Things To Do

Savoca

Perched high in the hills above Taormina, Savoca is a hidden gem where time seems to stand still. Stroll its cobblestone lanes, admire breathtaking views over the Sicilian countryside, and step into history at Bar Vitelli—famous from The Godfather. With its quiet charm and old-world beauty, Savoca is the perfect spot to experience authentic Sicily. One of our favorite cities! 💡 Tip: Savoca is a small hillside village—plan on a half-day trip. Streets are steep and best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes. Stop at Bar Vitelli for a granita and enjoy sweeping views over the valley.

Bar Vitelli

In the heart of Savoca sits Bar Vitelli, a rustic stone café made famous in The Godfather. With its ivy-covered terrace and vintage charm, it’s the perfect place to sip a granita or espresso while stepping into cinematic history and soaking in the atmosphere of authentic Sicily.

Chiesa di San Nicolò

Forever remembered as the filming location of Michael Corleone’s wedding in The Godfather. Overlooking the valley below, the church’s timeless stone façade and peaceful setting make it a fascinating stop for film lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Taormina

Taormina is Sicily’s crown jewel—perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Wander its charming streets, explore the ancient Greek Theatre, and soak in the lively piazzas filled with cafés and boutiques. With its mix of history, beauty, and dolce vita atmosphere, Taormina is a must-see during your stay. 💡 Tip: Taormina’s charm lies in its hilltop setting—be ready for steps and winding streets. The Greek Theatre is best visited early to avoid crowds, and the cable car down to the beach makes for an easy seaside escape.

Teatro Antico di Taormina

Taormina’s Ancient Theater, or Teatro Antico, was the inspiration for the logo of the 2017 meeting of the G7, which took place in Sicily. To give you some background, and put things into perspective, the theater was built in phases, starting in the 3rd century BC by the Greek inhabitants of Mount Tauro, who added to the structure significantly in the 2nd century AD. The Romans then added their ingenuity in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, transforming it from a auditorium for dramatic theater to an amphitheater for grand spectacles such as gladiator battles and similar entertainment.

Bam Bar

When in Taormina, don’t miss Bam Bar—famous for its refreshing granite (flavored ices) served with a soft brioche. First-timers should try almond or lemon, or go decadent with pistachio. For the full experience, add a dollop of fresh cream and enjoy the classic Sicilian treat like a local.

La Capinera

5-star chef-inspired destination restaurant, reservations required

Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina

Go for the views!

Restaurant Rosso Peperoncino

Family run restaurant with beautiful garden dining

Ristorante al Paladino

Fantastic chef in a family-run restaurant

Vicolostretto

Excellent traditional cuisine and staff

Giardini Naxos

Right below Taormina, this is a relaxed beach town with sandy shores (something Taormina itself doesn’t have much of). It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood by the water. 💡 Tip: Bring swimwear—this is one of the area’s best sandy beaches, unlike rocky Taormina. In summer, it’s popular, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Acireale

Known for its elegant baroque churches and seaside setting, Acireale is especially famous for its thermal baths and colorful Carnival celebrations. It’s smaller and less touristy than Taormina, offering a more local feel. 💡 Tip: Stroll through Piazza del Duomo to admire the cathedral and nearby palaces.

Catania

Set at the foot of Mount Etna, Catania is Sicily’s most vibrant and energetic city. Unlike the romantic hill towns and baroque jewels like Noto or Ragusa, Catania buzzes with modern life—its streets lined with markets, cafés, and nightlife. Built from dark volcanic stone, the city’s bold architecture and fiery spirit reflect the power of Etna itself. 💡 Tip: Catania is lively and busy—don’t miss its morning fish market for a slice of authentic local life. Built from volcanic stone, the city has bold character, so allow time to explore both the markets and the baroque squares.

Aci Castello

Aci Trezza & Aci Castello Two neighboring fishing villages just north of Catania, famous for the Cyclopean Isles (black lava sea stacks linked to Homer’s Odyssey). Aci Castello also has a dramatic Norman castle perched over the sea. These towns are perfect for a half-day coastal trip. 💡 Tip: Best enjoyed as a half-day trip from Catania—combine castle views, a seaside stroll, and a relaxed meal by the water.

Zafferana Etnea

A charming hill town on the slopes of Mount Etna, known for honey, wine, and volcanic landscapes. It’s also a gateway for exploring Etna’s craters and lava fields while enjoying small-town Sicilian hospitality.

Mount Etna

Towering above Sicily’s eastern coast, Mount Etna is Europe’s highest active volcano and a breathtaking natural wonder. Visitors can explore its lunar-like landscapes, hike its trails, or take guided tours to learn about its history and eruptions—all while enjoying sweeping views over the island and sea. 💡 Tip: If visiting Mount Etna, bring layers—the temperature drops quickly at higher altitudes. Guided tours are the safest way to explore the craters and lava fields, and many include tastings at nearby vineyards.

Etna Moving Escursioni Etna - Tour Etna in fuoristrada - Etna Trekking & Etna Jeep Tour

Etna Moving will lead you on a walk on a crater, discuss with you lava flow and post-eruption ecosystems, and share with you what life is like living with the constant threat of volcanic eruptions.

Island of Ortigia

Ortigia, the historic heart of Siracusa, is a tiny island full of charm. Its maze of narrow lanes opens onto sunlit piazzas, lively markets, and the stunning Duomo built over an ancient Greek temple. Surrounded by the sea on all sides, Ortigia stands out for its blend of history, beauty, and vibrant Sicilian life—all in a walkable jewel of an island. 💡 Tip: Ortigia is best explored on foot—cars aren’t allowed in much of the old town, so plan to park nearby. Visit the lively morning market, wear comfy shoes for the cobblestone streets, and enjoy the island at sunset when piazzas and seaside restaurants come alive.

Syracuse

Once one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world, Siracusa is rich with history, culture, and seaside beauty. Explore the island of Ortigia with its baroque piazzas, bustling markets, and stunning Duomo built on the ruins of a Greek temple. With its blend of ancient ruins and vibrant Sicilian life, Siracusa is unforgettable. 💡 Tip: Most of Siracusa’s highlights are in Ortigia, but don’t miss the ancient ruins in the Archaeological Park. Summer days can be hot, so visit ruins in the morning and save evenings for Ortigia’s lively piazzas and seaside dining.

Teatro Alfeo

Become a child again at a show of the UNESCO recognized opera dei pupi, Sicily's marionette theater. Throughout Sicily there are theaters hosting time-tested shows. Siracusa (in Ortigia) boasts the Teatro dei Pupi Siracusa.

Favola Olive Oil tasting - Agricola Oliva / lemon tour / extra virgin olive oil shop

Just minutes from the venue, Agricola Oliva invites you to step into the olive groves and lemon orchards of a family farm. Here you’ll learn how Sicilian extra virgin olive oil is made, from tree to press, before enjoying a guided tasting of four distinctive oils paired with fresh bread and local snacks. A short, flavorful outing that showcases why Sicily’s olive oil is world-renowned.

Cantine Gulino - Historic Winery

Wine lovers will enjoy a visit to Cantine Gulino, one of the oldest wineries in the Siracusa area. The estate specializes in indigenous grape varieties, offering tastings that range from quick samplings to relaxed sessions with food pairings. Surrounded by vineyards, you’ll experience the authentic flavors of the region in a warm, welcoming setting.

Olive Oil, Wine & Tuna Fishing Village Tour

For a more immersive adventure, this full-day private tour combines three quintessential Sicilian experiences: an olive oil farm visit and tasting, a winery estate with wines and light lunch, and a stroll through the charming seaside fishing village of Marzamemi, once famous for its tuna harvests. It’s a wonderful way to savor Sicily’s landscapes, traditions, and flavors all in one journey.

Scuola di Cucina Smile And Food Siracusa

Book a Market Tour and Hands-On Cooking Experience with Smile and Cooking Alessia Liistro, owner of Smile and Food. She will take you on a sensational journey through the Mercato Antico of Siracusa. You'll meet the fish mongers, the vegetable salesmen, and many other characters in the market while you learn about regional ingredients and typical products from Sicily. Once Alessia has made the purchases for your lunch menu, you'll go to her apartment where you'll learn--hands-on--how to make a number of typical Sicilian dishes, just like Alessia's grandmother made.

Ristorante Don Camillo - Ortigia - Siracusa

TRATTORIA DO SCOGGHIU SRLS

Staff are local characters!

Ristorante Porta Marina da Salvo

Cappuccio Pesce Fresco

Casual, great for lunch or evening market life

Trattoria La Foglia

Creative and vegetarian options, eclectic atmosphere

Zen & Jonico

Across the bridge in Siracusa with views of Ortigia

Noto

Known as the ‘Baroque Capital of Sicily,’ Noto is a masterpiece of golden stone, elegant churches, and sweeping piazzas. Strolling its main street feels like walking through an open-air museum, especially at sunset when the city glows with a warm, romantic light. 💡 Tip: Noto shines at sunset when its golden stone turns pink—time your visit for the evening stroll. The main sights are along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, so it’s perfect for a leisurely walk with café stops.

Ragusa

Ragusa is unlike any other Sicilian city, dramatically perched across two hilltops. The upper town, Ragusa Superiore, offers sweeping views and grand boulevards, while Ragusa Ibla enchants with its winding alleys, ornate baroque churches, and hidden gardens. Unlike seaside towns such as Taormina or Siracusa, Ragusa’s magic lies in its hilltop setting and timeless, layered history. 💡 Tip: Ragusa is divided between the upper town and Ragusa Ibla below—connected by a long staircase. Wear good walking shoes, and plan time to wander Ibla’s narrow lanes, gardens, and piazzas, especially in the evening when the town glows.