Exploring Eastern Sicily: History, Nature, and Relaxation

The east coast of Sicily offers a perfect mix of historical wonders, natural beauty, and serene getaways. From the ancient ruins of Siracusa to the volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna, this region is rich with experiences for every traveler. Over ten days, we explored bustling city centers, picturesque islands, and UNESCO sites, all while indulging in the flavors of Sicilian cuisine. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, or someone looking to unwind, Eastern Sicily has something for everyone. Here’s how we spent our time and what we plan to revisit next time.

Catania – 1 Night

Hotel: Katane Palace Hotel. Our Sicilian adventure began in Catania. We stayed for one night to adjust to jet lag before heading to the Aeolian Islands.

Highlights included:

• Cattedrale di Sant'Agata in Piazza del Duomo, an architectural masterpiece.

• Fontana dell'Elefante, a striking basalt statue and symbol of the city.

  
  
  

  

  
  
  
  
  

Siracusa – 3 Nights

Hotel: UNA Hotels Siracusa. This modern hotel was perfect for relaxation, featuring a spa (€40 for a full day) and a terrace. Although the EV charger wasn’t compatible with our car, the staff kindly provided an extension cord.

What We Visited:

• Neapolis Archaeological Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Greek and Roman theaters. We spent about two hours exploring but wished for more historical context on-site.

• Ortigia: This charming island, connected by bridges, was a highlight. Key spots included:

  
  

  • Fontana di Diana, an ornate fountain.

  • Duomo di Siracusa and Palazzo Borgia, both with impressive restorations and audio guides.

Where We Ate:

• Rizzo Gluten Free: Perfect for delicious arancini and pizza.

• Moove: A vegan-friendly spot with gluten-free options.

• Ristorante Accanto: Served a great gluten-free burger and octopus.

• Il Club: A chic bar with expertly crafted Negronis and Old Fashioneds, and a quirky presentation of the bill.

  
  

Day Trip:

• Necropolis di Pantalica: This UNESCO site features 4,000–5,000 ancient tombs. We hiked a 5km+ loop, enjoying a workout with beautiful views reminiscent of the Sassi in Matera. Entry was free, but the winding roads to reach the site were an adventure in themselves.

Relaxing Near Etna – 6 Nights

We split our stay between two fantastic hotels:

• Donna Carmela Resort & Lodges (SLH): A luxurious retreat with top-notch gluten- and lactose-free dining, a cold pool (in November), and an EV charging station.

• Relais San Giuliano: A historic property closer to Etna Sud, offering a cozy spa (€40 for 1 hour) and reliable Wi-Fi.

Activities nearby:

• Gole dell’Alcantara: This volcanic gorge amazed us with its basalt formations. In November, the public entrance was closed, but we used a different access point. Although summer activities like body rafting weren’t available, we’d love to return for these.

  
  

• Taormina: From Isola Bella, we took the funicular to the city center. The mix of historic architecture, luxury shops, and Italian charm made it a memorable day.

  
  
  

  

  

  
  
  

• Etna Sud: Our most expensive activity, but worth it! The funicular was under repair, so we took a bus to a station for guided exploration. Next time, we’d like to visit Etna Nord for a different perspective.

Dining Highlights:

• Donna Carmela’s Restaurant: Served exceptional breakfasts and delicate dinners.

• Ristorante Acquapazza: Ideal for sharing fresh fish crudités.

• Zero Glutine (Giarre): A delightful gluten-free spot for lunch and desserts.

What We Missed and Plan to Do Next Time

• Noto, Ragusa, and Modica: Known for Baroque architecture and Modica’s famous chocolate.

• Caltagirone: Famous for its ceramics; I visited 15 years ago and would love to return.

• Etna Nord: For a quieter, potentially less touristy volcano experience. If we go back when there's snow, we might try downhill skiing there.

Final Thoughts on Eastern Sicily

Eastern Sicily is a treasure trove of history, stunning landscapes, and incredible experiences. From exploring ancient ruins and charming Baroque towns to relaxing by Mount Etna’s slopes, every stop along the way offers something truly special. We feel incredibly fortunate to have had the time to delve into this beautiful region.

Traveling through Eastern Sicily not only deepened our appreciation for its rich cultural heritage but also gave us a broader understanding of how its history and natural beauty connect to the rest of the world. It’s a place that inspires awe and invites exploration, leaving us with cherished memories and a longing to return to discover even more.