Things To Do
in Scordia
Scordia is a sun-kissed town in eastern Sicily known for its citrus groves and welcoming atmosphere. The streets unfold around a compact historic center with churches, a lively market, and pastel facades. It makes a great base for tasting Sicilian cuisine and exploring nearby nature reserves and the Ionian coast.
From here, day trips to Catania, Syracuse, and Etna are easily reachable, making it ideal for relaxed, authentic regional travel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the picturesque Piazza Garibaldi, where you can sip a cappuccino while soaking in the atmosphere of Scordia. Visit the stunning Church of San Bartolomeo, known for its intricate Baroque architecture and vibrant frescoes. Stroll through the quaint streets, taking in the local shops and the warmth of the Sicilian sun.
After a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria, head to the Museo Archeologico, where you can explore artifacts that tell the rich history of the area. Engage with the friendly staff who are eager to share tales of Scordia's past, including its ancient Greek influences. Enjoy the serene surroundings of the museum's gardens, perfect for a relaxing break.
As the sun sets, dine at a charming restaurant overlooking the countryside, savoring traditional Sicilian dishes like pasta alla Norma. Experience the vibrant local nightlife by visiting a nearby bar that features live music and friendly locals. End your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, feeling the heartbeat of Scordia.
Begin your day at the bustling local market, where farmers display their freshest produce, cheeses, and homemade bread. Engage with the vendors, sampling local delicacies like arancini and cannoli, while learning about Sicilian culinary traditions. The vibrant colors and aromas create an immersive experience that captures the essence of Scordia.
After the market, take a cooking class with a local chef who will teach you how to prepare traditional Sicilian dishes using the fresh ingredients you gathered. Participate actively, chopping vegetables and stirring sauces, while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow food enthusiasts. Savor the meal you've created together, paired with local wines.
In the evening, attend a local theater performance or cultural event, often held in historic venues that showcase the talent of Scordia's residents. Experience the passion of Sicilian storytelling and music, which brings the culture to life. After the show, enjoy a late-night gelato at a nearby gelateria, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1L) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🧀Local cheese and bread | $3-6 |
| 🚶Public transit ticket (city) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Sicilian town with gastronomy and friendly locals
- Close to nature and easy day trips to Etna and the coast
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Smaller-scale amenities compared to bigger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Sì / No" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Scordia
Visit one of these nice places.
The town’s heartbeat with pastel façades, church towers, and lively morning markets.
Facade and interior details that glow in golden hour light.
Rows of orange and lemon trees along the outskirts create a warm, pictorial backdrop.
Hilly streets providing lookout over rooftops and the surrounding countryside.
Food in Scordia
Scordia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Sicilian pasta with eggplant, tomato, and ricotta salata. Look for it in trattorie around the historic center.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, and peas. Common as street food and in casual eateries.
Savory eggplant dish with olives, capers, and celery; served as a starter or side.
Crisp pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta and citrus zest; best at local pastry shops after a meal.
Creamy gelato made with Sicilian pistachios; found in gelaterias near market squares.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market along the main streets where citrus, olives, seafood, cheeses and baked goods are sold.
Stalls around the market area offering panelle, crocchè, arancini, and fresh juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a cheerful 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' depending on the time of day. A handshake is common.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak quietly and avoid taking photos where prohibited.
Lunch is usually around 1–2 pm and dinner after 7:30 pm; be prepared for slower service during peak hours.
Safety
Tipping in Scordia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, service charge is often included. It is customary to round up or leave a small tip (1–5 euros) for good service in cafes and trattorias.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; smaller markets may be cash-only. ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry, with heat waves. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan morning and evening activities to avoid the peak heat.
Milder temperatures and harvest season for citrus and olives; ideal for market visits and photography.
Mild but cooler evenings. Some attractions may have reduced hours; great for museums and indoor dining.
Green landscapes, blooming orchards, and pleasant walking weather—perfect for outdoor exploration.
Scordia at Night
Hiking in Scordia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Day hikes on the northern slopes of Mount Etna offer volcanic scenery and panoramic views.
Scenic riverbank paths ideal for walking, cycling, and birdwatching.
Protected areas and scenic gorges for a half-day hike or picnic.
Airports
How to reach Scordia by plane.
Major international airport about 60-70 km from Scordia, with connections to major European cities.
Regional airport near Ragusa, about 80-100 km away, with several seasonal and domestic flights.
Palermo's international airport roughly 250-300 km away; good for longer trips or connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families stay in Scordia for a quiet, safe environment and access to good local produce.
A significant portion of the community is involved in citrus and olive farming.
A stable community with a slower pace and community events.
Some residents commute to larger towns for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local matches and youth leagues.
Flat and rolling countryside makes for pleasant cycling routes around Scordia.
Local courts and club teams provide opportunities for pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Scordia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pasta and vegetable dishes are vegetarian-friendly. Look for caponata, grilled vegetables, and pasta al pomodoro. When unsure, ask for senza carne or verdure-based options.