Family-Friendly 7-Day Sicily Itinerary: Catania, Etna, and Ferry to Calabria

Day 1: Arrive and Explore Catania

Catania, Italy on April 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Savia

Start your day with delicious Sicilian pastries and coffee at this family-friendly bakery that offers options for kids and adults alike.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Piazza del Duomo and Catania Cathedral

Visit the lively central square with the Elephant Fountain and admire the stunning Baroque Cathedral, suitable for a light cultural introduction with children.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Catania’s Fish Market (La Pescheria)

Experience local Sicilian market life with vibrant stalls and friendly vendors, a colourful and engaging spot for the family.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Antonio

Enjoy fresh, family-friendly Sicilian cuisine including pasta and pizza in a relaxed setting perfect for kids.
EUR20 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Villa Bellini Park

A great space for children to play and run around, with beautiful gardens and playground facilities.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Me Cumpari Turiddu

Dine on traditional Sicilian dishes in a warm family atmosphere near the city centre.
EUR30 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Mount Etna Adventure

Mount Etna, Sicily, Italy on April 17, 2025

7:30AM

Early Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Fuel up for the day with a simple breakfast including fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee.
EUR10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Guided Family-Friendly Mount Etna Tour

Join a gentle hiking tour suitable for children, exploring volcanic landscapes and learning about Etna’s geology and wildlife in a fun, interactive way. Tours offer transport from Catania.
EUR50 per person, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Rifugio Sapienza

Enjoy local dishes at the mountain lodge with impressive views of Etna’s slopes, offering kid-friendly menus.
EUR20 per person, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Catania for relaxation

Free time to rest at the hotel or walk in the city.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Paglia

Enjoy authentic Sicilian dishes made from fresh local ingredients in a family-friendly environment.
EUR25 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Explore Taormina

Taormina, Sicily, Italy on April 18, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Bam Bar in Taormina

Taste famous granitas and fresh pastries in a lively café popular with families.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ancient Theatre of Taormina

Explore this stunning ancient Greek theatre with spectacular views of the sea and Etna, fascinating for adults and children alike.
EUR10 adults, children under 12 free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Walk along Corso Umberto

Enjoy boutique shops, gelato stops and cafes along this charming pedestrian street.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Tiramisu

Delicious Sicilian-style pasta and seafood with kid-friendly options in a relaxed setting.
EUR25 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Public Gardens (Villa Comunale)

Spend time in beautiful botanical gardens perfect for children to freely explore and enjoy nature.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Catania

Evening rest after a full day of sightseeing.
Free, 1 hour travel

7:30PM

Dinner at Osteria Antica Marina, Catania

Fresh seafood and traditional dishes, with a welcoming atmosphere for families.
EUR30 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Messina and Ferry to Calabria

Messina, Sicily, Italy on April 19, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick and hearty breakfast before the morning travel.
EUR10, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel from Catania to Messina

Drive or take a train (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes) from Catania to Messina, getting ready for the ferry crossing.
EUR10 per person, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Messina Waterfront and Cathedral

Visit Messina’s beautiful waterfront along with the iconic Cathedral and its impressive astronomical clock, fascinating for children.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Piazza Cairoli

Enjoy Sicilian pizza and gelato in an outdoor, family-friendly piazza setting.
EUR15 per person, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ferry from Messina to Villa San Giovanni, Calabria

Take the short ferry crossing (approx 20 minutes) over the Strait of Messina, an exciting experience for children with views of both coasts.
EUR5 per person, 30 minutes including boarding

3:00PM

Arrival in Calabria and Travel to Destination of Choice

Depending on your plans in Calabria, transfer onwards. Relax and settle into your next destination.
Varies, Variable

7:00PM

Dinner in Calabria

Choose a local family-friendly restaurant to enjoy Calabrian specialities like 'Nduja sausage or fresh seafood.
EUR25 per person, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability