From Palermo center: Favignana and Levanzo Boat tour

A Day on the Egadi Islands: Discovering Favignana and Levanzo from Palermo

Taking a boat trip from Palermo to explore the Egadi Islands has become a popular way to experience Sicily’s more tranquil, less touristy side. This particular tour offers a full-day adventure, starting with an organized transfer from Palermo’s city center to Trapani port. From there, you hop aboard a spacious boat to visit two of the archipelago’s gems: Favignana and Levanzo. It’s a trip that promises stunning scenery, authentic fishing villages, and plenty of time to swim in crystal-clear waters.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances structured exploration with enough free time to wander and soak in the atmosphere. The three hours you get on Favignana are enough to visit iconic spots like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, and to take a walk in the small town center or visit the Tonnara Florio Museum. The boat cruise around the coast of Favignana also offers some of the best views of the island’s coves and beaches, making it perfect for swimming lovers.

One potential drawback? The visit to Levanzo is brief—just enough for photos of the charming fisherman village. If you’re craving a deep dive into local life or more beach time, you may find the itinerary a bit rushed. Plus, the round-trip transfer from Palermo costs an extra 20 euros, which adds to the overall price, but many consider it a fair addition given the convenience.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable, organized transfer from Palermo makes the logistics easier for travelers unfamiliar with Trapani.
• Three hours free on Favignana means you can explore at your own pace, whether that’s strolling the town or relaxing on the beach.
• Boat tour of Favignana’s coast highlights some of the most scenic beaches and coves, perfect for swimming and picture-taking.
• Levanzo’s photo stop offers a glimpse of a typical fisherman village, ideal for capturing charming seaside scenes.
• Culinary option on board includes “trapanese” pasta for a modest 4.99 euros, adding local flavor to the day.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before means you can plan without stress.

The Detailed Review: Why This Tour Stands Out

If you’re looking for a way to experience Sicily’s stunning off-the-beaten-path islands without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour hits most marks. Departing from Palermo’s city center, the journey begins with a smooth, organized transfer to Trapani port. It’s a big plus for those who prefer not to navigate public transportation or rent a car—just show up and relax. The 20-euro round-trip fee for the shuttle is reasonable, especially considering it includes the boat cruise and island visit.

Once at the port, you’ll board a modern, spacious boat that comfortably seats groups for the 40-minute sail to Favignana. The vessel’s design makes it easy to move around and enjoy the views, which is a good thing because the scenery on this route is spectacular. You’ll see the coastlines of Favignana, with its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and shimmering turquoise waters—enough to make your camera happy.

Favignana: The Heart of the Day

Your 3-hour free time in Favignana is well planned, giving you enough opportunity to explore at your own pace. Many reviews mention the highlight as swimming in Cala Rossa or Cala Azzurra, with their emerald waters and dramatic cliffs. You might also check out the Tonnara Florio Museum, which offers a peek into the island’s fishing traditions—an authentic experience that adds a layer of understanding to your visit.

“I love the way the boat approaches the coves,” one reviewer commented, emphasizing how close you get to the stunning beaches. This allows you to jump into the water directly from the boat if you’re feeling brave, or simply relax and take photos of the shimmering beaches from the deck.

Scenic Cruising and Beach Time

The boat cruise around Favignana’s coast is a highlight for many. It’s a chance to see some of the island’s most beautiful beaches, like Bue Marino, and enjoy the shades of blue that make this stretch of coastline so iconic. The crew often approaches the coves closely enough for you to appreciate the colors and take photos—an experience appreciated by swimming enthusiasts and scenery seekers alike.

A nice touch is the on-board offering of Sicilian pasta (“trapanese” style) for 4.99 euros, along with water. Many guests find this simple meal satisfying after a morning of swimming and exploring. It’s a good way to sample local flavors without leaving the comfort of the boat.

Levanzo: A Charming Snapshot

Later in the afternoon, the boat arrives at Levanzo, a tiny fishing village with a character all its own. The stop here is brief—just enough for a few photos of the colorful houses and quiet streets. Reviewers mention it’s a quick peek, not a full-scale exploration, which suits travelers looking for a picturesque break rather than a deep dive into local life.

“Taking photos of Levanzo was a real treat,” one traveler noted, highlighting how the little village offers postcard-perfect scenes. If you’re after a more in-depth experience, this short visit is a good quick snapshot but might leave you wanting more.

Returning to Palermo and Overall Value

The return trip from Trapani begins around 5:15 pm, with the shuttle back to Palermo departing at 6:45 pm. It’s a long day—about 10 hours total—but most travelers agree that the combination of scenery, island exploration, and the ease of logistics makes it worthwhile.

Pricing, including the transfer fee, is generally reasonable when you consider the boat cruise, free time, and scenic views. Many reviews praise the value for money, especially for those wanting a well-organized, scenic day without the hassle of arranging boat tickets or transport themselves.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who love beautiful beaches and scenic coastlines but prefer to have logistics handled for them. It’s ideal for those with limited time in Sicily but eager to see the Egadi Islands’ highlights. If you’re comfortable with a schedule that includes some short stops and are happy to swim and relax on beaches, this tour is a great fit.

It’s also perfect for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate a mix of guided convenience and free time. But if you’re seeking a more in-depth cultural tour or longer beach stay, you might find the schedule a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour delivers strong value, especially for those seeking a balanced day of exploration, swimming, and scenic cruising. The knowledgeable crew and well-planned itinerary receive consistent praise, making it a popular choice among travelers. The stunning views, combined with the relaxed pace and authentic touches like Sicilian pasta, make for a memorable experience.

If you’re looking for an easy, comfortable way to enjoy the beauty of Sicily’s Egadi Islands without the stress of self-planning, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s particularly well-suited for first-timers eager to tick off Favignana and Levanzo in one day, or those wanting a scenic escape from Palermo’s busy streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended since this tour is quite popular, and you’ll want to secure your spot, especially during peak season.

Is the transfer included in the price?
No, the €20 round-trip transfer from Palermo to Trapani is paid separately at check-in or can be skipped if you come directly to Trapani port on your own.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and possibly a hat or sunglasses to enjoy the boat comfortably and make the most of your swim time.

How long is the free time on Favignana?
You’ll have approximately 3 hours, enough to explore key spots, relax on the beaches, or visit the Tonnara Florio Museum.

Is the boat cruise suitable for everyone?
Yes, the boat is spacious and modern, designed for comfort, but be aware that the day involves some walking and swimming if you choose to do so.

Can I buy food on board?
Yes, Sicilian pasta and water are available for purchase at €4.99, making it easy to enjoy a local snack during the day.

What’s the best way to make the most of the trip?
Plan your favignana free time wisely—visit Cala Rossa or Cala Azzurra early, and don’t forget your camera! Also, arrive early to maximize your time on the islands.

This boat tour offers a well-rounded taste of Sicily’s Egadi Islands—beautiful, relaxing, and thoughtfully organized. Whether you’re in search of scenic beauty, a quick cultural peek, or a refreshing swim, it’s a day that often exceeds expectations for its price and ease.