Carlentini

Day Trips

Arrive in Carlentini and settle into your accommodation, taking some time to freshen up after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café where you can savor traditional Sicilian pastries like cannoli or brioche. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets of the town, admiring the beautiful churches and historic architecture.

Visit the local market to experience authentic Sicilian culture, where vendors showcase fresh produce, cheeses, and handmade goods. Enjoy lunch at a family-run trattoria, sampling regional dishes like caponata or arancini. Spend the afternoon at the archaeological site of Akrai, exploring the remnants of ancient Greek civilization amid stunning landscapes.

Return to Carlentini in time for dinner, choosing a restaurant that offers freshly-caught seafood from the nearby coast. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to the town square to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, perhaps catching a local music performance or festival by chance. Conclude your day with a gelato from a beloved local scoop shop.

Take a short train ride to Catania, where you can kick off your day by visiting the famous Piazza del Duomo and its impressive Baroque architecture. Enjoy breakfast at a café overlooking the square, indulging in a local granita. After your meal, explore the bustling La Pescheria market, famous for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere.

Spend your afternoon visiting the stunning Castello Ursino, where you can dive deeper into Catania's rich history and admire medieval artifacts. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along Via Etnea, Catania's main shopping street, filled with boutiques, cafés, and street performers. Grab a quick bite at one of the many food stalls for a taste of arancini or pasta alla Norma.

As evening falls, relax at a rooftop bar with panoramic views of Mount Etna, sipping on a refreshing aperitivo. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a celebrated restaurant, where traditional Sicilian dishes are prepared with modern flair. Finish off your night by witnessing the vibrancy of Catania's nightlife, choosing from a variety of bars and clubs.

Travel to Caltagirone, renowned for its stunning ceramics. Begin your day with a visit to the town’s famous stairway, the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, adorned with beautifully patterned tiles. Have a light breakfast in a quaint café, savoring local pastries with a cup of rich Italian coffee.

After breakfast, explore the many ceramic shops that line the streets, observing the artisans at work and perhaps purchasing unique pieces to bring home. Enjoy lunch at a traditional eatery, where local specialties feature prominently on the menu. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Villa Romana del Casale, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its intricate Roman mosaics.

Return to Carlentini and treat yourself to dinner at a rustic trattoria famous for its homemade pasta. Spend your evening leisurely walking the tranquil streets, perhaps enjoying a spritz as the sun sets. Get a good night’s rest after a day filled with culture and exploration.

Set off for Syracuse early in the morning, starting your day with a visit to the archaeological park to see the impressive Greek Theatre and Ear of Dionysius. Enjoy breakfast at a charming café in Ortigia, the historical island part of Syracuse, overlooking the crystal-clear waters. Stroll through the ancient streets, soaking in the blend of history and vibrant local life.

After breakfast, explore the stunning cathedral of Syracuse and visit the nearby Fountain of Arethusa. Treat yourself to lunch at one of the seafood restaurants on the water, savoring locally-caught fish. Spend the afternoon wandering the beautiful Baroque architecture and artisan shops of Ortigia, truly immersing yourself in the local culture.

As evening approaches, dine at a waterfront restaurant with spectacular views of the sunset over the Mediterranean. After a delightful meal, take a picturesque evening walk along the coast, enjoying the serene atmosphere. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local bar, relishing the flavors of Sicilian wine.

Prepare for an exciting day trip to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Start with breakfast and then join a guided tour that will take you on an unforgettable adventure up the mountain. Witness breathtaking views and the stunning landscapes formed by past eruptions as you ascend.

In the afternoon, delve into the volcanic landscape by hiking some of the trails around the craters, taking in the beauty of the flora and fauna unique to the area. After hiking, enjoy a picnic lunch with local produce provided by your tour. Visit a local winery to sample Etnean wines, learning about the unique characteristics infused by the volcanic soil.

Return to Carlentini after an adventurous day, and treat yourself to a hearty dinner featuring local favorites. Relax in a friendly pizzeria, sampling authentic Sicilian pizza topped with fresh ingredients. Share stories from your day as you unwind, reflecting on the incredible experiences.

Embark on a trip to the beautiful town of Noto, celebrated for its stunning Baroque architecture. Begin your day by exploring the grand Cathedral of San Nicolò, a prime example of the elaborate design that defines the town. Enjoy a traditional Sicilian breakfast at a local café, savoring a pastry known as a ‘sciusceddu’ and a cappuccino.

Spend your afternoon wandering the luxuriant streets, taking photographs of the captivating buildings and visiting artisan shops. Stop for lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, embracing the authentic flavors of the region. As you finish your meal, be sure to sample some local gelato, a perfect treat on a warm day.

As the day winds down, explore Noto’s evening scene and find a quaint restaurant for dinner, enjoying the local hospitality. Experience the warm ambiance as you dine under the stars, surrounded by the beauty of Baroque architecture illuminated at night. After dinner, take a post-meal stroll to soak in the magical atmosphere of this stunning town.

Head to the beautiful Fontane Bianche beach on this sun-soaked day, starting with a morning swim in its crystal-clear waters. Relax on the sandy shore while enjoying the stunning views of the azure sea and surrounding landscapes. Have breakfast at a beachfront café, sampling fresh fruit and local pastries.

Spend the afternoon sunbathing and enjoying water sports such as paddleboarding or snorkeling. After working up an appetite, head to a seaside restaurant for a leisurely lunch, trying dishes like grilled fish or refreshing salads. Be sure to indulge in some local wine or a spritz to cool off under the sun.

As the sunsets, find a beach bar and sip on cocktails, embracing the relaxed beach atmosphere. Enjoy a seafood dinner at a nearby eatery, indulging in the fresh catch of the day while listening to the gentle sounds of waves. Conclude your day with a stroll along the shore, appreciating the tranquil beauty of the evening by the sea.

Participate in a unique cooking class to immerse yourself in Sicilian cuisine, starting your day with a visit to a local market to select fresh ingredients. Learn about traditional dishes as your chef guides you through the cooking process, from appetizers to desserts, sharing family recipes and techniques. Savor a light breakfast during the class with freshly made focaccia and local cheeses.

After your cooking experience, enjoy the meal you prepared together, relishing the fruits of your labor alongside local wines. Spend the afternoon exploring Carlentini's churches and local crafts, taking the time to appreciate the town's rich heritage. Visit a local artisan to learn about their craft, be it ceramics or textiles, and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir.

As your day comes to a close, enjoy dinner at a traditional trattoria where you'll find more of the dishes you've learned about. Engage with locals and share your cooking experience as you enjoy the delightful evening ambiance. Before returning to your accommodation, take some time to revel in the evening air, possibly enjoying a traditional music performance in the town square.

On your final day, take time to pack and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the café that became your favorite during your stay. Spend the morning reflecting on your experiences in Carlentini, revisiting any favorite spots one last time. Take a walk in the town square, where you might catch a glimpse of local life bustling around you.

As your departure time approaches, consider a final lunch at a local restaurant, savoring your last taste of Sicilian cuisine. Perhaps grab a few last-minute souvenirs from local shops to remember your journey. Reflect on the memories made and the beauty of the Sicilian culture you were fortunate to experience.

Head to the airport or your next destination, taking a piece of Carlentini with you in your heart. Look back on the stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm smiles of the locals that welcomed you. Know that your adventure through the heart of Sicily will remain a cherished memory.