Category: Sicily Holiday Tips

Easter Monday, or Lunedì dell’Angelo, is one of the most beloved holidays in Sicily. The mild climate and the perfect blend of nature, culture, and gastronomy make the island an ideal destination for a day trip. Whether you’re an adventure lover, a history enthusiast, or a foodie, Sicily offers endless possibilities to make this day special. This guide provides ideas and excursions around Taormina for an unforgettable Easter Monday, including some organized tour options with Sicily Day Trips.

Exploring nature: Easter Monday Outdoors

If nature calls you out of the city, Sicily offers breathtaking landscapes for a day filled with hiking, picnics, and stunning views near Taormina.

Mount Etna: The Gentle Giant

Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, is a perfect destination for adventure seekers. Its hiking trails take you through lava flows, craters, and ancient forests, offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape. For a stress-free experience, Sicily Day Trips organizes excursions to Mount Etna from Taormina and Catania. Options include guided hikes, cave explorations, and scenic walks with local experts.

For a more relaxing experience, you can visit the Etna wineries, where you can taste fine wines paired with traditional Sicilian products, immersing yourself in the island’s authentic flavors.

Alcantara Gorges: A Unique Canyon and Quad Adventure

Just a few kilometers from Mount Etna and Taormina, the Alcantara Gorges are a must-see destination. Formed by ancient lava flows shaped by water, these gorges offer a unique landscape, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic in nature. For those seeking extra excitement, you can join a thrilling body rafting tour in the canyon’s icy waters. Sicily Day Trips also offers organized experiences to help you explore this spectacular part of Sicily.

For an even more adrenaline-pumping adventure, explore the Alcantara Valley by quad bike, riding along dirt trails through wild landscapes and breathtaking scenery. This tour is perfect for adventure lovers looking to discover Sicily’s inland in a fun and unique way.

Cultural trips: Easter Monday in Sicily with history and tradition

If your idea of Easter Monday includes a mix of history, art, and architecture, the area around Taormina offers charming villages and world-famous archaeological sites.

Taormina: Timeless Beauty

With its elegance and stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, Taormina is one of the most popular Easter Monday destinations. Stroll along Corso Umberto, visit the famous Greek Theatre, and enjoy a granita at one of the historic pastry shops in the center. To make the experience even more special, you can combine your visit with a boat tour along the coast, organized by Sicily Day Trips.

Relaxation and gastronomy: The heart of Sicilian Easter Monday

Let’s be honest—Easter Monday near Taormina is also about good food and great company. Traditionally, families gather for a picnic in the countryside or at a designated picnic area, enjoying a day of relaxation outdoors.

What to Pack in Your Picnic Basket?

If you opt for a rustic outdoor lunch, be sure to bring these Sicilian delicacies:

• Homemade bread, local cured meats, and cheeses
• Arancini, perfect even when eaten cold
• Olives and caponata, true flavors of the island
• Cannoli and Sicilian cassata for a sweet ending
• A good glass of Etna wine or Nero d’Avola to toast the day

If you prefer a hassle-free day, many agritourism farms around Taormina offer outdoor lunches with tastings of local products, turning Easter Monday into a journey through Sicily’s authentic flavors.

Not sure what to do on Easter Monday in Sicily?

Easter Monday around Taormina is the perfect opportunity to experience Sicily in an authentic way, blending nature, history, and irresistible flavors. Whether you choose to hike Mount Etna, explore the Alcantara Gorges by quad, visit Castelmola, or relax on a boat in Taormina, the key is to enjoy the journey with great company.

To make the day even more special, rely on Sicily Day Trips for excursions that let you discover the best of Sicily stress-free, with expert guides leading the way.

Now all that’s left is to pack your bag, invite friends and family, and set off on an adventure! Happy Easter Monday in Sicily!

Eastern Sicily is one of Italy’s most fascinating destinations, a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture. From picturesque fishing villages to majestic archaeological sites, breathtaking landscapes, and unique culinary traditions, this part of the island offers an unforgettable experience. Here is a complete guide on what to see and do in Eastern Sicily.

Catania: the beating heart of Eastern Sicily

The city of Catania is the ideal starting point for exploring Eastern Sicily. Located at the foot of Mount Etna, Catania is famous for its UNESCO-listed Baroque historic center.

What to see in Catania:

• Piazza del Duomo: Admire the Elephant Fountain, the city’s symbol, and the splendid Cathedral of Saint Agatha.
• Via Etnea: The city’s main street, perfect for shopping and strolling among stores and cafés.
• Pescheria Market: A lively place where you can discover the true soul of Catania.

Syracuse: history and timeless charm

About an hour from Catania, Syracuse is a must-visit destination. This city blends the charm of its Greek past with a unique Mediterranean atmosphere.

What to see in Syracuse:

• Ortigia: The historic heart of Syracuse is a maze of alleys, squares, and monuments. Don’t miss the Duomo, built on an ancient Greek temple.
• Archaeological Park of Neapolis: Visit the Greek Theater, the Ear of Dionysius, and the Roman Amphitheater.
• Fonte Aretusa: A freshwater spring overlooking the sea, wrapped in mythological legends.

Noto and the Val di Noto: the triumph of baroque

As the capital of Sicilian Baroque, Noto is an architectural masterpiece. Stroll along Corso Vittorio Emanuele to admire the Cathedral of San Nicolò and numerous historic palaces. The city is also the gateway to the Vendicari Nature Reserve, famous for its pristine beaches and rich wildlife.

Taormina

With its Greek-Roman theater and panoramic views of Mount Etna and the sea, Taormina is one of Eastern Sicily’s most iconic destinations. Explore the alleys of the historic center, relax on Isola Bella Beach, and, if time permits, visit the nearby village of Castelmola.

Natural Parks and Mount Etna

Eastern Sicily boasts numerous natural areas of extraordinary beauty:

• Mount Etna: The volcano is a must-visit. Take a cable car or join guided hikes to explore craters, lava flows, and breathtaking landscapes.
• Alcantara Gorges: A spectacular canyon formed by ancient lava flows, ideal for hiking and cooling off in the waters. Adventurous visitors can also try body rafting.
• Vendicari Nature Reserve: A perfect oasis for birdwatching and relaxing on untouched beaches.

Famous Monuments, Museums, and Cathedrals

Eastern Sicily is a treasure trove of art and history. Here are some must-see landmarks:

• Cathedral of Saint Agatha (Catania): A masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque.
• Duomo of Syracuse: An ancient marvel built on a Greek temple.
• Greek Theater of Taormina: One of the most famous archaeological attractions, offering views of the sea and Mount Etna.
• Paolo Orsi Regional Archaeological Museum (Syracuse): One of Italy’s most important archaeological museums.
• Historic Palaces of Noto: Including Palazzo Nicolaci, a symbol of Sicilian Baroque.

Ragusa and Modica: between art and chocolate

Ragusa Ibla, with its churches and palaces, is another gem of Sicilian Baroque. Modica, on the other hand, is famous not only for its architecture but also for its traditional chocolate, made following an ancient Aztec recipe. A visit to one of the historic chocolate shops is a must.

The most beautiful villages in Eastern Sicily

Picturesque villages abound, including:

• Savoca: Made famous by The Godfather movie, with its characteristic narrow streets.
• Castelmola: A charming village with panoramic views of Taormina and Mount Etna.
• Marzamemi: A fishing village with a unique atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening.

What to eat in Eastern Sicily

Eastern Sicilian cuisine is a feast of flavors. Some specialties to try:

• Arancini: Rice balls filled with ragù, cheese, or other variations.
• Pasta alla Norma: A classic dish with eggplant, salted ricotta, and tomato sauce.
• Cannoli and Granita: The quintessential Sicilian desserts.
• Fresh Fish: From sea urchins to tuna, the variety is endless.

Discover Eastern Sicily

Eastern Sicily is a land of contrasts and wonders, where every corner tells a story. Whether you love art, nature, or good food, this region will captivate you. Pack your bags and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this timeless land.

What to See in Messina

A city located at the northeastern tip of Sicily. Even though visiting Messina in one day is not enough to fully discover this beautiful city, we have prepared an itinerary that will allow you to have an unforgettable Messina experience.

Mt Etna: advice on trips either alone or with a guide

Welcome to the majestic world of Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe, where breathtaking landscapes, pristine nature, and unique colors come together to create an unforgettable experience. In this guide, I will lead you through practical tips on how to visit Mount Etna, the ideal months for trekking, recommended clothing, and the choice of slopes and trails.

Welcome to Taormina Travel Blog,

Your complete guide to discovering Taormina and what to see in its surroundings, the wonders of this enchanting Sicilian location. Here, you will find all the tourist information you need to make the most of your experience in Taormina, as well as tips on nearby towns and places of great attraction.

In our blog, we will provide you with a detailed overview of what to see and the must-visit attractions in Taormina. You will discover the grandeur of its ancient Greek theater, overlooking the crystal-clear sea, which offers a unique spectacle in a breathtaking setting. You can immerse yourself in the charm of its picturesque alleyways, rich in history and culture, and experience the unique atmosphere that characterizes this thousand-year-old city.

But Taormina is not just about history and architecture

You will have the opportunity to read articles about activities offered in this area. From the enchanting beaches that stretch along the coast to adventurous excursions on the imposing Mount Etna volcano, you will find a wide range of options to make your visit to Taormina an unforgettable experience.

Our articles will also take you on a journey to discover the surrounding towns and places, each with its own uniqueness and beauty. You can explore the historic city of Catania, with its lively markets and archaeological sites, or visit the charming village of Castelmola, nestled in the hills surrounding Taormina, offering breathtaking views of the coast and the volcano.

If you are looking for detailed information on activities and events happening in Taormina and its surroundings, you are in the right place. Our blog will provide you with valuable tips on restaurants and typical places to savor Sicilian cuisine delicacies and suggestions on cultural and folk events that bring this region to life throughout the year.

Blog Taormina: your source of inspiration

Plan your visit and discover the best that this part of Sicily has to offer. We are excited to share with you all the necessary information to make your trip to Taormina a unique and unforgettable experience.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the history, natural beauty, and culture of Taormina and its surroundings. Welcome to a world of fascinating discoveries and authentic emotions.

Scroll down to explore all our recent articles on Taormina!

Things to do in Giardini-Naxos

It’s a splendid coastal town on the eastern coast of Sicily, renowned for its rich history, beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and thrilling sea excursions. If you’re planning a visit to Giardini-Naxos, here’s what to see and do in this captivating destination.

Visiting the Blue Grotto

In the heart of the Marine Park of Isola Bella, you’ll find the Blue Grotto of Taormina, embraced by a rocky wall that soars 25 meters high. It’s a magical place where you can admire the sea in all its shades: waters with vivid and vibrant colors in which the sunlight reflects. The clear and crystalline seabed makes sea urchins, starfish, corals, and a wide variety of fish visible in its depths. It’s not just a simple destination but a true experience capable of offering captivating moments with nature.

Travel to the Aeolian Islands.

This volcanic archipelago is located near the northern coast of Sicily. Here you will find tips on how to best explore these islands, from the main attractions to planning your trip.

Sicilian beaches

Crystal clear seas, golden beaches and breath-taking views:  it is not easy to say exactly which beach is the most beautiful in Sicily, a region in which there is nothing lacking to satisfy the needs of tourists who wish to combine enjoyment, relaxation, and culture, not forgetting gastronomic pleasures …

Mount Etna: visiting, excursions

Let’s talk about a tourist destination of distinction – Mount Etna. Visit Mount Etna signifies a whole mountain of things to do and see, so much so, that every year tourists come from all corners of the world to see it. In fact, along with the volcanic aspect, you can also enjoy activities, such as trekking, or horse riding along its footpaths and craters, and excursions with experts who will take you right into the most well-known caves.