Linosa Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the remote island in Sicily
Table of Contents
Linosa
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Latest page update: 7 September 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where is
Where is Linosa?
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The sleepy island of Linosa holds a special place in my heart and there are several reasons for that. Perhaps the main reason is that Linosa was the final inhabited island in Italy on my list to visit and I had to work a bit to make that happen.
Located 175 kilometres south of Sicily, halfway towards Africa, Linosa is by no means the simplest place in Italy to visit. There are really two ways in: three hour hydrofoil ride from Porto Empedocle or flight to Lampedusa followed by one hour hydrofoil to Linosa. |
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Isola di Linosa
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Province: Agrigento
Region: Sicily Population: 433 Size: 5.4 km² Highlights: brightly-coloured houses, volcanic rock formations Recommended accommodation: Hotel Pelaghea |
What People Ask About Linosa, Sicily
Is Linosa worth visiting?
How do I get to Linosa?
What can I do on Linosa?
When is the best time to visit Linosa?
How long should I stay in Linosa?
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Discover Linosa
Worth the wait
As the penultimate island on my list was indeed Lampedusa, I went for the latter of those two options. Visiting in October I had to wait for my opportunity as the sea was rough that week, even though it was hot and sunny. I extended my stay in Lampedusa until the sea calmed down, in the process having to give up the flight I'd booked back to Rome, but as soon as I set foot on this island I knew I'd made the right decision.
For each place I've visited I've done some amount of research beforehand, but sometimes very little, and the little I had researched Linosa had provided me with just that; very little. So when I arrived everything was a surprise, and I have to say, a very pleasant surprise. I didn't expect the array of colours on the buildings in the main town area and I was utterly charmed straight away. The more organised of my fellow travellers that day had booked a guided tour of the island but I decided to go it alone on foot as I felt it would allow me to take the photos I wanted, when I wanted, without having to disturb the tour.
For each place I've visited I've done some amount of research beforehand, but sometimes very little, and the little I had researched Linosa had provided me with just that; very little. So when I arrived everything was a surprise, and I have to say, a very pleasant surprise. I didn't expect the array of colours on the buildings in the main town area and I was utterly charmed straight away. The more organised of my fellow travellers that day had booked a guided tour of the island but I decided to go it alone on foot as I felt it would allow me to take the photos I wanted, when I wanted, without having to disturb the tour.
Navigating the island on foot
With a size of just over five square kilometres it's fairly easy to navigate the whole island on foot. This is essentially a volcano so it's full of strange, undulating hills formed from red or black volcanic rock, but there's a good system of roads marked out and fairly easy to find your way around. There are various beaches and other rock pools where you can swim or snorkel in the beautiful, blue waters. There are also places to eat and drink around some of those beaches where you will find yourself quite alone for most of the time; a staggering difference to the packed beaches in "nearby" Lampedusa which is some fifty five kilometres away.
One of the most remote locations in Italy
I remarked in my overall description of the Pelagie Islands (Isole Pelagie) that Linosa is one of the most remote locations in Italy. That's certainly the case and while that may not appeal to everyone, there's certainly something attractive in that, for a short period of time at least. It's not as if you're completely cut-off from civilisation here though; there's a population of around 430 people and there were places to stay overnight if necessary. The internet worked on my phone and I remember watching a Formula 1 grand prix on TV in one of the bars by the port as I was waiting for my hydrofoil back to Lampedusa.
Much as it takes a big effort to get to Linosa, I do feel that the end justifies the means in this case. It's a unique place, very different from Lampedusa and with bundles of character packed in to its tiny confines.
Much as it takes a big effort to get to Linosa, I do feel that the end justifies the means in this case. It's a unique place, very different from Lampedusa and with bundles of character packed in to its tiny confines.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Linosa
- Linosa Village is a small, quiet settlement on the volcanic island, characterised by traditional stone houses and narrow streets. The village offers a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can experience authentic island life and enjoy local hospitality in its cafés and small shops.
- Cala Pisana is one of Linosa’s main beaches, featuring fine sand and clear, calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is set against a backdrop of volcanic rock formations, adding to the dramatic natural scenery of the island.
- The volcanic crater of Monte Vulcano rises near the centre of the island, offering hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints. From the summit, visitors can admire sweeping views over the sea and neighbouring islands, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Guided nature and cultural tours explore Linosa’s volcanic landscape, marine environment, and village life. Local guides share stories about the island’s geology, history, and traditions. These tours often include tastings of regional food and wine, providing visitors with a well-rounded cultural experience.
Tours and Activities
Linosa Tours and Activities
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Linosa
- B&B Anemonia (Located in Linosa village, near the port.) A small bed and breakfast offering simple rooms with sea views and a shared terrace. Guests highlight the welcoming hosts, the homely atmosphere, and the convenient location close to the ferry landing. Price Guide: €€ (affordable)
- Casa di Alice (Located in the centre of Linosa village.) A family-run guesthouse with basic but comfortable rooms, some featuring balconies. Visitors appreciate the friendly service, the cleanliness, and the easy access to restaurants and shops in the village. Price Guide: €€ (affordable)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Linosa
- Ristorante da Pina: Located near the port, this long-established restaurant is one of Linosa’s most popular dining spots. It offers home-style island cooking with an emphasis on seafood, including grilled fish, pasta with lobster, and tuna steaks. The atmosphere is relaxed, with indoor and shaded outdoor seating available. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria il Gabbiano: Set on a quiet lane not far from the main square, this small trattoria serves traditional Sicilian and island dishes using local ingredients. Specialities include spaghetti with prawns and courgette, stuffed squid, and fried capers from Linosa. The staff are friendly and welcoming. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Errera: Part of a small guesthouse, this restaurant is known for its panoramic terrace with views of the sea and volcano. The menu changes according to availability, but typically features dishes like couscous with vegetables, grilled cuttlefish, and swordfish rolls. It’s a peaceful setting, ideal for a quiet dinner. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Bar Sole: A convenient stop close to the ferry dock, Bar Sole serves snacks, sandwiches, and pastries throughout the day. It’s a good place to pick up a coffee or quick lunch while exploring the island. The shaded terrace makes it a popular meeting point. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Panificio & Gastronomia Martorana: This local bakery and deli offers focacce, arancini, and prepared pasta dishes that can be eaten on the go or taken to the beach. It’s one of the most practical options for picnics or a simple evening meal. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Linosa Photo Gallery
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Sicily Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Sicily
1. Taormina 2. Syracuse 3. Aeolian Islands 4. Palermo 5. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento) 6. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro 7. Aegadian Islands 8. Cefalù 9. Noto 10. Ragusa 👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily |
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Linosa
Linosa is accessible only by sea and has regular ferry services connecting it to Lampedusa and Porto Empedocle (on the southern coast of Sicily).
Services may be weather dependent, particularly in winter months, and advance booking is recommended. Linosa has no airport, so ferries are the only means of access.
- From Porto Empedocle, ferries to Linosa are operated by Siremar. The journey takes approximately 7 hours, with overnight departures available on some days of the week.
- From Lampedusa, there are both hydrofoils and ferries. The crossing takes about 1 hour by hydrofoil and up to 2 hours by standard ferry, depending on conditions and the vessel.
Services may be weather dependent, particularly in winter months, and advance booking is recommended. Linosa has no airport, so ferries are the only means of access.
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Arrival port: Linosa
Journey time from Sicilian mainland: 3 hours Distance from nearest Sicilian mainland port: 175 km |
