The island of Favignana is a turquoise gem of the Mediterranean Sea. A wild island with crystal-clear waters and countless walks, the island comes alive in summer with a buzz of activity, and in the off seasons it is a haven of peace. These are just some of the characteristics of this beautiful island, which are waiting to be discovered! Read this article to discover the 10 best things to do in Favignana, the enchanting island of Sicily!
Favignana: An interactive map
How to get to Favignana
Favignana is the largest island of the Egadi Islands archipelago, located in the Mediterranean Sea off the west coast of Sicily, Italy. The island is located about 7 kilometres west of the Sicilian city of Trapani. The easiest way to reach the island is therefore to fly directly to Trapani airport, and then take a ferry towards Favignana from the port of Trapani.
Tickets for Favignana can be booked conveniently online via this website: https://www.libertylines.it. The total duration of the ferry trip is 30 or 40 minutes, and the cost can vary between 11 and 16 euros depending on the time of day, day and time of year. In summer, I strongly recommend booking your tickets at least a few days in advance, otherwise you risk not finding a seat if you show up at the counter on the same day.
Note: Palermo is the airport with the most flights arriving in this part of Sicily. From Palermo airport there are convenient buses running approximately every 30 minutes, which will take you directly to the port of Trapani in just one hour. There is no need to book online, just go to the counter in the Arrivals section of the airport to buy your ticket. Alternatively, you can take a taxi!
Getting around Favignana
Favignana is the island of bicycles. As soon as you go to the beach, you will immediately notice dozens and dozens of bicycles parked everywhere. When you disembark from the ferry, you will notice all the bicycle and moped hire shops just outside the harbour. Although the island is small (the island is only 19 km long!), it is impossible to walk it. Depending on your fitness or the heat, you can decide whether to rent a bicycle or a moped. Car hire on the island is also available, but at a much higher cost.
Renting your own car when traveling gives you the freedom to discover the country at your own pace, and it’s often cheaper too! When travelling we always use DiscoverCars.com. They check all the local companies and find you the best car at the cheapest price! Check out DiscoverCars.com here.
If you are short on time and plan to take a day tour to Favignana from Sicily, we recommend a boat tour. It is convenient, and you will have the opportunity to explore all the caves by sea, not otherwise possible by land.
10 best things to do in Favignana
1. Visit the beaches
If you are heading to Favignana, surely the main reason is to take a dip in its beautiful crystal-clear waters. Favignana’s beaches are among the most beautiful in Sicily, and there is something for everyone. Clear blue waters, white sand or leaden cliffs carved out of tuff. Read here the article on the 5 most beautiful beaches in Favignana that you absolutely cannot miss!
2. Snorkelling and diving
Favignana is a great place for snorkelers thanks to its crystal-clear waters and lively marine life. Two popular snorkelling spots are Cala Rossa, famous for its turquoise waters and spectacular seabed, and Cala Rotonda. Cala Rotonda features sea caves that offer spectacular scenery and unique opportunities to explore the marine life hidden among the rocks. Among these caves, one of the best known is the Grotta del Pozzo, which takes its name from the presence of a natural well inside.
In addition to snorkelling, thrill-seekers in Favignana can have fun diving off cliffs between 6 and 12 metres high. The two most popular spots are at Cala Rossa, in the north-eastern part of the tuff cliff, and at Bue Marino. From Bue Marino beach, one can continue the walk towards the south of the island, and one will find numerous spots from which to dive. I always recommend checking the depth of the seabed before deciding to jump.
Travel insurance is a must for any holiday abroad, especially when doing extreme activities. Although problems rarely occur, it is better to be covered in case they do. We use SafetyWing and recommend it to anyone travelling the world. Check out SafteyWing here.
3. Try scuba diving
There are several scuba diving schools and centres on the island of Favignana offering courses, guided dives and equipment hire. These centres are well equipped to cater for both beginners and experienced divers. I personally experienced a ‘baptism of water’ with the school Diving Centre La Subbaqqueria. They offer diving courses for all levels, guided dives and snorkelling. They are known for their professionalism and knowledge of the local waters. I really had a great time! Diving is really an exciting experience to try.
4. Dinghy tour of the island
All the beaches on Favignana can be easily reached on foot or by transport. However, the best way to enjoy Favignana’s wonderful sea is by a dinghy trip (or by boat, for those with a licence). The rental cost for a dinghy of 5 for half a day (4 hours) is around €100 – €150, and for the full day around €150 – €250. By hiring a dinghy, you will not only be able to enjoy the beaches from a privileged vantage point, but you will also be able to explore the island’s many caves, such as the Grotta Perciata or the Grotta degli Innamorati.
5. Visit the Santa Caterina Castle
The Santa Caterina Castle is one of Favignana’s most iconic monuments. Located on top of Monte Santa Caterina, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the island and the surrounding sea. The castle has very ancient origins. Its first foundations date back to Norman times, around the 12th century. Its function was to sight approaching enemy ships and protect the island from pirate raids.
To reach the Castle of Santa Caterina, it is necessary to take a walk from the island’s village. The path starts behind the former Florio factory and will take about 45 minutes to an hour depending on your fitness. Once at the top, the panoramic view will more than repay the effort. From the castle, you can see all the Egadi Islands and, on clear days, even the coast of Sicily.
Note: In summer, temperatures are very high, so we recommend that you go to the castle either very early in the morning or in the evening to avoid heatstroke.
6. Visit the former Florio factory
The former Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana is one of the most significant historical sites on the island of Favignana and one of the most important industrial complexes in the Mediterranean dedicated to tuna processing. The factory was built by the Florio family in 1859, one of the most powerful and influential business families in Sicily.
Today, the former Florio factory is a museum open to the public, illustrating the history of tuna fishing. On certain evenings, the museum also organises cultural events by inviting guests or holding concerts, helping to keep the memory of this important part of Favignana’s history alive.
7. Explore the tuff quarries
Favignana’s tuff quarries, known locally as ‘pirrere’, are a distinctive element of the island’s landscape and history. Tuff quarrying in Favignana probably dates back to Roman times, where the stone was used to construct buildings and infrastructure both on the island and elsewhere in Sicily and beyond. The Labyrinth of Quarries and the Calcarenite Quarry are the main places to observe these beautiful tuff carvings.
8. Have a Sicilian granita in the centre
The Sicilian granita is one of the most iconic and beloved dishes of Sicilian cuisine and has won the hearts of many Italians and tourists around the world. It is often served with fresh whipped cream or a hot brioche. You cannot say you have been to Favignana without trying a typical granita! Our favourite place to enjoy granita is the bar in the town Caffè Mazzini, especially at breakfast time!
9. Get lost in the village streets
The village of Favignana retains an authentic charm with its cobbled streets, the colourful facades of the houses and the lively little squares. During the summer especially, the squares come alive with people and there are often live music concerts. We recommend that you wander through the narrow streets and explore the local gastronomy, with fresh fish dishes and Sicilian specialities such as cassata siciliana. In addition, you will find numerous handicraft and clothing shops with unique pieces.
10. Take a trip to Marettimo
Marettimo is one of the islands of the Egadi archipelago, located opposite Favignana. It is known for its natural beauty, its small centre with blue and white houses, and its peaceful atmosphere. Every hour there are ferry services connecting Favignana to Marettimo, lasting about 30 or 45 minutes depending on sea conditions. Once in Marettimo, you can explore the island on foot, by bicycle or take a boat to tour its hidden caves and coves. Marettimo is known for its hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the archipelago. But beware, in summer it may be too hot to venture out on foot!
Where to sleep in Favignana: The 3 different areas
There are three main areas to stay in Favignana: the centre area, the beach area to the east of the island, and the north-west area, beyond the tunnel. If you want peace and quiet, I recommend staying in the latter. The western area, a 10-15 minute drive from the centre, is less busy and will allow you to relax and enjoy the peace without having too many people around.
If you want to take frequent advantage of the bars, restaurants and supermarkets, I recommend staying in the centre of Favignana. The centre of Favignana comes alive during the evenings and always offers beautiful evenings.
Finally, if you want to be close to the most beautiful beaches with crystal-clear blue waters, such as Cala Rossa, I recommend you stay in the south-east of Favignana.
Here is our selection of the most beautiful accommodation in Favignana, regardless of area!
Hotels in Favignana View all
Where to eat in Favignana
In Favignana you are spoilt for choice on places to eat. We have collected here our favourite restaurants and bars according to different occasions, from a tasty breakfast of croissant and granita, to an exquisite quick fish lunch, to more classy restaurants.
Café and breakfast
- Caffè Mazzini: This café is located on the main pizza in the centre of Favignana. You cannot miss its croissants in the morning! They are the best on the island. The granitas are also remarkable!
- Kiosko: This kiosk is a pretty bar with a beautiful view of the blue sea, in front of Favignana’s famous gallery. There is nothing better than a nice cappuccino here in the morning!
- Pasticceria FC: If you want pastries, you can’t miss this place! I especially recommend the Sicilian cannoli. They are the bomb!
Seafood
- Tuna kebab shop: This place provides huge, delicious tuna kebabs for a quick lunch in the city centre!
- Pescheria Florio: Best fish market on the island. Great both for a quick lunch in the city centre and for buying fish to enjoy at home in the evening!
Restaurants
- Ristorante Agriturismo L’Alencio: This little restaurant is located in the western part of Favignana, on top of a hill. It offers spectacular views of the island of Marettimo opposite, especially at sunset.
- Formica: An excellent restaurant in the centre of Favignana. Slightly above average prices, but the quality of food and service is really high!
- Osteria del Sotto Sale: Beautiful osteria in the centre of Favignana, with great food and atmosphere.
- Walk On Pizza & Drink: This is the place to go if you want to eat a good pizza in Favignana. They have a nice, spacious courtyard, and the pizza is excellent.
- Osteria Cavallo: This osteria is located slightly outside the centre, in a quiet area near Scalo Cavallo. The style of the restaurant looks Greek, and it is really nice. Also, the food is delicious!
When spending money abroad we always use our WISE international debit card. You can withdraw up to 200 euros in cash per month free of charge and won’t pay any conversion fees on transactions. Check out the WISE international debit card here.
The best bars for aperitivo and after dinner drinks
Favignana has given me some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen. Aperitivo time is a sacred time to fully enjoy the golden hour in Favignana. These are the best places to enjoy a tasty aperitivo while enjoying the colours of the sunset.
Below you will also find the most ‘in’ bars where you can spend an evening after dinner in Favignana!
Aperitivo bars
- La Costa Sunset Bar Cala Trono Favignana: This bar often offers live music or DJ sets. Great location for watching the sunset go down behind the gallery in Favignana!
- A Leva – Sun, aperitivo & sunsets: My absolute favourite place to enjoy the sunset with an aperitivo in hand in Favignana! This bar is located in the Faraglioni area, west of the island. You will find yourself surrounded by nature and peace!
- Faro di Punta Sottile: Beautiful bar near Favignana’s famous lighthouse. The sunsets from here are excellent, and they often offer live music for you to relax.
After dinner drinks
- Rest: This bar is located just beyond the Favignana tunnel on the west side. Rest is an alternative bar with great vibes and electronic music on Friday nights!
- Camarillo Brillo – Ristorante Bar Bistrot: The best bar in the centre of Favignana! The guys who run it are really nice, and the cocktails are great.
- Camparía Lounge: The classiest bar in Favignana. Elegant, high quality, with a wide selection of fine drinks, for a quiet evening enjoying excellent drinks.
When to go to Favignana: The best time to visit
✅ The best time to visit Favignana is during the summer and mid-season. If what you are interested in is social life and entertainment, the best period is from mid-June until after ‘Ferragosto’ (15th August). This period coincides with the high season, all bars and restaurants will be open and temperatures will be warm. Beware, however, that during this period the costs will be high due to the high number of people, and especially in July, temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees.
If you are looking for peace and quiet, Favignana reaches its peak from the end of May to the end of June, and from the end of August to the end of October. During this period there is little tourism and you can enjoy the peace of the island. Temperatures are around 20 degrees.
❌ From November to February, Favignana is mild compared to many other regions, with temperatures between 11 and 18 degrees, but it can be wetter and windier. Because of the strong winds, in winter there is often a risk of being stranded on the island because the sea is too rough for ferries to leave. Spring ( March to April and early May) is often accompanied by wind and rain. During these times, almost all restaurants and bars are closed.
Do you like our article on Favignana? Leave us a comment below! If you have also been to Favignana or are planning your trip to Sicily, let us know!
Leave a Reply