Favignana, the largest of the Egadi Islands off the coast of Sicily, is a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning cliffs, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. If you’re planning a trip to Sicily and want to explore beyond the mainland, Favignana is an excellent destination. The island is easily reachable by ferry, making it a great addition to your itinerary if you’re traveling around Sicily by public transport.
How to get to Favignana?
Favignana is located about 7 kilometers off the Sicilian coast and is easily accessible by ferry from Trapani. Catamarans from LibertyLines depart from Trapani Port and go directly to the island. You can book a round-trip ticket at the port, where you can also set your departure times. Be sure to book your ferry ticket in advance during high season! Tickets may sell out a day in advance.
The center of Favignana consists of just a few small streets with cafés, some shops, and restaurants. In summer, it gets quite busy, so the best way to start your day is by grabbing a coffee, stocking up on water bottles, and setting off to explore the island.
Things to do on Favignana
Visit the Most Beautiful Beaches and Coves
Favignana is famous for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island has very few sandy beaches, with a coastline dominated by rugged rock formations. For centuries, calcarenite, a soft sandstone perfect for construction, was quarried here. Stonecutters carved massive blocks from the land, giving the landscape its unique, rugged appearance. This is still evident at many rocky beaches today.
One of the most famous coves on Favignana is Cala Rossa, and rightfully so! With its rocky shores and intensely turquoise waters, this beach was my absolute favorite. From the road, it’s a bit of a climb down over rocks, so sturdy shoes or sandals are recommended. It can be quite busy, but if you walk a little further, you’ll find quieter spots with some shade. Bring water shoes and enjoy a snorkeling session in the calm water.
On the east coast, between the old quarries, you’ll find Bue Marino Bay, with incredibly clear light blue water. The area features carved-out caves that provide cooling shade. You’ll have to climb down a bit to reach the water, but from the rocks, you can dive straight in. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming or snorkeling, though you may not see many fish.
Be sure to grab a fresh tuna sandwich from the TunaFish foodtruck!
If you prefer a place with more sand, Cala Azzurra is a great choice. This beach has a tropical vibe and easier access to the water, making it perfect for a relaxing swim. The area is still somewhat rocky, so water shoes are helpful.
Afterward, you can enjoy a refreshing drink, a granita, or an arancini at Restobar Cala Azurra.
Another beach with actual sand is Cala San Nicola, located in a bay on the north coast.
The Scalo Cavallo rocky beach is also on the north coast. Here, you’ll find crystal-clear water, an impressive coastline, and some shallow areas where you can enter the water more easily with water shoes. It’s a wonderful place for swimming and snorkeling, featuring a lively rocky seabed. Scalo Cavallo is less known than Favignana’s famous beaches, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy the sun, sea, and stunning Mediterranean views.
Visit Giardino dell’Impossibile
In the middle of this rugged, dry island lies a hidden paradise: Giardino dell’Impossibile. Once an abandoned quarry, it is now a beautiful garden filled with exotic plants and colorful flowers. The founder believed that even on this barren land, something beautiful could grow. Against all odds, she created a lush oasis with nearly 500 plant species from around the world.
Want to experience this magical place even longer? You can! There are accommodations available where you can stay overnight, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of this unique garden.
Try the Fresh Tuna
Favignana is famous for its tuna fishing, so you must try the fresh catch! A tuna steak or pasta al tonno is a must.
For a delicious tuna sandwich, visit Tuna Street Food in the center or the TunaFish food truck near Bue Marino.
If you want to learn more about the island’s history, visit the Ex Stabilimento Florio. This former tuna factory is now a museum where you can discover the traditional tuna fishing techniques and their impact on the island.
Rent a Bike
The best way to explore the island is by bike! Choose a simple city bike, an electric bike, or a scooter. Bikes and scooters can be rented in the center, with prices ranging from €5 to €25 per day, depending on the type of bike. Scooters cost around €40 per day. It’s recommended to reserve in advance, though standard bikes can usually be rented on-site.
During summer, like the rest of Sicily, it gets extremely hot, so you’ll definitely work up a sweat while cycling. Favignana is hilly, but the east side of the island is relatively flat. To give you an idea of distances: cycling from the center to Cala Rossa takes about 15 minutes, including small hills.
Stay Overnight
Although Favignana makes a great day trip, the island is wonderfully peaceful in the evening after the day-trippers leave. If you have enough time, staying for one night can be a fantastic experience.
Best Time to Visit Favignana
Favignana (and Sicily) are at their best in spring (April-May) and autumn (late September-October). July and August are very hot and crowded, but in the other months, you can enjoy milder temperatures and fewer tourists.
