Things To Do
in Acireale
Acireale is a coastal town on Sicily's east coast renowned for its elegant Baroque architecture and citrus-scented streets. It sits beside the Ionian Sea, offering colorful piazzas, cheerful markets, and panoramic views of Mount Etna in the distance. The town hosts festive events, including a storied carnival, which adds a playful energy to daily life.
With nearby Aci Trezza and the Etna region just a short drive away, Acireale serves as a charming hub for culture, scenery, and Mediterranean dining.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a fresh cappuccino and a cornetto at a local café in Piazza del Duomo, soaking in the stunning baroque architecture around you. Explore the majestic Cathedral of Acireale, dedicated to Saint Sebastian, and admire its ornate interiors and beautiful frescoes. Don't miss the nearby Church of St. Francis of Assisi, where you can appreciate the intricate details of its façade.
After lunch at a traditional trattoria, head to the local fish market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps pick up some fresh ingredients for dinner. Stroll through the charming streets, taking in the sights of historic buildings and artisan shops, each telling a story of the town's rich history. As you walk, keep an eye out for the colorful murals and street art that add modern flair to the ancient surroundings.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant with a view of the sea for a dinner of fresh seafood pasta, accompanied by a glass of local wine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the coast, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks. Conclude your evening with gelato from a nearby shop, choosing from a variety of delicious flavors.
Begin your day with breakfast at a beachside café, enjoying the sound of the waves while savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Spend your morning lounging on the sandy shores of the nearby Spiaggia di Santa Maria la Scala, where you can sunbathe and swim in the crystal-clear waters. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the stunning coastline from the sea.
After a refreshing swim, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a beach restaurant, savoring local specialties like arancini or caponata. Spend the afternoon engaging in water sports such as windsurfing or snorkeling, discovering the rich marine life just beneath the surface. Alternatively, relax on the beach with a good book, soaking up the sun and the beautiful surroundings.
As the evening approaches, find a spot on the beach to enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. Treat yourself to a seafood dinner at a nearby tavern, where the catch of the day is prepared with fresh herbs and local ingredients. End your day with a stroll along the promenade, listening to live music from local performers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧀Groceries for a day | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch in a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Baroque town with scenic coast
- Great base for Etna and nearby Aci Trezza
- Delicious seafood and citrus-infused cuisine
- Compact center convenient to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some areas are hilly and cobbled, with uneven sidewalks
- Seasonal crowds around Carnival and holidays
- Public transport can be infrequent outside peak season
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi può consigliare un posto da mangiare?" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
- "Sì / No" - Yes / No
- "Accettate carte di credito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Acireale
Visit one of these nice places.
The grand Baroque square with the Cathedral and ornate façades; ideal for morning or golden-hour photography.
A historic gateway framed by classic Sicilian architecture, excellent for architectural shots.
Seaside promenade with dramatic sea views and volcanic backdrop; great for sunset photos.
Clear viewpoints along the shore where Mount Etna dominates the skyline on a bright day.
Food in Acireale
Acireale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Sicilian pasta with eggplant, tomato, and ricotta salata—widely loved in Acireale and nearby cities.
Must-Try!
Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas—popular street-food staple.
Sweet-and-sour eggplant stew with celery, olives, and capers; a vibrant vegetarian option.
A refreshing stone-fruit or lemon granita served with soft brioche, perfect for hot days.
A famed Acireale pastry: a delicate cream-filled confection born from local confectionery traditions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh seafood, produce, citrus sweets, and everyday Sicilian staples.
Casual spots along the coast serving fried fish, arancini, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera'; a handshake or cheek kiss is common in familiar circles.
Dress modestly; speak softly and respect quiet hours inside churches.
Respect local quiet hours, especially in residential areas during late evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Acireale
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in Italy; if not, leaving a tip of 5–10% for good service is appreciated.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; some smaller stalls may prefer cash. Check for any card surcharge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long sunny days with sea breezes; expect crowds along the coast and during local festivals. Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak afternoon hours.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest scents; fewer crowds but cooler evenings. Great time for coastal walks and citrus-tasting experiences.
Cool and occasionally rainy; Etna may snow at higher elevations. Festive lights and local markets add charm.
Mild temperatures and blooming citrus trees; ideal for walking and photography without the peak-season heat.
Acireale at Night
Hiking in Acireale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hike on Etna's northern slope near Nicolosi; accessible paths around young volcanic craters.
Longer hikes offering dramatic lava-landscape views and expansive vistas.
Hiking area with lava fields, pine forests, and seasonal accessibility; ideal for day trips from Acireale.
Airports
How to reach Acireale by plane.
Main international gateway; about a 30-40 minute drive to Acireale.
Smaller airport in southeastern Sicily; longer transfer to Acireale.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Family-friendly attractions, safe promenades, and manageable day trips.
Popular weekend destination with seasonal influx during Carnival and summer.
Active local communities with accessible healthcare and amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local matches and regional leagues; a common weekend pastime.
Coastal culture includes sailing, fishing, and water-based recreation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Acireale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for eggplant-based pasta dishes, caponata, and tomato-heavy sauces; many places can adapt sauces to be meat-free and seafood-free on request.