Director Christopher Nolan has announced that he will be filming scenes for his adaptation of The Odyssey on the Sicilian island of Favignana, where Homer’s Greek hero Odysseus came ashore. Other scenes will also be set on the Aeolian islands off the coast of Sicily, making these picturesque locations popular set-jetting destinations for 2025. The Aeolian islands offer a range of experiences, from volcanic treks and rugged landscapes to sailing between islands. Night sailing around Stromboli to witness lava cascading down the volcano is highlighted as a must-do experience, along with trekking to the highest peaks on various islands.
For beach lovers, crystal-clear waters and secluded coves can be accessed by boat in the Aeolian islands. Those interested in culture can explore archaeological sites and museums, such as the Luigi Bernabò Brea Archaeological Museum in Lipari. Foodies will find a hyper-local cuisine of fresh seafood, with restaurants like Cusiritati on Panarea offering stunning views of the ocean. A must-try dish is ‘pane cunzato’, an Aeolian-style sandwich featuring local ingredients like tuna, mozzarella, and capers. The islands are also known for their sweet dessert wine, Malvasia, produced mainly in Salina.
The best time to visit the Aeolian islands is from May to June and September to October, when the weather is perfect but the islands are less crowded. July and August see the most visitors as Italians take their long summer holidays during this time. Salina is recommended for its green landscapes, wineries, and excellent restaurants, while Stromboli is known for its dramatic volcanic activity and unique hiking experiences. On Favignana, part of the Egadi Islands, travelers can explore hidden grottoes, coastal formations, and leisurely island exploration. Hiking up to Castello di Santa Caterina and visiting La Tonnara Florio, an old tuna fishery, are recommended activities on the island.
Favignana’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its tuna fishing heritage, with must-try dishes including ‘panino con il tonno’ and ‘couscous di pesce’. Top dining spots on the island include Trattoria La Bettola and Formica Osteria, a Japanese-Sicilian fusion restaurant. The best times to visit Favignana are also in May to June and September to October, when the weather is warm but the crowds are smaller. July and August are peak seasons with more tourists and higher prices, but offer a lively atmosphere. Spring and autumn are ideal for activities like cycling, hiking, and exploring, while summer is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
