Siracusa

Syracuse and Ortigia: where history, ancient architecture and the crystal clear turquoise sea come together

Syracuse, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, is a city of wonderful historical and cultural richness, with many fascinating sights to explore.

📸 THINGS TO DO

Ortigia Island

Ortigia is the historic center of Siracusa, a small island connected by a bridge to Siracusa. Ortigia is full of charming streets, ancient buildings and beautiful squares.

The main attraction is Piazza del Duomo https://goo.gl/maps/BXHtRx47cpd4jFZY7 , dominated by the impressive Siracusa Cathedral. The cathedral is a mix of Norman, Baroque and Byzantine styles.

Wander through the small streets, buy a delicious coffee and cannolo from the local cafes and enjoy the atmosphere of this charming island.

Antico Mercato di Ortigia (Ortigiai Market) https://goo.gl/maps/fVen4pYxv7xtPRFz5

Ortigia's market is an unmissable experience - lively and bustling, capturing the essence of Sicilian life and culture. Located in the narrow streets of the historic island, the market is a delight for the senses, where the smell of fresh produce, local cheeses and smoked meats mingles in the air. Colorful stalls showcase seasonal fruits, vegetables and fragrant herbs, enticing locals and visitors alike to explore the region's bounty. Contacting the friendly vendors and experiencing the effervescent atmosphere of the market provides a truly deep and real experience of connecting with the island's gastronomic traditions and enjoying Ortigia's unique, mouth-watering flavors.

TIP: be sure to eat here at the place called Caseificio Borderi, which is mentioned in more detail below

Fontane Aretusa (Arethusa Fountain) https://goo.gl/maps/WBNfQCxjU61jPfqcA

Ortigia is home to the Fontain of Aretusa, a natural spring of fresh water surrounded by lush vegetation. According to Greek mythology, Arethusa became a nymph here to escape from the river god Alpheus. The calm environment and sea view make it a pleasant place to take a slow walk and observe the resident swans.

Palazzo Borgia del Casale https://maps.app.goo.gl/RPjxDKSX5EzqPkzZ6?g_st=ic

Palazzo Borgia del Casale is an impressive monument in Siracusa, built in the Italian Renaissance style. This magnificent building boasts a rich history and beautiful artistic details, and its interior architecture is wonderful.

Castello Maniace

This impressive fortress was built in the 13th century by the Holy Roman Emperor II. By order of Frederick. Ortigia stands at the southern tip, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the city. The castle has undergone several renovations over the years and today serves as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions. Exploring the massive walls and towers offers an exciting glimpse into Sicily's medieval past.

Parco Archeologico della Neapolis https://goo.gl/maps/GkEqx38z4gfdYJ8e7

Syracuse was one of the most important cities in the ancient Greek world, and the archaeological site offers a glimpse into Greek life through its incredible theater and monuments. This vast archaeological park is home to some of the most impressive ancient Greek and Roman ruins in Sicily. The main attraction is the Greek theater, which dates back to i. e. It dates back to the 5th century and previously housed famous playwrights such as Aeschylus and Sophocles. You can also explore the Roman Amphitheater, the ancient cave called the Ear of Dionysus and the Altar of Hieron II, all of which are of historical importance.


Tip: 🛥 A boat trip around the island is a very nice experience. Several kiosks offer boat trips around the island of Ortigia and beyond. Be sure to compare prices and bargain if you are traveling with a larger group.

TIP: 🅿️ Parking - Parcheggio Talete https://goo.gl/maps/AQhJ74iPD1PcNHfK9

Paid parking, which is a few steps from the market and all attractions

🍽 EATING OUT

🧀 Caseificio Borderi https://goo.gl/maps/gwvvXyuGtFT9MdMx7

Our favorite, favorite, favorite panini place. A meal at Caseificio Borderi is not to be missed in Siracusa. This famous cheese shop and deli is known for its mouth-watering sandwiches and cheese & salami platters loaded with fresh, local ingredients and artisanal cheeses.

We always order the "Panini del Chef" sandwich, which includes whatever the chef sees fit, and we've never been disappointed ;) The sandwiches are huge, layered with all sorts of delicious cheeses, prosciutto, ham, and everything you can imagine.

You can order the food for takeaway or dining-in.

🍰 Pasticceria Artale https://goo.gl/maps/bwZ9ijwzNE7WFjxX6

Freshly filled cannoli, traditional Sicilian cookies and refreshing granita....

🍸 Zefiro Solarium Lounge Bar https://goo.gl/maps/e5PXawjgSbSSUftc6

If you want a really good Instagram picture with a sunset and an Aperol spritz, this is the place for you. The new port area (along Foro V. Emmanuele II) has some beautiful sunset bars where young Sicilians gather for a late afternoon drink and music.

🏖 BEACH

Ortigia doesn't have any designated beaches, but there are some good bathing spots, so if you're going by car, we definitely recommend that you drive 15 minutes outside of Siracusa, where you'll find many beautiful beach options.

Best beach spots around Siracusa: Plemmirio, Fontane Bianche, Arenella

Plemmirio Nature Reserve, although mostly rocky, offers an incredible scenic backdrop just 15 minutes from Siracusa. The most popular bay, Spiaggia Massolivieri, is a cozy bay with two small sandy beaches. Bring your snorkel gear.

Arenella and Fontane Bianche - both sandy beaches with crystal clear water

How much time should we allocate to Siracusa?

You can comfortably walk around Ortigia in a couple of hours, and then you can spend the whole afternoon on the beach. If you don't feel like going to the beach, visit Noto or Marzamemi in the second half of the day.

How to get from Aci Trezza?

45-60 minutes by car on the highway (no tolls are required)

There are also buses from Catania to Siracusa, which is also an ideal option

Catania

Catania's past dates back to ancient times; it was founded more than 2,700 years ago, and its impressive cityscape encompasses a range of architectural styles, including Baroque masterpieces and remnants of the Roman-Greek civilizations. Catania is eclectic, loud, vibrant and sometimes a little too much for one's senses, but also captivating and energizing.

📸 THINGS TO DO

La Pescheria / Catania Fish Market https://goo.gl/maps/5Bp1VQF8DsypqmUy8

One of the most authentic experiences in Catania is visiting La Pescheria ~ the fish market. If anything sums up the beating heart and soul of Catania, it's this place - bustling, loud, a bit grimy, but full of life and vibrancy, like the locals themselves. A great place to see Sicilian life, it instantly awakens all the senses - and the appetite too!

The small streets near Catania Cathedral turn into a loud and lively market from Monday to Saturday. Not only fish, but the freshest vegetables and fruits, cheeses, salami, olives, and spices are also available. Sicily is a very fertile island and Sicilian vegetables and fruit are famous throughout Italy, so it is worth shopping here (mainly because it is cheaper and of better quality than in the store)

TIP: 🅿️ Parking - Parking Borsellino AMT https://goo.gl/maps/8RHuc7vaZCEVs7An7

Paid parking, which is a few steps from the market and main square, is an ideal starting point for your sightseeing.

Piazza del Duomo https://goo.gl/maps/1Cs7He44bsq6BLi89

Here you will be able to see a lot of beauty - Santa Agata Cathedral, elephant obelisk, the marble Amenano fountain, and Via Etnea - the main pedestrian street of Catania, opens from here.

Tip: if you're looking for a nice view, you can go to the top of the domes of the Chiesa della Badia di Sant'Agata https://goo.gl/maps/9Bqua26BsuDHu8Jy9

Palazzo Biscari https://goo.gl/maps/HoqxtvX3CYcAu9du5

One of the magnificent palaces of Catania and the jewel of the Sicilian Baroque.

Bellini Park https://goo.gl/maps/AsqqzsRLfttRL6nM8

From Duomo Square, walk up Via Etnea to Bellini Park, this is the "Central Park" of Catania. On the way, you will pass the ruins of the Roman amphitheater at Piazza Stessicoro.

Benedictine Monastery https://goo.gl/maps/CfPgwyYpp2Y3tFes7

This abbey is the second largest Benedictine monastery in Europe. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Department of Humanities of the University of Catania.

🍽 RESTAURANTS

🍕 Al Vicolo Pizza & Vino

Al Vicolo Pizza

https://goo.gl/maps/EXPPMfRh6gHMnZVB7

Our favorite pizza place. The pizzas are huge, one pizza is enough for two people. Personally, we usually order a cheese / cold cuts (tagliere) platter as a starter, followed by a pizza as a side.

🐟 Planete Marine https://goo.gl/maps/gJhiNHuPDXEDEHqw5

Planete Marine

If you want to eat fresh fish and seafood in an authentic local environment, you will like this place. We love it very much. The place itself is very small and only has a few tables. When you arrive, you have to take a number and then you can order at the counter when it's your turn. They will ask for your name and when your food is ready, they will shout your name 🤣 A real local experience.

Our favorites: calamaro fritto (fried squid), spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with scallops), zuppa di cozze (steamed mussels with tomatoes) and salmon & tonno crudo (fresh salmon and tuna)

🍷 Vermut https://goo.gl/maps/DEhe7cB3kDjsT7yJ6

This place is relaxed and ideal for a lighter lunch or dinner. It's not a restaurant, but rather a bar where they serve small things like "tapas". We love their baked, stuffed potatoes, Sicilian sausage and cheeses & hams.

🍝 A Putia Dell Ostello https://goo.gl/maps/tifd2dBARHKFSL3s8

Pizza, pasta, cous-cous

🥩 Il Borgi Di Federico https://goo.gl/maps/kbuZy2BY6A5Dz9ZL9

This place is great for meat-lovers, they also have good pizzas

🍣 Taiyo https://goo.gl/maps/TNZ1v7rytHAx9gDU6

If you love sushi, definitely come here. This is an all-you-can-eat sushi place with great quality food

☕️ 🍰 COFFEE, ICE-CREAM, SWEETS

Savia

☕️🍰 Prestipino Duomo Cafe https://goo.gl/maps/VhaRY2nvpJGbxjfP7

Ice cream, cakes, coffee in Catania's main square with a wonderful view of the cathedral. Instagram worthy photos for sure

🥐 Savia https://goo.gl/maps/c9FJYY7RtZyLMXTX7

At the entrance to the Bellini park, if you want a quick, light and cheap lunch or snack, you can buy delicious arancini, cookies and coffee here.

🍧Comis https://goo.gl/maps/HCrUChH5KSD4Poos9

Granita and gelato

🍦Caffé Epoca https://goo.gl/maps/7JfzeeJx2xnGdrG66

Our favorite place for gelato! If you come to Catania by car from Aci Trezza, it will be on the way so you can stop here (it's a long walk from the city center however so it’s best to stop here coming or going to Aci Trezza) . Don't miss the ice cream here, our personal favorites are strawberry (it's like you're eating the fruit itself) and pistachio

How much time should we allocate to Catania?

You can comfortably walk around Catania in half a day, but of course you can spend a whole day here.

How to get there from Aci Trezza?

15 minutes by car (depending on traffic)

About 30-40 minutes by bus, bus route 534 runs between Aci Trezza and Catania, the bus stop in Aci Trezza is here: https://goo.gl/maps/Wnb24tL6UpoBRjqRA

Taormina

TAORMINA

Hiding on the picturesque cliffs of the Ionian Sea, Taormina, the jewel of Sicily, captivates its visitors with its timeless beauty and rich history. This magical city combines ancient ruins, medieval architecture and breathtaking coastal views, making it a truly unforgettable destination. The city's stunning beauty, rich culture and luxurious atmosphere have long made it a popular destination for celebrities and stars from around the world.

One of the unmissable stops on your visit to Sicily!

ℹ️ USEFUL INFORMATION

How much time do we have for Taormina?

Definitely 1 full day! We recommend combining bathing at Isola Bella and visiting Castelmola with Taormina, so it's worth setting off early in the morning and dedicating a full day to it. Trust me, you won't regret it!

How to get to Taormina?

Taormina is 40 minutes away by car from Aci Trezza. You have to travel on the highway, where you can pay by card or cash at the toll gates (the highway toll is approx. €1.50 one way).

Important: go through the gates marked "biglietto" (Telepass reads electronically, which requires a chip)

If you want to get to Taormina by bus or train, you have to go to Catania, where both the bus and the train depart.

Parking: There is no street parking in Taormina because the streets are narrow and the town itself is very small. It is possible to park in a large parking garage, which is ideal for sightseeing due to its location.

Parcheggio Porta Catania: https://goo.gl/maps/CSQV2osr3Hv7BqGj6

📸 THINGS TO SEE

Starting from the parking lot, your path will lead you through the medieval gate Porta Catania. Porta Catania & Porta Messina are located at both ends of Taormina's pedestrian street. The cobbled pedestrian street will take you past many beautiful sights - such as Dumono di Taormina, with its beautiful fountain; Piazza IX Aprile and its wonderful view of the sea and many, many small narrow streets that you can explore to your heart's content.

Teatro Antico di Taormina - https://goo.gl/maps/rGpcBkfxR2syGzkKA

The ancient Greeks already knew that Taormina was a very special place. in the 3rd century BC, an impressive ancient Greek theater was built on top of the hill. The panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea and the smoking Mount Etna towering among the ancient ruins provide the most spectacular backdrop. The sheer magnificence and charm of the place itself will captivate you. Don't miss it under any circumstances.

Bam Bar - https://goo.gl/maps/sGgMFrK2f1z3H7Pq7

You can't miss Bam Bar! Even if the line is long, trust us, you won't regret waiting. They serve the BEST granita in Sicily. Granita is a type of ice cream/sorbet made from water, seasonal fruits and natural ingredients. Not only does Bam Bar boast one of the best granitas in Sicily, but with typical Sicilian ceramic tiles on the walls, hand-painted lava stone table tops and colorful murals, it makes for an Instagram-worthy spot.

Tip: Order brioche with granita, eating granita without brioche is considered a crime against humanity. If you like whipped cream, then by all means order your granita with "Panna". And don't be ashamed if you order a second round ;)

After Bam Bárb, be sure to walk over to the small street on the right - Piazza S. Domenica. Because it has Taormina's prettiest little painted door, as well as a beautiful balcony filled with Sicily's iconic Testa di Moro (Moor's head ceramics) and succulents planted in them. The house belongs to a well-known Sicilian artist, Agatino Giammona.

🏖 ISOLA BELLA

One of the most iconic places in Sicily and the cover of many postcards. This place truly lives up to its name - Isola Bella (Beautiful Island). Located in a gorgeous bay surrounded by a rocky coastline with crystal clear blue water, the beach is a paradise for swimmers and snorkelers. If you have time, sign up for a boat tour around the island and explore the nearby caves and coves. If you want, you can rent a sunbed, but the beach in front of the island is free.

How do you get to Isola Bella?

Cable-car: a cable car starting from the city center that can be used to go up and down

By car: From Porta Catania, drive down to: Parcheggio Mazzarò https://goo.gl/maps/mQ6fwVxJfsuHTAZN8 and you can park here

On foot: for the adventurous and those who want some physical activity - there are stairs from the center all the way to Isola Bella... but on a warm summer day we do not recommend it

Tip: Take drinking water and water shoes with you, the pebble beach makes it difficult to get in and out of the water.

The bay of Mazzarò next to Isola Bella is also wonderful, if you liked Taormina and would come back for a second day, it is worth exploring the rest of the coast as well. The nearby sandy beach of Giardini Naxos is ideal for swimming with children.

🏰 CASTELMOLA

The cherry on top of a day spent in Taormina is Castelmola. Castelmola is a tiny medieval town above Taormina with a wonderful view. The town itself consists of 4-5 streets, so it does not take much time to visit.

Bar Turrisi is where you should go. A visit to Bar Turrisi guarantees a lot of giggles, laughs and blushes for some, as the bar is decorated in a penis 🍆 theme. You don't have to expect offensive things, but 🍆 appears in every detail - tiles, menu, furniture 🤣

The bar has 4 floors, and our suggestion is to grab an aperol spritz on the top floor during sunset. The view is unbeatable. If you are lucky, you can also see the lava flowing from Etna from here.

If you are hungry, you can eat pizza and other simple food in Bar Turrisi.

Parking at Castelmola: https://goo.gl/maps/7Mdg7qdGo1MSxvPf8

TIP:

We recommend that you plan your day in Taormina well, because there is a lot to see...however, you will not regret that it is a denser day, because you will be richer with many, many experiences.

We recommend the order described in the post for the day:

  • Morning - Taormina center (get there early to beat the crowd)

  • Afternoon - swimming and exploring Isola Bella

  • Sunset - Castelmola

Etna

With its height of 3,329 meters above sea level, Etna towers proudly over the Mediterranean Sea. This more than 500,000-year-old volcano is powerful, magnificent and awe-inspiring.

Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Eruptions are a source of interest and challenge for scientists, tourists and locals alike. Although the volcano is constantly active, its eruptions usually pose little danger. There is no cause for concern, as the eruptions are concentrated at the top of the volcano and do not usually cause harm or danger to visitors or locals.

🌋 VISITING ETNA

Rifugio Sapienza (1900 meters) - highest point accessible by car

Rifugio Sapienza is an excellent starting point for exploring Etna. This tourist complex is located at an altitude of almost 1,900 meters, and it is the highest point that can be reached by CAR.

  1. By car: directons to this location https://goo.gl/maps/DHyF8btyFEzdfZcq7

Ample parking is available, but during the peak tourist season, it's worth arriving early to secure your spot.

2. By public transport: For those who rely on public transport, buses depart from the city of Catania to Rifugio Sapienza at 8:15 in the morning, the trip is about 2 hours by bus and it is worth buying a ticket in advance, because there is a lot of interest in the summer..

Silvestri Craters

After parking, it's definitely worth climbing the Silverstri craters (you can't miss them, because they're next to the parking lot). Two impressive volcanic craters on the side of Etna. These twin craters, known as Silvestri Superiore and Silvestri Inferiore, allow visitors to view the volcanic power up close, the impressive rock formations and the stunning panorama of the surrounding landscape.

Reaching the summit of Etna:

Although a visit to Rifugio Sapienza is a fantastic experience, the true wonder of Etna lies at its peak. To achieve this, there are two options:

  1. Cable car + off-road vehicles: From the Rifugio Sapienza, you can take the cable car to a height of 2,500 meters.

From there you can transfer to specialized off-road vehicles, usually operated by the cable car company. These vehicles are suitable for climbing the steep terrain of the mountain, they can take you closer to the peak up to 2750 meters.

Official info & prices here: https://www.funiviaetna.com/en/excursion-info-prices/

2. Guided climbing tours: those who like a challenge and are in good shape, can climb Etna's peak. This is an experience of a lifetime, but it definitely requires preparation, as the tour is a whole day and must be booked in advance. The summit can only be reached with experienced and licensed mountain guides (it is forbidden to climb to the summit by yourself, as the volcanic gases and the terrain are also dangerous).


Valle del Bove lookout point https://goo.gl/maps/9cFSrPghpjuLqQtX7

If you are looking for a nice view that is easily accessible by car, then this is an easy drive after Rifugio Sapienza. From here you get a great view of the ‘Valle del Bove’ valley, where the lava has flowed for centuries - it is essentially a cooled lava river.

IMPORTANT: google maps will take you to the northern entrance, but do not enter there, because the middle section of the road is closed. Drive in here from the southern point of the road: https://goo.gl/maps/Kh8d8XFzKs4wrNrs7

🥾 HIKING ON ETNA

Moderate climbing with a beautiful view - Schiena dell'asino https://goo.gl/maps/aSEjgzYnkRC1uxok8

If you don't want to climb to the top of Etna, but you want to hike a bit and are looking for a nice view, you will really like this 3 km hike. From here you can see the smoking peak of Etna. Overall, the hike is of medium difficulty, but the beginning will be a bit steep, so don't hate me :) I promise, after the first half, it's not steep anymore and the view is worth it. If you're already visiting an active volcano, don't miss a bit of mountain climbing.

Difficult climb with breathtaking views - Serracozzo https://goo.gl/maps/YHgif2shcLFk1oCY6

In all honesty, I only recommend this tour to those who regularly climb mountains or in a good physical shape. This is an 8 km (4 km there - 4 km back) long hike and 500 meters of elevation gain. However, the view is breathtaking...

This hiking trail can only be climbed between April and October. Make sure to be careful and bring water and food with you.

We use the Alltrails application for most of our hikes. Important: download and search for everything before going up the mountain because there is no cellular signal on Etna.

Serracozzo kilátó pont

When should we visit Etna?

Etna is a wonderful all year round and can be visited in all seasons.

Moderate weather is typical in spring and autumn, the average temperature ranges between 5°C in the higher altitudes, and the summit is covered with snow.

In summer, the temperature at the foot of the mountain can be up to 20-25°C, while in the higher parts it is around 10°C.

In winter, however, the weather is cold and very windy, and the temperature drops to negative degrees in the higher altitudes, so the peak cannot be climbed in winter, and it is recommended to use snow chains on cars when driving to the Rifugio. Winter offers skiing opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts.

Important Tips:

  • Etna's weather can change quickly, so be prepared for hot and cold weather conditions. Wear layered clothing and durable hiking shoes. Applying sunscreen is always recommended, even if the weather is cloudy, because you are closer to the sun at an altitude of 2,000 meters and it is easy to get sunburned.

  • It is recommended to check the current volcanic activity and safety conditions before planning a visit. If the volcano shows increased activity, some areas may be off limits to tourists.

  • Respect the environment and follow the guidelines set by the authorities to preserve Etna's natural beauty for future generations.