Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to Lampedusa?
Lampedusa can be reached by plane or ferry. By plane: direct flights from Palermo and Catania year-round (about 1 hour), and seasonal flights from Rome, Milan, Verona and other cities in summer. By ferry: departure from Porto Empedocle (Agrigento) with Siremar or Liberty Lines, duration about 8 hours. The ferry also transports cars and motorcycles.
What is the best time to visit Lampedusa?
The best period is from May to October. June and September are ideal: perfect climate (25-28°C), warm sea and less crowding. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, with higher prices. May and October offer advantageous rates but the sea might be cooler.
What is the most beautiful beach in Lampedusa?
Rabbit Beach (Spiaggia dei Conigli) is universally considered the most beautiful, voted the world's most beautiful beach several times. It's located in the Nature Reserve and requires reservation in high season. Other must-see beaches are Cala Pulcino (wild, reachable by trekking), Tabaccara (boat only, famous for 'flying boats') and Cala Croce (perfect for families).
How much does a vacation in Lampedusa cost?
Costs vary greatly depending on the period. In high season (July-August): 3-star hotels from €100-150/night, B&Bs from €70-100, apartments from €80-120. Round-trip flights from €150-300. Scooter rental from €25-40/day. A boat trip costs €40-60 per person. In low season, prices can be halved.
Can I drink tap water?
No, tap water is not drinkable. Use it only for washing and cooking (boiled). For drinking, buy bottled water or use the 'Water Houses' scattered around the island to refill your bottles and save plastic.
Do I need a car or is a scooter enough?
The scooter is king on the island: agile, easy to park and perfect for dirt roads. A car (preferably an SUV or the iconic Mehari) is recommended if you're 4 people, have small children or suffer from heat/dust. In the evening on Via Roma it's almost impossible to park a car.
Credit cards or cash?
Most restaurants and shops accept cards, but it's ESSENTIAL to always have cash with you. Some kiosks don't have working card machines, and for boat trips or small purchases cash is often the only option. There are only 2-3 ATMs on the whole island (often empty in August), withdraw before leaving!
Is there cell phone coverage?
In town and at the main beaches 5G/4G works fine (TIM and Vodafone have better coverage). In some remote coves (e.g. Mare Morto, Cala Pulcino) or at Grecale Lighthouse the signal can disappear completely. Enjoy the digital detox.
Is Lampedusa suitable for children?
Absolutely yes. Beaches like Guitgia and Cala Croce have fine sand and very shallow waters. Avoid coves with difficult rocks (Mare Morto) or long treks (Cala Pulcino) during hot hours. Always bring an umbrella and water.
What to eat in Lampedusa?
Lampedusa offers Sicilian cuisine and fresh fish. Typical dishes: fish couscous, pasta with sea urchins, tuna in all variations, grilled swordfish. Also try Sicilian granita and cannoli. Via Roma is full of restaurants and trattorias for all budgets.
How does the reservation for Rabbit Beach work?
From June to September, access to Rabbit Beach is limited to protect the Caretta Caretta turtle habitat. You must book online on the Nature Reserve website. The maximum daily number is limited, so book in advance, especially in August.
Is a boat trip worth it?
Absolutely yes, it's an unmissable experience. Boat trips allow you to reach coves inaccessible by land like Tabaccara, Cala Francese and Rabbit Island seen from the sea. You can choose between dinghies, sailboats and mini-cruises. Typical duration: half day (4h) or full day with lunch on board.