Castiglione di Sicilia
Latest update: 4 March 2024
|
By: Dion Protani
|
The town of Castiglione di Sicilia is situated in northeastern Sicily within the Metropolitan City of Catania province.
It has a population of around 3,000 inhabitants. Castiglione di Sicilia is famous for its medieval architecture, including the picturesque Castello di Lauria and the Church of San Pietro. The town is also renowned for its production of fine Etna wines. |
Related links
Castiglione di Sicilia: the Alcantara Valley fortress town
Castiglione di Sicilia, nestled in the heart of the Alcantara Valley, is a captivating Sicilian town renowned for its medieval charm and stunning vistas. Explore the historic centre with its labyrinthine streets, adorned with ancient churches and noble palaces. Dominating the skyline is the imposing Norman castle, offering panoramic views of Mount Etna and the surrounding countryside.
Wander through the verdant vineyards and citrus groves, sampling the renowned local wines and culinary delights. Nearby attractions include the Alcantara Gorges, where you can marvel at the dramatic lava formations and cool off in crystal-clear waters. Castiglione di Sicilia beckons with its timeless beauty and rich heritage.
Wander through the verdant vineyards and citrus groves, sampling the renowned local wines and culinary delights. Nearby attractions include the Alcantara Gorges, where you can marvel at the dramatic lava formations and cool off in crystal-clear waters. Castiglione di Sicilia beckons with its timeless beauty and rich heritage.
Comune di Castiglione di Sicilia
Province: Metropolitan City of Catania
Region: Sicily Population: 2,886 (in 2024- source) Size: 121 km² Elevation: 621 metres Highlights: Basilica Madonna della Catena, Castello di Lauria Close by: Alcantara Gorge, Giardini Naxos, Taormina, Isola Bella Recommended accommodation: Hotel Federico II |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Tra l'Alcantara e l'Etna (Between the Alcantara Gorge and Mount Etna)
Listing headline: Tra l'Alcantara e l'Etna (Between the Alcantara Gorge and Mount Etna)
What are the most popular activities in Castiglione di Sicilia and the local area?
- Castiglione di Sicilia: Explore the charming streets of Castiglione di Sicilia, a picturesque hilltop town boasting medieval architecture, narrow alleys, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Norman Castle: Visit the Norman Castle of Castiglione di Sicilia, perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the town. Admire the fortress's imposing walls, towers, and battlements, which offer insight into the town's medieval past.
- Church of Santa Domenica: Discover the Church of Santa Domenica, a beautiful Baroque church dating back to the 17th century. Marvel at its ornate facade, elegant interior, and precious artworks, including frescoes and sculptures.
- Wine Tasting: Explore the local vineyards and wineries surrounding Castiglione di Sicilia, renowned for producing some of Sicily's finest wines. Enjoy guided tours and tastings of Etna wines, characterized by their unique volcanic terroir.
- Alcantara Gorge: Venture to the nearby Alcantara Gorge, a spectacular natural wonder formed by the Alcantara River cutting through volcanic rock. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters or explore the gorge's dramatic cliffs and rock formations.
- Mount Etna: Embark on an excursion to Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano, located a short distance from Castiglione di Sicilia. Take a guided hike or jeep tour to explore the volcano's lunar landscapes, lava fields, and smoking craters.
What are the best restaurants in Castiglione di Sicilia and the local area?
- Antico Frantoio: Nestled in the heart of Castiglione di Sicilia, Antico Frantoio is housed in a restored olive oil mill dating back to the 19th century. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and specializes in traditional Sicilian cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes. Guests can dine indoors amid the rustic charm of the historic building or enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace overlooking the picturesque town.
- Il Vecchio Palmento: Located in a renovated wine cellar in the center of Castiglione di Sicilia, Il Vecchio Palmento offers a unique dining experience with its vaulted ceilings and stone walls. The restaurant serves authentic Sicilian cuisine with a modern twist, featuring creative interpretations of classic dishes using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Diners can choose from a diverse menu that includes homemade pastas, seafood specialties, and grilled meats, all paired with a selection of local wines.
- Trattoria San Giorgio: Situated in the historic district of Castiglione di Sicilia, Trattoria San Giorgio is a family-run restaurant known for its warm hospitality and traditional Sicilian dishes. The menu features a variety of homemade pastas, hearty meat dishes, and fresh seafood, all prepared with care and attention to detail. Guests can dine in the cozy dining room adorned with vintage decor or enjoy al fresco dining on the charming outdoor terrace.
- Osteria Antica Sicilia: Tucked away on a quiet street in Castiglione di Sicilia, Osteria Antica Sicilia is a hidden gem offering authentic Sicilian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant's menu highlights regional specialties and seasonal ingredients, with dishes like arancini, caponata, and pasta alla norma. Diners can enjoy their meal in the quaint dining room or on the outdoor terrace, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the historic town.
- Agriturismo Borgo San Nicolao: Located just outside Castiglione di Sicilia, Agriturismo Borgo San Nicolao is a charming farmhouse restaurant set amidst vineyards and olive groves. The restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience, with many of the ingredients sourced directly from the property. The menu features traditional Sicilian dishes made with fresh, organic ingredients, including homemade pastas, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables. Guests can dine indoors in the rustic dining room or outdoors on the terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Castiglione di Sicilia Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Castiglione di Sicilia?
- Hotel Federico II:
- Located in the heart of Castiglione di Sicilia, Hotel Federico II offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
- The hotel features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
- Agriturismo Borgo San Nicolao:
- Situated just outside Castiglione di Sicilia, Agriturismo Borgo San Nicolao offers charming rooms and apartments in a restored farmhouse.
- Guests can enjoy homemade meals made with organic ingredients from the farm and relax by the outdoor pool.
- Agriturismo Passitti:
- Nestled in the hills near Castiglione di Sicilia, Agriturismo Passitti offers cozy accommodations with stunning views of Mount Etna.
- Guests can participate in wine tastings, olive oil tastings, and cooking classes featuring traditional Sicilian cuisine.
- La Moresca Maison de Charme (Linguaglossa):
- Located in the nearby town of Linguaglossa, La Moresca Maison de Charme offers elegant rooms in a historic building.
- The hotel features a garden, terrace, and restaurant serving Sicilian specialties.
- Tenuta Madonnina (near Solicchiata):
- Situated amidst vineyards and olive groves near Solicchiata, Tenuta Madonnina offers luxurious accommodations in a peaceful setting.
- Guests can enjoy wine tastings, horseback riding, and hiking excursions in the surrounding countryside.
What's the closest airport to Castiglione di Sicilia?
Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA):
Located approximately 68 kilometers (about 42 miles) southeast of Castiglione di Sicilia, 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 280 kilometers (about 174 miles) northwest of Castiglione di Sicilia, 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 68 kilometers (about 42 miles) southeast of Castiglione di Sicilia, 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 280 kilometers (about 174 miles) northwest of Castiglione di Sicilia, 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 Castiglione di Sicilia?
Taormina-Giardini train station
- 26 kilometres away (43 minutes by car)
What private transfer options are there for Castiglione di Sicilia?
A private transfer from Catania Airport to Castiglione di Sicilia takes around one hour 15 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 Castiglione di Sicilia?