Levanzo: how to get there, what to see

Levanzo: how to get there, what to see, and when to go

Small, wild, and luminous: Levanzo is the most intimate of the Egadi Islands — a refuge of crystal coves, fragrant trails, and a unique prehistoric heritage. In this guide you’ll find everything you need: how to get there, how to get around, what to see in 1–2 days, the best time to go, and answers to the most searched questions.

Where Levanzo is (and why it’s special)

Levanzo is the smallest of the Egadi Islands, off the coast of Trapani. It covers about 5.8 km² and its highest point is Pizzo Monaco (≈278 m). The island is famous for the Grotta del Genovese, with prehistoric engravings and paintings, and for its protected seabeds within the Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area — a paradise for snorkeling and diving.

How to get to Levanzo

From Trapani (hydrofoil/ferry)

Year-round services depart from the Port of Trapani: fast hydrofoils (Liberty Lines) and ferries (Siremar) to Levanzo. Sailing time is typically ~20–40 minutes depending on the route and season. In summer, it’s best to book round-trip tickets in advance.

From Favignana or Marettimo

Frequent inter-island connections let you plan practical “Egadi hopping”: spend one day in Favignana and the next in Levanzo, or vice versa.

From Palermo / from outside Sicily

Fly to Trapani (TPS) or Palermo (PMO), reach Trapani’s port by bus/shuttle or car, and board for Levanzo. Allow some buffer time for ferry schedules, especially in high season.

Getting around Levanzo

No cars: Levanzo is essentially car-free. You get around on foot along a short paved road toward the Faraglione and on trails to coves and the lighthouse. For farther spots, consider boat taxis or a boat tour around the island.

cala minnola levanzo

What to see and do in Levanzo

Grotta del Genovese (prehistoric art by the sea)

A unique site with engravings and paintings dated between the Upper Paleolithic and the Neolithic. Visits are by reservation only with limited slots and include transfers and a local guide. Wear closed shoes, bring water, and a light layer for the cooler cave interior.

Cala Minnola (turquoise sea + underwater archaeology)

A small cove backed by a pine grove with transparent waters. At 27–30 m lies the wreck of a Roman ship with wine amphorae (accessible on guided dives). With mask and fins you can spot fragments on the seabed — never remove artifacts.

Cala Fredda, Cala Faraglione, Cala Tramontana

  • Cala Fredda: sheltered; ideal on windy north days.
  • Cala Faraglione: dramatic scenery and unreal shades of blue.
  • Cala Tramontana: wide and wild, exposed to northerly winds.

Capo Grosso Lighthouse (endless-view hike)

A panoramic trail of about 8–9 km return to the northern lighthouse. Avoid peak heat, bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

Suggested itineraries

Levanzo in 1 day (unhurried)

  1. Morning: arrive by hydrofoil and stroll the village of Cala Dogana.
  2. Late morning: pre-booked visit to the Grotta del Genovese.
  3. Light lunch: picnic in the pines at Cala Minnola.
  4. Afternoon: boat tour with stops at Cala Fredda and Faraglione.
  5. Sunset: return to Trapani.

Levanzo in 2 days (sea + hiking)

Day 1: Grotta del Genovese + Cala Minnola, boat tour in the afternoon.
Day 2: Hike to Capo Grosso in the morning; relax between Cala Fredda and Faraglione in the afternoon (choose according to the wind).

Best time to visit Levanzo

  • May–June & September–October: best for weather, colors, and fewer crowds.
  • July–August: stunning sea but busier — book transport and stays ahead.
  • Winter/spring: great for hiking and photography; services are reduced.

Practical tips (from locals)

  • Closed shoes for rocky, uneven trails.
  • Always carry water and sunscreen.
  • Boat taxi/boat tour to hop coves without long hot walks.
  • Grotta del Genovese: reserve ahead; mornings are usually best.
  • Marine Protected Area: respect regulations (anchoring, fishing, artifacts).

Levanzo FAQ

Where is Levanzo?

In the Egadi Islands, off Trapani, in western Sicily.

How do I get to Levanzo from Trapani?

By hydrofoil or ferry from Trapani’s port. In high season, book in advance.

How do I go from Favignana to Levanzo?

There are frequent inter-island connections year-round (denser in summer).

How much time do I need to visit Levanzo?

1 day for highlights; 2 days to combine sea and hiking at an easy pace.

How do you get around on Levanzo?

On foot on roads and trails; for farther coves, use a boat taxi or a boat tour.

What to see in Levanzo in one day?

Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, Cala Fredda/Faraglione, and a stretch toward Capo Grosso if you like hiking.

Which is the best beach in Levanzo?

It depends on the wind: many love Cala Minnola (pines + turquoise water) and Cala Faraglione for its dramatic setting.

Do I need a reservation for Grotta del Genovese?

Yes, advance booking is required and spots are limited.

Is Levanzo inhabited? How many residents?

Yes. The main village is Cala Dogana; residents are a few hundred and vary seasonally.

How far is Levanzo from Trapani?

About 15 km by sea; services are very frequent in summer.

Levanzo & Saline Culcasi: the perfect pairing

If you’re staying in Trapani, pair your trip with a sunset guided visit to Saline Culcasi (museum, windmills, evaporation ponds) and an aperitivo facing the salt pans — the perfect way to end your day after Levanzo’s sea.

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