3 Best Sights in Vulcano, Sicily

The path to the island's main crater, the Gran Cratere, starts just south of Porto di Levante, and the entire climb takes about an hour. While the ascent itself is easy(ish), the path is a slippery mix of sand and stones, so wear good sturdy shoes. Just be aware that it's a fully exposed climb, with no shade trees anywhere on the path, just smatterings of yellow-blossomed gorse bushes, so plan to go early or late in the day to avoid the full beatdown of the sun. But the climb is truly worth it: the rim of this crater is the only place in the Aeolians where you can see the whole archipelago in one glance. 

From the port of Levante, walk five minutes in the direction of Porto di Ponente, past the stone tinged yellow with sulfur that radiates constant heat. Or really just follow your nose as the natural hot springs of Vulcano have a very distinctive odor. Once you arrive at this little stretch of beach, you'll notice the water gurgling in pockets at the edges, creating natural rock-enclosed hot tubs. As of 2022, the official fanghi (mud bath) experience remains under construction as they work to make the pools more accessible. But you can still get in the waters along the beach to feel the hot vents pushing through the water as natural hot springs.

A short 15-minute walk from the port, this wide beach features soft powdery black volcanic sand that sits in sharp contrast to the clear crystalline waters. Along the strand, you'll find various beach clubs set up during the summer months with chair and umbrella rentals. During the winter you'll have the whole crescent practically to yourself. It's advised to wear a dark-colored swimsuit as the black sand has been known to discolor fabric.