With a surface of 37.5 square kilometers, 8 kilometers in length and 5 in width, Lipari is the largest of the Aeolian Islands. It is 40 kilometers off the Northern Sicilian coast and is the island that is best suited for long stays since it is perfect for day excursions, water sports, sailing, tours of the islands by car or by boat. The efficient transport services also make it the perfect base from which to visit the other islands. The municipality is the most important and governs the whole of the archipelago with the exception of Salina. The port of Sottomonastero , where the ferries and hydrofoils moor, is just a few minutes away from the heart of the town and the Castle. The main street of the island, going from north to south, is Via Vittorio Emanuele, and is the place for shopping and entertainment.