Pantelleria: Italy's black pearl closer to Africa than Sicily
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Mar 30
- 21 min read
Nestled between Sicily and Tunisia, Pantelleria is a volcanic gem often overlooked by tourists.
Known for its unspoiled beauty, thermal springs, and distinct Arab-Italian culture, this island promises a serene escape away from the crowds.
Location and how to get there
Pantelleria is situated 85 km from Tunisia and 100 km from Sicily in the Strait of Sicily. It’s part of Italy but geographically closer to Africa, giving it a unique blend of cultures.
By air: Direct flights are available from major Italian cities like Palermo, Catania, and Milan. Danish Air Transport (DAT) offers flights from Trapani to Pantelleria, which take around 45 minutes.
Pantelleria airport (PNL):
Founded: 1938, initially as a military airfield during World War II.
Airlines: Served by carriers such as DAT (Danish Air Transport), Volotea, and SkyAlps, with seasonal connections.
Destinations: Direct flights to Palermo, Trapani, Catania, Milan, Rome, and Venice, with increased routes during summer.
Employees: Approximately 50–70 staff, managing both passenger and cargo operations.
Location: Situated 5 km from Pantelleria Town, offering essential services to support the island’s growing tourism.
The airport makes a subtle yet notable appearance in the opening scenes of the trailer for the movie «Abigger splash,» where Pantelleria’s rugged charm and isolated beauty are immediately introduced to the audience. By ferry: Ferries operate from Trapani in western Sicily, taking about 6 hours to reach Pantelleria’s port. Ferries from Trapani to Pantelleria are operated by Siremar and Liberty Lines. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours depending on the vessel and weather conditions.
Siremar: Standard ferry with vehicle capacity, taking around 7 hours.
Passenger only: €40–€50 one way.
With a vehicle: €100–€120 depending on the vehicle type.
Liberty Lines: Operates a high-speed hydrofoil that takes about 2.5 hours but operates only during the summer season.
Passenger only: €70–€85 one way.
As of 2025, Pantelleria has an estimated population of around 7,200 inhabitants. The island’s population has been steadily declining over the years due to limited economic opportunities and the migration of younger generations to mainland Italy. Most residents live in Pantelleria Town, the island’s main hub, while smaller villages such as Scauri, Khamma, and Tracino are home to local farmers and artisans.
Roman Catholicism
The predominant religion in Pantelleria is Roman Catholicism, reflecting the island’s long history of Sicilian and Italian influence. The majority of the population observes Catholic traditions, with local festivals and religious celebrations playing an important role in the island’s culture.
Churches and religious sites
Chiesa Madre di San Lorenzo: The main church in Pantelleria Town, serving as the spiritual center for the island’s Catholic community.
Santuario della Madonna della Margana: A revered pilgrimage site where locals honor the Madonna della Margana, believed to protect the island.
Though Roman Catholicism is dominant, Pantelleria’s past Arab rule left traces of Islamic influence, which is reflected in local architecture, agricultural techniques, and culinary traditions.
A glimpse into history
Early settlers and bronze age marvels
Pantelleria’s earliest known inhabitants date back to around 5000 BCE. The island was first settled by prehistoric communities who left behind impressive stone structures, most notably the Sesi tombs. These megalithic burial sites, resembling smaller versions of Malta’s megalithic temples, are believed to have been built by the Sesioti people, a Bronze Age civilization.
Phoenician and carthaginian era
By 800 BCE, Pantelleria had become an important stop for the Phoenicians, who established a trading hub due to its strategic location between Africa and Sicily. The Phoenicians introduced advanced maritime practices and engaged in trade between Carthage and the western Mediterranean. Under Carthaginian rule, the island became a fortified outpost, evidence of which can still be seen in the ruins of ancient fortifications.
Roman conquest and influence
In 255 BCE, during the First Punic War, Pantelleria fell to the Romans, who named the island Cossyra. The Romans utilized Pantelleria as a crucial naval base to control sea routes. During this period, Roman innovations such as aqueducts and thermal baths emerged, some of which were later expanded and modified by Arab settlers. The Romans also cultivated grapes and olives, establishing the foundations for the island’s viticulture.
Arab rule and lasting legacy
Pantelleria experienced its most profound transformation under Arab rule from the 8th to the 12th century. The Arabs introduced sophisticated irrigation systems and terraced farming, which allowed for the cultivation of olives, capers, and the now-famous Zibibbo grapes. They also built the dammusi—ingenious stone dwellings with thick lava stone walls and domed roofs designed to capture and conserve rainwater. These traditional structures, still in use today, stand as a testament to Arab architectural mastery.
Norman conquest and medieval period
In 1123, the Normans, under Count Roger II of Sicily, wrested control of Pantelleria from the Arabs. The Normans reinforced the island’s defensive structures, including the Castello di Pantelleria, which overlooks the port. During the medieval period, the island oscillated between Norman, Aragonese, and Spanish rule, with each culture leaving its mark.
Target island: World war II
Pantelleria’s location once again made it a strategic military target during World War II. The island, heavily fortified by Italian forces, was subjected to a relentless aerial bombardment by the Allies in June 1943.
The assault, known as Operation Corkscrew, saw over 6,200 tons of bombs dropped over several days. Pantelleria’s fortifications eventually crumbled, and the island surrendered on June 11, 1943, earning it the nickname «Target Island» for being the first territory to be defeated primarily by air power.
Post-war resurgence and modern-day charm
After World War II, Pantelleria gradually returned to its peaceful agricultural roots.
Tourism emerged as a major industry in the latter half of the 20th century, with visitors drawn by the island’s natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and unique blend of African and Mediterranean cultures. Despite its turbulent past, Pantelleria today stands as a symbol of resilience, seamlessly blending history, tradition, and natural wonder.
Pantelleria’s hidden stories: Secrets and spectacular tales
Pantelleria, with its volcanic charm and remote allure, is home to more than just picturesque landscapes. Beneath its rugged surface lie forgotten legends, Hollywood secrets, and tales of resilience that make this island even more fascinating.
Pantelleria: A secret hideaway for spies during world war II
During World War II, Pantelleria wasn’t just a strategic military base—it was also a covert hideout for spies and informants. The island’s proximity to North Africa and Sicily made it an ideal location for Allied and Axis intelligence operatives. Undercover agents used the rugged landscape and isolated coves to send secret messages, monitor enemy movements, and smuggle supplies. In 1943, just before the Allied invasion of Sicily, Pantelleria became the focus of Operation Corkscrew, the first military campaign where air power alone led to the capture of a heavily fortified territory. The island’s surrender after relentless bombardment without a ground invasion stunned military strategists and earned it the nickname «Target Island.»
Armani’s Pantelleria: A designer’s secret inspiration
Fashion icon Giorgio Armani fell in love with Pantelleria decades ago and purchased a stunning dammuso on the island, where he spends his summers in complete solitude. Armani’s love for the island is no secret—he often describes Pantelleria as his «place of refuge and inspiration.» His passion for the island’s natural beauty has influenced his fashion designs, particularly his minimalist aesthetic and earthy color palettes that echo the volcanic tones and serene blues of Pantelleria’s landscapes. Locals whisper that Armani’s dammuso, with its sweeping views of the Mediterranean, has hosted many of the world’s biggest celebrities in secret, far from the paparazzi’s eyes.
The mysterious curse of the lost city of Cossyra
Pantelleria was known to the Romans as Cossyra, a thriving naval outpost that mysteriously vanished after the fall of the Roman Empire. According to local legends, the city was cursed by the gods after the inhabitants defied divine warnings. As punishment, Cossyra was buried under layers of volcanic ash and forgotten for centuries. Archaeological excavations have uncovered ruins of Roman baths, fortifications, and ancient homes, but many believe that the «heart of Cossyra»—a sacred temple or treasure—remains buried beneath the volcanic soil, waiting to be rediscovered.
A Hollywood affair: Pantelleria on the big screen
Pantelleria’s cinematic landscapes caught the eye of director Luca Guadagnino, who filmed the 2015 psychological thriller A Bigger Splash on the island. Starring Ralph Fiennes, Tilda Swinton, and Dakota Johnson, the movie showcased Pantelleria’s dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and volcanic beauty to an international audience. What many don’t know is that several scenes were filmed at a private dammuso once owned by a mysterious foreign aristocrat whose life on the island remains shrouded in secrecy. Rumors suggest that the aristocrat’s family left behind hidden documents revealing secrets about the island’s wartime past.
Volcanic whispers: The unspoken fear of a future eruption
Pantelleria may seem peaceful today, but the island sits on a dormant volcanic complex that last erupted around 7,000 years ago. Geologists have identified seismic activity beneath the island, suggesting that Pantelleria could erupt again in the distant future. Locals refer to this as «the whispering giant», believing that the island’s volcanic heart occasionally sends out signals to remind its inhabitants of the power lying beneath their feet. While no eruptions are expected anytime soon, the thought of a future awakening adds an element of thrilling uncertainty to life on Pantelleria.
The ancient Pantelleria mirror: A relic of venetian espionage
In the 16th century, Venetian merchants are believed to have created a reflective signaling system on Pantelleria’s highest points to transmit coded messages between Sicily and North Africa. Using mirrors and the intense Mediterranean sun, they communicated across long distances to relay information about pirate movements and trade routes. Though no physical evidence remains, island elders speak of «The Mirror of Pantelleria», a device that allegedly saved countless merchant ships from falling into enemy hands.
The unsolved mystery of Grotta del Baggio
The Grotta del Baggio is a little-known cave near the Montagna Grande where locals claim strange lights and sounds have been seen and heard over the years. Some believe the cave holds the spirits of ancient warriors who died defending Pantelleria from invaders. Others suggest the lights are a natural phenomenon linked to volcanic gases escaping through cracks in the cave’s surface. Despite various expeditions, no conclusive explanation has ever been found, adding to the island’s aura of mystery.
Pantelleria’s lost caper seeds: a gift from the Arabs
Pantelleria’s famous capers were introduced by the Arabs centuries ago, but legend has it that the original seeds were a gift from an exiled Arab prince who sought refuge on the island. Grateful for the hospitality he received, he left behind seeds that flourished in Pantelleria’s volcanic soil. Today, Pantelleria’s capers are protected by EU Geographic Indication (IGP) status and are considered some of the finest in the world.
Pantelleria’s whispering winds
Locals say that the wind that blows across Pantelleria often carries «whispers from the past,» as if the island itself is telling stories of its rich and layered history. Whether true or not, these whispers continue to captivate the imagination of those who visit this timeless island.
Top attractions and what to do
Grotta Benikula: Pantelleria's natural volcanic sauna
Grotta Benikula, also known as the Benikulà Cave, is one of Pantelleria’s most unique natural wonders. Perched high on the Montagna Grande (the island’s highest point at 836 meters), this hidden gem offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience a natural volcanic sauna surrounded by the rugged beauty of the island.
What makes Grotta Benikula special?
Grotta Benikula is a fumarole cave, where volcanic heat seeps through fissures in the earth, producing a natural steam bath. Inside the cave, the temperature can reach around 38-40°C (100-104°F), creating a warm and relaxing environment that locals and visitors alike swear by for its therapeutic benefits.
The natural sauna experience
Upon entering the cave, you’ll feel the immediate warmth of the volcanic steam. The experience is both soothing and invigorating, making it an ideal stop after a long day of exploring the island. Many visitors sit or lie down on the warm rocks, allowing the mineral-rich steam to open their pores and promote deep relaxation.
Legends and local beliefs
Locals have long believed that the steam from Grotta Benikula has healing properties, particularly for respiratory conditions, muscle tension, and stress relief. Some even refer to it as the «Cave of Healing», where ancient islanders would come to recover and rejuvenate.
How to get there
Location: Montagna Grande, Pantelleria National Park
Access: Reachable by hiking trails from nearby villages or by car followed by a short walk.
Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit Grotta Benikula is in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures outside are cooler, enhancing the contrast between the cave’s warmth and the fresh island breeze.
Ancient thermal rituals
Grotta Benikula is believed to have been used by ancient inhabitants of Pantelleria for ritualistic and therapeutic purposes. The concept of volcanic steam baths dates back to ancient civilizations, and this natural sauna continues that age-old tradition, making it a living testament to Pantelleria’s volcanic heritage.
Lago di Venere: Pantelleria’s turquoise jewel
Lago di Venere (Lake of Venus) is one of Pantelleria’s most iconic and breathtaking natural wonders. Nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano, this shimmering turquoise lake offers not just stunning views but also mineral-rich waters and mud with reputed healing properties.
The legend behind the name
According to local legend, the goddess Venus used the lake’s reflective waters as her mirror before meeting her lover, Mars. Enchanted by her own beauty, she blessed the lake, giving it its name and mystical allure.
Natural formation and unique properties
Lago di Venere is a volcanic crater lake fed by thermal springs and rainfall, with temperatures ranging from 40°C to 50°C (104°F to 122°F) in some areas. The lake’s turquoise hue is due to its high mineral content and geothermal activity beneath the surface.
The lake is renowned for its mineral-rich mud, which locals and visitors apply as a natural skin treatment. The mud is said to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin, making it soft and glowing after it dries and is rinsed off in the warm lake water.
Therapeutic and spa-like experience
Mud Baths: Visitors slather themselves with the lake’s volcanic mud, rich in sulfur and other minerals believed to have detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties.
Warm Waters: The warm geothermal waters create a natural spa experience, attracting those seeking relief from muscle pain, arthritis, and skin conditions.
Activities around the lake
Mud Therapy: Coat yourself with mineral mud and let it dry under the Mediterranean sun before rinsing off in the lake.
Birdwatching: The lake attracts migratory birds, making it a serene spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Walking and Hiking: Explore the trails surrounding the lake for panoramic views of the crater and the island.
How to get there
Location: Northern Pantelleria, about 15 minutes by car from the main town.
Access: Easily reachable by car or bicycle, with parking available nearby.
Best time to visit
The best time to experience Lago di Venere is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
Nature’s beauty secret
Locals swear by the lake’s mud as a «fountain of youth», believing it has anti-aging properties. Visitors often leave with noticeably smoother skin, giving Lago di Venere a reputation as Pantelleria’s natural beauty spa.
Sesi Tombs: Pantelleria’s mysterious bronze age burial site
The Sesi Tombs are among Pantelleria’s most enigmatic and ancient archaeological sites, dating back to the Bronze Age (circa 1800–1500 BCE). These megalithic burial structures, resembling miniature pyramids or domed beehives, offer a glimpse into the island’s prehistoric past and the sophisticated engineering skills of its earliest inhabitants.
Who built the Sesi Tombs?
The Sesioti people, a mysterious Bronze Age civilization, constructed these tombs. Little is known about them, but archaeological evidence suggests that they had connections with Mediterranean cultures such as the Minoans and Phoenicians. The Sesioti are believed to have inhabited Pantelleria long before the arrival of the Phoenicians and Romans.
Architectural marvels of the bronze age
The Sesi Tombs are built using lava stone from Pantelleria’s volcanic terrain, with some tombs standing up to 6 meters (20 feet) high. The structures are circular with a narrow entrance leading to a small chamber where the deceased were buried.
Complex structure: The tombs feature corbelled walls, a technique where stones are stacked to form a dome-like structure, similar to the Nuragic architecture of Sardinia.
Main Necropolis: The largest collection of Sesi Tombs is located at Mursia, on Pantelleria’s northwestern coast, where around 60 tombs have been uncovered.
Burial practices and beliefs
The Sesioti practiced collective burial, with multiple individuals buried within the same tomb. Archaeologists have found skeletal remains, pottery, and other artifacts inside the tombs, suggesting that burial rituals included offerings to accompany the deceased in the afterlife.
Discovering the Sesi Tombs
The Sesi Tombs were first brought to light in the 19th century by archaeologists, but major excavations took place in the 20th century, uncovering the secrets of this ancient civilization. Despite their discovery, the exact origins and cultural practices of the Sesioti people remain a mystery.
How to get there
Location: The main Sesi Necropolis is located near Mursia, on the northwestern coast of Pantelleria.
Access: Easily accessible by car or bicycle, with walking trails leading to the site.
Best time to visit
Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy exploring the site in cooler temperatures. The panoramic views of the coastline add to the experience.
Pantelleria’s answer to the pyramids
Often referred to as «Pantelleria’s Pyramids», the Sesi Tombs bear a striking resemblance to other prehistoric burial monuments across the Mediterranean, adding to the island’s aura of ancient mystery.
Pantelleria national park
Pantelleria National Park (Parco Nazionale dell'Isola di Pantelleria) is a vast natural reserve that covers 80% of Pantelleria’s surface, making it one of Italy’s largest protected areas. Established in 2016, the park was created to preserve the island’s remarkable biodiversity, unique volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
Volcanic wonders and geological marvels
Pantelleria’s volcanic origins are on full display throughout the national park.
The island itself is the emerged tip of a submerged volcanic complex and features fumaroles, hot springs, and lava formations that showcase its geothermal activity.
Montagna Grande: The island’s highest point at 836 meters (2,742 feet) offers panoramic views of the island and beyond. It is a favorite among hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Favare Fumaroles: These natural vents release hot steam from underground volcanic activity, creating a dramatic sight as vapor rises from the earth.
Cala Gadir Hot Springs: Thermal waters emerge from beneath the sea, creating natural hot pools perfect for soaking and relaxation.
Rich biodiversity and unique flora
Pantelleria National Park is home to over 600 species of plants, including many rare and endemic varieties. The island’s unique ecosystem blends Mediterranean and African influences, resulting in a diverse array of flora.
Zibibbo Vineyards: Recognized by UNESCO as part of the island’s cultural heritage, the ancient practice of cultivating Zibibbo grapes in alberello pantesco style (low bush vines) continues within the park’s boundaries.
Capers and Olive Groves: The park protects centuries-old terraces where capers and olives thrive in the volcanic soil, adding to Pantelleria’s agricultural identity.
Top things to do in Pantelleria national park
Hiking and Trekking: Explore trails that wind through lava fields, terraced vineyards, and fumaroles. Popular routes include:
Montagna Grande Trail: Ideal for panoramic views and birdwatching.
Favare Trail: Leads to fumaroles emitting volcanic steam.
Birdwatching: The park is a vital stopover for migratory birds traveling between Africa and Europe, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Explore Ancient Dammusi: Discover traditional dammusi dwellings scattered across the park, blending history with natural beauty.
Thermal Baths and Relaxation: Soak in the natural thermal springs, particularly at Cala Gadir and Specchio di Venere, for a rejuvenating experience.
How to get there
Location: The national park covers most of Pantelleria, accessible by car or on foot.
Main Access Points: Entry points are located near major villages like Pantelleria Town and Scauri.
Best time to visit
The best time to explore Pantelleria National Park is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and nature is at its most vibrant. Summer can be hot, but early morning and late afternoon hikes offer pleasant conditions.
Unesco heritage within the park
Pantelleria’s Zibibbo vineyards, cultivated using the ancient alberello pantesco method, are part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, highlighting the island’s rich agricultural traditions preserved within the park’s boundaries.
Where to stay and eat
Accommodations
Sikelia Luxury Retreat: A five-star boutique hotel housed in restored dammusi with modern comforts.
Resort Village Kuddie Rosse: A mid-range option with stunning views and easy access to the coast.
Agriturismo Zubebi: An eco-friendly stay surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
Restaurants
Osteria Il Principe e Il Pirata: Famous for its seafood dishes and breathtaking sunset views.
Trattoria Pantesca: A cozy spot known for authentic capers, pasta, and local wines.
La Nicchia: Offers traditional dishes like couscous alla pantesca with Mediterranean spices.
Did you know that...
Giorgio Armani’s Hideaway: Fashion icon Giorgio Armani spends his summers on Pantelleria, calling it his personal paradise. His presence has quietly drawn a circle of A-list visitors to the island.
Dammusi Secrets: These iconic stone houses date back to the Arab period. Their thick walls not only insulate from the heat but also capture and store rainwater—a centuries-old engineering marvel.
Hollywood Fame: Pantelleria was the filming location for the 2015 movie A Bigger Splash starring Ralph Fiennes and Tilda Swinton, showcasing the island’s rugged charm to an international audience.
Capers Capital: Pantelleria is famous for producing some of the world’s finest capers, which grow wild in the island’s volcanic soil. These tiny buds are protected by EU geographical status.
Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit Pantelleria is between May and September when the weather is warm, and the sea is perfect for swimming. Avoid the peak heat of July and August if you prefer a quieter experience.
Dammuso: Pantelleria’s iconic stone house
A dammuso (plural: dammusi) is a traditional stone dwelling unique to Pantelleria. These iconic structures, built from volcanic lava stone, have been part of the island’s landscape since Arab rule in the 9th century and remain a symbol of Pantelleria’s architectural heritage.
Unique design and purpose
The design of the dammuso reflects both practicality and elegance, perfectly adapted to Pantelleria’s hot summers and unpredictable weather.
Thick Lava Stone Walls: The walls, often over 1 meter thick, provide excellent insulation, keeping the interiors cool in summer and warm in winter.
Domed Roofs: The roofs are designed to collect rainwater, which is then funneled into underground cisterns, ensuring a reliable water supply—an essential feature on an arid island like Pantelleria.
Small Windows: Minimize heat while allowing just enough light to enter.
Origins and Arab influence
The Arabs, who ruled Pantelleria from the 8th to the 12th century, introduced the design of the dammuso. Their influence is seen in the use of lava stone and domed roofing techniques, similar to North African architecture. This fusion of Arab and Sicilian styles is one of Pantelleria’s most enduring cultural legacies.
Traditional vs. modern dammusi
Traditional Dammusi: Often smaller, with minimalistic interiors and a rustic charm. These structures were historically used as homes by farmers and shepherds.
Modern Dammusi: Many dammusi have been restored and converted into luxurious vacation villas, blending modern amenities with the original architectural charm. Upscale dammusi often include infinity pools, outdoor lounges, and panoramic terraces overlooking the sea.
Living in a dammuso
Staying in a dammuso offers a unique island experience, combining comfort with a deep connection to Pantelleria’s history. Many long-term visitors and expatriates prefer renting or purchasing dammusi due to their durability, cool interiors, and cultural significance.
Price to rent or buy a dammuso
Rental (short-term): €80–€150 per night for a basic dammuso, and up to €300–€500 per night for luxury villas.
Long-term rental: €1,200–€2,000 per month for fully equipped dammusi with modern amenities.
Buying a Dammuso: Prices range from €200,000 for a small, unrenovated dammuso to over €1 million for a restored luxury property with land and sea views.
Water harvesting genius
The domed roof design of a dammuso isn’t just for aesthetics—it efficiently captures rainwater and directs it into underground cisterns. This ancient irrigation technique, introduced by the Arabs, continues to sustain life on the island today.
Cost guide for Pantelleria in 2025
Groceries and alcohol prices
Grocery prices in Pantelleria are slightly higher than on mainland Italy due to the island’s remote location and import costs.
Milk (1 liter): €1.80–€2.20
Bread (500g loaf): €1.50–€2.00
Eggs (12): €3.50–€4.50
Local Cheese (1 kg): €12–€16
Tomatoes (1 kg): €2.50–€3.50
Potatoes (1 kg): €1.80–€2.50
Olive Oil (1 liter): €8–€12
Water (1.5-liter bottle): €1.00–€1.50
Imported Beer (0.33L bottle): €2.00–€3.00
Local Wine (750ml bottle): €5–€8
Liquor (1 liter of mid-range): €12–€20
Restaurant prices
Dining out in Pantelleria ranges from casual trattorias to upscale restaurants. Seafood, local caper dishes, and Zibibbo wine are the island’s culinary highlights.
Inexpensive meal for 1: €12–€18
Three-course meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant: €45–€60
Pizza at a local pizzeria: €8–€12
Seafood plate at a trattoria: €18–€25
Cappuccino: €1.50–€2.00
Glass of local wine: €3–€5
Accommodations
Pantelleria offers a variety of accommodation options, from traditional dammusi houses to modern hotels and luxury villas.
short-term stays
Budget B&Bs: €50–€80 per night
Mid-range hotels: €90–€150 per night
Luxury resorts and villas: €180–€400 per night
long-term rentals
For those considering an extended stay, long-term rentals on Pantelleria are available, often in the form of traditional dammusi or apartments.
Small apartment (1 bedroom): €400–€600 per month
Larger apartment (2-3 bedrooms): €700–€1,000 per month
Luxury dammuso with amenities: €1,200–€2,000 per month
Transport and getting around
public transport
Local buses: Limited but available, primarily connecting Pantelleria Town with the island’s main attractions.
One-way ticket: €1.50–€2.00
Day pass: €5.00
Car and motorcycle rental
Renting a vehicle is the best way to explore Pantelleria’s rugged landscapes and hidden gems.
Car rental (small/compact): €35–€50 per day in low season, €60–€80 per day in peak season.
SUV or larger vehicle: €70–€120 per day.
Motorcycle/scooter rental: €25–€40 per day.
Long-term vehicle rental
For those staying longer, long-term vehicle rentals offer better rates.
Small car (monthly): €600–€900 per month.
Motorcycle or scooter (monthly): €300–€450 per month.
Ferry prices to and from Pantelleria
As previously mentioned:
Siremar Ferries: €40–€50 one way, €100–€120 with a vehicle.
Liberty Lines Hydrofoil: €70–€85 one way, faster but only available in summer.
Cost-saving tip for long stays
Renting a dammuso for a long-term stay can often include access to local gardens with capers, olive groves, and even vineyards—offering a taste of authentic island life.
Traditional food of Pantelleria: A blend of Arab and Sicilian flavors
Pantelleria’s cuisine is a fascinating blend of Sicilian and North African influences, reflecting the island’s rich history under Arab, Roman, and Norman rule. The volcanic soil and Mediterranean climate contribute to the cultivation of unique ingredients, particularly capers, olives, and Zibibbo grapes, which define the island’s culinary identity.
Couscous alla pantesca
Couscous alla pantesca is Pantelleria’s version of the classic North African dish, introduced during Arab rule. Unlike traditional Sicilian couscous made with fish broth, Pantelleria’s version often combines vegetables, legumes, and seafood, reflecting the island’s agricultural and coastal bounty.
Ingredients: Couscous, fresh vegetables, capers, olives, and local fish (such as grouper or scorpionfish).
Served With: A drizzle of olive oil and a dash of Zibibbo wine vinegar for added tang.
Pesto pantesco
Pesto Pantesco is a bold, sun-kissed sauce that embodies the flavors of Pantelleria. Unlike the more famous Genoese pesto, this version uses tomatoes, capers, almonds, and fresh basil, creating a tangy and aromatic topping perfect for pasta.
Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, almonds, capers, chili, olive oil.
How It’s Used: Typically served with busiate (a twisted Sicilian pasta) or spread over toasted bread as an appetizer.
Insalata pantesca
Insalata Pantesca is a refreshing island salad that highlights Pantelleria’s signature capers and fresh vegetables, often enjoyed during the hot summer months.
Ingredients: Boiled potatoes, red onions, cherry tomatoes, capers, olives, and oregano.
Dressing: Extra virgin olive oil, vinegar, and a sprinkle of sea salt. Locals say the secret to a perfect Insalata Pantesca is letting the salad rest for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Baci panteschi
Baci Panteschi (Pantelleria kisses) are a beloved island dessert that combines crispy fried pastry with sweet ricotta filling. These indulgent treats are often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations.
Ingredients: Thin sheets of fried dough filled with ricotta cheese, sugar, and cinnamon.
Served With: A dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
Tradition: Locals say that sharing Baci Panteschi with a loved one brings good luck.
Sciakisciuka (Caponata pantesca)
Sciakisciuka (pronounced sha-kee-shoo-ka) is Pantelleria’s version of the classic Sicilian caponata, a hearty vegetable dish that celebrates the island’s sun-ripened produce.
Ingredients: Eggplants, zucchini, tomatoes, peppers, onions, capers, and olives.
Cooking method: Slowly simmered in olive oil and served warm or cold.
Arab influence: The dish’s sweet-and-sour flavors are reminiscent of Middle Eastern culinary traditions.
Gamberi rossi di Pantelleria
Gamberi Rossi di Pantelleria (red prawns) are a delicacy caught off the island’s coast, known for their sweet, succulent flavor. Often served raw or lightly grilled, they are a highlight of any seafood lover’s culinary journey on the island.
Best Preparation: Raw, with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of sea salt, or grilled to enhance their natural sweetness.
Paired With: A glass of chilled Zibibbo wine.
Capers of Pantelleria (Cucunci)
Pantelleria’s famous capers, or cucunci (the caper berry), are considered some of the best in the world due to the island’s volcanic soil and unique microclimate. These tiny buds are harvested by hand and preserved in salt to enhance their briny flavor.
Where They Appear: Capers are a staple in Insalata Pantesca, Pesto Pantesco, and countless other local dishes.
Protected Status: Pantelleria’s capers have EU Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status.
Paté di capperi (caper paste)
Paté di Capperi is a flavorful spread made from Pantelleria’s prized capers, blended with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. It’s often used as a condiment or spread on toasted bread.
Taste Profile: Salty, tangy, and aromatic.
Uses: Perfect as a bruschetta topping or an addition to pasta dishes.
Passito di Pantelleria
Passito di Pantelleria is the island’s most famous dessert wine, made from Zibibbo grapes (Muscat of Alexandria), which are sun-dried to concentrate their sweetness. The wine has a rich, amber color and a flavor profile that combines honey, apricots, and dried figs.
Pairing: Traditionally served with desserts like Baci Panteschi or local almond pastries.
UNESCO Recognition: The cultivation of Zibibbo grapes in alberello pantesco style is recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
Mustazzola
Mustazzola are traditional almond cookies made with honey, spices, and citrus zest. These chewy delights are often served during religious festivals and family celebrations.
Ingredients: Almond flour, honey, cinnamon, cloves, and lemon zest.
Best Enjoyed With: A glass of Passito di Pantelleria.
Pantelleria’s capers are harvested by moonlight
Locals believe that harvesting capers during the early morning hours or by moonlight enhances their flavor and preserves their delicate texture. This age-old tradition adds a touch of mystique to one of the island’s most cherished ingredients.
