Discovering Catania and its surroundings

Sicily: A multifaceted land

Situated right in the middle of the east coast of Sicily, Catania is the perfect starting point for visiting the eastern side of the island and its most interesting cities like Modica, Noto, Siracusa, Ragusa, Taormina, Giardini Naxos, Acitrezza ed Acicastello.

Eastern Sicily cities offer their visitors a large array of activities and attractions. Giardini Naxos, Taormina, Acitrezza and Acicastello are known for their fabulous beaches on the Ionian Sea, where you can enjoy a relaxing day under the sun.

The baroque town of Modica, situated in Ragusa province, delights its visitors with its architectural wonders and the exquisite taste of its artisanal chocolate, characterized by an ancient and original recipe. Chocolate is the main protagonist of “Choco barocco”, a local event that is held every year in the city.

Taormina and Siracusa were both founded during the Greek period.

In both towns you can see the remnants of the ancient civilization that dominated in Sicily centuries ago and deeply shaped our culture.

In Siracusa’s archeological area you will have a chance to discover the legendary “Ear of Dionysius” cave, famous for its acoustics properties, and watch the ancient Greek tragedies, which are still performed in springtime inside the Greek theatre thanks to the no-profit organization INDA. The Greek theatre in Taormina is the location of the living nativity, a local Christmas time tradition.

Ragusa is famous not only for its impressive examples of baroque architecture, but also for the wonderful Castello di Donnafugata. Do not miss a visit to the castle and its labyrinth! Anyway, the capital of Baroque architecture is Noto, with its stunning buildings and churches that gradually become golden-colored at sunset.

Last but not least, before coming back to your room in our b&b palazzo bruca in Catania, make sure to have a swim in the crystal clear sea waters near Acicastello and Acitrezza.

Acicastello gets its name from the castle of Aci, which dates back to the Normand domination. It is situated on a lava cliff jutting out into the sea. Acitrezza is the setting of the most important Sicilian novel, “I Malavoglia” by Giovanni Verga. This picturesque village will leave you astonished at the sight of its legendary stacks, which are even older than mount Etna, our “good giant”!