Choose from 68 Fun Things to Do in Sicily
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Greek Theater
Syracuse’s Greek Theater (Teatro Greco) was one of the largest in the world when it was constructed, able to seat up the 16,000 spectators. Hewn directly from the side of the Temenite Hill overlooking the Sicilian countryside, the stone theater is a highlight of the UNESCO-listed Neapolis Archaeological Park.
The Basics
Originally dating from the fifth century BC, the Greek Theater was rebuilt several times, including during the Roman era. The original theater had 67 rows for audience members, though subsequent modifications over the centuries decreased the theater’s size somewhat. The site was excavated in the 19th century, and has been used for summer musical and theatrical performances for the past 100 years. A must for ancient history buffs, the Greek Theater is part of the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis complex just outside the city of Syracuse, along with a third-century-BC sacrificial altar, second-century Roman amphitheater, and ancient limestone quarry.
Because of its archaeological importance and history spanning centuries, it's best to visit the Green Theater with a guide as part of a Neapolis Archaeological Park walking tour from Syracuse, Taormina, or Catania. You can also combine a tour of the park with day trips to the nearby towns of Ortigia and Noto.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tours of the Greek Theater require walking over uneven terrain, so wear sturdy shoes; a hat and sunscreen are useful as well.
- Because of the rough terrain, the Neapolis Archaeological Park is not accessible to wheelchairs.
- In late spring, the Greek Theater begins its annual season of classical theater performances, and may be partially covered by wooden seating and stage structures.
- A tour of the theater is particularly interesting for fans of archaeology.
How to Get There
The Neapolis Archaeological Park is located just outside the center of Syracuse, an easy walk from the town or train station.
When to Get There
The open-air theater can get uncomfortably hot under the Sicilian sun in the summer, so plan to visit first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon. The Teatro Greco may close earlier than usual on days when performances are scheduled.
Other Highlights of the Neapolis Archaeological Park
In addition to the Teatro Greco, visitors to Neapolis can tour the Teatro Romano that once hosted gladiatorial combats and horse races, the Ara di Gerone II monolithic altar dedicated to Heron II, and the labyrinthine Latomia del Paradiso quarry complex.
Address: Via del Teatro Greco, Syracuse 96100, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 28
Alcantara Gorges
Following the path of an ancient Mt. Etna lava flow, Sicily’s Alcantara River carved intricate ravines and underground passages through the volcanic rock. The resulting Alcantara Gorges are part of the Alcantara River Park, popular with travelers drawn to the beautiful rock formations and the refreshing river water, especially in summer.
The Basics
A visit to the Alcantara Gorges (Gole dell’Alcantara) can include a simple walk through the park, or a more challenging hike down into the canyons—including some more than 200 feet (61 meters) deep—for river trekking. By far the simplest way to manage the logistics of getting to and from the Alcantara Gorges from the Sicilian cities of Taormina, Messina, and Catania is to join a small-group tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation to the Alcantara River Park, and an expert guide. Many full-day tours of Mt. Etna and Alcantara also offer wine tastings at the nearby vineyards, hikes up to the active volcano crater, and a ride on the historic Circumetnea Railway.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring sturdy footwear, a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water, especially if you plan to hike down into the gorges.
- The Alcantara River Park entrance fee is not included in many group tours.
- Because of the rough terrain, hiking the gorges is not recommended for young children or those who are not in good physical condition.
- Along the top of the ravines, there are easy trails, suitable for all ages and physical conditions, that take you through the park’s botanical gardens and past a number of scenic viewpoints.
How to Get There
The main entrance to the Alcantara River Park is about 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) from Taormina. You can reach it easily by car, tour bus, or public bus.
When to Get There
The park is lovely to visit year-round due to Sicily’s mild climate, though is most pleasant in summer’s cooler early morning or late afternoon hours. The park can be very crowded in August, when Italians traditionally go on summer vacation, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time if you want to appreciate the park in relative peace and quiet.
Alcantara River Park Facilities
The Alcantara River Park entrance fee gives you access to two swimming pools, a 3D film presentation explaining the evolution of the canyon, a botanical museum, a restaurant, and an elevator down into the canyon.
Address: Alcantra, Sicily, Italy
From $ 52
Greek Theatre (Teatro Greco)
One of Taormina’s most spectacular sights is its 2nd-century Greek Theatre (Teatro Greco), which, despite its name, is actually an ancient Roman amphitheater built in the Greek style. Sitting high above the coast, the theater has beautiful views over Taormina, the Sicilian coastline, and Mount Etna.
The Basics
The original structure of Taormina’s Greek Theater dates from the 3rd century BC—though it was renovated in brick by the Romans based on the Greek Corinthian design 500 years later—and could once seat over 5,000 spectators. The theater is the second-largest in Sicily (after the Greek Theater in Syracuse), and the stage’s original rear wall and wings are miraculously intact. The theater, which is still used as a venue for concerts and performances, has impeccable acoustics and memorable views.
Because of its archaeological and historical importance, it's best to visit the Greek Theater with a guide as part of a Taormina sightseeing tour. Many day trips and shore excursions to Taormina depart from Syracuse, Messina, or Catania. You can also combine a tour of Taormina and the Greek Theater with visits to the nearby town of Castelmola and the peak of Mount Etna.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Greek Theater is not accessible to wheelchairs.
- On concert and performance nights in summer, the theater may close early.
- A theater tour is particularly interesting for archaeology buffs.
- The theater is outdoors, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen.
How to Get There
The Greek Theater, located just outside the center of Taormina, is an easy walk from the town. Taormina is a popular day trip from the larger Sicilian towns of Messina, Syracuse, and Catania.
When to Get There
The open-air theater can get uncomfortably hot under the Sicilian sun in summer, so plan to visit first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon. The Teatro Greco may close earlier than usual on days when performances are scheduled.
Isola Bella, The Beautiful Island
One of Taormina’s other popular attractions is Isola Bella, a tiny rocky outcrop off the Lido Mazzaro beach that’s connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand. This picturesque point, which was gifted to Taormina in 1806 by the King of Sicily, is now a nature reserve.
Address: Teatro Greco, Taormina, Sicily, Italy
From $ 80
Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island)
Sedir Island is best known as Cleopatra Island, named after the pharaoh who allegedly met her lover Marc Antony on its shores. Forever romanticized by its connection with the iconic lovers, this small island in the Gulf of Gökova is now a popular stop on boat cruises and jeep safaris from Marmaris.
Cleopatra Island’s second claim to fame is its unusually textured sands, made up of smooth white, ground seashells. To preserve this one-of-a-kind sand, visitors are required to leave their belongings and shoes at the entrance to the beach. Removing the sand is strictly prohibited. Typically, such sand can only be found on Egyptian shores, fueling the legend that Marc Antony had it shipped in to Sedir Island from North Africa in an attempt to woo his mistress.
The island also has an additional sandy beach, popular among swimmers and sunbathers, that is home to a number of Roman ruins, including an agora and an amphitheater that dates back to the fourth century B.C.
Practical Info
Cleopatra Island is reachable only by boat. It is located off Turkey’s southwestern coast, about 25 kilometers from Marmaris.
Address: Marmaris, Turkey
From $ 29
Aci Castello
Set on the eastern coast of Sicily, Aci Castello (also known as Acicastello) is famous for its 11th-century Norman castle, which towers above the town and overlooks the dramatic lava-rock coastline. With beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, and a resort-town atmosphere, Aci Castello is a popular day trip from nearby Catania.
The Basics
The castle that gives Aci Castello its name was built by the Normans on the remains of a seventh-century fort. Today, the castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions along this stretch of coastline, sitting dramatically on a rock outcropping that juts into the sea.
The castle is home to the Civic Museum, which includes sections devoted to local paleontology, mineralogy, and archaeology. In addition to the historic castle, Aci Castello and the neighboring seaside town of Aci Trezzi offer some lovely beaches. Aci Castello is just north of Catania along the coast, and is an easy day trip from the city. For an especially memorable day, book a sailing tour from Catania to explore this area by sea.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Whether you’re taking a boat tour or exploring the town on foot, bring your swimsuit, because the beaches are so nice, you will want to take a dip.
- Don't forget a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water to stave off the heat.
- To take a boat tour, passengers must be agile enough to board and disembark, so travelers with limited mobility should confirm accessibility before booking.
- The castle is perched in a dramatic position that makes it quite photogenic, so be sure to bring your camera.
- A boat tour or beach trip to Aci Castello is a fun break for children, who also enjoy touring the austere castle.
How to Get to There
Aci Castello is located along the eastern coast of Sicily, which is known as the Cyclops Riviera. It is about 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) north of Catania and 33 miles (53 kilometers) south of Taormina. It’s difficult to reach the town by public transportation, so opt for a tour by land or by boat that includes transportation.
When to Get There
Aci Castello is most crowded in summer, when Sicilians flock to its beaches to escape the heat. Late spring and early fall offer days that are warm enough to take a swim in the crystalline waters off the lava-rock coast without the hassle of large summer crowds.
The Legend of the Cyclops Riviera
Just off the coast, a number of faraglioni (sea stacks) jut out of the sea like soaring rock columns. These are known as the Isole dei Ciclopi, or Cyclops’ Islands. Legends abound about the Cyclops who are said to have lived along this stretch of coastline known as the Cyclops Riviera, and the islands are said to be boulders that the mythical creatures tossed into the sea.
Address: Aci Castello, Sicily, Italy
From $ 145
Agrigento Archaeological Museum
One of the most significant collections in Sicily, the Archaeological Museum of Agrigento displays hundreds of artifacts from the ancient Greek colony of Akragas that once inhabited the area. Akragas proved to be one of the most important settlements of ancient Greece, and the museum has some of the best preserved pieces of Greek art and architecture that exist outside of Greece.
The museum has a impressive amount of large statues from the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site the Valley of the Temples, some dating back to the 1st century. Its permanent collection consists largely of the items excavated when the site was first discovered. Thousands of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, coins, and art, collectively tell the history of Akragas dating back to prehistory.
Exhibitions are organized in chronological and topographical order, so it’s easy to trace the steps of time from this ancient city to the present. The museum itself sits where the upper agora or town center of Akragas once stood. There’s also a panoramic view of the valley itself from the entrance to the museum.
Practical Info
The museum can be found on the Contrada San Nicola, just outside of Agrigento town. Exhibitions are divided into two complementary sections which give the nearby Valley of the Temples great context. Buses from town to the temples stop near the museum. It costs 8 Euros to enter and is open daily from 9 am to 1:30 pm, with hours until 7:30 pm Tuesday to Saturday.
Address: Contrada San Nicola, 12, Agrigento, Sicily, Italy
Hours: Tues-Sat from 9am-7:30pm and Sun-Mon from 9am-1:30pm
Admission: 8€
From $ 58
Chiesa San Giuseppe
Experience some of the best of Sicilian Baroque architecture by heading to Ragusa’s old town, called Ragusa Ibla, where you’ll find Chiesa San Giuseppe, or San Giuseppe Church. Dating back to the 1700s, it was constructed atop an earlier church, which was destroyed by the earthquake of 1693.
Its impressive façade, featuring an elaborate Baroque bell town, is very much the star of Piazza Pola. The oval-shaped interior dazzles too, complete with a frescoed cupola, and — take note — high-up wooden grate-covered lookouts from which the nuns can participate in services. If you like what you see here, head to nearby Chiesa San Giorgio, which features a similarly extravagant façade — so similar in fact, that it is believed that the church’s designer, Gagliardi, also designed Chiesa San Giuseppe.
Practical Info
Chiesa San Giuseppe is located in Ragusa’s old town, called Ragusa Ibla. Regular buses make their way to Ragusa from Catania, Syracuse and Modica.
Address: Piazza Pola, Ragusa 97100, Italy
From $ 60
Corso Umberto I
The Corso Umberto I is the main street in Taormina, running from one end of the historic center to the other. This pedestrian-only avenue is, as you might imagine, lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels, all beckoning the countless tourists who amble by each day during the high season. But it’s not just a tourist street - locals enjoy strolling along the Corso Umberto I, too.
Taormina’s Medieval Quarter is one of the prettiest sections of the city, and Corso Umberto I cuts right through its middle. The clock tower that marks the start of the Medieval Quarter is actually in an arched tower that spans the Corso Umberto I. The particularly picturesque Piazza Aprile IX sits along the famous street, and it’s one of the most popular places to pause and do some people-watching. The view from the piazza over the water is lovely, and the piazza itself is a beautiful backdrop to whatever is going on.
Further down the Corso Umberto I is another piazza, the Piazza Duomo in front of Taormina’s cathedral. This is another good place for a pause - many hang out on or near the Baroque fountain at the center of the piazza.
Taormina’s Medieval Quarter is one of the prettiest sections of the city, and Corso Umberto I cuts right through its middle. The clock tower that marks the start of the Medieval Quarter is actually in an arched tower that spans the Corso Umberto I. The particularly picturesque Piazza Aprile IX sits along the famous street, and it’s one of the most popular places to pause and do some people-watching. The view from the piazza over the water is lovely, and the piazza itself is a beautiful backdrop to whatever is going on.
Further down the Corso Umberto I is another piazza, the Piazza Duomo in front of Taormina’s cathedral. This is another good place for a pause - many hang out on or near the Baroque fountain at the center of the piazza.
Practical Info
Keep in mind that while you’ll find plenty of cheap souvenirs on offer
in shops along the Corso Umberto I, you’ll also find unique Sicilian
treats and crafts to take home, too. Plan to take your time wandering
this street - and many of the smaller streets that connect to it - in
order to find the hidden gems. For an insider look at this city’s most
famous street, take a walking tour of Taormina with an expert local
guide.
Address: Corso Umberto I, Taormina, Sicily, Italy
From $ 69
Castle Ursino
The most impressive vestige of medieval Catania is the formidable Castle Ursino (Castello Ursino), built by Emperor Frederick II in the early 13th century and now home to the Museo Civico (Civic Museum). Originally built high on the sea cliffs to guard the Sicilian coast, the castle was encircled by lava after the 17th century eruptions of the Mt Etna volcano and now stands 500 meters inland on the cusp of the modern city center.
Today, the landlocked castle houses an impressive array of artwork and artifacts, many taken from the personal collections of Prince of Biscari and including a series of Sicilian school paintings, a Hellenistic statue of Polyphemus, a Roman ‘Gladiators’ relief and sizable exhibitions of weaponry, sculptures and porcelain.
Practical Info
Castello Ursino is located in the Piazza Federico di Svevia in central Catania, just west of the port. The Catania Civic Museum is open daily from 8:30am to 1:30pm and admission is free.
Address: Piazza Federico di Svevia, Catania, Italy
From $ 115
Borgo Medievale
The town that we know today as Taormina is in an area in which there has been a settlement of some kind since the 8th century B.C.E. - but in the town itself one of the oldest neighborhoods is the Borgo Medievale, or medieval quarter.
Taormina’s historic core centers on the Borgo Medievale, with its picturesque cobblestone streets. The buildings themselves have been beautifully preserved, giving the whole quarter a postcard look. The main street in Taormina, Corso Umberto I, runs through the center of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile to the Piazza del Duomo.
You can begin your tour of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile and going through the arch in the 12th century clock tower. The tower was actually almost completely destroyed in the 17th century, and when it was rebuilt the clock was added. The tower serves as something of a gateway to the Borgo Medievale, most of which dates from the 15th century.
Today, Taormina’s Borgo Medievale is a great place to wander aimlessly to explore the pretty streets and buildings, shop in the souvenir stores and boutiques, and stop for a bite to eat in one of the cafes or restaurants.
Taormina’s historic core centers on the Borgo Medievale, with its picturesque cobblestone streets. The buildings themselves have been beautifully preserved, giving the whole quarter a postcard look. The main street in Taormina, Corso Umberto I, runs through the center of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile to the Piazza del Duomo.
You can begin your tour of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile and going through the arch in the 12th century clock tower. The tower was actually almost completely destroyed in the 17th century, and when it was rebuilt the clock was added. The tower serves as something of a gateway to the Borgo Medievale, most of which dates from the 15th century.
Today, Taormina’s Borgo Medievale is a great place to wander aimlessly to explore the pretty streets and buildings, shop in the souvenir stores and boutiques, and stop for a bite to eat in one of the cafes or restaurants.
Address: Borgo Medievale, Taormina, Sicily, Italy
From $ 115
Annunziata dei Catalani Church
This stunning example of 12 and 13th century religious architecture is one of the most-prized landmarks in all of Messina. That’s because a 1908 earthquake leveled much of the city but let this prestigious structure untouched. Today, Annunziata is used as a church for the nearby University, but travelers can still visit the place and take in much of its original splendor.
From the western entrance, travelers will find three ancient doors that decorate a remarkably well-preserved façade. Once inside, they’ll be greeted by towering Corinthian columns in yellow, white and red stone. An iconic statue of Don Juan of Austria—with his foot standing atop the head of Ali Bassa, an Ottoman leader—is located towards the rear of the church.
Practical Info
The church is located at Via Garibaldi Giuseppe, 111, 98122 Messina ME in Italy. It is between the Duomo and the University of Messina. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. It is free to enter.
Address: Via Garibaldi Giuseppe, 111, Messina ME 98122, Italy
Hours: Open Mon-Sat 9:30am-11:30am and Sun 9am-11:30am
From $ 22
House Museum of Soap (Casa Museo del Sapone)
The House Museum of Soap (Casa Museo del Sapone), created by an artisan soap company in their estate’s historic Sicilian farmhouse, is dedicated to the history and science of soap-making. You can view old presses and agricultural tools, see demonstrations, and even make your own soap during the guided tour.
The Basics
Surrounded by olive groves in the countryside outside of Sciacca, the House Museum of Soap sits next to the workshops where Saponi e Saponi make their artisan soaps and natural cosmetics from their estate’s extra-virgin olive oil. The 19th-century building that houses the museum was carefully renovated to preserve its original stonework and high ceilings. Then in 2015, the family who owns the company turned the farmhouse into a museum that traces the history of soap dating back to 2800 BC. The museum is open only for guided tours, so you must book ahead to visit; tours of the museum make for a fun day trip from Agrigento and include a workshop where you can make your own soap.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With its hands-on workshop, this is a fun stop for older kids and crafty folks.
- Tours are offered in English.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The House Museum of Soap is located in Contrada Cartabubbo, a country hamlet near Sciacca in the Agrigento area of southwest Sicily. There is no public transportation to the museum, so the best way to visit is by driving or joining a guided tour that includes transportation.
When to Get There
The museum is open year-round. Visits are by prebooked guided tours only, so there are no set hours.
Sciacca Toy Museum
If you would like to explore Sciacca further, consider visiting the Museo del Giocattolo Sciacca, a small but excellent toy museum in the center of town.
Address: Contrada Cartabubbo, Sciacca, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 6
Ear of Dionysius (Orecchio di Dionisio)
Set in the hills of the Sicilian town of Syracuse is a large cave with the evocative name of the Ear of Dionysius. The name does not, however, refer to the Greek god. The name, Orecchio di Dionisio in Italian, was given to the cave by 16th-century painter Caravaggio, who named it after a vicious fifth-century BCE ruler of Syracuse. He is said to have used the cave as a political prison, and the cave's incredible acoustics gave him the ability to eavesdrop on his enemies. Another legend says he once used the cave as a torture chamber.
While the legends are unlikely to be true, the name stuck. The primary acoustic position in the cave is no longer accessible to visitors due to safety concerns, but the cavern is still an impressive sight.
Practical Info
The Ear of Dionysius is part of a larger archaeological site that also includes a Greek theatre. The park is open Tuesday-Saturday 8:30am-4:30pm, and Mondays and holidays from 8:30am-12:30pm. Admission to the park is €10.
Address: 2 Viale Giulio Emanuele Rizzo, Syracuse, Sicily 96100, Italy
Hours: Park is open Tuesday-Saturday 8:30am-4:30pm, and Mondays and holidays from 8:30am-12:30pm
Admission: €10
From $ 28
Aeolian Islands
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Aeolian Islands comprise eight small volcanic islands off the northeastern coast of Sicily. Famous for beautiful coastlines and beaches, active volcanoes and mud baths, pretty resort towns, and leisurely pace, this archipelago is a popular day trip destination.
The Basics
The Aeolian Islands are popular during summer, when their beaches and fishing villages fill with tourists. The largest island, Lipari, is the main transportation hub for boats and ferries to the other islands. A few of the islands, such as Stromboli, still have active volcanoes. You can visit the islands on a day trip from Sicily by boat tour, or on a helicopter tour that includes Mt. Etna or Taormina.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring your swimsuit, whether you’re taking a boat tour or exploring the islands on foot, as the beaches are some of Sicily’s best for sunbathing and swimming.
- Remember a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water when visiting the islands.
- Passengers must be agile enough to board and disembark on boat tours, so those with limited mobility should confirm accessibility.
- A boat or helicopter tour to the Aeolian Islands is a fun break for kids.
How to Get There
The Aeolian Islands are situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the northern coast of Sicily and can be reached by ferry from Milazzo, or by private boat or helicopter tour from a number of ports and cities along the Sicilian coast.
When to Get There
The archipelago is famously crowded in summer, when Italian and European sun worshippers flock to its beaches. Late spring and early fall offer a more peaceful experience, because crowds are smaller but the days are still warm enough for visitors to swim or sunbathe.
The Eight Islands of the Aeolian Archipelago
The largest island is Lipari, where there is a permanent population of more than 10,000 people and a number of towns and fishing villages. Salina, Vulcano, and Panarea also have permanent residents and services, including transportation and accommodations. The smallest islands of Filicudi, Alicudi, and Basiluzzo are little more than islets with pretty coastlines and views.
Address: Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy
From $ 93
Capuchin Catacombs (Catacombe dei Cappuccini)
One of the most famous sights in Palermo—albeit a rather macabre one—is the extensive network of catacombs under the city’s historic Capuchin Monastery. The subterranean Capuchin Catacombs (Catacombe dei Cappuccini) are home to thousands of mummified remains in varying states of preservation dating from the 16th to 20th centuries.
The Basics
A small entrance fee is required to visit the Capuchin Catacombs. A stop here is included on some Palermo sightseeing tours, with the sight sometimes paired with a visit to the Monreale Cathedral. Visiting with a tour guide is the best way to understand the catacombs’ historical and religious significance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The catacombs are dark and often slightly humid, and may not be a suitable attraction for everyone—especially children or anyone who is claustrophobic.
- Taking photographs inside and touching the remains is prohibited—iron grills have been installed to protect the mummies.
- The underground catacombs are not accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
The Capuchin Catacombs are located beneath the Capuchin Monastery on Piazza Cappuccini in central Palermo. It’s about a 15-minute walk to the monastery from the city’s historic center.
When to Get There
The Capuchin crypts are open daily but closed on Sunday afternoons in winter. As one of the most important catacombs in Italy, the sight can get crowded in summer, so plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to experience the eerie atmosphere in peace and quiet.
History of the Capuchin Catacombs
The Capuchin friars began burying the deceased in crypts beneath the monastery in the 16th century. They soon discovered that the unique conditions in the catacombs combined with their own burial rituals preserved the bodies extremely well, and it wasn’t long before being buried in the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo—and therefore being preserved after death—was a status symbol and Sicilians began requesting this in their wills. Today, 1,252 mummified bodies remain divided among chambers dedicated to Capuchin monks, priests, virgins, professionals, women, men, and children, all encased in coffins or propped in poses. One of the last bodies to be placed in the catacombs is also the most famous: 2-year-old Rosalia Lombardo, who looks today as if she was just put down for a nap—though she’s been dead since 1920.
Address: Piazza Cappuccini, 1, Palermo, Italy
From $ 87
Castelmola
The town of Taormina sits high above the Mediterranean Sea, so it already boasts some of the loveliest views in Sicily. But the tiny town of Castelmola, which sits above Taormina, can argue its views are even better.
Little Castelmola is just over 1,700 feet above sea level - for comparison, Taormina sits at just under 670 feet - and is a great hiking destination from Taormina. It’s a challenging hike, as you’re going uphill and up staircases almost from the time you leave Taormina until you arrive in Castelmola, but the views and town are worth it.
It’s true that you can see Taormina’s beaches and the Mt. Etna volcano from the Teatre Greco in Taormina, but from Castelmola you can see all of that plus the views on the other side of the mountain. From Castelmola, you’ve got a 360-degree view - and that’s hard to beat. The town itself invites you to stop and stay awhile as you recover from your uphill hike, with places to eat and get a drink, as well as just relax and take in the view.
Sights in Castelmola include a cathedral and several small churches, as well as the 13th century castle that gives the town its name. Many visitors partake in the local “vino di mandorla” - almond wine - as part of their hike recovery, as it’s refreshing when served cold.
Little Castelmola is just over 1,700 feet above sea level - for comparison, Taormina sits at just under 670 feet - and is a great hiking destination from Taormina. It’s a challenging hike, as you’re going uphill and up staircases almost from the time you leave Taormina until you arrive in Castelmola, but the views and town are worth it.
It’s true that you can see Taormina’s beaches and the Mt. Etna volcano from the Teatre Greco in Taormina, but from Castelmola you can see all of that plus the views on the other side of the mountain. From Castelmola, you’ve got a 360-degree view - and that’s hard to beat. The town itself invites you to stop and stay awhile as you recover from your uphill hike, with places to eat and get a drink, as well as just relax and take in the view.
Sights in Castelmola include a cathedral and several small churches, as well as the 13th century castle that gives the town its name. Many visitors partake in the local “vino di mandorla” - almond wine - as part of their hike recovery, as it’s refreshing when served cold.
Address: Castelmola, Sicily, Italy
From $ 70
Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock (Orologio Astronomico)
Each day at noon, a crowd gathers beneath the bell tower of Messina’s Cathedral to watch as the gilded statues on the astronomical clock seem to come to life. As the bells chime, the lion roars, the rooster crows, statues strike the hour, and mechanical figures replay biblical and allegorical scenes. It's a spectacle no tourist should miss.
The Basics
The Cathedral’s original 200-foot (61-meter) bell tower was built in the late 16th century, but after being destroyed by an earthquake, it was rebuilt and, in 1933, an astronomical clock was added. Designed by the firm Ungerer of Strasbourg, it is said to be the largest and most complex mechanical and astronomical clock in the world.
One of the biggest draws in Messina, the 12-minute show is a highlight of any Messina city tour. In addition to watching the midday spectacle, you can also visit the inside of the bell tower, climbing the staircase to see the bronze statues up close and the complex internal mechanism of weights and gears behind their movements. At the top, take in the beautiful view over the city of Messina and the strait between the island of Sicily and Italy’s mainland.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The bell tower is closed to visitors inside when it rains.
- Due to small spaces and steep stairs, the clock tower is not accessible to wheelchair users; the square below is accessible to watch to the noon show.
- Walking tours of Messina involve a significant amount of time on your feet, so choose comfortable shoes and clothing.
How to Get There
The bell tower and astronomical clock are located adjacent Messina’s Cathedral (Duomo di Messina) in Piazza del Duomo in the historic center of the city, an easy walk from the ferry terminal or train station.
When to Get There
The opening hours of the bell tower are very complex and change almost weekly. Check times carefully if you want to climb to the top to avoid disappointment.
The Clock Tower Features
At the top of the tower, there are mechanical clock faces on all four sides. Down one side are the perpetual calendar, mechanisms to track the phases of the moon, and the planetary movements; down the front are the numerous gilded statues that move each day as the clock strikes midday.
Address: Piazza Duomo, Messina, Sicily, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Circumetnea Railway
If you are looking for a unique way to see the countryside surrounding Mount Etna, hop aboard the historic narrow-gauge Circumetnea Railway. This scenic train ride takes passengers around the foot of Sicily’s famous volcano on a vintage mid-20th-century railroad car.
The Basics
As its name suggests, the Circumetnea Railway (Ferrovia Circumetnea) circumnavigates the base of Mt. Etna from Catania Borgo to Riposto, just south of Taormina on Sicily’s eastern coast. The main line stretches over 68 miles (109 kilometers) with 30 stops—the largest stations are Paternò, Adrano, Bronte, Randazzo, and Giarre—and the complete trip from one end to the other takes more than three hours one way, assuming there are no delays. Along the way, enjoy lovely views over Sicily’s rural scenery, including the lunar landscapes of the lava fields, pistachio plantations, citrus groves, prickly pear cacti loaded with fruit, and the railway line’s picturesque abandoned stations.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Circumetnea Railway is a must for railroad fans and those looking for a different way to experience the Mt. Etna countryside.
- Not every train serves every station along the route, so make sure the train you’re taking will get you where you want to go.
- The historic cars are not air conditioned, so they can be uncomfortably hot when it’s warm outside.
- The vintage train cars are not easy to navigate with wheelchairs, though by law station personnel must guarantee wheelchair users access, as it is a public transport line.
How to Get There
From Catania, take the metro to Catania Borgo, from where the Circumetnea departs. The Riposto station is located in the center of town.
When to Get There
The Circumetnea is primarily a commuter train transporting locals from town to town, so trains run from early morning to late at night every day except Sundays and holidays. Opt for a ride departing in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. The schedule varies depending on the season, so check at the Circumetnea station for the current timetable.
Visiting the Alcantara Gorges
You can combine a ride on the Circumetnea around Mount Etna with a visit to the spectacular Alcantara Gorges. Simply get off at the Randazzo stop and catch a bus to the gorges park, or book a combined tour of both to avoid the hassle of public transportation.
Address: Taormina, Sicily, Italy
From $ 52
Donnafugata Castle (Castello di Donnafugata)
A little more than 9 miles from Ragusa in southeastern Sicily sits a beautiful 14th-century castle with a pretty name - Donnafugata Castle. The word translates to “fugitive woman,” but the castle’s name stems from an Arabic word, so there’s no romantic story to go with it.
Donnafugata Castle is a patchwork of architectural and artistic styles, including one Venetian Gothic facade and Baroque interior. Visitors can walk through many decorated rooms on the first floor of the castle, including a Hall of Mirrors, smoking room, music room, royal bedrooms, and many rooms with trompe l’oeil paintings on the ceilings.
The castle’s gardens are also open to the public, including a Neoclassical temple building among the gardens of Mediterranean trees and plants. Tours of the filming locations for the “Inspector Montalbano” television series typically include a stop at Donnafugata Castle, which figures into the show as the residence of a mob boss.
Practical Info
In addition to the “Inspector Montalbano” show, Donnafugata Castle has also appeared in the films “Chaos” and “Il Racconto dei Racconti.” It is not the castle of the same name from the famous book, “The Leopard,” however.
Address: Contrada Donnafugata, Ragusa, Italy
Hours: Tue-Sun 9am-7pm
Admission: €8 (castle & park), €6 (castle only), €3 (park only) - reduced prices for under 18/over 65
From $ 98
Gambino Winery
From a road winding through the Sicilian countryside, family owned Gambino Winery appears atop a hillside in the Etna wine region. The unique climate and soil of the area produces some of Italy’s tastiest wines, both white and red. Most wines are derived from either Nerello mascalese or Nerello cappuccio grapes, many of which are given DOC designation. Innovative winemakers in this region are making some of Sicily’s best wines, and while not all are available to taste Gambino Winery allows you to sample quite a few.
Mount Etna being an ancient volcano (the largest in Europe,) views from the winery are scenic and the surrounding landscape is beautiful to take in. There’s nothing like drinking a glass of wine right in the place in which it was produced, and there’s no shortage of great wine or views at Gambino. The winery also serves delicious food, cheeses, and local olive oils.
Practical Info
Gambino Winery is located just a short drive from the towns of Taormina or Catania, in Linguaglossa, located on the northern side of the volcano. You can taste wine daily from 11 am to 7 pm, though advance reservations are recommended. It’s 10 Euros to partake in a tasting.
Address: Contrada Petto Dragone, Linguaglossa CT, Italy
Hours: 11 am - 7 pm
Admission: 10€
From $ 45