Catania and Cyclops coast excursion

Exploring Catania: baroque elegance and lively traditions

Massimo Bellini Teatre, Catania

Upon arrival in Catania, we will head straight to Piazza del Duomo, the city’s main square, where you will admire the Fontana dell’Elefante, an iconic lava-stone fountain that serves as the symbol of Catania. Overlooking the square is the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Agatha, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. Inside, you can discover its rich artistic heritage and the relics of St. Agatha, an essential part of Catania’s religious tradition.

Not far from the cathedral, we will explore La Pescheria, the lively fish market, where you will experience an authentic slice of Sicilian life through the colors, sounds, and unmistakable aromas of fresh seafood and local produce. From there, we will continue our walking tour, visiting Palazzo Biscari, an 18th-century palace with opulent frescoed halls, and Piazza dell’Università, surrounded by elegant historical buildings.

Our journey continues along Via Etnea, Catania’s most famous shopping street, lined with boutiques, cafés, and artisan shops. Along the way, we will pass through Piazza Stesicoro, where the ruins of the Roman Amphitheater tell stories of a grand imperial past. The tour will then take a relaxing break at Villa Bellini, one of the most beautiful public gardens in Sicily, offering stunning views of Mount Etna and a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Discovering the cyclops coast: Acicastello and Acitrezza

Acicastello’s castle

Leaving Catania, we will drive a few kilometers north to the enchanting Cyclops coast, a stretch of Sicilian shoreline steeped in myths and natural beauty.

Acicastello: a medieval fortress by the sea

The first stop is Acicastello, a picturesque coastal town famous for its Norman Castle, a striking fortress built entirely from black lava stone. Perched on a rocky promontory, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding coastline. This small town is part of the Riviera dei Limoni, a region known for its lush lemon groves, which fill the air with a refreshing citrus fragrance.

Acitrezza: legends and lava formations

Our next stop is Acitrezza, a charming fishing village that has inspired poets and writers throughout history. The coastline here is dominated by the Faraglioni dei Ciclopi, enormous basalt sea stacks rising from the crystal-clear waters. According to Greek mythology, these rocks were hurled by the Cyclops Polyphemus in his battle against Odysseus. Today, the area is a protected marine reserve, making it a fantastic spot for photography and nature lovers.

Strolling through Acitrezza, you can see traditional wooden fishing boats lining the shore, while local seafood restaurants serve fresh catches of the day. The village is also famous as the setting of Giovanni Verga’s novel I Malavoglia, a classic of Italian literature that captures the essence of Sicilian coastal life.

Why choose the Catania and cyclops coast excursion?

Opting for the Catania and Cyclops coast excursion means immersing yourself in the rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique traditions of eastern Sicily. Whether you are passionate about history, fascinated by myths, or simply looking to experience the authentic charm of Sicilian coastal towns, this tour offers an unforgettable journey through some of the island’s most iconic locations.

Choose New Travel Services, the leading experts in Sicilian excursions, for a seamless and enriching travel experience.