Acireale
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Latest update: 4 March 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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The picturesque coastal town of Acireale is situated on the eastern coast of Sicily within the Metropolitan City of Catania province.
With a population of approximately 53,000 inhabitants, it is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture, particularly the Basilica of Saint Sebastian and the Cathedral of Acireale. Acireale is also famous for its vibrant carnival celebrations. |
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Acireale: where the Baroque meets carnival
Acireale, perched on Sicily's eastern coast, is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture, vibrant festivals, and natural beauty. The town's centerpiece is the majestic Cathedral of Saint Peter the Apostle, boasting intricate façades and ornate decorations. Explore the charming streets of the historic center, where elegant palaces, churches, and bustling piazzas await.
Don't miss the renowned Acireale Carnival, a lively celebration featuring colorful parades and elaborate floats. Nearby, the stunning Cyclopean Isles and Mount Etna offer breathtaking natural landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. Acireale's blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty makes it a captivating destination in Sicily.
Don't miss the renowned Acireale Carnival, a lively celebration featuring colorful parades and elaborate floats. Nearby, the stunning Cyclopean Isles and Mount Etna offer breathtaking natural landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. Acireale's blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty makes it a captivating destination in Sicily.
Comune di Acireale
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Province: Metropolitan City of Catania
Region: Sicily Population: 50,608 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 39 km² Elevation: 161 metres Close by: Aci Trezza, Aci Castello, Catania, Mount Etna, Bronte Recommended hotel: Grande Albergo Maugeri |
What are the most popular activities in Acireale and the local area?
- Basilica di San Sebastiano: Visit the Basilica di San Sebastiano, an exquisite Baroque church adorned with intricate stuccoes, frescoes, and marble sculptures. Marvel at its ornate facade and majestic interior featuring a stunning altar and dome.
- Piazza del Duomo: Explore the charming Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Acireale's historic center. Admire the elegant facades of the Cathedral of Acireale and the Town Hall, surrounded by cafes, shops, and lively street performers.
- Acireale Carnival: Experience the vibrant Acireale Carnival, one of Sicily's most renowned festivals celebrated with colorful parades, elaborate floats, and traditional masked balls. Join the festivities and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.
- Riviera dei Ciclopi: Relax on the scenic Riviera dei Ciclopi, a stretch of coastline known for its rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and volcanic rock formations. Swim, sunbathe, or take a boat tour to explore the picturesque sea caves and grottoes.
- Puppet Theatre Museum: Discover the rich tradition of Sicilian puppetry at the Museo del Teatro dei Pupi, home to a fascinating collection of handcrafted puppets, stage sets, and costumes. Attend a puppet show to witness this ancient art form come to life.
- Timpa Nature Reserve: Embark on a nature walk or hike in the Timpa Nature Reserve, a protected area offering panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. Wander through lush Mediterranean vegetation, including citrus orchards, olive groves, and aromatic herbs.
- Cathedral of Acireale: Admire the grandeur of the Cathedral of Acireale, dedicated to the city's patron saint, St. Venera. Marvel at its imposing facade, elegant bell tower, and richly decorated interior featuring magnificent frescoes and sculptures.
What are the best restaurants in Acireale and the local area?
- Antica Focacceria San Francesco: Located in the historic center of Acireale, Antica Focacceria San Francesco is a renowned Sicilian eatery famous for its traditional street food. The menu features a variety of freshly prepared focaccias, arancini, and other local specialties, all made with high-quality ingredients and served in a casual setting.
- Ristorante Orriuolo: Situated in a charming alleyway just off the main square, Ristorante Orriuolo offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on Sicilian cuisine. The restaurant's menu showcases seasonal ingredients and regional flavors, with dishes like fresh seafood, homemade pastas, and locally sourced meats. Guests can dine indoors in the stylish dining room or outdoors on the picturesque terrace.
- Trattoria Il Mare nei Sapori: Nestled along the coast in the seaside village of Santa Maria La Scala, Trattoria Il Mare nei Sapori specializes in seafood dishes inspired by Sicilian traditions. The restaurant's menu features an array of freshly caught fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, as well as homemade pastas and hearty meat entrees. Diners can enjoy their meal while taking in panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
- Antica Trattoria Politi: Set in a historic building in the heart of Acireale, Antica Trattoria Politi offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere and a menu of classic Sicilian dishes. The restaurant's specialties include hearty pasta dishes, grilled meats, and savory appetizers made with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine indoors in the elegant dining room or outdoors in the charming courtyard.
- Ristorante La Terra e Il Mare: Located in the picturesque town of Santa Tecla, just a short drive from Acireale, Ristorante La Terra e Il Mare offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and a menu of innovative Sicilian cuisine. The restaurant's dishes are prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients and feature a mix of seafood, meats, and vegetables, all beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Guests can dine indoors in the modern dining room or outdoors on the terrace overlooking the sea.
Acireale Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Acireale?
- Grand Hotel Excelsior: Grand Hotel Excelsior offers elegant accommodations with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Located in Acireale, this hotel features luxurious rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving Sicilian cuisine.
- Hotel Santa Caterina: Hotel Santa Caterina is situated in the historic center of Acireale, close to the town's Baroque architecture and cultural attractions. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a garden terrace, and a restaurant serving traditional Sicilian dishes.
- Hotel Orizzonte: Hotel Orizzonte is located in the seaside town of Capo Mulini, just a short drive from Acireale. This hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views, a private beach, and a restaurant specializing in seafood.
- Villa delle Palme: Villa delle Palme is a charming bed and breakfast located in Acireale's historic center. Guests can stay in beautifully decorated rooms, relax in the garden courtyard, and enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning.
- San Biagio Resort: San Biagio Resort is set in a historic building in Acireale's old town. This boutique hotel offers stylish accommodations, a rooftop terrace with views of Mount Etna, and a wellness center with a Turkish bath and massage services.
What's the closest airport to Acireale?
Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA):
Located approximately 24 kilometers (about 15 miles) south of Acireale, Catania Airport is the primary international airport serving eastern Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport (PMO):
Situated approximately 249 kilometers (about 155 miles) northwest of Acireale, Falcone–Borsellino Airport, also known as Palermo Airport, is a major airport serving western Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Located approximately 24 kilometers (about 15 miles) south of Acireale, Catania Airport is the primary international airport serving eastern Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport (PMO):
Situated approximately 249 kilometers (about 155 miles) northwest of Acireale, Falcone–Borsellino Airport, also known as Palermo Airport, is a major airport serving western Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
What's the closest train station to Acireale?
Acireale Train Station
- Located in Acireale town centre
What private transfer options are there for Acireale?
A private transfer from Catania Airport to Acireale takes around 40 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Acireale?
