How to See the Best of Sicily: 15 Unforgettable Day Trips from Catania
From Mount Etna to baroque towns and seaside gems, explore 15 unforgettable day trips from Catania that showcase the best of Sicily.
When I visited Catania during my two-week road trip across Sicily, I quickly realized that Catania can be a good base for exploring the island. With its own international airport, Catania is easy to reach and perfectly positioned for day trips to some of Sicily’s greatest treasures—whether that’s the glamorous hilltop town of Taormina, the smoking slopes of Mount Etna, or the baroque beauty of Noto and Syracuse-Ortigia.
Staying in Catania gives the best of both worlds: a lively city with bustling markets, historic piazzas, and incredible food, plus the freedom to set out each morning in search of new adventures. The best way to explore the surrounding area is by car, which can be conveniently hired at Catania Airport. Driving lets you travel at your own pace and uncover hidden gems along the way. But if navigating Sicily’s roads doesn’t appeal, don’t worry—plenty of excellent guided tours run directly from Catania, offering a stress-free way to see the highlights.
Here are 15 unforgettable day trips from Catania, each one a chance to experience a different side of Sicily’s rich history, landscapes, and culture.
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1. Taormina – A Sicilian Jewel by the Sea
Distance: 55 km (1h)
Tour: From Catania: Taormina, Savoca, & Castelmola Tour with Lunc
Just under an hour north of Catania (around 55 km), Taormina is the classic Sicilian postcard. Driving along the coastal highway, you’ll watch the Ionian Sea shimmer in shades of turquoise while Mount Etna looms in your rearview mirror.
Once you arrive, begin on Corso Umberto, Taormina’s main street, lined with chic boutiques, artisan shops, and inviting cafés. The town’s star attraction is the ancient Greek Theatre, where the drama of history plays out against a backdrop of sea and smoking volcano. Wander the peaceful Villa Comunale Gardens, filled with tropical plants and sweeping viewpoints, before taking the cable car down to Isola Bella, a rocky islet with one of Sicily’s most photogenic beaches.
A perfect day in Taormina is a blend of culture, history, and dolce vita—gelato in hand, strolling until you find a terrace where you can linger over pasta alla Norma.
If you’re traveling without a car, you can still visit by joining the From Catania: Taormina, Savoca, & Castelmola Tour with Lunch, which adds cinematic charm to the day. Read more: Things to Do in Taormina, Sicily.
2. Castelmola – Sicily from Above
Distance: 65 km (1 h 15 min)
Tour: Catania: Mount Etna Morning or Sunset Day Trip with Tasting
Just 7 km above Taormina, perched on a craggy hilltop, lies Castelmola—a tiny medieval village with views that feel like you’ve stumbled onto Sicily’s balcony. From Catania, the drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes (65 km), following winding roads that climb higher and higher above the sea.
Life here is unhurried. The piazza offers a panoramic sweep across Taormina, the Ionian coastline, and the towering bulk of Etna. The town is famous for its almond wine, best enjoyed at a terrace bar as you watch the changing light over the landscape. Wander cobblestone alleys, step into artisan shops, and soak in the timeless rhythm of Sicilian village life.
Castelmola can be combined easily with a day in Taormina, making it one of the most rewarding day trips from Catania. And if you’re not driving, the From Catania: Taormina, Savoca, & Castelmola Tour with Lunch is the perfect way to discover this gem without the stress of mountain roads.
3. Savoca and Forza d’Agrò – Step into Cinematic Sicily
Distance: 50–60 km away (1).
Tour: From Catania: The Godfather Movie Day Trip in Sicily
For film lovers—or anyone intrigued by Sicily’s timeless villages—few experiences rival the Godfather Movie Tour. From Catania, guided excursions will take you to the hill towns of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò, about 50–60 km away (roughly 1 hour by car). These villages served as filming locations for Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic saga, and visiting them feels like stepping onto a movie set frozen in time.
In Savoca, you can sip a coffee or granita at Bar Vitelli, where Michael Corleone asked for Apollonia’s hand in marriage. The atmosphere hasn’t changed much since filming—the stone walls and rustic details remain as authentic as ever. Nearby, the Church of San Nicolò, where Michael and Apollonia wed, adds another layer of cinematic nostalgia.
In Forza d’Agrò, wander cobbled lanes and enjoy sweeping views of the Ionian coast. The town was featured in several scenes, doubling as Corleone’s ancestral village. Finally, some tours even include a visit to the Castello degli Schiavi, a private villa where many pivotal scenes were filmed, including Michael’s wedding party and the infamous car explosion.
The best way to experience it is by joining the From Catania: The Godfather Movie Day Trip in Sicily – Visit Savoca, Forza d’Agrò, and the Castello degli Schiavi, which brings the story to life while weaving in local history and culture.
Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, this is one of the most atmospheric day trips from Catania—a chance to explore authentic Sicilian villages through the lens of cinema.
4. Mount Etna – The Fiery Heart of Sicily
Distance: 30 km (1 h)
Tour: Catania: Mount Etna Morning or Sunset Day Trip with Tasting
At just 30 km from Catania (around a one-hour drive), Mount Etna is the most iconic and unmissable excursion. Rising to over 3,300 meters, it is Europe’s highest and most active volcano—an ever-present force shaping Sicilian life.
A day on Etna can be as adventurous or as relaxed as you wish. Drive up to the Rifugio Sapienza and explore the Silvestri Craters, or take the cable car and 4×4 jeeps to climb closer to the summit. Hiking trails weave through black lava fields, smoking vents, and landscapes that look almost lunar. Between treks, stop at honey farms and vineyards scattered along the slopes; the volcanic soil produces wines with bold, unforgettable flavors.
For a truly magical experience, consider a sunset tour. The Catania: Mount Etna Morning or Sunset Day Trip with Tasting combines exploration with local food and wine, leaving you with the memory of glowing skies over smoldering craters.
Etna isn’t just a mountain—it’s the living, breathing heart of Sicily, and no trip is complete without standing on its slopes.
5. Giardini Naxos – Sicily’s First Greek Colony by the Sea
Distance: 45 km (50 min)
Tour: Giardini Naxos, Taormina and Castelmola-White Lotus Tour From Catania.
Just a 50-minute drive north of Catania (about 45 km), Giardini Naxos is often overshadowed by its glamorous neighbor, Taormina—but don’t make the mistake of skipping it. This seaside town was founded in 734 BC as the first Greek colony in Sicily, and today it blends history with sun-soaked relaxation.
Begin your visit at the Archaeological Park of Naxos, where ruins of ancient temples and fortifications whisper stories of early settlers. A small but fascinating museum displays pottery, artifacts, and maps that bring this chapter of Sicilian history to life.
From there, slow down and savor Giardini Naxos’ relaxed pace. Its long stretch of sandy beach is one of the best along the Ionian coast—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or renting a kayak to explore hidden coves. Dotted along the promenade, seafood trattorias serve up freshly grilled fish, pasta alle vongole, and crisp white wine, often with a view of Mount Etna in the distance.
Unlike Taormina’s sometimes bustling crowds, Giardini Naxos feels more local, more lived-in. It’s the place to sip an aperitivo by the water, chat with friendly locals, and soak up a slice of Sicilian daily life.
A day trip here pairs beautifully with Taormina or Castelmola if you have the energy, but Giardini Naxos deserves its own spotlight—especially if you’re after a more relaxed coastal escape from Catania. However, you can always visit all three places on the Giardini Naxos, Taormina and Castelmola-White Lotus Tour From Catania.
6. Noto – Baroque Perfection in Stone
Distance: 90 km (1 h 15 min)
Tour: Noto, Modica and Ragusa: The Baroque Tour from Catania
Heading south from Catania, about 90 km (1 hour 15 minutes by car), lies Noto, the undisputed queen of Sicilian Baroque. Rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, the town is a masterpiece of harmonious design—so much so that it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Your journey into Noto begins at the Porta Reale, a triumphal arch that frames the entrance to the old town. From here, stroll along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, where golden-hued limestone glows in the sunlight, giving the impression that the entire town is bathed in honey. The Cathedral of San Nicolò, with its grand staircase and twin bell towers, is a sight that will stop you in your tracks.
Spend the day wandering through churches and palaces, like the Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata, famous for its fantastical balconies decorated with winged horses and cherubs. Pause for a granita—almond or pistachio are local favorites—before continuing to discover the side streets, where quiet courtyards and hidden trattorias invite exploration.
Noto is compact enough to enjoy in a leisurely day, but its beauty will stay with you long after you’ve left.
If you’re not driving, the Noto, Modica and Ragusa: The Baroque Tour from Catania offers a perfect way to experience the Baroque triangle with ease. Read more: Things to Do in Noto, Italy.
7. Syracuse & Ortigia – History Meets the Sea
Distance: 65 km (1h)
Tours: Catania: Syracuse, Ortigia, and Noto Tour with Lunch
Just over an hour south of Catania (65 km), Syracuse is one of Sicily’s crown jewels, blending Greek history, Baroque beauty, and coastal charm. It’s an easy drive, but if you’re not behind the wheel, join the Catania: Syracuse, Ortigia, and Noto Tour with Lunch for a seamless day out.
Start at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, home to the Greek Theatre—still used for performances today—and the mysterious Ear of Dionysius, a cave with incredible acoustics. These ruins are reminders of Syracuse’s golden age, when it rivaled Athens as a cultural and military powerhouse.
Then cross the bridge to Ortigia, Syracuse’s island heart. This labyrinth of narrow streets opens onto stunning piazzas, none more beautiful than Piazza del Duomo, where the cathedral incorporates ancient temple columns into its Baroque façade. Stroll along the Lungomare di Levante for sea views, pop into bustling markets brimming with spices and seafood, and linger over lunch at a trattoria where the catch of the day comes straight from the nearby waters.
Ortigia is the kind of place where time dissolves. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a sunlit square, browsing artisan shops, or watching the sunset tint the sea pink and gold, you’ll fall under its spell.
Syracuse and Ortigia together make one of the most rewarding day trips from Catania, offering the perfect mix of history, architecture, and seaside magic. Read more: A Guide to Syracuse, Italy.
8. Modica – Chocolate and Baroque Charm
Distance: 140km (2h)
Tour: Noto, Modica and Ragusa: The Baroque Tour from Catania
Roughly 140 km south of Catania (about 2 hours by car), Modica is a city where sweet indulgence meets architectural splendor. Famous worldwide for its unique chocolate, Modica is also a UNESCO-listed Baroque jewel, cascading down the sides of a valley in a dramatic blend of staircases, churches, and sun-drenched piazzas.
Start your visit at Corso Umberto I, Modica’s main artery, lined with cafés and chocolate shops. Step into Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, one of the oldest chocolatiers in Sicily, to taste the town’s signature treat. Made with an ancient Aztec-inspired recipe brought by the Spanish, Modica’s chocolate is grainy, aromatic, and often flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, or chili.
But Modica is not just about sweets. Climb the staircase to the Cathedral of San Giorgio, one of Sicily’s most breathtaking Baroque churches, with a towering façade and panoramic views over the valley. The Cathedral of San Pietro, adorned with statues of the Apostles, is equally impressive.
Wander Modica’s tangled lanes, and you’ll find yourself stumbling across quiet piazzas, artisan workshops, and trattorias where time seems to pause. End your day with a hearty Sicilian meal, perhaps rabbit stew or pasta con le sarde, before making the drive back to Catania.
If you’re not driving, the Noto, Modica and Ragusa: The Baroque Tour from Catania is the perfect way to experience Modica’s chocolate, churches, and charm in one seamless excursion. Read more: Things to Do in Modica, Sicily.
9. Scicli – A Baroque Stage Set
Distance: 150 km (2 h 30 min)
Tour: From Catania: Southeast Sicily Inspector Montalbano Tour (Sicily Included)
A little further southwest, about 2.5 hours (150 km) from Catania, lies Scicli, a smaller but equally enchanting Baroque town. Often overlooked in favor of nearby Noto and Ragusa, Scicli has the feel of a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.
Set in a dramatic valley framed by rocky hills, Scicli’s streets are filled with ornate palazzi and richly decorated churches. The Church of San Matteo, perched on a hilltop, offers sweeping views and a sense of timelessness. Down in the heart of town, the Palazzo Beneventano is a highlight, with grotesque faces and fantastical figures carved into its balconies.
Fans of Italian television may recognize Scicli as a filming location for Inspector Montalbano. Even if you’ve never seen the show, walking through the town feels cinematic—each corner is a carefully crafted backdrop.
Unlike some of Sicily’s more famous towns, Scicli moves at a gentle pace. Have a coffee in Piazza Italia, wander cobbled alleys that suddenly open onto grand architecture, and let yourself be seduced by the atmosphere. Scicli is small enough to explore in a day yet rich enough to leave a lasting impression.
This is one of the most authentic day trips from Catania—a chance to experience Sicily’s Baroque heart without the crowds. Read more: A Guide to Scicli, Sicily.
10. Ragusa – Twin Towns of Timeless Beauty
Distance: 100 km (1h 45 min)
Tour: Noto, Modica and Ragusa: The Baroque Tour from Catania
About 100 km southwest of Catania (a 1 hour 45 minute drive), Ragusa is a city in two halves. After the 1693 earthquake, it was rebuilt as Ragusa Superiore on the plateau above, while the old town—Ragusa Ibla—was restored in the valley below. Today, the contrast makes Ragusa one of Sicily’s most fascinating destinations.
Begin in Ragusa Superiore, with its grid-like streets and elegant palazzi, before descending via the Scala di Ibla, a long staircase connecting the two halves of the city. At the bottom, Ragusa Ibla awaits: a labyrinth of narrow lanes, stone staircases, and Baroque façades that glow in the Sicilian light.
The jewel of Ragusa Ibla is the Duomo di San Giorgio, with its grand dome rising above the town. Surrounding it, the Giardino Ibleo offers a peaceful spot to rest with views stretching across the valley. Take time to wander without a map—Ragusa Ibla is best discovered slowly, as each turn reveals another photogenic alley, a sunlit piazza, or a hidden trattoria serving ricotta-filled ravioli drizzled with tomato sauce.
If you’re not driving, join the Noto, Modica and Ragusa: The Baroque Tour from Catania, which ties together these Baroque jewels in a single unforgettable journey.
Ragusa is more than a city—it’s a love letter to resilience, beauty, and Sicilian soul. Read more: A Guide to Ragusa, Sicily.
11. Villa Romana del Casale – A Journey into Ancient Luxury
Distance: 90 km (1 h 30 min)
Tour: Private Tour to the Villa Romana del Casale and the Valley of the Temples
About 90 km west of Catania (roughly 1 hour 30 minutes by car), tucked into the Sicilian countryside near Piazza Armerina, lies the Villa Romana del Casale—a Roman villa that feels like stepping into another world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its extraordinary mosaics, some of the best preserved in the entire Roman Empire.
Built in the 4th century, the villa was likely a hunting lodge for a wealthy Roman noble. Today, walking its corridors is like paging through a vivid picture book of ancient life. The mosaics stretch across 3,500 square meters, depicting everything from mythological scenes to daily activities. One of the most iconic panels is the so-called “Bikini Girls”, showing athletic women in two-piece outfits—proof that fashion trends never really disappear.
The scale and artistry of the villa are astounding. Each room tells its own story: children playing with animals, charioteers racing, exotic wildlife being hunted and brought back from faraway lands. The mosaics are not only beautiful but also historically invaluable, offering a window into Roman culture, economy, and imagination.
For those not driving, consider the Private Tour to the Villa Romana del Casale and the Valley of the Temples, which makes it easy to combine this treasure with another of Sicily’s must-sees.
Villa Romana del Casale is one of the most unique day trips from Catania—a dazzling reminder that Sicily has been at the crossroads of civilizations for millennia. Read more: A Guide to Villa Romana del Casale, Sicily.
12. Valley of the Temples – Sicily’s Ancient Glory
Distance: 165 km (2 h 30 min)
Tours: Catania: Valley of the Temples & Piazza Armerina with Lunch I Private Tour to the Villa Romana del Casale and the Valley of the Temples
Located near Agrigento, about 165 km from Catania (a 2.5-hour drive), the Valley of the Temples is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. It’s not just a ruin—it’s a living testament to Sicily’s role in the ancient Greek world.
Spread across a ridge overlooking the sea, the site features eight temples dating back to the 5th century BC. The most impressive is the Temple of Concordia, remarkably well-preserved with its columns still standing tall against the Sicilian sky. Walk among olive groves and almond trees as you pass the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Heracles, and the evocative remains of others, each with its own aura of faded grandeur.
A visit here is not just about sightseeing—it’s about feeling the weight of history under your feet. At sunset, when golden light bathes the stones, the valley takes on a mystical atmosphere you won’t soon forget.
If you’re not driving, excellent tours depart from Catania, such as the Catania: Valley of the Temples & Piazza Armerina with Lunch or the Private Tour to the Villa Romana del Casale and the Valley of the Temples, making logistics effortless.
The Valley of the Temples is a highlight among all day trips from Catania—a chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks while marveling at Sicily’s timeless landscapes. Read: A Complete Guide to the Valley of the Temples, Sicily.
13. Stair of the Turks – A White Cliff by the Sea
Distance: 170 km (2 h 30 min)
Tour: Catania: Valley of the Temples and Turkish Steps with Lunch
Just beyond Agrigento, about 170 km (around 2.5 hours by car) from Catania, lies one of Sicily’s most striking natural wonders: the Scala dei Turchi, or Stair of the Turks. This dazzling white limestone cliff rises dramatically from the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, forming smooth terraces that look as if they were sculpted by hand.
The name comes from the pirate raids that once plagued Sicily’s coast; legend has it that Turkish invaders used the natural “steps” of the cliff to climb ashore. Today, it’s not invaders but travelers who come here—drawn by its surreal beauty.
Spend your day wandering along the soft, chalky stone, dipping your toes into the clear waters, and marveling at the contrast between bright white cliffs and deep blue sea. Bring a swimsuit: the beach at the base of the Scala is a wonderful spot for swimming and sunbathing.
If you’d rather not drive, the Catania: Valley of the Temples and Turkish Steps with Lunch tour combines two of Sicily’s highlights in one unforgettable day.
The Stair of the Turks is more than a beach—it’s a place where geology, legend, and beauty converge. Among all the day trips from Catania, this one is perfect if you crave sea air, dramatic landscapes, and a dose of the unexpected. Read: A Complete Travel Guide to Scala dei Turchi, Sicily.
14. Cefalù – Medieval Charm by the Sea
Distance: 190 km (2.5–3 hours)
Tour: Private Day Tour to Palermo and Cefalù from Catania
Located on Sicily’s northern coast, about 190 km from Catania (a 2.5–3 hour drive), Cefalù is one of the island’s most enchanting coastal towns. While it’s a longer journey than some other options, the reward is an unforgettable blend of medieval history, seaside beauty, and dolce vita atmosphere.
Cefalù’s centerpiece is its Norman Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 12th century by King Roger II. Its twin towers dominate the skyline, and inside, glittering Byzantine mosaics—including a monumental Christ Pantocrator—offer a glimpse into Sicily’s layered cultural past. The cathedral square is the perfect spot to pause for a cappuccino while watching daily life unfold.
Beyond the cathedral, Cefalù’s narrow medieval lanes lead you past stone houses, artisan shops, and trattorias where the scent of grilled fish fills the air. For a panoramic adventure, climb La Rocca, the massive rock that looms over the town. The hike is steep but worth it for sweeping views of Cefalù’s terracotta rooftops, golden beaches, and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Of course, no visit is complete without time by the water. Cefalù’s crescent-shaped beach, backed by pastel-colored buildings, is among the most picturesque in Sicily. Spend an afternoon swimming, sunbathing, or simply strolling along the shore with a gelato in hand.
Cefalù is a longer drive, but it makes for one of the most rewarding day trips from Catania if you’re seeking a mix of history and seaside bliss. For many, it becomes the unexpected highlight of their Sicilian journey. Read: A Complete Travel Guide to Cefalù, Sicily.
15. Palermo – The Beating Heart of Sicily
Distance: 210 km (3 h)
Tour: Private Day Tour to Palermo and Cefalù from Catania
At about 210 km from Catania (a 3-hour drive across the island), Palermo is a longer but richly rewarding day trip. As Sicily’s capital, Palermo is a city of contrasts: chaotic yet charming, gritty yet grand, where every corner tells a story of conquest, resilience, and creativity.
Begin your exploration in the Palermo Cathedral, a stunning patchwork of architectural styles that reflects centuries of Norman, Arab, and Spanish influence. From there, stroll through the Quattro Canti, a baroque crossroads where fountains, statues, and golden façades create a theatrical backdrop to city life.
Don’t miss the Palatine Chapel inside the Norman Palace, with its glittering mosaics that fuse Byzantine artistry with Islamic patterns—a reminder of Sicily’s unique position at the crossroads of cultures. For a quieter moment, step into the cloisters of the Monreale Cathedral, just outside the city, where gold mosaics shimmer in the half-light.
Palermo is also a feast for the senses. Lose yourself in the chaotic Ballarò and Vucciria markets, where vendors shout out their wares: swordfish, prickly pears, and fragrant spices from across the Mediterranean. Street food is a way of life here—try arancini (stuffed rice balls), panelle (chickpea fritters), and sfincione (Sicilian pizza) straight from the stalls.
If time allows, wander into the Teatro Massimo, one of Europe’s largest opera houses, or explore hidden gems like the oratories decorated by Giacomo Serpotta. Palermo rewards curiosity—you’ll always stumble upon something unexpected, from vibrant street art to centuries-old palazzi.
Because of the distance, it’s best to leave Catania early in the morning and plan for a long day. If driving feels daunting, guided tours and private transfers can help you make the most of your time.
Among all the day trips from Catania, Palermo offers the biggest contrast: a bustling metropolis that embodies Sicily’s layered history and cultural richness. Spending even a single day here gives you a taste of the island’s complex soul—one that lingers long after you’ve left. Read more: 20 Unforgettable Things toDo in Palermo, Sicily and How to Spend One Perfect Day in Palermo.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Day Trips from Catania
Catania is more than just a city—it’s a gateway. From its baroque streets, you can reach Greek theatres by the sea, medieval villages perched high on cliffs, Roman villas filled with mosaics, and white-sand beaches kissed by turquoise waves. Each of these day trips from Catania reveals a different side of Sicily: fiery, elegant, timeless, and deliciously alive.
If you’re planning a Sicilian road trip, make space in your itinerary for at least a few of these excursions. Start with Etna for raw natural power, Taormina for glamour, or Noto for architectural wonder. Or simply let your curiosity lead the way—wherever you go, Sicily will surprise you.
Whether by car or on a guided tour, these day trips remind you why Sicily is a place you don’t just visit—you feel it, deeply and forever.
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