Sicily’s East Coast
The Perfect 7 Day Itinerary
I spent a week exploring Sicily’s stunning east coast and for once, I didn’t plan a thing. As a birthday surprise, my boyfriend took over all the planning, which completely goes against my usual nature. But letting go of control turned out to be the best gift. I showed up with no expectations and left completely enchanted by this Italian island!
While many travellers flock to Palermo or the beaches of Cefalù, the eastern side of Sicily offers a different kind of magic: dramatic coastlines, the towering presence of Mount Etna, charming baroque towns, and sleepy fishing villages with crystal-clear waters. This guide focuses on the lesser-traveled gems: from volcanic hikes to seaside sunsets -perfect if you’re looking for something beyond the typical tourist trail.
Quick Overview
- Day 1: Catania & Etna
- Day 2: Etna
- Day 3: Taormina
- Day 4: Siracusa
- Day 5: Noto & Marzamemi
- Day 6: Vendicari Nature Reserve
- Day 7: Noto & Avola
Best Time to Visit Sicily
The ideal time to visit is April – June and September – October, with warm weather, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. July and August are hot and busy, with most of European countries being on summer holidays. If you can, definitely go for the shoulder seasons of May, June, September, or October!
I visited in mid-April and experienced a mix of conditions. Around Mount Etna, it was still sweater and jacket season, and I felt quite cold most of the time. Along the coast, however, temperatures warmed up during the day. On sunny days, it was even bikini weather, though the sea remained too cold for swimming (at least for me). The nights, however, always turned chilly again.
Day 1: Arrival in Catania & Heading Towards Etna
Upon arriving in Catania, the vibrant and historic gateway to Sicily’s east coast, take some time to explore its grand baroque architecture, bustling markets, and lively piazzas before setting off towards Mount Etna. Catania’s history dates back to the 8th century BC, and its unique charm lies in its black lava stone buildings, a testament to the power of the nearby volcano.
From here, drive towards the scenic foothills of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. The picturesque villages of Sant’Alfio and Milo are excellent bases for exploring this fascinating region. Sant’Alfio is home to the legendary Chestnut Tree of One Hundred Horses, one of the oldest known trees in the world, while Milo is known for its wine production, particularly the Etna DOC wines.
Since this was a surprise trip, I didn’t research anything about the region. Milo was just a lucky find since it was so close to our hotel! I’d definitely recommend checking out PutiaLab, a cozy eatery offering delicious local delicacies. Grab some wine, paninis, and pastries to go, and enjoy the scenery from the town’s main plaza.
We ended our day with a traditional Sicilian meal at 4 Archi, a well-loved trattoria known for its seafood and homemade pasta. It was recommended to us by some locals we talked to, so it must be quite authentic. The restaurant is famous for its cozy rustic vibe, ‘0-KM-food’ (so local ingredients respecting the seasons), and hearty dishes.
Where to Stay
L’Infinito Agriturismo – Rooms & Breakfast
This B&B is located in Sant’Alfio, close to the town of Milo. It has a great garden full of hazelnuts and chestnuts, with a stunning sea view on one side, and Mount Etna on the other. The rooms are comfortable, and breakfast is basic but good. It’s definitely a nice place for a short stopover for your Mount Etna adventures.
Price: about 80€ – 100€ per night
Alternatives
- Villa Hirschen in Zafferana Etnea (from 80€ per night)
- B&B Bellini in Milo (from 100€ per night)
- Wine Resort Villagrande in Milo (from 200€ per night)
Day 2: Mount Etna & Taormina
Wake up early and go on an unforgettable adventure to Mount Etna. I’m a volcano lover, so this has always been on my bucket list. Etna is incredibly active, and I would have loved to see an eruption. Unfortunately (or fortunately) that wasn’t in the cards. Still, climbing this volcano is an unbelievable experience. Whether you choose a guided hike, a jeep tour, or the cable car up to the higher craters, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the island’s diverse landscapes.
If you actually want to climb to the top craters of Mount Etna, you are required to have a guide. The volcano could increase activity at any moment, so it’s super important for your safety to have a professional with you. We booked with Guide Vulcanologiche Etna Nord, and couldn’t have been happier. If you’re interested in the full story of climbing Mount Etna, check out my post here!
After your adventure on the volcano, head north to Taormina, one of Sicily’s most enchanting coastal towns. Of course, you might know it from The White Lotus’s second season! Perched high on a hill, Taormina has been a popular destination since ancient times, attracting visitors with its Greek-Roman ruins, medieval streets, and breathtaking views over the Ionian Sea.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful meal at TreQuarti Taormina Antipasteria, where you can sample traditional Sicilian antipasti and fresh seafood. We stumbled upon it, and this was even better than the restaurant we were recommended for the next night.
Where to Stay
If you want to stay in Taormina but still wake up to the sound of the sea, Mazzarò Sea Palace is the perfect spot. It sits right on the stunning Mazzarò Bay, with its own private beach. The rooms are comfortable, spacious and all have an amazing sea view. An amazing breakfast can be enjoyed on a sunny terrace surrounded by olive trees.
Price: from 500€ per night
Alternatives
- Carly & Dane Vacation House (from 80€ per night)
- Neró Rooms (from 100€ per night)
- B&B Villa Giorgia (from 150€ per night)
- San Domenico Palace Four Seasons (from 1.3k € per night)
Day 3: Relaxing in Taormina
Spend the day soaking up the sun on Taormina’s beautiful beaches. Visit Isola Bella, a tiny island and nature reserve connected to the mainland by a narrow sandbar. Its crystal-clear waters make it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. Keep in mind, however, that it’s a pebble beach so bring your sea shoes if you need them.
After enjoying the beach, stroll through Taormina’s Old Town, where you’ll find charming boutiques, lively cafes, and stunning historic landmarks. Be sure to visit the Teatro Antico di Taormina, a very well-preserved ancient Greek theater offering a panoramic view of Mount Etna and the coastline.
In the afternoon, head to Piazza IX Aprile for a spectacular view on the sea and Etna. Maybe even grab an Aperol Spritz to go from one of the surrounding bars and do some people watching!
Day 4: Journey to Siracusa
Leave Taormina behind and drive south to Siracusa, one of Sicily’s most historically significant cities. Founded by the ancient Greeks in 733 BC, Siracusa was once a powerful city-state that rivaled Athens. Today, it boasts a mix of Greek, Roman, and baroque architecture, making it a must-visit destination.
Before checking in at your hotel, grab lunch at a Caseificio Borderi, a panini shop where you can enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Expect some massive sandwiches, filled with everything from fresh mozzarella, homemade pesto, and cured meats.
I recommend not staying in Siracusa, but rather head into the countryside. There, your accommodation can be a charming agriturismo set on an organic farm, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and animals like donkeys and cats. Do it like me and spend the evening enjoying a farm-to-table experience, cooking some authentic Italian pasta (or trying to), and immersing yourself in the quiet Sicilian countryside.
Where to Stay
Villa dei Papiri is such a unique stay! Nestled far away in the countryside, surrounded by olive groves, citrus trees, and agriculture, you’re completely removed from the crowds of Siracusa. The building dates back to the 19th century and the antique furniture just adds to the vibe. No worries, though, the spacious rooms have air conditioning and modern appliances! Each room has their own share of the garden, with parasols, beanbags, and outdoor seating. The property is home to donkeys, and a few friendly cats.
Price: from 200€ per night
Alternatives
- Le Due Sicilie Guest House (from 80€ per night)
- Appartamento Maniace (from 130€ per night)
- Hotel Borgo Pantano (from 180€ per night)
Day 5: Exploring Noto & Marzamemi
Continue south to Noto, a stunning baroque town often referred to as the “Capital of Sicilian Baroque.” The town was entirely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1693, resulting in a blend of golden-hued palaces, churches, and piazzas. Check into your hotel and relax for a bit before heading out again. We stayed at Casa Vendicari, a beautiful accommodation in the middle of a nature reserve.
In the afternoon, take a short trip to Marzamemi, a picturesque fishing village with a rich maritime history. Originally an Arab settlement, Marzamemi is now known for its charming seaside atmosphere and historic tonnara (tuna processing plant). Enjoy an aperitivo by the harbor, where colorful fishing boats bob on the water, and soak in the laid-back coastal vibes. The vibes were a bit gloomy in April, but I imagine it’s incredibly beautiful in summer.
Where to Stay
What used to be an ancient Italian farm, is now a a modern boutique hotel, just a few minutes from the sea. Casa Vendicari is the only hotel within the Vendicari Nature Reserve. The area is full of farmland, lemon groves, and organic vegetable gardens. The rooms are minimalist and modern, with details of exposed stone. There’s a saltwater pool situated in the expansive garden, next to seating areas under olive trees. One of my favourite aspects about the hotel is the breakfast, which consists of pastries, homemade pistachio cream, and antipasti platters.
Price: from 140€ per night
Alternatives
- Ziolì in Noto (from 110€ per night)
- Filinona B&B in Noto (from 140€ per night)
- Gagliardi Boutique Hotel in Noto (from 230€ per night)
- Masseria Costanza, Vendicari Retreat close to Vendicari (from 290€ per night)
Day 6: Nature & Beach Day at Vendicari
Dedicate the day to exploring the stunning Riserva Naturale di Vendicari, a protected coastal area renowned for its diverse wildlife and unspoiled beaches. The reserve is home to flamingos, herons, and sea turtles, as well as ancient ruins, including a 15th-century tuna factory. If you’re staying at the Vendicari Hotel, you can even use the parking lot for free.
Spend the morning at Spiaggia di Vendicari, a beautiful stretch of golden sand with shallow turquoise waters. Later, hike to Spiaggia di Calamosche, a secluded cove surrounded by rocky cliffs. Known for its crystal-clear water and calm waves, it’s considered one of Sicily’s most beautiful beaches. But make sure to bring enough water and snacks! It’s a 20-30 minute walk to get to the beach and the Italian sun can do some real damage. There are also no amenities at the beach, so come prepared.
For lunch and/or dinner, visit Agriturismo Vendicari Il Baglietto. You’ll sit in a beautiful garden, surrounded by olive trees that give you shade from the sun. Enjoy freshly made Sicilian pasta and local wines.
Day 7: Noto & Avola
On your final day, visit the coastal towns of Lido di Noto and Avola. Lido di Noto is a charming seaside resort, while Avola is famous for its almonds and the robust Nero d’Avola wine, one of Sicily’s most celebrated red wines. Spend the morning relaxing on the beaches before grabbing lunch at Lampara Street Food, known for its fresh seafood and Sicilian specialties.
In the afternoon, have another stroll through Noto’s picturesque streets, admiring the elegant baroque buildings. Stop by the Cattedrale di San Nicolò, an iconic landmark with a striking façade and impressive frescoes. We grabbed some drinks to go and sat on the stairs, enjoying the setting sun. Have one last Sicilian feast at Modica di San Giovanni, where you can indulge in traditional dishes and rich chocolate from nearby Modica. I particularly loved the pistachio pasta and caponata!
How to get around Sicily
The best way to explore Sicily’s east coast is definitely by rental car. While cities like Catania, Taormina, Siracusa, and Noto are connected by trains and buses, public transport can be infrequent, especially on weekends or in rural areas. If you’re planning to visit places like the Vendicari Nature Reserve or Marzamemi, a car makes things much easier, as there’s no direct public transport to many of these spots.
Around Mount Etna, a car is almost essential. Not only to reach the various charming towns on its slopes, but also to get to the starting point of most Etna hikes and tours. There is a bus from Catania to Rifugio Sapienza (the main access point), but it runs only once a day.
Keep in mind: Italian driving, especially in Sicily, can be a bit of a culture shock. Expect narrow roads, limited parking, and a driving style that’s confident. But with a bit of patience and a sense of adventure, it’s all part of the fun!
Final Thoughts
Sicily’s east coast truly surprised me in the best way. From the adventures of Mount Etna to the charm of towns like Taormina and Noto, every day brought something new.
If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, beautiful landscapes, and authentic Sicilian vibes beyond the usual tourist trail, the east coast might just be your perfect next destination.
