If you are looking for the best day trip from Trapani, look no further than the Egadi (Aegadian) Islands. Floating in the sparkling Mediterranean off the northwest coast of Sicily, this archipelago feels like a world set apart. Together with three smaller islets, Favignana and Levanzo make up Europe’s largest marine protected area—a 50,000-hectare paradise defined by transparent turquoise waters, dramatic limestone coves, and slow-paced island magic.
While regular public ferries run daily, booking a mini-cruise is easily the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore both islands in a single day at a reasonable price (€ 45.00 p.p.) In this way, you get the best of both worlds – guided navigation to the most scenic spots around the cliffs, plus plenty of time on shore to explore the village streets, visit museums and have lunch!
Also known as La Farfalla (butterfly in Italian) because of its unique butterfly-like shape, Favignana is the largest and most visited island of the group. With a population of around 4,500 residents, it offers a wonderful mix of vibrant village culture, rich industrial heritage and stunning natural beauty.
The island was named Aegusa in ancient times, but the island’s modern identity was shaped by the wealthy Florio family, who built a massive tuna fishing establishment here.
During our stay in Trapani last spring, we decided to book a mini cruise and we really enjoyed the boat ride along the rugged coast of Favignana, dotted with rocky inlets and small sandy beaches.
Arrived at the picturesque harbor, we admired the colorful fishing boats and explored the small market. Most tourists rented a bike, as Favignana is a flat island, so you can make a beautiful ride from one swimming cove to the next. We chose for a walk through the village and a visit to the museum „Ex Stabilimento Florio“ (which was, in the past, Sicily’s largest tonnara (Tonnara di Favignana)).
And of course, we grabbed a well-deserved gelato (‘Mama’s Ice Cream’ did not disappoint). Or what do you think about a brioche con gelato? At the hugely popular ‘La Pasticceria’ we ordered a ’gelato-sandwich’ and a bottle of Chinò, Sicily’s refreshing, slightly bitter soda made from chinotto oranges. Delicious!
A short boat ride brought us to Levanzo, the smallest inhabited island in the group and the closest to Trapani. Stepping off the boat felt like stepping directly into a vintage postcard. With no cars allowed and only one single paved road, the island’s wild, hilly landscape is home to just 220 full-time residents.
Clustered around the picturesque harbor, we saw rows of whitewashed houses against the backdrop of Pizzo del Monaco (278 meters above sea level). The only sound breaking the silence was the gentle lap of waves and the rustle of the sea breeze.
For us, the best way to experience Levanzo was simply on foot, enjoying the quiet atmosphere and the dramatic coastline, pristine coves and crystal-blue water, before setting sail back to Trapani.
By the way, lunch on board was a surprise. We were served excellent pasta, freshly prepared, with good white wine. To be recommended!
The day spent exploring Favignana and Levanzo offered us a perfect taste of Sicilian island life. If you find yourself in Trapani, don’t miss the chance to sail out to this Mediterranean paradise!