Eastern Sicily - Etna, Ionian Coast and Val di Noto by CampervanEtna, Ionian Coast and Val di Noto by Campervan

Catania is located at the foot of Mount Etna and is largely built from dark volcanic rock. The heart of the city is formed by the Piazza del Duomo, home to the iconic lava elephant fountain. Nearby, you can experience the raw energy of the Pescheria di Catania, a daily fish market in the narrow streets. In the impressive Monastero dei Benedettini, you can wander through lush cloister gardens and Baroque corridors. During a stroll, the wide Via Etnea constantly offers views of the smoking volcano peak in the distance. Along the coastline, black rocky beaches and small harbors alternate. Here, you can taste the local specialty pasta alla Norma in the many restaurants around the Teatro Massimo Bellini. This city combines a lively atmosphere with a rich history marked by fire and ash.

Elegant city perched on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea and the smoking peak of Mount Etna. The Teatro Antico di Taormina is the architectural highlight, impressively situated between the mountains and the sea. Down on the coast lies the bay of Isola Bella, where a narrow strip of sand connects the islet to the mainland. In the pedestrianised centre, the Corso Umberto invites visitors to stroll past boutiques and sun-drenched squares. The nearby seaside resort of Giardini-Naxos offers ample space and facilities for a coastal stay. Narrow, flower-filled streets and vistas create a photogenic atmosphere in every corner of the city. From the elevated vantage points, one can enjoy a sweeping panorama over the rugged coastline of eastern Sicily.

On the southern slope of Europe's highest active volcano, this station serves as the starting point for explorations of the upper craters. The surroundings are characterized by a desolate lunar landscape of black lava and ash deposits. From the parking areas, you can walk directly to the nearby Silvestri Craters for a first impression of the volcanic power. To reach higher altitudes, the Funivia dell'Etna takes visitors to over two thousand meters. Above, vast panoramas await over the Ionian coast and the smoking main craters in the distance. The thin air and changing weather conditions make a stay at this altitude an impressive experience. In the evening hours, when the day-trippers have left, a serene silence reigns above the clouds.

Siracusa is one of the most impressive cities on the east coast of Sicily. Its historic heart is on the island of Isola di Ortigia, which is connected to the mainland by bridges. Here you can wander through a labyrinth of narrow streets that unexpectedly lead to the impressive Duomo di Siracusa. The architecture of this cathedral is unique as the ancient Greek columns of a temple are still visible within its walls. Just outside the city center, you'll find the extensive Parco Archeologico Neapolis, home to a remarkably well-preserved Greek theatre. Along Ortigia's quays, you can enjoy views of the Ionian Sea as fishing boats slowly sail in. The combination of classical antiquity and Baroque splendor creates an atmosphere found nowhere else on the island. It is a place where the rich history of the Mediterranean is tangibly present in every stone.

On the southeastern coast of Sicily lies the charming fishing village of Marzamemi, where time seems to have stood still around its historic tuna fishery. The heart of the village is formed by the Tonnara di Marzamemi and the characteristic Piazza Regina Margherita, with its whitewashed houses and colourful flowers. Directly north of the village stretches the Riserva di Vendicari, an unspoiled nature reserve with salt pans, dunes, and crystal-clear water. Hikers can trek along the coastline here to spot rare migratory birds and flamingos in the lagoons. The combination of the lively terraces in the village and the serene tranquility of the surrounding beaches ensures a varied stay. Old watchtowers and ruins of former fishing buildings mark the landscape along the azure sea. It is an ideal place to sample the local cuisine, where fresh fish and local delicacies take centre stage.

Modica stretches impressively across the steep slopes of a deep valley in southeastern Sicily. This historic city is known for its vertical architecture, with houses and churches seemingly built into the rock faces in a tiered fashion. The majestic Duomo di San Giorgio dominates the cityscape with an imposing Baroque facade and a monumental staircase. Walks through the narrow alleys lead past numerous artisan shops where the famous grainy chocolate is prepared according to an age-old recipe. From the Belvedere Pizzo viewpoint, you have a panoramic view over the labyrinth of roofs and bell towers. The city exudes a stately atmosphere that particularly comes alive in the evenings when the facades are warmly lit. It is a place where rich Sicilian Baroque and culinary traditions seamlessly blend.

Ragusa Ibla is spectacularly situated on a limestone ridge and forms the historic heart of the city. Narrow, cobbled streets wind past richly decorated Baroque palaces and churches with striking domes. The imposing Duomo San Giorgio dominates the central square with its impressive facade and broad flight of steps. Walkers find peace in the Giardino Ibleo, a well-maintained city park on the edge of the old town with views over the valley. From the steps connecting the upper town with Ibla, a panoramic view of the densely built houses unfolds. The atmosphere here is authentic and calmer than in the surrounding tourist centers, especially during the evening hours. Local trattorias serve specialties from the Ragusa region here, often based on local cheeses and olive oil. A stay here offers the opportunity to explore the architectural splendor of the Val di Noto in complete tranquility.

Catania is located at the foot of Mount Etna and is largely built from dark volcanic rock. The heart of the city is formed by the Piazza del Duomo, home to the iconic lava elephant fountain. Nearby, you can experience the raw energy of the Pescheria di Catania, a daily fish market in the narrow streets. In the impressive Monastero dei Benedettini, you can wander through lush cloister gardens and Baroque corridors. During a stroll, the wide Via Etnea constantly offers views of the smoking volcano peak in the distance. Along the coastline, black rocky beaches and small harbors alternate. Here, you can taste the local specialty pasta alla Norma in the many restaurants around the Teatro Massimo Bellini. This city combines a lively atmosphere with a rich history marked by fire and ash.