Mediterranean hotspots are some of Europe’s most attractive holiday destinations. Their blue water, sunny weather and pretty beaches draw thousands of tourists a year.
However, some of the continent’s most popular Mediterranean destinations can get very crowded in summer.
An underrated Italian destination could be the perfect place to escape the crowds and a more affordable option than upmarket spots like the French Riviera.
Lipari is Italy’s largest Aeolian island and a gorgeous Mediterranean destination that flies under most British tourists’ radar.
What is there to do in Lipari?
Find the island’s best views at Quattrocchi (Four Eyes), a spectacular viewpoint just 3km west of the main town.
A tourist wrote on Tripadvisor: “If you’re looking for a quiet, special place this is the place for you. Wonderful place, beautiful olive grove, fantastic panorama.”
‘Wayne M’ said: “Beautiful view of five of the surrounding islands. Make this one of your stops on an around the island drive.”
Spiaggia Valle Muria is one of the island’s best beaches, a dark pebbly cove surrounded by cliffs.
A tourist wrote: “This beach is isolated and can be reached either by hiking down a trail or by boat. I have always been there by boat and the beach is amazing.”
If you’re interested in ancient Mediterranean history, make sure to stop at the Museo Archeologico Regionale Eoliano.
A tourist said: “Spectacular! What a surprise. I expected to kill an hour. This is a world class museum here in this tiny corner of the world. Truly one of the great archaeological museums of the world.”
While in Lipari, make sure to sample some of its local delicacies such as linguine with sea urchins or swordfish with capers.
It’s easiest to reach Lipari by flying to Catania in Sicily and then catching the ferry to the island from Messina.
