Best Day Trips from Taormina & Siracusa

On a trip to Sicily this past March, our travel specialists got a taste of the magic of Italy’s largest island – no matter the weather. One of the most memorable moments came on a misty, overcast day atop Mt. Etna …

 

“Even though we had an overcast and slightly rainy day, Mt. Etna was by far my favorite day trip we did from Taormina,” one of our team shared. “We may not have had the views that I’m sure would have been spectacular on a clear day, but I thought it was the most unique experience we had the entire time we were on the island of Sicily. I have always been fascinated by natural wonders, and being able to walk on a crater of an active volcano – seeing and touching all the cooled lava from previous eruptions – just WOW! My mind was blown. Then coming down from that high to have a slow, relaxed winery lunch was the cherry on top for an amazing day.”

 

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This kind of moment captures what makes Eastern Sicily so special. It's a region of dramatic coastlines, ancient ruins, sun-kissed vineyards, and unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re based in the chic hilltop town of Taormina or the historic seaside gem of Siracusa, you’re perfectly placed to explore some of the island’s most memorable sights and experiences – all in a day. From volcanic hikes to fishing villages, street food tours to boat rides, here are our top picks for day trips that showcase the rich layers of this beautiful corner of Sicily.

 

 

Taormina’s Best Day Trips
 

 

1. Mt. Etna: Volcano Views for Every Traveler
 

Just over an hour from Taormina, Mt. Etna offers something for everyone. Take a guided hike along old lava flows, explore craters via 4x4, or ride the cable car up for sweeping views of the island. Many tours pair the experience with a visit to a local Etna winery – perfect for a post-volcano lunch with wine tastings and views over the vines.

 

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2. A Boat Trip to Isola Bella & the Grottoes
 

Hop aboard a small boat from Mazzarò Beach for a leisurely coastal cruise. You’ll glide past sea caves and secret coves, snorkel in crystalline waters, and circle around the picturesque Isola Bella, a tiny islet that's one of Sicily’s most photographed spots.

 

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3. Savoca & Forza d’Agrò: Godfather Country with Real Charm
 

Fans of The Godfather will recognize these two sleepy villages instantly – but even those unfamiliar with the film will fall for their old-world charm. Visit historic churches, enjoy a granita with a view, and take in the peaceful pace of Sicilian village life.

 

Image by Andy Fluet on Unsplash

 

4. Sicilian Cooking Class in a Villa
 

For a hands-on taste of local tradition, join a cooking class held in a countryside villa just outside Taormina. Learn how to prepare Sicilian classics like fresh pasta, caponata, or pistachio-stuffed cannoli, using seasonal ingredients straight from the garden. The experience often ends with a relaxed al fresco meal overlooking the hills.

 

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5. Messina: Culture and Coastal Energy
 

Often overlooked, Messina makes for an enriching day trip less than 90 minutes from Taormina. Visit the ornate Cathedral with its astronomical clock, admire sweeping views of the Strait of Messina, and try local specialties like swordfish rolls or “pidoni” (stuffed fried dough). The city has a proud maritime history and a bustling, authentic Sicilian vibe.

 

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6. Catania: Gritty Elegance and Culinary Surprises
 

Just an hour south of Taormina by train or private transfer, Catania offers a completely different flavor of Sicily. Set at the foot of Mt. Etna, this bustling city is known for its dark lava stone architecture, vibrant markets, and bold personality. Visit the striking Piazza del Duomo, wander the elegant Via Etnea, and dive into the chaos of the La Pescheria fish market, where vendors shout over glistening seafood and locals snack on fried delicacies. Don’t miss trying arancini, pasta alla Norma, or a refreshing granita with brioche. It’s raw, real, and refreshingly unpolished – a true slice of Sicilian life.

 

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7. Castelmola: A Hilltop Village with a View
 

Just above Taormina, the small village of Castelmola is an authentic hidden gem perched high above the sea. Wander cobblestone lanes with churches and a ruined castle, sip almond wine at a quirky local café, and enjoy panoramic views back toward Mt. Etna and the Ionian coast. The easiest way to visit is to catch a bus up, and then you could choose to walk the footpath all the way back downhill to Taormina.

 

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8. Aeolian Islands: Volcanic Beauty by Sea
 

Embark on a full-day boat excursion from Milazzo (a 90-minute transfer from Taormina) to explore the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO-listed volcanic archipelago. Lipari is known for its charming port town and archeological museum, while Vulcano invites brave visitors to hike its steaming crater or soak in sulfur mud baths. Some itineraries also include Stromboli, with the possibility of seeing lava bursts at sunset.

 

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Siracusa’s Best Day Trips
 

 

1. Noto & the Baroque Triangle
 

Less than an hour away from Siracusa, Noto dazzles with golden Baroque architecture, elegant streets, and legendary gelato. You can also extend the day with visits to Ragusa or Modica, each a UNESCO-listed gem known for chocolate, grand churches, and scenic views.

 

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2. Ortigia Market & Cooking Experience
 

Start your day with a guided walk through the bustling Ortigia food market, then head to a local kitchen for a hands-on cooking class. Learn how to make fresh pasta, traditional caponata, or cannoli – all using seasonal Sicilian ingredients.

 

Image by Dagnija Berzina on Unsplash
 

3. Pantalica: Ancient Necropolis & River Hike
 

For something more active, head inland to the Valley of Pantalica, where thousands of rock-cut tombs dot the cliffsides of a lush canyon. Hike the trails that wind past ancient ruins and swim in natural pools fed by the Anapo River.

 

Image on Wikimedia Commons
 

4. Avola: Almonds, Wine & Coastal Bliss
 

The town of Avola is famous for its almonds and the deep red Nero d’Avola wines. Take a leisurely tasting tour at a local winery or sample almond-based pastries at a traditional café. Afterward, head to the nearby beaches of Gelsomineto or Fontane Bianche – both offer calm, clear waters perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the Sicilian sun.

 

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5. Marzamemi & the Beaches of San Lorenzo or Calamosche
 

Combine a visit to the postcard-perfect fishing village of Marzamemi with a relaxing afternoon at one of the most beautiful beaches on the southeastern coast. Start your day wandering Marzamemi’s sun-drenched piazzas, artisan shops, and seaside cafés – this is the place for long seafood lunches and a glass of chilled local wine. Then head just minutes away to the soft sands and turquoise waters of San Lorenzo Beach or the more secluded Calamosche Beach in the Vendicari Nature Reserve.

 

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6. Vendicari Nature Reserve: A Coastal Escape
 

Combine a nature walk with a beach day at this protected reserve less than an hour to the south of Siracusa. Stroll past flamingo-filled lagoons, ancient tuna fisheries, and unspoiled beaches. Pack a picnic – or stop in the nearby village of Marzamemi for fresh seafood by the water.

 

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Ready to Craft Your Perfect Sicilian Escape?
 

Whether you’re dreaming of mountain trails, seaside lunches, or market-to-table food adventures, the eastern coast of Sicily delivers. Our experienced travel specialists can help you design a custom journey that fits your style, pace, and passions – down to every delicious detail.