Filled with antiquities from the various ancient civilizations that have conquered, settled or simply marched through it, Sicily is a vivid collage of sights and sounds for those visiting on a yachting holiday. The seven islands that comprise the Aeolians, in contrast, are supremely scenic places in which to do absolutely nothing but to do it in style. This is the reason so many top names from the Italian fashion world gravitate here to laze on the quiet beaches. Any southern Mediterranean yacht charter itinerary should include both Sicily and the Aeolian Islands.

Why Go: Cafés serving rustic combinations of earthy ingredients, islands of great beauty populated by a very fashionable crowd and spectacular Greek ruins.

When to Go: May-September.

Essential Ports: Stromboli, Panarea, Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Filucudi, Taormina, Cefalu and Palermo.

Essential Experiences: The ruins in Agrigento, Siracusa, Villa Sant’Andrea in Taormina, the ancient Greek Temple of Segesta, lunch in a small café tucked into the teeming Vucciria market in Palermo, sundowners or dinner on the terrace of Hotel Raya on Panarea. Marvel at the volcano on Stromboli spraying gleaming embers into the night sky.

Local Favorite: The Ristorante Da Pina on Panarea. Don’t miss the Moscardini, or baby octopus when they’re in season, and order the fish soup a day in advance. And if you’re near Salina, stop by Da Alfredo for the best granita, particularly if fig is the flavor of the day.