Things To Do
Syracuse
Syracuse and charming Ortigia island blend ancient history, Baroque beauty, coastline, and great food. History & Culture Neapolis Archaeological Park — Impressive Greek Theatre (5th c. BC), Roman Amphitheatre & Ear of Dionysius. Ortigia — Stroll narrow streets, Piazza del Duomo & Cathedral. Fontana di Aretusa — Scenic seaside spring. Castello Maniace — Castle with sea views. Sea & Outdoors Boat Tour — Caves, swimming & Prosecco (top pick!). Swim at Solarium Forte Vigliena or Cala Rossa. Sunset Passeggiata along the promenade. Beaches Cala Rossa —Scenic rocky cove near Ortigia. Solarium Forte Vigliena —Walkable spot for sunbathing & swimming. Arenella Beach —Sandy/pebbly beach with clubs (short taxi Food Ortigia Market — Fresh finds & delicious sandwiches. Enjoy seafood, arancini, granita & local wines. Tips: Ortigia is very walkable. Book tours ahead. October weather is ideal!
Catania
Catania, Sicily, Italy Just a short ride from Syracuse lies Catania — Sicily’s vibrant second city and a great day trip. Founded by Greeks in 729 BC at Mount Etna’s foot, Catania features striking Baroque architecture with dark lava stone. Highlights: Piazza del Duomo — Cathedral of Saint Agatha & Fontana dell’Elefante. Fish Market — Lively spot for fresh seafood & street food. Roman Theatre — Ancient ruins in the city center. Via Etnea — Main shopping street with cafés. La Playa — Long dark sand beach near the city. Aci Trezza — Picturesque pebble beach with Cyclops Islands views. San Giovanni Li Cuti — Dramatic black lava rock beach. Perfect for experiencing urban Sicilian life! Tips: Great any time of year.
Noto
Discover the Baroque jewel of Noto – just a short drive from Syracuse! Known as the “Capital of Baroque,” this UNESCO World Heritage town dazzles with golden limestone buildings, ornate churches, and elegant piazzas. Highlights: Cathedral of San Nicolò — Climb for stunning views. Palazzo Ducezio — Grand façade and beautiful interior. Via Nicolaci — Flower-filled balconies during May Infiorata (perfect for your 2027 wedding!). Historic Centre — Charming streets with cafés, gelaterias & shops. Vendicari Nature Reserve — Beautiful golden sand beaches & lagoons. Cala Mosche — Stunning secluded beach (short hike). Fontane Bianche — Popular sandy beach with calm waters. Ideal for a relaxing half-day trip. Enjoy local trattorias and almond pastries. Tips: Easy by car or tour. Visit mornings for softer light.
Taormina
Perched dramatically on a hillside overlooking the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, Taormina is one of Sicily’s most beautiful towns and a fantastic day trip from Syracuse. Highlights: Ancient Greek Theatre — Iconic open-air theatre with stunning Etna & sea views. Corso Umberto — Vibrant main street with shops, cafés & churches. Villa Comunale — Lovely gardens with panoramic terraces. Beaches: Isola Bella — Famous pebble beach below town (cable car or steps). Mazzeo or Letojanni — Nearby sandy beaches with clear water. Enjoy fresh seafood, Sicilian specialties, and granita at cliffside restaurants with breathtaking views. Tips: 1–1.5 hr drive or tour from Syracuse. Visit early to beat crowds.
Italy
Italy is a dream destination filled with history, art, food, and stunning landscapes. From ancient ruins to Renaissance cities, snow-capped Alps to sunny Mediterranean beaches, there’s something for every traveler. Traveling from Sicily to Mainland Italy Sicily is easily connected to the mainland. The most convenient options are: Short flight from Catania (CTA) or Palermo to Rome, Milan, Naples, or Florence (1–1.5 hours). Train + Ferry from Messina across the Strait of Messina, then onward by high-speed train. Car Ferry from Messina to Villa San Giovanni (quick crossing). What to Do on the Mainland Explore Rome’s ancient wonders, Florence’s Renaissance art, Venice’s canals, or the Amalfi Coast. October offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. We can’t wait to celebrate with you in Sicily and hope you enjoy more of beautiful Italy!
Mangia’s Brucoli, Sicily, Autograph Collection
If you're dreaming of a luxurious seaside escape, Mangia Brucoli Autograph Collection is an outstanding choice. Located along Sicily’s stunning east coast, this elegant resort offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and dramatic coastline. Guests enjoy sophisticated accommodations, multiple restaurants with fresh Mediterranean cuisine, beautiful pools, and direct access to a private beach. The resort perfectly blends modern luxury with authentic Sicilian charm, making it ideal for relaxation and memorable experiences. Just a short drive from Syracuse, it’s a wonderful option for a pre- or post-wedding stay or a special day trip.
Baglio Occhipinti
If you’re looking for authentic Sicilian countryside relaxation, Baglio Occhipinti is the perfect escape. Just about an hour’s drive from Syracuse, the journey itself offers stunning views of the rolling Sicilian landscape. This charming historic estate features breathtaking vistas over vineyards and lush gardens, creating a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. Guests enjoy beautiful accommodations, exceptional farm-to-table dining with fresh local ingredients, and outstanding wines produced on the property. It’s the ideal place to unwind and experience true Sicilian hospitality. Highly recommended for a relaxing day trip or pre/post-wedding stay!
