Lipari is the largest of the volcanic Aeolian Islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea north of Sicily. They include, among others Stromboli with the most active European volcano of the same name.
The archipelago consists of 17 larger and smaller islands, 7 of which are inhabited. They are famous for their rugged views, volcanic beaches and numerous volcanic phenomena that can be observed during excursions to volcanoes.
The most famous island in the archipelago is Stromboli. The constantly smoking and dust-blowing Volcano Stromboli rises above it. Its last major eruption was in 2003, but it remains active. The attraction of the island is an over 6-hour hike to the vicinity of the crater.
The largest of the islands, Lipari is also the most populous and most frequently visited by tourists. There are nice beaches here, including the famous black beaches of Canneto, and the town of Lipari with the Marina Corta marina has nice buildings and lots of charm. The big attraction of Lipari is the Aeolian Museum with a great archaeological collection from Greek and Roman times.
The island of Vulcano grows out of the sea next to Lipari. Most of its area is covered by the Vulcano Islands Nature Reserve. In its area you can see, among others a volcanic crater to which a hiking trail leads. The volcano is not as active as Stromboli and the trip is much safer.
