Cefalu Where To Stay In Sicily With Family
Cefalu is the best area to stay in Sicily for couples, families looking for a laid-back beach holiday. Its full of local restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars, especially around Corso Ruggero, the main artery of the historic town.
Located on the northern coast of Sicily, Cefalu is a relatively small coastal town, considering the crowds of tourists that flock here each year. Its just 60km from Palermo and very well-connected by train. The two primary draws to the area are the medieval cathedral and the picturesque beaches.
The Cathedral of Cefalu is a Norman structure, built in the 12th-century and remarkably well preserved. The equally well-preserved mosaics on display here are exquisite examples of Byzantine art and are some of the best surviving specimens in Sicily.
Arguably the main reason for the towns popularity is its beaches. Cefalu Beach is a white sandy beach, with all of the beauty you would want from the Mediterranean coastline. The buildings of the old fishing town press right up against the shoreline, providing beautiful scenery and some very conveniently placed hotels.
If you want to stay within just a few steps of the closest beach, this is the town for you.Some hotels even have their own private beaches for guests to take advantage of.
For foodies, check out food at some of the best restaurants like the Il Normanno reataurant in Via Vanni, Ristorante Le Chat Noir, Al Porticciolo, and Tentazioni Mediterranee.
Where to stay in Cefalu Sicily:
The Aeolian Islands: Have A Granite In Lingua
Lingua is a tiny town on the island of Salina. There is a bus that goes around the island and leaves once an hour so we hopped on this for the scenic 30 minute trip to Lingua.
I have to say there isnt a lot in Lingua Salina a cute little waterfront that is worth a stroll. But we had heard all about the famous Granite so we, of course, had to go.
And it was fantastic. There were SO many flavours. Again the first world problem of too many fantastic options in the Aeolian Islands reared its head.
Walk Through The Ear Of Dyonisius
This aperture in the rock on the way to the quarry of Syracuse was named by Caravaggio when he visited at the beginning of the 17th century after escaping from Malta.
He named it after the Syracuse tyrant in power Dionisius I not after the greek God, because of its shape which does indeed resemble an ear.
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Catania Sicilys Second Largest City
Located on the Eastern side of Sicily, along the Ionian coast, Catania sits in the shadows of Mount Etna. An eruption on Mt Etna in 1669 covered Catania in lava and only 24 years later in 1693, a powerful earthquake shook down the town to its foundations.
The amazing fact is that most of the old town got rebuilt, using lava. Catania is, therefore, described as a rather grey and dull city. What, however, brings visitors to the city is the people, the lively daily life, the bustling fish markets, and the city scents.
A Practical Guide To Syracuse And Ortigia Sicily
Unlike Rome, Florence and Venice, Syracuse or Siracusa in Italian still manages to hover slightly below the tourist radar, in spite of its enormous cultural wealth. At the height of its influence, it was the most important city of Magna Graecia with a population at times in excess of 500,000.
Today, the city, with its 120,000 or so inhabitants, still boasts some of the finest Baroque art and architecture, and Greek and Roman ruins, although theres also plenty to do beyond the cultural attractions. Basically, if youre planning a holiday in Syracuse, swot up as much as possible before your trip to leave maximum time for soaking up the sights and the sun, and for leisurely strolling.
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Sicily Towns And Cities Inland
One thing tourists to Sicily often dont realise is that the islands interior can be just as interesting as its coast. Its actually out among the hills and countryside that youll find perhaps the best area to stay in Sicily. The inland towns there are full of tradition and havent been changed for tourism quite like some seaside places. Whats also nice is that youre less likely to find these places overwhelmed by tourists. So if its an undisturbed atmosphere that youre after, these are some of the best towns to stay in Sicily.
Ortigia Siracusas Island Heart
Technically part of Syracuse, Ortigia comes highly recommended as a great place where to stay in Sicily. If you want to get the best out of this island, we recommend you simply wander. Why do we say that? Because its rather difficult to get lost on the island of Ortigia as it measures a mere 1 km by 500 meters.
The beauty of the place is that it has lots of little streets that amazingly all look the same yet they come loaded with over 2,500 years of glorious history. For example, you can visit the Temple of Apollo ruins that date back to 565 BC.
During the day, wander past the harbour that showcases sailing boats and yachts owned by Sicilys elite. Drop by La Fonte Aretusa, the famous fountain of youth. This is the place for you if you want to soak up some lively Italian nightlife.
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Not Your Average Lobby
Everything you might need, just steps from your guest room. Our Coffee Bar, proudly featuring Starbucks coffee, is open daily. Need to check email or print out a boarding pass? Visit our 24/7 Business Center, featuring a computer work station with Internet and email access, as well as printing and copying services. And if you just need a snack on the go or you left something off of your packing list, our always-open Marketplace has what you need when you need it.
Just When I Thought I Was Outthey Pull Me Back In
- Syracuse Italy or Siracusa Italy is a 2,700-year-old, historic city on the island of Sicily, most notable for its Greek and Roman history, culture, amphitheatres and architecture.
- Siracusa Italy is the birthplace of a mathematician and engineer named Archimedes
- Syracuse Sicily was one of the major powers in the Mediterranean world and played a key role during ancient times.
- The city was founded by Ancient Greek Corinthians and Teneans and once equalled Athens in size during the fifth century BC
- Today the city is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site along with the Necropolis of Pantalica.
- Interesting fact: Syracuse is mentioned in the Bible in the Acts of the Apostles The patron saint of the city is Saint Lucy she was born in Syracuse and her feast day, Saint Lucys Day, is celebrated on 13 December
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Bb 22 Bed And Breakfast In Palermo
Best for: older families
I stayed in this little B& B during a work trip to Sicily. Its in a great location right in the centre of Palermo and there were some brilliant places to eat close by. Most of the rooms are double but there are one or two which can accommodate two children on a sofa bed or you can interconnect two rooms if you have three children.
BB 22 is a bed and breakfast, not a hotel. I think Id feel a bit uncomfortable staying here with my energetic children it has quite a grown up atmosphere so might be better suited to children who are not as full of beans as my two.
Have you visited Sicily? Where are your favourites places to stay in Sicily? Let me know in the comments below.
Where To Stay In Cefal
Cefalù is a wonderful place to stay in Sicily but also very popular. So expect more expensive accommodation. However, we collected an array of options to suit you and your budget.
Hotel Kalura
With panoramic views of Caldura Bay and Rocca of Cefalù, Hotel Kalura has direct access to a private beach. It offers a pool, a tennis court and a scuba diving school, as well as free high-speed WiFi.
Le Calette N.5
Offering a hot tub and fitness centre, Le Calette N°5 is situated in Cefalù in the Sicily Region, a 5-minute drive from the centre and the Cathedral Basilica of Cefalù. The resort has an outdoor pool, children’s playground and sun terrace, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
Pepito palace
Situated in Cefalù, 150 yards from Cefalu Beach and 1.1 miles from Caldura Beach, Pepito palace features sea views and free WiFi. Every unit has a private bathroom and bidet, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a fridge.
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Where To Stay On The Aeolian Islands
The Aeolian Islands offer some incredible accommodation with fantastic vista points. However, given the popularity of the islands, we do recommend that you book your hotel in advance.
Therasia Resort Sea and SPA
Therasia Sea and SPA is set on the peninsula of Vulcanello, with views of the Aeolian Islands. This impressive building in white stone features a modern spa, and private access to the sea. Local materials have been used to build the Therasia, including molten rock from Mount Etna, Sicilian terracotta, cedar and olive wood. The rooms are elegant and decorated in soft, relaxing colours.
La Sirenetta Park Hotel
La Sirenetta Park Hotel is located just 100 yards from the coast and its unique beaches. It offers a swimming pool, a spacious garden and a gourmet restaurant. All rooms have a private bathroom.
Hotel Santa Isabel
Hotel Santa Isabel is on the high rocky coast of Malfa on Salina Island. It overlooks the Scario Bay and the town centre is a 10-minute walk away.
Noto Beautiful Baroque Town In South
Destroyed in the 17th-century by a terrible earthquake that devastated the south-eastern coast of Sicily, the city of Noto was completely rebuilt in the Baroque style. That legacy has led to Noto being famous for its stunning architecture, distinct from cities with more eclectic historical sites.
Truly the architectural marvel that is Noto cant be understated. The historical beauty of the town has earned it UNESCO Heritage status, and you will be able to see why the second you arrive.
Full of gorgeous cathedrals, churches, and palazzos, you wont get bored of wandering the magical streets of Noto.
The city leans into its refined atmosphere, boasting a plethora of fashionable shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars, all nestled amongst the sweeping architecture.
The artistic roots of the city are also honored by the many murals to be found painted across the stairs around town. Easy to miss when you are upon them, keep your eyes peeled when approaching public stairways and you may spot an unexpected masterpiece.
In May, the road leading up to the Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata is transformed into a wonderland of color, as the Infiorata di Noto, or the Noto Festival of Flowers, fills the streets with beautiful floral displays. Dont just expect your standard bouquets, the arrangements on show blanket the participating roads. Perhaps avoid the town in late May if you suffer from hay fever.
Best hotels in Sicily in Noto:
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Rocco Forte Villa Igiea
This beautiful, apricot-hued, turn-of-the-century palazzo sits by the waterfront overlooking the Gulf of Palermo. A luxurious hotel, Rocco Forte Villa Igiea is popular with royalty and Hollywood stars. It offers a palatial atmosphere, with design-driven guest rooms, world-class Italian restaurants, and landscaped terraces. Drink, dine, and socialize with like-minded travelers while admiring magnificent sunsets.
Salita Belmonte, 43, 90142, Palermo
Enjoy A Day At The Beach
Ortygia does not really have a beach per se but there are a few pebbly strips along the southern perimeter where locals come to lay their towels down.
On the south-eastern side of the island you will find a few small beaches like Spiaggia di Cala Rossa or the small rocky area below the Forte Vigliena rampart where locals simply put the towels down on the rocky outcrops. On the western coast there are some beach clubs with sun loungers, music and bars.
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Monaci Delle Terre Nere
Best for: Mt Etna luxury hotel for families
This wine estate puts an emphasis on the environment with organic farming, zero hours produce and homemade cleaning products. Add to this contemporary rooms, suites and villas carved from the lava. All this comes at a price of course but it also comes with incredible views of the Mediterranean, cookery classes and wine tasting, jazz evenings and incredible food.
This luxury Sicilian hotel is great for exploring Mount Etna combined with relaxing by the pool in the estates lovely surroundings. Day trips to Taormina and Catania can easily be done from here but if youre more of a beach person, the location is not ideal as most of the nearby coastline is rocky.
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Temple Of Apollo And Syracuse Market
Once the parking problem has been solved, start your day in Syracuse by having a look at the Apollo temple at the entrance of Ortigia Island.
Nearby, you will find Syracuse market, which is held every morning. Attracted by colors and smells, its the right moment to plan a good picnic with sausages and Sicilian cheese!
And if you feel like discovering the typical small restaurants and tasting excellent local products, you should take a gastronomic tour.
Your guide will give you all the best addresses in the city. During the tour, you will enjoy seafood, fish, bruschetta, arancini, foccacia, cheese, cannoliand wine tasting.
You need to book this food tour by clicking on the button below:
Cattedrale Metropolitana Della Nativit Di Maria Santissima
Also known as the Cathedral of Syracuse , the Cattedrale Metropolitana Della Natività di Maria Santissima the Italians have this way of giving their cathedrals these long, beautiful names, is a Baroque-style cathedral. It was commissioned by Roman Catholic Bishop Zosimo in the 7th century and is built over the Temple of Athena. It is now the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Siracusa.
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Best Hotel In Agrigento: Hotel Costazzurra Museum & Spa
This hotel is located in one of the best areas to stay in Sicily and provides luxurious, relaxing surroundings. It offers a rooftop terrace, Turkish steam bath, outdoor pool, and a sauna as well as recently refurbished, fully equipped rooms. Theres an onsite restaurant and lounge bar and the area surrounding the hotel offers a variety of restaurants too.
Taormina Best Area To Stay In Sicily For Nightlife
Taormina is simply stunning. Its like a picture book of Italy, with stately buildings covered in vines and flowers. This town is perched on a hilltop over the coast and is a popular resort town. You might be among lots of tourists when you spend time in this part of the island, but its still one of the coolest places to stay in Sicily.
Taormina has everything from beautiful beaches lined with bars and restaurants to medieval buildings, castles, and nearby villages. Its a great choice when youre deciding where to stay in Sicily for nightlife too as the bars, clubs, and restaurants come alive with tourists and locals after dark. And just in case you were wondering, the food in this area is simply superb and will be a highlight of your trip.
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Explore The Ortigia Street Market
A smaller and slightly saner version of the Sicilian markets you’ll find in Catania and Palermo, you can’t leave without treating your senses to the sights, sounds, and flavours of Ortigia’s outdoor market.
Down this sliver of a street where the raw ingredients of the Sicilian cookbook are laid out atop rickety stalls and tabletop, theatre and treasures are found: the man with a megaphone selling fish harvested from the nearby sea that day, the fresh oyster poser, cries and calls of butchers, photogenic piles of purple aubergines and blood-red cherry tomatoes, bins of olives and sundried tomatoes, jars of homemade pestos and pastes.
It is a joy.
Don’t simply wander though – buy some fresh ingredients to take home for dinner or time your visit to work up an appetite and have lunch at one of several great options in the market. The carnvirous sandwiches as Caseificio Borderi have become quite famous, and the charismatic patron entertains whilst building up a sandwich even Tony Soprano would balk at.
Alternatively, you can sit down at popular and highly rated Carnizerria, a seafood restaurant bringing a bit of a modern spin on traditional dishes.