From Milazzo: Tour of Salina

Traveling to Sicily often means a focus on its most famous sites, but venturing to the Lipari Islands offers something truly special. This 9-hour tour from Milazzo to Salina promises a mix of stunning seascapes, historic charm, and local flavor—all in one day. As a travel writer who’s seen many island excursions, I find this particular outing has a lot to offer, especially if you’re craving a taste of authentic coastal life plus a chance to see some film-famous scenery.

Two things I especially appreciate about this tour are its balanced mix of land and sea activities and its focused, manageable duration—you won’t be gone all day, but you’ll leave with memorable impressions. On the flip side, a potential downside is the tight schedule: the three-hour free time in Santa Marina can feel a bit rushed if you love wandering at a leisurely pace. Still, this tour is well-suited for travelers who want a taste of Salina without the hassle of planning transport or boat details themselves. If you’re eager to combine scenic cruising, local village charm, and a bit of beach relaxation, this trip will hit the spot.

Key Points

• Seamless transportation and circumnavigation provide a comprehensive view of Salina’s highlights.
• Historic and scenic sights like the eighteenth-century church, Lingua lighthouse, and the Greek tanks.
• Relaxing beach stop at Rinella Beach offers a perfect break from sightseeing.
• Flexible free time in Santa Marina allows for shopping and exploring.
• Ideal for those who want a day trip with a mix of history, scenery, and relaxation.
• Costs are reasonable considering boat trips, land transfers, and guided sightseeing included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Salina Day Trip

Starting Point and Transport: Smooth Sailing from Milazzo

The journey begins at 9:30 a.m. from the “TARNAV GROUP” office in Milazzo. From there, you’ll board a comfortable boat that sets out on a scenic cruise across the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The boat cruise is scheduled for about two hours, with a technical stop in Lipari—a chance to stretch your legs or snap some photos of the rugged coastline and volcanic islands.

What’s great about starting early is that you arrive in Salina around 11:30 a.m., just as the island wakes up to a new day. The boat ride itself offers views you can’t get from land—think of the gentle sway of the Mediterranean, the distant outline of volcanoes, and the chance to spot marine life or seabirds.

Santa Marina Salina: The Heart of the Island

Upon arrival in Santa Marina, you’ll have approximately three hours of free time which is ample for a quick exploration or some relaxed shopping. This charming village exudes a quiet, authentic feel—think narrow cobblestone streets, small local stores, and that unmistakable scent of fresh seafood and baked goods. The eighteenth-century church with its distinctive bell towers is a highlight, offering a glimpse into the island’s long-standing traditions.

For those craving a taste of local life, Santa Marina’s shops offer regional products, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. If you’re into photography, the colorful streets, with their laundry hanging overhead and sea views beyond, make for charming pictures.

Exploring Lingua and Its Hidden Gems

A short trip from Santa Marina is Lingua, a seaside terrace renowned for its bars, granitas, and scenic views. You can choose to rent a vehicle, catch a cab, or hop on a local bus—whichever suits you best. Once there, you’ll find the brackish water lake with ancient tanks dating back to the Greek period of the 3rd century BC—a fascinating archaeological site that adds depth to your visit.

Behind the main square lies the Lingua Lighthouse, perched on a promontory—an ideal spot for birdwatchers and photography lovers alike. The blend of natural beauty and historical remains here makes Lingua more than just a pretty view.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Scenic Boat Tour: Encircling Salina

At around 3 p.m., you’ll rejoin your boat for an around-the-island cruise that lasts about 105 minutes. This leg of the tour is the highlight for many: you’ll see Salina from the sea, which offers a unique perspective on its rugged coastline, terraced vineyards, and hidden coves.

Of particular note is the Bay of Pollara, famous as the filming location for “Il Postino” with Massimo Troisi. The sight of this bay, with its dramatic cliffs and shimmering waters, makes it clear why Salina’s landscapes have captivated artists and filmmakers alike.

Rinella Beach: Relaxation and Refreshment

Your boat will stop at Rinella, a picturesque fishing port with a small beach perfect for a relaxing swim. The Spiaggetta di Rinella is ideal for a quick dip or simply lounging on the pebbly shore, soaking up the sun. Many reviews mention that this beach provides a peaceful break after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Returning to Milazzo

After about an hour in Rinella, you’ll cruise back along the coast, enjoying the views one last time. The journey ends around 6:30 p.m., giving you a full day of saltwater, scenery, and small-town charm—all comfortably packed into nine hours.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

This tour’s strength lies in its combination of transport, guided sightseeing, free time, and scenic cruising—all included in a single price, which makes it a good deal for those who want to avoid planning logistics themselves. The boat rides, land visits, and the included ferry fees are factored in, offering a streamlined experience.

While it doesn’t include a full meal, the free time in Santa Marina and Lingua allows you to sample local cuisine or snacks at your own pace. You might find that bringing some snacks or a water bottle is wise, especially during the busy summer months.

What We Love

• The balance of guided and free time means you can explore independently without feeling rushed.
• The scenic boat cruise around Salina offers unforgettable views and a peaceful perspective on the island.
• The historic sites, like the Greek tanks and eighteenth-century church, connect you to the island’s long past.
• The beach stop gives a chance to relax and refresh, rounding out the day.

A Word of Caution

The three hours of free time in Santa Marina and 2.5 hours in shopping might be brief for travelers wanting to explore in depth. If you prefer a leisurely pace, or are interested in more extensive exploring or dining, you might feel a bit constrained. Also, the schedule can be tight, so punctuality is key to making the most of the day.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for those who want a well-rounded experience of Salina without the hassle of planning transport or boat tickets. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy scenic cruises, small-town charm, and quick archaeological glimpses. If you’re looking for a short, manageable day that combines natural beauty and cultural sights, this tour hits all those marks.

However, if you prefer more independent exploration or a more relaxed pace, you might consider extending your stay or looking for a private tour. Still, for a value-packed, guided overview of Salina’s highlights, this trip delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total tour?
The total duration is approximately nine hours, starting at 9:30 a.m. and returning around 6:30 p.m.

Is there free time in Santa Marina?
Yes, you’ll have around three hours free in Santa Marina to explore, shop, or snap photos.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase something during your free time.

Are guide services included?
No, the tour does not include a guide during the free time or land visits; it’s a self-guided experience with boat transfers arranged.

What scenery can we expect on the boat cruise?
You will see the coastlines of Salina and Lipari, including scenic bays like Pollara, with views of rocky cliffs, vineyards, and possibly marine wildlife.

Is swimming in Rinella Beach free?
Yes, you can enjoy a swim freely during the stop at Rinella Beach, which is a small, peaceful spot for relaxation.

What’s the best way to get to Salina from Milazzo?
The tour handles the boat transportation, so no additional arrangements are needed unless you wish to explore further on your own.

This tour of Salina from Milazzo offers a convenient, scenic, and culturally rich day in the Aeolian Islands. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a catch-all overview—sea, history, and local life—without the hassle of organizing multiple parts. You’ll love the cruise views, the small-town charm, and the opportunity to relax on a beautiful beach.

If you’re after a balanced, value-packed day that showcases Salina’s best features, this trip is worth considering. Just remember that the schedule is fairly packed, so if leisurely days are your style, plan accordingly. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to experience a slice of Sicily’s stunning maritime landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: