ITINERARY :

• STOP 1

  Exploring Catania by Bike:

  Your journey through Catania starts in the heart of this "Etnean" city, the very central Piazza Duomo. Hop on your bike and head down Via Etnea, which, at 3 km long, is one of the city's main arteries. Next, turn onto Viale Regina Margherita and Viale XX Settembre, where you can admire numerous stunning Art Nouveau villas. Once you pass Piazza Europa, make your way towards the Lungomare (promenade). From this vantage point, you'll fully appreciate the beautiful coastline as the calm, shimmering sea gently breaks its waves against the rocks.

• STOP 2

  Ognina:                                                                                    

  As you continue along the coast, you'll pass through the district of Ognina, locally known as Lògnina. This is one of the oldest seaside villages in the area, where myth intertwines with culture. A short stop here will give you time to admire Porto Ulisse, the 16th-century Spanish Sentry Box, and the Church of Santa Maria di Ognina, which dates back to 1300. 

  You can also sample traditional dishes at the many local bars and seafood restaurants, and savor typical Sicilian sweets like cassata and cannolo before resuming your journey.

• STOP 3

  Aci Castello:

  Continuing along the SS114, you'll arrive at the village of Aci Castello, about 7 km from Catania. This delightful town is dominated by its impressive Norman Castle, built in the 11th century atop a promontory of volcanic rock. Once a noble palace, then a prison, and even a warehouse, the castle's purpose changed over the centuries. Since 1985, it's housed the Civic Museum, offering further insight into the past and nature, along with spectacular views of the coast and the Faraglioni.

• STOP 4

  Coastal Walk to Aci Trezza:

  After exploring Aci Castello's Town Hall, the Castle, the piazza with the monument dedicated to actress Giacinta Pezzana, Antonio Santacroce's tender "Mother and Son" statue, the Sundial, and the Church of San Giuseppe, continue along the coast towards Aci Trezza.This path will lead you through a series of inlets and volcanic beaches, where you can admire the striking contrast between the black lava rock and the deep blue sea. The road is dotted with small coves and panoramic viewpoints, perfect for photo stops that will help you create unique memories of your vacation.

• STOP 5

  Aci Trezza and the Faraglioni:

  Once you arrive in Aci Trezza, you'll immediately appreciate this enchanting corner of Sicily. Here, the magic of the Faraglioni — imposing volcanic sea stacks shrouded in legend — blends with an authentic, vibrant atmosphere. As you stroll through its picturesque streets, you'll be captivated by the scent of the sea and the taste of fresh fish prepared according to traditional recipes. This town isn't just a paradise for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts; it's also a literary treasure. Giovanni Verga set his famous novel, "I Malavoglia," here, which inspired the Casa del Nespolo museum.

• STOP 6

  Lachea Island:

  From Aci Trezza, if the weather permits, take a boat to visit Lachea Island, a small islet of volcanic origin located just off the coast. This natural reserve is a place rich in biodiversity, and its crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and diving, allowing you to explore a vibrant marine ecosystem. At the summit of the island, you'll find the Museum of the Marine Studies Station. It houses a vast collection of marine and terrestrial fauna, a herbarium, a collection of geological and mineralogical formations, and archaeological finds, mostly from the Greco-Roman era. Lachea Island is truly a rare gem nestled among the waves of the Ionian Sea.

• STOP 7

  Acireale:

  Continue your journey to Acireale, a city famous for its allegorical papier-mâché floats, making it home to one of Sicily's most beautiful Carnivals. Known in the 14th century as Aci Aquilia, the adjective "Reale" (Royal) was added in 1642 by decree of King Philip IV of Spain, to emphasize the city's primary role compared to other baronial Aci towns. Perched on the cliff face of La Timpa, the city boasts splendid views of both the sea and Mount Etna, along with a significant architectural heritage. This includes the Duomo (Cathedral), the Basilica of San Sebastiano, and the Church of Santi Pietro e Paolo (Saints Peter and Paul). Their decorated facades and richly adorned interiors tell the story and culture of the city. Acireale is also surrounded by numerous coastal hamlets, such as Aci Trezza and Aci Castello, which offer enchanting beaches and picturesque scenery.