Picture this: rolling hills adorned with vineyards, picturesque coastal towns, and ancient ruins steeped in history. Welcome to Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, where every corner reveals a story waiting to be discovered. Planning a long weekend getaway with kids? Look no further! Sicily offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal destination for a family vacation.
- Renting a car in Sicily is a must for maximum flexibility. Pick a small one as the town streets are narrow. If you heard about crazy traffic, it is partly true but not impossible. A bit more attention and you are good to go.
- The best time to visit Sicily – I would say spring and autumn for the best combination of good weather and reasonable amounts of tourists. Try to avoid July and August, if you are not a big fan of crowds and high temperatures. Winter months are quiet, with hardly any tourists but some places, like tourist attractions, may be closed.
- How to get to Sicily
- by plane – flying to Palermo in the west or Catania on the east coast. Palermo is the bigger city and the island capital, but there are more flights to Catania and they also tend to be cheaper.
- if you are visiting Sicily from mainland Italy, consider taking a train to either Palermo or Catania.
- Overnight ferries are another option
- Siesta Time – Sicily adheres to the Mediterranean tradition of the siesta, where many businesses, including shops and restaurants, may close for a few hours in the afternoon. Typically, the siesta time in Sicily is from approximately 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
- Restaurant Opening Times: Sicilian dining culture differs from other countries, with restaurants often opening later in the evening for dinner. It’s common for restaurants to open around 7:30 PM or even later. If you’re dining with kids, consider adjusting their schedules accordingly, as Sicilian dinners tend to be a more relaxed and lengthy affair.
The Easter coast of Sicily is very popular for visitors and for good reason. From archeological sites to gelato-filled afternoons, our family itinerary is a mix of history, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
Our 5 days Itinerary in Sicily
Day 1 - Arriving in Sicily
Our Sicilian adventure began with the landing at Catania Airport. We picked up the pre-booked rental car, at the airport, and hit the road.
Our first stop was a small and delightful village called Santa Venerina. This village offers a glimpse into authentic Sicilian life. Just behind the main cathedral, you will find a nice restaurant called La Bisteccona Trattoria. The launch we had here was delicious.
With satisfied appetites, we made our way to our accommodation, Villa Arianna, in the town of Acireale. We choose this to be our base, close to all the towns and attractions on the east coast of Sicily. The kids were thrilled to take a refreshing dip in the pool, while we relaxed in the well-maintained garden.
The evening was for exploring Acireale’s streets and trying out the famous gelato.
Day 2 - Syracuse
In the morning we headed to the captivating city of Syracuse.
Syracuse – history highlights:
1. Greek Origins: Syracuse was founded by Greek colonists from Corinth and Tenea around 734 BCE, making it one of the most important Greek city-states in the Mediterranean.
2. Archimedes: One of the city’s most famous residents, Archimedes, was a brilliant mathematician, physicist, and engineer who lived in Syracuse during the 3rd century BCE.
3. Roman Rule: Syracuse came under Roman control in 212 BCE after a long and brutal siege led by the Roman general Marcus Claudius Marcellus. Under Roman rule, the city flourished as a cultural and artistic center, leaving behind impressive architectural remains and landmarks.
4. Arab and Norman Influence: During the 9th century CE, Syracuse fell under Arab rule and experienced a period of Muslim cultural influence. Later, in the 11th century, the Normans conquered Sicily and brought Latin-based Christianity back to Syracuse, impacting the city’s architecture and culture.
5. Baroque Splendor: In the 17th and 18th centuries, Syracuse underwent a period of Baroque architectural transformation. The city’s historical center, particularly the island of Ortigia, showcases stunning Baroque palaces, churches, and squares, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
6. Both Allied and German bombings, during World War II, caused heavy destruction. Operation Husky, the code name for the Allied Invasion of Sicily was launched on the night between 9-10 July 1943 when British forces attacked the southeast of the Island and conquered Syracuse on the first night.
Eager to show the kids some history, our first stop was at the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, walking around the multiple paths.
We spent here a bit more than two hours and visited:
- the Greek Theatre
- the Roman Amphitheatre
- latomie – stone quarries, also used as prisons in ancient times. The most famous latomia is the Orrechio di Dionisio
- the Tomba di Archimede
- Grotta del Salnitro
- Latomia del Paradiso – a vast quarry-turned-garden filled with lush vegetation and remnants of ancient sculptures.
After a morning of discovery, our appetites led us to a charming local trattoria, where we had pizza and pasta of course. The next stop was Gelateria Dolce Idea. Great idea!
Then we made our way to the enchanting Isola di Ortigia, connected to Syracuse via the picturesque Ponte Umbertino and Ponte Santa Lucia. This small island was the original Syracuse, dating more than 2500 years back. Walk through the old town and see the ruins of Temple of Apollo, Ortigica Cathedral, and the Fountain of Diana.
Stop for a drink in one of the nice cafes and bars or why not for another gelato. You will have plenty of artisanale options.
We could not leave Syracuse, without a visit to the Catacombe di San Giovanni. This underground labyrinth of tunnels and burial chambers offered a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. You can only visit with a guided tour, which is organized every hour and lasts around 40 minutes. It is worth all the money and time, they are the biggest catacombs in Italy, second to those in Rome.
Day 3 - Etna Vulcano and wine tasting
Looking at the weather forecast we decided the second day looks great for a tour of the volcano. We booked Etna Tour in 4×4 on Tripadvisor and was great. We drove with our rental car to the meeting point, Montata Grande – AgricolTour & Gusteria dell’Etna. There we met our guide and embarked in their terrain car.
The tour lasts around 4 hours. The first stop is in the spectacular Valle del Bove, a natural amphitheater created by the collapse and past eruptions of Etna. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and we found out a lot of interesting information. Next, we visited a lava tube, equipped with speleologist helmets and lights. The last stop was at a big crater at about 2000 meters. Make sure you pack an extra jacket as up it is windy and shill even in the summer months.
We returned at the starting point and we had a tasting of Etna and Sicily specialties (wine, liqueurs, oil, honey, sweet creams, salty pesto, pistachio … ). Everything was very delicious. They also serve lunch there, without having an a la carte menu, but a daily menu consisting of traditional meals, which they prepare in front of you with mostly ingredients from the farm. That’s definitely one of the experiences one shall not miss when in Sicily.
The rest of the day was just relaxation by the pool. We like to keep our schedule chill and stress-free, not run from one place to another.
Etna – interesting facts
1. A Living Giant – Mount Etna, or “Mongibello” as it is fondly called by locals, is Europe’s largest and most active volcano. It stretches over 3,300 meters (10,900 feet) above sea level, making it an imposing sight against the Sicilian skyline. Its ever-changing nature keeps geologists and volcanologists on their toes, as it continues to spew out fiery lava, smoke, and ash periodically.
2. Ancient Beginnings – Etna’s origins trace back to approximately 500,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest active volcanoes in the world. Its formation is the result of the collision between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, causing intense volcanic activity that has shaped the surrounding landscape over time.
3. Breathtaking Beauty – Beyond its explosive nature, Mount Etna boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Its fertile slopes are adorned with lush vineyards, citrus groves, and dense forests, creating a stunning contrast against the black lava fields. During spring and summer, vibrant wildflowers dot the landscape, adding a splash of color to the volcanic terrain.
4. Mythology and Legends – Etna has been the subject of many myths and legends throughout history. In Greek mythology, it is said to be the forge of Hephaestus, the god of fire and blacksmithing. The ancient Greeks believed that the volcano’s eruptions were caused by the cyclops Polyphemus, hurling boulders in frustration after being blinded by Odysseus.
5. UNESCO World Heritage Site – Mount Etna’s significance goes beyond its volcanic activity. In 2013, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding universal value and unique natural features. The site encompasses the volcano and the surrounding protected area, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of nature and human activity.
6. Skiing on an Active Volcano – Mount Etna’s diverse landscapes offer a surprising winter activity: skiing. During the colder months, the higher altitudes of the volcano receive enough snowfall to create skiing opportunities. Several ski resorts operate on the slopes of Mount Etna, providing winter sports enthusiasts with a thrilling experience of skiing or snowboarding down the slopes of an active volcano, with breathtaking views of the surrounding Sicilian countryside. The adventurous one can ski and swim in Sicily on the same day.
Day 4 - Taormina
Welcome to Taormina, a charming town perched high on the cliffs of northeastern Sicily, offering jaw-dropping views of the sea.
The main historical highlight of the town is the Amphitheatre (Teatro Greco Romano). Initially built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, it was later rebuilt and enlarged by the Romans. Today, the ancient auditorium remains a social hub for cultural performances such as theater, concerts, symphonies, operas, and ballets, even after two millennia.
Taormina’s vibrant main street, Corso Umberto, is a lively hub filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and traditional trattorias. Indulge in some retail therapy as you explore the unique local crafts, stylish fashion boutiques, and artisanal products. Don’t forget to sample the Sicilian delicacies, such as cannoli, granita, and arancini, at the many inviting cafes and pastry shops that line the streets.
Day 5 - Catania
The last full day in Sicily, with cloudy weather, we spent in Catania. We found parking close to the port and then took the city on foot. Catania’s fish market, La Pescheria, was still ongoing when we arrived there. Vibrant atmosphere, colorful fruits, and aromatic herbs are all topped by the fish market typical smell. Close by, is the city’s symbol, Fontana dell’Elefante, and the impressive Cattedrale di Santa’Agata.
After a good lunch, pizza on repeat, we headed to the Odeon Romano and Teatro Antico greco-romano di Catania. Is one entrance ticket for both and once in, pay attention to not miss the Odeon, as it is a bit to the side from the top of the Roman theatre.
Castello Ursino is a good spot for visiting with kids. Looks imposing from the outside and inside houses a museum, showcasing Catania’s history.
Time for gelato – we took a long walk, to earn our ice cream in steps, to a more local gellateria, in a residential area and it was totally worth it. The gelato and brioche were amazing.
Bellini Garden, Catania’s oldest urban park, is a calm break from the city noise. We enjoyed the park for around an hour and then we headed back to Piazza Duomo. It was a very full and active day, but there is no better place to discover a city than by foot.
Catania is a mix of all: laud, tasty, smelly, dirty, colorful… all in all, a vibrant place with a unique charm.
To enjoy Sicily without rushing I think one needs a good week for one coast only. We only had 4 full days and had to limit our activities. If you have more time use it to visit other cities or just hang out at the beach.
Places on the east coast you can add to your itinerary:
- Merzamemi – nice small fishing village
- Cefalu – a pretty town in the northern part of Sicily
Our time in Sicily was wonderful, and this itinerary served us well for the long weekend. I hope you find it helpful for planning your visit to Sicily.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for a journey that will leave you and your little ones with memories to cherish forever.
- Renting a car in Sicily is a must for maximum flexibility. Pick a small one as the town streets are narrow. If you heard about crazy traffic, it is partly true but not impossible. A bit more attention and you are good to go.
- The best time to visit Sicily – I would say spring and autumn for the best combination of good weather and reasonable amounts of tourists. Try to avoid July and August, if you are not a big fan of crowds and high temperatures. Winter months are quiet, with hardly any tourists but some places, like tourist attractions, may be closed.
- How to get to Sicily
- by plane – flying to Palermo in the west or Catania on the east coast. Palermo is the bigger city and the island capital, but there are more flights to Catania and they also tend to be cheaper.
- if you are visiting Sicily from mainland Italy, consider taking a train to either Palermo or Catania.
- Overnight ferries are another option
- Siesta Time – Sicily adheres to the Mediterranean tradition of the siesta, where many businesses, including shops and restaurants, may close for a few hours in the afternoon. Typically, the siesta time in Sicily is from approximately 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
- Restaurant Opening Times: Sicilian dining culture differs from other countries, with restaurants often opening later in the evening for dinner. It’s common for restaurants to open around 7:30 PM or even later. If you’re dining with kids, consider adjusting their schedules accordingly, as Sicilian dinners tend to be a more relaxed and lengthy affair.