This Mediterranean island off Sicily's west coast has clear blue waters and limestone caves. Former tuna fishing hub with 19th-century buildings and quiet beaches.
Favignana sits 7 kilometers off Sicily's western coast, the largest of the Egadi Islands. Swim in the limestone coves of Cala Rossa, cycle past ancient quarries now filled with citrus gardens, or explore the 19th-century Florio tuna factory. The island's 19.8 square kilometers include white-rock beaches, Mediterranean caves, and coastal grottos perfect for day trips or extended stays.
Getting to Favignana
The island is 7 kilometers west of Sicily's coast. Liberty Lines and Siremar run 30-minute ferry crossings from Trapani multiple times daily. From Palermo airport, take a 45-minute bus or drive to Trapani to catch the ferry.
Best Time to Visit
Water temperatures stay warm from June through September, with July and August drawing the largest crowds. April-May and September-October have mild weather for cycling and exploring, with fewer visitors. Most restaurants and shops close during winter.
Moving Around by Bicycle
The flat terrain and compact size make bicycles practical. Rent regular bikes (€5-10 per day) or e-bikes from shops near the port. Main roads include bike lanes, while dirt paths connect to remote beaches.
Swimming Spots and Beaches
At Cala Rossa, white limestone cliffs surround turquoise water, with flat rocks for sunbathing. Bue Marino's underwater caves create sheltered spots for snorkeling. Lido Burrone has a sandy beach on the southern coast. The island's shape blocks strong winds, keeping most coves calm.
The Island's Stone Quarries
Old calcarenite quarries dot the landscape. Local residents use these excavated spaces as gardens, growing figs, almonds, and citrus trees below ground level where they stay protected from wind. Along the coast, former quarry sites have filled with seawater, creating natural swimming areas.
The Florio Tuna Factory Museum
Ex Stabilimento Florio museum documents the island's tuna fishing history since the 1800s. Walk through the restored factory to see original processing equipment, historical photographs, and videos of the mattanza (traditional tuna harvest). Open June to October, 10:00-17:00 daily.
Local Food and Drinks
Local restaurants prepare fresh tuna as tartare, grilled steaks, or in pasta with bottarga (cured roe). Try pasta with sea urchins or fish couscous. Start your day like locals do with granita (crushed ice dessert) in brioche bread.
Visiting Nearby Islands
Regular ferries connect to Levanzo and Marettimo throughout the day. Walk to Levanzo's Grotta del Genovese to see prehistoric cave paintings - reserve guides at the port office before visiting. Marettimo has well-marked hiking trails and secluded coves reached only by boat.
