Welcome to Sicily! After landing, head to your hotel in Acireale and settle in. Take the remainder of the day to relax and familiarize yourselves with the city.
In the morning, drive to Taormina and visit Isola Bella, a stunning island nature reserve connected by a sandbar to the mainland. Spend time strolling around the island and also take a relaxing swim in the refreshing waters. In the afternoon, head back to Taormina and stop by Bam Bar, one of the best gelato places in the area. Enjoy their famous pistachio ice-cream while admiring magnificent views of the sea and Etna in the background.
Today, visit the Etna Natural Park, home to the largest active volcano in Europe. Join a guided hike into the park, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and learning about the geological history. Marvel at the lunar landscapes, and enjoy the unique ecosystem of Mt. Etna.
Take a break from exploring and relax in the beautiful Etna wine country. Drive to the town of Solicchiata and visit a local vineyard, where you can indulge in their award-winning wines, specifically produced in the volcanic environment of Etna. Join a wine-tasting party, taking in the flavors of the territory, accompanied by traditional Sicilian cuisine, and learn about the wine-making process from expert winemakers.
Spend your last full day in Sicily at your leisure in Acireale, a charming coastal town that offers fantastic restaurants, bustling markets, and stunning architecture. Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center or enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch by the sea.
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and make your way to Catania Fontanarossa Airport to catch your flight back home.
For maximum flexibility and independence, we recommend renting a car for the duration of your trip. A car rental for six days costs roughly €100-€150 depending on the season. Consider the use of public transport to and from the airport, and for occasional trips to downtown areas where there may be issues with parking.
If you have more time, consider visiting the archeological site of Syracuse or taking a boat tour of the Aeolian Islands. If you prefer adventure, try kayaking around Isola Bella or zip-lining through the forest of the Etna Park. If you have less time, consider halving the time spent on Day 5, and consider skipping Etna Wine tasting on Day 4.
Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) serves Sicily and is located approximately 40 km south of Taormina, in the east of the island. It offers daily connections with major European cities and is served by numerous airlines, including budget-friendly carriers. A taxi to downtown Acireale costs approximately €50, and the train from the airport to Taormina takes around 45 minutes with a cost of €4 per person.