Pelagie Islands
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Latest page update: 7 September 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in The Pelagie Islands
The Pelagie Islands have a modest hotel offering overall, with Lampedusa providing the widest and most established choice, followed by a smaller selection on Linosa. The best-reviewed properties focus on comfort, outdoor space, sea views and easy access to beaches, boat trips and the islands’ coves.
On Lampedusa, Hotel Cupola Bianca Resort offers one of the most comprehensive stays, with spacious grounds, a relaxed atmosphere and consistently positive guest feedback for comfort and service (€€€€). Also on Lampedusa, Hotel Martello provides a convenient base near the harbour and Cala Guitgia, appreciated for its welcoming hospitality and practical setting for exploring the island (€€€). For a quieter option nearby, Hotel Baia Turchese delivers a traditional seaside stay with terraces and a pool, earning strong reviews for location and overall comfort (€€€).
On Linosa, accommodation is far more limited and centred on small B&Bs, so travellers seeking full hotel facilities generally choose to stay on Lampedusa and visit Linosa by boat.
On Lampedusa, Hotel Cupola Bianca Resort offers one of the most comprehensive stays, with spacious grounds, a relaxed atmosphere and consistently positive guest feedback for comfort and service (€€€€). Also on Lampedusa, Hotel Martello provides a convenient base near the harbour and Cala Guitgia, appreciated for its welcoming hospitality and practical setting for exploring the island (€€€). For a quieter option nearby, Hotel Baia Turchese delivers a traditional seaside stay with terraces and a pool, earning strong reviews for location and overall comfort (€€€).
On Linosa, accommodation is far more limited and centred on small B&Bs, so travellers seeking full hotel facilities generally choose to stay on Lampedusa and visit Linosa by boat.
Where are
Where are The Pelagie Islands?
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Although officially in Italian waters and under the jurisdiction of the Sicilian province of Agrigento, the Pelagie Islands (Isole Pelagie), are geographically at least, closer to Tunisia on the African mainland than they are to Sicily.
This, along with other factors has caused political controversy for the islands with the attempts by asylum-seekers to repatriate to Europe. It's a problem that the main island of Lampedusa has been saddled with for many years, as has the smaller Linosa, although to a lesser extent. |
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Getting there
As mentioned above, I believe air travel is the best way into the Pelagie Islands and you'll find a surprisingly modern, busy airport in Lampedusa. It's so close to the town centre that you fly right over some of the beaches and gasp at the colour of the water. The closest Sicilian airport is Palermo which is a flight time of an hour, but just 35 minutes further away is a flight to Rome. Ferry connections are available as well from the Sicilian port of Porto Empedocle with a journey time of four hours 15 minutes with Liberty Lines.
Isole Pelagie
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Province: Agrigento
Region: Sicily Population: 6,556 Number of islands: 3 Recommended accommodation: Hotel O'scià (Lampedusa) |
What People Ask About the Pelagie Islands, Sicily
Are the Pelagie Islands worth visiting?
How do I get to the Pelagie Islands?
What are the main islands in the Pelagie group?
When is the best time to visit the Pelagie Islands?
How many days should I spend in the Pelagie Islands?
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Discover
Discover The Pelagie Islands
Outside of Italy, the above factors contribute to a reluctance of foreign visitors to make their way to the Pelagie Islands but most Italians see this as an idyllic spot for their holidays, with the island of Lampedusa by far the main focus of that travel.
Lampedusa is home to Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach), which was once voted as the world's best beach on Tripadvisor and you will indeed have to travel far to find one more spectacular. That said, there are dozens of other beaches on Lampedusa that rival the best in Italy and this is what attracts huge numbers of visitors every summer. Even during the autumn months of September and October, you'll find Lampedusa doing a roaring trade and an island full of life.
Lampedusa is home to Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach), which was once voted as the world's best beach on Tripadvisor and you will indeed have to travel far to find one more spectacular. That said, there are dozens of other beaches on Lampedusa that rival the best in Italy and this is what attracts huge numbers of visitors every summer. Even during the autumn months of September and October, you'll find Lampedusa doing a roaring trade and an island full of life.
There are two more islands in the archipelago, one of which is one of my personal favourites. The island of Linosa is one of the most remote locations you can find in Italy, perhaps rivalled only by fellow Sicilian islands Alicudi or Pantelleria. However, it is that very feeling of remoteness where the charm starts and then continues as you enter the main town with its beautiful, brightly-coloured houses that give way to a rugged, spectacular landscape of strange, jagged volcanic shapes.
When I decided to put this website together and made it my mission to visit everything of note in Italy, the place that I had to wait the longest to visit was the Pelagie Islands. I hate flying but the maritime connections are significantly slower to have forced me on to a flight to Lampedusa. As I visited in October, I was quite unlucky with a period of rough seas (although the overhead conditions were great), and had to wait several days for my chance to visit Linosa but I'm incredibly glad I found the time and patience for it as it was such a rewarding experience.
When I decided to put this website together and made it my mission to visit everything of note in Italy, the place that I had to wait the longest to visit was the Pelagie Islands. I hate flying but the maritime connections are significantly slower to have forced me on to a flight to Lampedusa. As I visited in October, I was quite unlucky with a period of rough seas (although the overhead conditions were great), and had to wait several days for my chance to visit Linosa but I'm incredibly glad I found the time and patience for it as it was such a rewarding experience.
The one remaining island in the archipelago is the uninhabited rock of Lampione which you can just about see from Lampedusa. Time and circumstance have yet to provide me with an opportunity to visit but given my pleasant surprises of Linosa and Lampedusa, I would be foolish to strike this from my list and as soon as I've been there I'll be reporting back, somewhere around here.
The Islands
The Islands
Lampedusa
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Lampedusa, the southernmost island of Italy, is closer to Africa than Sicily. Known for its stunning natural beauty, it features turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches, including the famous Rabbit Beach, often ranked among the world’s best.
The island is renowned for its marine biodiversity, particularly the endangered loggerhead turtles that nest on its shores. Surprisingly for its size, Lampedusa has its own airport which makes it reactively easy to visit. During the summer months it's one of Italy's favourite holiday spots with its incomparable array of stunning beaches. |
Lampedusa
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Linosa
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Linosa, a small volcanic island in the Pelagie Archipelago, lies in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and Tunisia. Known for its dramatic black lava landscapes, vibrant wildflowers, and crystal-clear waters, it is a serene haven for nature lovers.
The island's volcanic origins are evident in Monte Vulcano, its extinct central crater, and the rugged coastline dotted with coves perfect for snorkeling and diving. Linosa is also a key nesting site for the endangered loggerhead turtles. One of the most charming and remote islands in Italy, it's bursting with character, particularly with its brightly-painted houses. |
Linosa
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Lampione
Lampione Island
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Lampedusa Beaches
Cala Madonna, Lampedusa
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Things to Do
Things to Do in The Pelagie Islands
- Rabbit Beach (Spiaggia dei Conigli) on Lampedusa is widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Its fine white sand and crystal-clear, shallow turquoise waters create a stunning setting framed by rocky cliffs. The beach is also an important nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, offering visitors a chance to see conservation efforts in action during nesting season.
- The Marine Protected Area of Lampedusa covers much of the island’s surrounding sea, protecting diverse marine species such as sea turtles, dolphins, and colourful fish. Guided boat tours and diving trips allow visitors to explore coral reefs, underwater caves, and rich marine biodiversity.
- Cala Croce is another popular beach on Lampedusa, known for its calm, clear waters and red-hued cliffs. It’s ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with rocky outcrops providing shelter and underwater exploration opportunities.
- Lampedusa’s Turtle Rescue Centre educates visitors about the protection of the endangered loggerhead turtles that nest on the island’s beaches. The centre cares for injured turtles and supports conservation initiatives to preserve local marine life.
- Cala Pisana on Linosa offers a small, sandy beach set against a dramatic volcanic landscape. The clear waters are excellent for snorkeling, while the nearby village features traditional stone houses and quiet streets, providing a peaceful island atmosphere.
Tours and Activities
Pelagie Islands Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in The Pelagie Islands
- Ristorante Gallo d’Oro (Lampedusa): Located near Via Roma in the heart of Lampedusa town, this restaurant is well regarded for its seafood tasting menus and friendly service. Dishes include grilled prawns, pasta with lobster, and amberjack carpaccio. The setting is informal but polished, with indoor and terrace seating. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria La Risacca (Lampedusa): Close to the harbour, this long-standing family-run trattoria offers a relaxed dining experience with a focus on local fish and home-style cooking. Expect dishes like busiate with swordfish, sardine meatballs, and mixed fried seafood. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Delfino (Linosa): One of the few sit-down restaurants on Linosa, Il Delfino is known for its friendly atmosphere and freshly caught fish. Guests can try dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole, grilled squid, or tuna with capers and onions. Portions are generous and the sea views are a bonus. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Bar Tripoli (Lampedusa): A casual spot for snacks and light meals, this bar serves arancini, focaccia, and island-style panini throughout the day. It’s a good stop for breakfast, lunch, or a quick aperitivo, with outdoor seating facing the central square. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Panificio Errera (Linosa): This bakery and shop in Linosa offers fresh bread, pizza slices, and typical Sicilian pastries such as cannoli and almond biscuits. It’s ideal for picking up something simple to eat on the go, especially for those exploring the island. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Pelagie Islands 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 The Pelagie Islands
By Rail: The Pelagie Islands do not have any rail services. The nearest railway connections are on the Sicilian mainland, with the closest major station located in Agrigento. Trenitalia operates regional trains to Agrigento from Palermo, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. From Agrigento, travellers must continue by road to the port of Porto Empedocle for ferry services to the islands.
By Road: Access to the Pelagie Islands requires travel to Porto Empedocle on Sicily’s southern coast. The port is located around 130 kilometres from Palermo and about 5 kilometres from Agrigento. The drive from Palermo takes roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes via inland highways. Public parking is available near the port for those continuing to the islands as foot passengers.
Nearest International Airports:
Ferry Connections:
Porto Empedocle: This is the main departure point for ferries to Lampedusa and Linosa, the two inhabited islands in the Pelagie group. Journey times are approximately 4 hours to Linosa and 8 hours to Lampedusa, depending on the type of vessel. Services operate year-round but are more frequent during the summer months.
Lampedusa and Linosa: Regular ferry services connect Lampedusa and Linosa, allowing for inter-island travel. The crossing between the two islands takes about 1 hour and is typically served by hydrofoils or small passenger ferries during the warmer months.
By Road: Access to the Pelagie Islands requires travel to Porto Empedocle on Sicily’s southern coast. The port is located around 130 kilometres from Palermo and about 5 kilometres from Agrigento. The drive from Palermo takes roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes via inland highways. Public parking is available near the port for those continuing to the islands as foot passengers.
Nearest International Airports:
- Comiso Airport: Located approximately 130 kilometres from Porto Empedocle, the drive takes about 2 hours. This small airport offers limited domestic and seasonal international flights and may suit travellers already in south-eastern Sicily.
- Palermo Falcone e Borsellino Airport: Around 130 kilometres from Porto Empedocle, with a drive time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes. This airport offers a wide range of flight connections and is one of the main access points for reaching the Pelagie Islands.
Ferry Connections:
Porto Empedocle: This is the main departure point for ferries to Lampedusa and Linosa, the two inhabited islands in the Pelagie group. Journey times are approximately 4 hours to Linosa and 8 hours to Lampedusa, depending on the type of vessel. Services operate year-round but are more frequent during the summer months.
Lampedusa and Linosa: Regular ferry services connect Lampedusa and Linosa, allowing for inter-island travel. The crossing between the two islands takes about 1 hour and is typically served by hydrofoils or small passenger ferries during the warmer months.
