Bradley Cooper, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga are just some of the people who have visited here.

While exploring Panarea, admire the serene beauty of these beaches and wander along the narrow winding streets at the heart of the island. Marvel at the gardens and terraces covered in olive trees and bougainvillea, and look out for glamorous shops and luxurious clubs.

From here, back on the boat, head for Stromboli, home to one of Italy’s three active volcanoes. Watch the eruptions from the sea and several viewing points from the island known as “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean”.

Having looked over the village of Ginostra, explore the historical center of San Vincenzo later. Around sunset, you’ll be back on board to see the spectacular volcanic eruptions against the night’s sky.

How much does a tour to Panarea from Taormina cost?

The three tours available from Taormina to Panarea and Stromboli all cost €100 per person, but do not include meals and drinks, or eco-tax entrance to the Aeolian Islands.

What will you see and do?

The San Pietro District, Panarea

As you reach Panarea Island from the boat, you can disembark at the Port of San Pietro, the main hub for all activities and tourism. With its white and blue doors and windows, the houses of the district are a distinctive characteristic of the island’s architecture.

A highlight is the Church of San Pietro, dedicated to the patron saint of Panarea and its fishermen. Built in the 19th century, the church has been a symbol of the devotion of Panarea’s residents, holding the hope of abundant fishing. From the location of the church, you also have a lovely view of the ocean.

Also see the Panarea Museum, not large, but nevertheless portraying the story of Panarea and its culture back to Bronze Age times. A branch of the Archaeological Museum in Lipari is located in a two-room venue owned by the Church of San Pietro.

Prehistoric Village Punta Milazzese, Panarea

The site of the prehistoric village is located on the promontory of punta Milazzese. It dates back to the Bronze Age and consists of the remains of 23 oval huts and a quadrangular hut. Pottery, utensils and other everyday life relics of Mycenaean origin were found here.

The remains of the prehistoric village are located on a plateau overlooking the sea, from where one has breathtaking views. It was probably also used as a lookout against pirate raids at some stage. A short path leads to cala Junco, probably the dock used by the prehistoric villagers.

When is Panarea open over the year?

The Aeolian Islands are open throughout the year.

When is the best time to visit Panarea?

The best time to visit Panarea for good weather is during the months from April through to November.

Travel tips

• Make sure to book your tour to Panarea from Taormina in advance.
• If you are not joining a guided tour, you should consider getting on the earliest ferry from Taormina to Panarea, which usually departs around 8 or 9 AM.
• Since 2013, Panarea has hosted the Ecological Theater Fest, using only sunlight or fire. The festival is scheduled for 22-26 June.
• Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen for walking around the island and its uneven terrain.
• Panarea is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, so be sure to bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
• Panarea is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Aeolian cuisine so you should definitely try a local restaurant!
• If you have time, consider taking a boat tour around the island in order to see Panarea's stunning coastline and neighboring islands.
• Make sure to check the ferry schedule so you don't risk getting stuck on the island overnight.