In short: Salina is the greenest and most fertile of the Aeolian Islands, shaped by two extinct volcanic cones – including the archipelago’s highest peak (962 m). As the only island with its own freshwater spring, it’s considered a quieter, more upscale counterpart to the busier Lipari. Known for Malvasia wine, capers and the film village of Pollara.
Quick-Facts
- Type: Aeolian Island, green and hiker-friendly
- Location: Aeolian Islands, Province of Messina
- Duration: 3–4 days for peace and quiet, hiking and a boat trip
- Highlights: Monte Fossa delle Felci, Pollara, Malvasia & capers
- Getting there: hydrofoil/ferry from Milazzo, very short from Lipari
- Best time: May/June and September/October
Who is Salina suited for?
| Traveler type | Good fit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking & nature | the archipelago’s best hike, the greenest island | hilly, villages are spread far apart |
| Food & quiet | Malvasia wine, capers, upscale cuisine | tends toward higher prices |
| Couples | romantic, quiet, beautiful sunsets | little nightlife |
| Pure beach holiday | – | no sandy beaches, mostly black shingle/rock |
What to see & do
- Monte Fossa delle Felci (962 m) – usually climbed from Valdichiesa, with panoramic views over the whole archipelago.
- Pollara – a tiny fishing village inside a crater that has half collapsed into the sea, filming location of “Il Postino”.
- Malvasia & capers – together with Pantelleria, Salina supplies much of Italy’s capers; caper festival in Malfa.
- Lingua – a quiet village with a salt lagoon and small lighthouse.
- Santa Marina Salina & Malfa – the main village and an elegant village.
Getting there & transport
Salina is reached by hydrofoil (Liberty Lines, passengers only) or car ferry (Siremar) from Milazzo; from Lipari the crossing is very short (about 20–30 min) – ideal for island-hopping. On the island, buses connect the villages; renting a scooter or car is worthwhile since the villages are spread far apart. Check timetables in advance; hydrofoils are cancelled in rough seas.
Frequently asked questions
Which Aeolian Island is the greenest?
Salina – the only one with a freshwater spring, largely under nature protection, with the archipelago’s highest peak (962 m).
Where was “Il Postino” filmed?
In Pollara on Salina, a fishing village inside a half-submerged volcanic crater.
How do you get to Salina?
By hydrofoil or ferry from Milazzo, or a short hop from Lipari (about 20–30 min); check timetables in advance.
What is Salina known for culinarily?
For Malvasia wine and capers; together with Pantelleria, the island supplies much of Italy’s capers.
Island-hopping with Salina
We combine Salina with Lipari, Vulcano and Stromboli into a well-matched island tour and book accommodation and crossings for you. Just send us a no-obligation travel request.
Good to know
Ferry and hydrofoil timetables and prices are time-dependent and weather-related – please check before you travel and plan in buffer time before return flights. As of: June 2026.
