Catania is the perfect base for exploring eastern and central Sicily. After a week of Italian lessons, why not take advantage of the weekend to discover incredible landscapes, historic towns, and hidden gems just a short drive away?
Whether you’re looking for a one-day adventure or a relaxing weekend getaway, this guide covers the must-visit places outside Catania, including Mount Etna, Syracuse, Taormina, and beyond.
Best one-day trips from Catania
1. Mount Etna: a hiker’s paradise
Just an hour’s drive from Catania, Mount Etna is one of the most iconic and fascinating destinations in Sicily. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply want to admire breathtaking landscapes, Etna is a must:
- Rifugio Sapienza (South Side): from here, you can take a cable car and a jeep tour to the summit craters for an unforgettable experience.
- Schiena dell’Asino Trail: a spectacular hike leading to the Valle del Bove, a stunning volcanic valley.
- Silvestri Craters: easily accessible and perfect for a short walk among extinct craters.
- Piano Provenzana (North Side): a wilder, less touristy area, ideal for trekking through rugged lava fields.
How to get there: by car (recommended) or by morning bus from Catania (check schedules in advance!).
Travel Tip: the temperature drops significantly at higher altitudes. Even in summer, bring a sweatshirt, trekking shoes, water, and snacks!
2. Syracuse and Ortigia: a dive into ancient Sicily
Syracuse is one of the most beautiful historical cities in Sicily, filled with archaeological wonders and Baroque charm.
- Neapolis Archaeological Park: home to the Greek Theatre, where classical performances take place in May and June. Don’t miss the Roman Amphitheater and the legendary Ear of Dionysius.
- Ortigia: the picturesque island heart of Syracuse, with its Baroque Cathedral, built on the ruins of a Greek temple dedicated to Athena.
- Castello Maniace and Arethusa Fountain: perfect spots for stunning sea views and historical exploration.
Where to eat?
1. Fratelli Burgio (inside the fish market), a must-visit for fresh local delicacies.
2. Caseificio Bordieri, famous for delicious sandwiches made with high-quality Sicilian cheese.
And how to get there? Syracuse is easily reachable by train or bus from Catania, making it a hassle-free day trip. If you want to enjoy it at a slower pace, stay overnight and experience its magical atmosphere after dark.
Taormina: the pearl of the Ionian Sea
A visit to Taormina is like stepping into a dream, with breathtaking views, charming streets, and ancient ruins.
- Greek-Roman Theatre: one of Sicily’s most iconic archaeological sites, with Etna and the Ionian Sea as a backdrop.
- Isola Bella & Mazzarrò Beaches: if you’re visiting in summer, combine sightseeing with a swim in these crystal-clear waters.
- Corso Umberto: a lively promenade filled with boutiques, cafés, and historic palazzi.
How to get there: by car (park at Lumbi or Porta Catania parking lots), train + local bus, or direct bus from Catania.
Must-try: a refreshing granita at Bambar, a local institution!
Noto: the Baroque jewel of Sicily
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Noto is an architectural masterpiece and a must-see for lovers of Sicilian Baroque.
- Corso Vittorio Emanuele: a stroll through stunning churches, palazzi, and grand staircases.
- Infiorata di Noto (May): a spectacular flower festival where artists create intricate floral carpets in the streets.
- Caffè Sicilia: a must-visit pastry shop featured on Netflix’s Chef’s Table.
You can get there by bus or car (recommended for more flexibility).
Acitrezza and Aci Castello: myth and history by the sea
If you only have an afternoon, visit Acitrezza and Aci Castello, just a short ride from Catania.
- Acitrezza’s Faraglioni: volcanic sea stacks linked to the legend of Odysseus and Polyphemus.
- Aci Castello’s Norman Castle: a medieval fortress with spectacular sea views.
How to get there: by car or AMT city buses (ask the driver to confirm the schedule).
Alcantara Gorges: a natural wonderland
Located between Etna and the coast, the Alcantara Gorges are a dream destination for nature lovers.
- Hike through ancient lava canyons carved by the icy Alcantara River.
- Try canyoning or river trekking for an adventurous experience.
You have to get there only by car.
Travel Tip: the water is freezing, so it’s best to visit in summer!
Best weekend getaways from Catania
If you have two days, why not go further?
Caltagirone & Piazza Armerina
Caltagirone is renowned for its exquisite ceramics, a tradition that dates back centuries, and for the breathtaking 142-step Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte, where each step is adorned with hand-painted majolica tiles. Just a short drive away,
Piazza Armerina is home to the Villa Romana del Casale, an extraordinary archaeological site famous for its stunning Roman mosaics, considered among the best-preserved in the world.
Modica & Ragusa Ibla: the heart of Baroque Sicily
Modica, a gem of Sicilian Baroque architecture, is known for its magnificent churches, including the Cathedral of San Giorgio, and for its artisanal chocolate, made following an ancient Aztec recipe.
A visit to Antica Dolceria Bonajuto is a must for chocolate lovers. Just a few kilometers away, Ragusa Ibla enchants visitors with its picturesque hilltop setting, breathtaking panoramic views, and a maze of charming alleys lined with historic palaces and Baroque masterpieces.
Vendicari and Marzamemi: relax & nature
The Vendicari Nature Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, offering unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a rich variety of wildlife, including elegant flamingos.
Its ancient ruins, such as the old tuna fishery, add a historical charm to the landscape. Not far away, the fishing village of Marzamemi captivates visitors with its picturesque atmosphere, colorful boats, and charming stone-paved squares. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a sunset dinner by the sea, savoring fresh seafood in one of its cozy seaside restaurants.
Agrigento & The Valley of the Temples
Agrigento is home to the breathtaking Valley of the Temples, one of the most remarkable Greek archaeological sites in the world, where majestic Doric temples, including the Temple of Concordia, stand as a testament to Sicily’s ancient past.
Just a short drive away, Favara’s Farm Cultural Park offers a striking contrast, a vibrant contemporary art hub set within a historic Sicilian town, where street art, modern installations, and creative spaces redefine the cultural landscape of the region.
La Fiumara d’Arte: Sicily’s open-air museum
If you love art and nature, visit La Fiumara d’Arte, the largest contemporary art park in Europe, featuring monumental sculptures set in stunning landscapes.
Experience Sicily like a local
Whether you’re hiking Mount Etna, wandering through ancient ruins, or indulging in local delicacies, every weekend in Catania is a new adventure.
Want to make the most of your Sicilian experience?
Join our Italian courses at IH Catania and explore Sicily while learning the language!
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