If you’re looking for a serene vacation away from the bustle of city life, a trip to the island of Lampedusa may just be what the doctor ordered. Sicily’s southernmost island is an idyllic getaway for nature lovers, history buffs and anyone who longs for a simple, stress-free vacation. Lampedusa is located about 11 kilometers off the northwestern coast of Sicily, and can only be reached by ferry. This makes it one of Italy’s most remote and least-visited islands. Lampedusa is also known as the “Island of the Immigrants”, a name that aptly describes this remote corner of the Mediterranean. Getting to Lampedusa From Rome: There are no direct ferries from Rome. There are, however, several services that operate via Sardinia and Sicily. These can be booked through a number of different travel agents in Italy. There are also several companies that offer an option via Catania, Sicily. It may be necessary to charter a private boat, which can be done through an agency in Italy.
Read on to learn more about a trip to Lampedusa, its highlights and its hidden secrets.
What to see in Lampedusa
To experience the true essence of Lampedusa, you must get off the beaten path and explore the island’s less-known corners and beaches. One of the most charming places you’ll find on the island is the hamlet of Gallura, in the southwestern corner of the island.
The fishing port of Porto Azzurro, also in the southwestern corner of the island, is populated by a lively community of immigrants who have come to Lampedusa looking for work. As you walk around this colorful town, you’ll see the people going about their daily lives, with nary a tourist in sight.
The interior of the island, with its volcanic smog, is another unforgettable place to visit on Lampedusa. Most visitors to the island visit the city of Porto Empedocle, located in the northeast corner, and then move onto the west coast, where fewer tourists visit.
Where to stay in Lampedusa
Lampedusa is not a place for honeymoons or long-term stays. It is an island for travelers looking for a quiet vacation away from the hustle and bustle of city life. While you can find budget hotels here, for the most part, the island’s vast landscape and sparse population make it very difficult to find a hotel that is not located near a beach.
The closest and most convenient option is to stay in the island’s capital, Agrigento. This place is an ideal base for exploring the south coast of the island and the interior. It is also a short drive away from the airport and the port.
Many travelers opt to stay in Porto Empedocle, which is a bustling city at the base of Monte Empedocle, the island’s highest peak. Porto Empedocle is a good option for those who want to experience more of Lampedusa’s culture.
When to visit Lampedusa
Lampedusa is best visited during the summer months, between May and September. This is the warmest and sunniest time of year, and the weather is generally dry. You will also find the best deal on accommodations and flights at this time.
The off-season, from October through April, is also a good time to visit Lampedusa. This is when you are likely to find cheaper flights and accommodations, as well as fewer tourists on the island.
What to eat in Lampedusa
You can’t talk about Lampedusa in a travel guide without talking about its famous seafood. You’ll find delicious seafood dishes at almost every restaurant on the island, but if you’re dining in Agrigento, make sure you try the stuffed sardines.
If you’re looking for vegetarian food on the island, you’re in luck! Lampedusa’s cuisine is renowned for its fresh vegetables and herbs.
You can also try the vegan specialties of Lampedusa, such as salted red peppers, artichokes, stuffed vine leaves and stuffed courgettes. You’re unlikely to find these dishes in any other part of Italy.
Guide to traveling to Lampedusa
If you plan on visiting more than one European country during your trip, it’s a good idea to apply for a Schengen visa ahead of time. This allows you to travel freely within the European union, including with no paperwork needed when you travel within one of the 26 Schengen member states.
There are four ways to travel to Lampedusa.
First, you can fly to either Catania or Palermo in Sicily. Then, you can catch a ferry from one of these ports to Lampedusa.
Another popular way to reach Lampedusa is to fly to Rome and then to Palermo or Catania. This route is popular for several reasons. First, it’s a relatively easy journey. You can get from Rome to Palermo or Catania in around four hours by train. If you only want to visit one of the two cities during your trip to Europe, this is also a good option.
The final way to get to Lampedusa is through chartering a private boat from Italy. This is the most expensive option and requires a lot of planning and coordination.
Should you visit Lampedusa?
If you’re looking for a serene vacation away from the bustle of city life, a trip to the island of Lampedusa may just be what the doctor ordered.
Lampedusa is an idyllic getaway for nature lovers, history buffs and anyone who longs for a simple, stress-free vacation.
The best thing about Lampedusa is that it is almost entirely untouched by tourists. This means that you will have the island to yourself and you can explore it at your own pace.
The only place you will find many tourists on Lampedusa is at the airport and the port, as many people come to the island to visit relatives who migrated here from the Middle East or the African continent.
Final Words: Is it worth the trip?
Lampedusa is definitely worth the trip. If you’re looking for a serene vacation away from the bustle of city life, a trip to the island of Lampedusa may just be what the doctor ordered. It is an idyllic getaway for nature lovers, history buffs and anyone who longs for a simple, stress-free vacation. The best thing about Lampedusa is that it is almost entirely untouched by tourists. This means that you will have the island to yourself and you can explore it at your own pace. There are no fancy hotels or tourist attractions on the island, but there are plenty of peaceful beaches to relax on and gorgeous landscapes to explore. This article is an edited version of the original article on Lampedusa.
0
