Stay Somewhere
You’ll Never Forget
Things to do in
EASTERN SICILY
While I love to just relax in the sun on the rooftop patio or by the seaside,
you might be planning some adventure. We have a few ideas of places you'll want to see!
Where is Aqualarone?
Our little town is in Eastern Sicily on the coast.
You can actually SEE the coast of Italy from our apartment. The ferry between the mainland in only 10 km away from our apartment. The water in this area of the Tyrrhenian Sea is usually fairly calm and with the breakers that have been added make the beach easy to swim. You might even see some cruise ships headed out to through the straight of Messina off our deck during your morning coffee.
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The apartment is about 3 hours away from Palermo and 1.5 hours from Catania.
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Climb live volcano Mt. Etna
Hiking Mt. Etna is an unforgettable experience and one of Sicily’s most unique adventures. As Europe’s tallest active volcano, Etna offers dramatic landscapes—from black lava fields to sweeping coastal views—that make every step worth it. Most guided tours depart from Taormina, located about an hour from the apartment, making it an easy and popular day trip for guests. Despite being an active volcano, Mt. Etna is very closely monitored by experts, and tours are carefully regulated to ensure visitor safety. Whether you choose a leisurely walk along lower craters or a more advanced trek toward the summit with a certified guide, exploring Etna provides a rare opportunity to witness the power and beauty of nature up close—with peace of mind.
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We highly recommend using Etna Tribe for your tour.
Taromina
Taormina is one of Sicily’s most picturesque and vibrant destinations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal views. Perched high above the Ionian Sea, this charming town is known for its winding streets, boutique shopping, and incredible restaurants. Fans of The White Lotus will recognize Taormina as a primary filming location, adding a modern pop culture allure to its timeless beauty. A highlight of any visit is the Ancient Greek Theatre (often referred to as the Roman theatre), where you can take in breathtaking views of both Mt. Etna and the sea while exploring one of Sicily’s most iconic historic sites. Whether you’re strolling Corso Umberto, relaxing in the public gardens, or simply soaking in the scenery, Taormina offers an unforgettable day trip just about an hour from the apartment.
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It takes about an hour, by car, to get to Taromina for an amazing day trip to explore this little piece of heaven.
Giardini Naxos
Giardini Naxos is a charming seaside town just a short drive from the apartment, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. Known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere, it offers a more casual, local feel compared to nearby Taormina. Visitors can enjoy beach clubs, waterfront restaurants, and stunning views of both the coastline and Mt. Etna in the distance. As the site of Sicily’s first Greek colony, Giardini Naxos also has a rich history, with small archaeological areas and museums to explore. For a scenic experience, you can also take the cable car (often referred to as a gondola) up to Taormina, enjoying breathtaking views as you travel between the coast and the hilltop town. Whether you’re looking to swim, dine by the sea, or take a leisurely evening stroll along the promenade, it’s an easy and enjoyable coastal escape.
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We did an amazing boat trip with Kristal Boat Tours in Giardini and highly reccomend it!
Siracusa & Ortigia
Siracusa (Syracuse) is a must-visit destination rich in history, culture, and coastal charm, located just over an hour from the apartment. Once one of the most powerful cities in the ancient Greek world, Siracusa is home to remarkable archaeological sites, including the impressive Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave known for its unique acoustics. The heart of the city lies on the island of Ortigia, where narrow streets lead to stunning piazzas, seaside views, and the breathtaking Cathedral of Syracuse—built directly on the remains of a Greek temple. With its blend of ancient history, vibrant local markets, and beautiful waterfront dining, Siracusa offers an unforgettable glimpse into Sicily’s rich past and lively present.
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It's just a little over 2 hours of a drive to explore this beautiful city!
Catania
Catania is a vibrant and energetic city that offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and coastal beauty. Located at the base of Mt. Etna, it features a lively downtown filled with baroque architecture, bustling piazzas, markets, shops, and incredible local dining that captures the true spirit of Sicily. Just beyond the city center, visitors can explore beautiful seaside areas with rocky lava formations, scenic views, and places to relax by the water. Catania is also a major travel hub, home to an international airport and a large cruise ship port, making it an easy and convenient destination to explore. Adding to its intrigue, the coastline is tied to the legend from Homer’s Odyssey, where the Cyclops Polyphemus is said to have hurled massive rocks at Odysseus—believed to be the dramatic sea stacks still visible along the coast today. Whether you’re exploring the city streets or the shoreline, Catania offers a dynamic and memorable Sicilian experience.
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We really enjoyed cruising out of Catania and Costa is our favorite cruiseline.
Cefalu
Cefalù is a stunning coastal town that perfectly captures the charm of Sicily, located about 2 hours and 15 minutes from the apartment and well worth the visit. Known for its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration. The town’s historic center is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, local shops, and inviting cafés, all set against the backdrop of the impressive Norman Cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its striking mosaics. Towering above it all is La Rocca, a dramatic cliff that adventurous visitors can hike for panoramic views of the town and coastline. Whether you’re enjoying a beach day, wandering through historic streets, or taking in the breathtaking scenery, Cefalù offers a perfect blend of culture and coastal beauty.
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If you want any more recommendations please reach
out we are happy to make more suggestions
