Things To Do
in Giarre
Giarre is a coastal town on Sicily's eastern edge, nestled between the Ionian Sea and the foothills of Mount Etna. It blends traditional Sicilian charm with a relaxed seaside vibe and serves as a gateway to volcanic landscapes and nearby historic towns. The town's markets, churches, and friendly locals offer an authentic taste of everyday Sicilian life.
With easy access to Taormina, Catania, and Etna, Giarre makes a convenient base for varied day trips and experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Giarre and check into your charming accommodation. Spend the morning strolling through the quaint streets, soaking in the local atmosphere and admiring the Sicilian architecture. Don't forget to grab an authentic Italian coffee at one of the nearby cafés.
In the afternoon, visit the local market to explore fresh produce, cheeses, and artisan goods. Engage with friendly vendors and maybe pick up a few ingredients to bring back for dinner. Take a leisurely walk to the nearby coast for your first glimpse of the stunning Mediterranean Sea.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a family-owned trattoria, savoring traditional Sicilian dishes. The warm ambiance and delicious food will set the perfect tone for your stay. Wind down with a gelato while taking a stroll through the village.
Rise early and embark on an exciting day trip to Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano. Join a guided tour that allows you to explore the rugged landscapes and take in panoramic views from the summit. Enjoy the thrill of being close to the volcanic craters and learning about the geology of the area.
After a morning filled with adventure, enjoy a packed lunch on the slopes of Etna, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Participate in a wine tasting tour at a local vineyard, immersing yourself in the region's ancient wine-making traditions. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for Sicilian wines and beautiful memories.
Return to Giarre in the evening, and relax at your accommodation or a local wine bar. Enjoy a light dinner, perhaps tasting pizzas and antipasti made with locally sourced ingredients. The evening atmosphere is filled with laughter and the sounds of local musicians playing traditional Sicilian melodies.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Rental car per day | $25-60 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $8-20 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal town with easy access to Mount Etna and Taormina
- Lower crowds than major tourist hubs in peak season
- Quiet charm and authentic Sicilian culture
- Good value for food and lodging compared to bigger cities
- Limited nightlife within Giarre; more options in nearby cities
- Some services and signage may be in Italian only
- Smaller town may require day trips to reach certain attractions
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Giarre
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic Sicilian streets and the town church facade offer strong symmetry and color.
A scenic sea shot at golden hour with volcanic backdrop and fishing boats.
High spots in town or nearby hills provide dramatic Etna backdrops.
Lava landscapes and crater silhouettes offer striking compositions when accessible.
Food in Giarre
Giarre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried rice balls filled with cheese, ragu, or peas; a common street food and cafe snack.
Must-Try!
Pasta with eggplant, tomatoes, basil, and ricotta salata; a Sicilian classic popular in trattorie.
Sweet-and-sour eggplant stew with celery, olives, and capers.
Refreshing flavored ice served with a soft brioche bun; ideal for hot days.
Swordfish simmered with tomatoes, olives, and capers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and affordable street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite Buongiorno or Buonasera; a handshake or kiss on both cheeks in informal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats and speak softly.
Mealtime can be leisurely; avoid rushing meals and wait for others to be served.
Safety
Tipping in Giarre
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, a tip is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated where service charge is not included.
Cash is handy for small eateries and markets; cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and ATMs.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming citrus and almond trees; ideal for outdoor exploring.
Hot and sunny; coastal breezes help; carry water, sunscreen and a hat.
Pleasant weather and harvest flavors; sea remains comfortable for swimming early in the season.
Cool to mild; rainier days; higher elevations near Etna may see snow and require warm clothing.
Giarre at Night
Hiking in Giarre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking routes to Crateri Silvestri and higher craters; access depends on volcanic activity and weather.
Lava rock gorge with scenic walking trails along the river; near Taormina and Messina.
Airports
How to reach Giarre by plane.
Main international gateway for eastern Sicily; about 40-60 minutes by car to Giarre depending on traffic.
Secondary regional airport offering limited international flights; longer drive to Giarre but useful for certain routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and around Giarre; strong sense of community.
Visitors for Etna trips, beaches, and nearby towns.
Some student residents due to proximity to universities in Catania.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local and national sport with matches in nearby stadiums.
Very popular on coastal roads and Etna foothills.
Seasonal skiing and snowboarding at higher elevations on Mount Etna during winter.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Giarre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most trattorie offer pasta al pomodoro, grilled vegetables, or caponata; mention dietary needs when ordering.