Stromboli

At the foot of one of the trails to the 400-meter platform at the Sciara del Fuoco. Food is nothing special, but entirely serviceable, and the setting is highly atmospheric.

"Mediterranean" fare rather than mainstream Italian, ranging from very good to outright sensational depending on the mood of the owner/chef. The sepia-ink pasta is not to be missed, and some of the tuna dishes are extraordinary. Reservations recommended.

You don't have a lot of choices in the remote fishing village of Ginostra, but fortunately, this, the primary one, is excellent for lunch.

If there's any place in Stromboli village that can be called "bustling," it's probably this open-air bar and restaurant next to the large church. Gorgeous views out to sea, excellent kitchen and adequate munchies to accompany your libations as you enjoy the view.

Traditional Strombolian fish restaurant

A lovely wine bar/bistrot surrounded by a beautiful garden and a breath-taking view of the volcano. A good place for a glass of wine or cocktail at happy hour or for dinner with a delicious and authentic meal. The place is open in the morning too, offering a wide range of fruits salads and fresh fruit juices. Excellent music selection.

Open April-October. Rooms from €47, with seasonal variations. Comfortable accommodations overlooking the beach, west of the main part of the village but within easy walking distance of the town and dock. Luggage can be ported up from the dock by prior arrangement (small charge). Multilingual staff, which isn't automatic in the islands.

Il Gabbiano Relais in Stromboli offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool and free WiFi. The accommodation has a spa bath. Featuring a terrace, all units have air-conditioned and include a dining area and a seating area with a cable flat-screen TV. Some units also have a kitchen equipped with a microwave. An Italian breakfast is available each morning at the aparthotel. Guests can also relax in the garden or in the common areas viewing both the sea and the volcano.