Just off the northeast coast of Sicily, a volcanic archipelago plays host to some of the best swimming spots in the area: crystalline waters, a rocky coastline, and black sand beaches, all the product of a unique geological landscape. These are the Aeolian Islands, or Isole Eolie. Reachable mostly via hydrofoil or ferry from Sicily (and, for some of them, the port of Naples), the group has long been a haven for in-the-know Italians. Travelers seeking a slower pace away from throngs of tourists—and who can handle rugged terrain and the unexpected luxury of inconvenience that comes with a remote address—should add the isles to their summer hit list, booking a rental home to fully be able to explore at their leisure.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Airbnbs in the Aeolian Islands:
- For a Tiny Home in the Sky: Casanelblu, from $186 per night
- For Elegant Italian Design: La Porta Rossa, from $433 per night
- For a Luxe Group Stay: Il Frantoio, from $1,843 per night
- For a Couples’ Retreat: Aeolian House with Sea View, from $196 per night
The group is comprised of seven main islands: Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea, Filicudi, and Alicudi. The easternmost two, Filicudi and Alicudi, offer the most seclusion (there are no cars on the latter, and no official restaurants), while Lipari is the largest and most populous. The entire archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with much to explore. Start your days off with a traditional breakfast of granita and a buttery brioche, then head out for a dip in the turquoise waters. If you’re visiting Stromboli or Vulcano, can also climb the islands’ active volcanoes; this writer, famously averse to both hiking and heights, managed a sunset hike on Stromboli, and was rewarded with incredible views (and a well-earned square of pizza) at the top. It’s a special place; visit once, and you’ll already be planning your return on the ferry trip out.
Ahead, seven Aeolian Island Airbnbs worth booking on each of the seven islands.
Il Frantoio
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The smallest of the Aeolian isles, with its whitewashed village of San Pietro and no cars to be found, Panarea attracts an upscale crowd. Capitalize on this spirit with your very own villa, tucked right above the sandy shores of Cala Zimmari beach. The recently renovated home can sleep up to six guests, making it ideal for a group trip. The outdoor area, which includes an outdoor shower, multiple terraces, and even a hot tub, is the draw here: Spend each night cooking at home, with late dinners overlooking the water, set to a playlist of humming cicadas.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Amenities: Outdoor shower, washer/dryer, crib, air conditioning, BBQ grill, loungers, hot tub, pet-friendly
Location: Panarea
La Porta Rossa
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Stromboli’s residential area of Piscità has its very own black sand beach; this two-story home puts you right in easy access, so you’ll never be too far from the water. It’s surrounded by a lush garden, with various outdoor dining and seating areas mixed in, so it feels truly private. Inside, the decor is simple and tasteful: Iron bed frames, rustic wooden trunks, and jute rugs play against terracotta floors and plaster walls to a very stylish effect.
Rooms: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Outdoor shower, washer, board games, BBQ grill, long-term stays allowed, housekeeping available
Location: Stromboli
Casa Eoliana
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Set in the southeastern part of the island, this sunny stay is another great example of indoor-outdoor living: Each room in the house opens up to a terrace, on which you can see panoramic views of not just the Tyrrhenian Sea but also the nearby island of Vulcano (more on that later). The Airbnb is a 10-minute walk from La Forbice beach, a rocky, quiet cove ideal for snorkeling. The amenities are minimal—though, remote workers take note: There is WiFi—but that’s sort of the point. Take your pour-over coffee each morning to a warm corner of the balcony with a book, for a quiet start to the day.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Outdoor shower, washer, BBQ grill
Location: Lipari
Casanelblu
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A 20-minute climb up the rocky steps from the port rewards you with unparalleled views. In this Aeolian house, a wraparound terrace puts you high in the sky with only stretches of blue sea and islands dotting the horizon as far as the eye can see. The quiet calm of the space, which can fit up to seven people, is reflective of the island itself: There are no cars, no ATMs, and only two shops on Alicudi. Dinners can be arranged at the homes of local fishermen, or, you can take advantage of the cozy but fully equipped kitchen and whip up meals yourself. Take it out to the terrace (which is shaded during the day) to take full advantage of the setting.
Rooms: 4 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Outdoor shower, washer, high chair, pet-friendly, long-term stays allowed
Location: Alicudi
Casa Panoramica
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On the slightly more developed island of Filicudi—there is, at last report, one semi-reliable ATM—you’ll find this spacious hilltop property. A 20-minute walk to the beach and harbor, it’s removed enough for privacy, but close enough to the island life for convenience (don’t miss lunches at La Sirena). Each of the three bedrooms has its own bathroom, with a large kitchen and plenty of little pockets for stretching out and sunbathing. Guests will also have access to a little garden, that depending on the season, offers up fresh vegetables.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer, TV, long-term stays allowed, parking
Location: Filicudi
Aeolian House with Sea View
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The greenest of the Aeolian islands, Salina is an idyllic destination for laid-back travelers. This cozy rental for two puts you just outside the village of Malfa. Spend your days alternating between hiking to rocky beaches (Punta Scario is a quick 10-minute walk from the house), sampling Malvasia delle Lipari at small wineries, and visiting the charming villages—the seaside town of Lingua in particular is home to two restaurants not to miss, Da Alfredo and Il Gambero. The home itself is simply furnished but charming; from the green-tiled kitchen to the covered terrace, you’ll feel welcome right away.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer, TV, air conditioning, pet-friendly
Location: Salina
Casa Giara
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If your visit to the region involves an itinerary of island-hopping, start with Vulcano, the island closest to Sicily. It’s a wild, rugged spot known for its mud baths and thermal springs—and this home is only 800 meters from Acque Calde beach, the most famous “natural jacuzzi” of it all. The bright, colorful studio is located a short walk from the port, perfect for a weekend trip. It’s compact, but has a large enough outdoor space—complete with a bistro dining set—that you’ll be able to relax.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer, TV, air conditioning, pet-friendly, free parking
Location: Vulcano
