Palazzolo Acreide
Latest update: 4 March 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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Historic Palazzolo Acreide is a town situated in southeastern Sicily, in the province of Syracuse with around 9,000 inhabitants.
Palazzolo Acreide is renowned for its rich archaeological heritage, including well-preserved Greek and Roman ruins such as the ancient theatre. The town is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto inscription. |
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Palazzolo Acreide: UNESCO Town of Baroque beauty
Palazzolo Acreide, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a rich tapestry of historical and architectural wonders. Explore its ancient Greek and Baroque heritage through landmarks like the stunning Greek Theatre, where performances still captivate audiences today. Wander through the charming streets lined with ornate churches, elegant palaces, and quaint cafes, soaking in the town's timeless charm.
Nearby, the stunning Cava Ispica offers a glimpse into Sicily's ancient past with its intricate cave dwellings and rock-cut tombs. With its rich history, cultural significance, and scenic surroundings, Palazzolo Acreide invites visitors to uncover the secrets of Sicily's illustrious past.
Nearby, the stunning Cava Ispica offers a glimpse into Sicily's ancient past with its intricate cave dwellings and rock-cut tombs. With its rich history, cultural significance, and scenic surroundings, Palazzolo Acreide invites visitors to uncover the secrets of Sicily's illustrious past.
Comune di Palazzolo Acreide
Province: Syracuse
Region: Sicily Population: 8,049 (in 2024- source) Elevation: 670 metres Close by: Buccheri, Ferla, Monterosso Almo, Vizzini, Noto Recommended accommodation: Domus Hyblaea Resort |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto (South-Eastern Sicily) Year: 2002 |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Tremila anni di Storia (3,000 years of history) |
What are the most popular activities in Palazzolo Acreide and the local area?
- Palazzolo Acreide Historic Centre: Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center of Palazzolo Acreide, renowned for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, ancient ruins, and narrow cobblestone streets. Marvel at landmarks like the Church of San Sebastiano, Palazzo Judica, and the Town Hall Square.
- Akrai Archaeological Park: Discover the ancient Greek city of Akrai at the archaeological park, featuring well-preserved ruins such as the Greek theater, agora, temples, and necropolis. Learn about the city's history and admire panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Basilica of San Sebastiano: Visit the Basilica of San Sebastiano, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture adorned with elaborate stucco decorations, frescoes, and marble altars. Admire the church's ornate interior and its impressive dome, and learn about its rich history.
- Cava Ispica: Explore the limestone canyon of Cava Ispica, located just outside Palazzolo Acreide. Embark on guided tours of the cave complex, marvel at ancient rock-cut dwellings, catacombs, and Byzantine-era frescoes, and enjoy scenic nature walks along the gorge.
- Monti Iblei Nature Reserve: Take nature walks and hiking trails in the Monti Iblei Nature Reserve, located near Palazzolo Acreide. Explore scenic landscapes, lush forests, and ancient olive groves, and enjoy panoramic views of the Sicilian countryside.
- Day Trips: Take day trips to nearby attractions such as the Baroque towns of Ragusa and Noto, the seaside resort of Syracuse, and the Vendicari Nature Reserve. Explore historic sites, relax on pristine beaches, and savor the beauty of the Sicilian coast.
What are the best restaurants in Palazzolo Acreide and the local area?
- Osteria dei Sapori Antichi: Located in the heart of Palazzolo Acreide, Osteria dei Sapori Antichi offers a cozy and intimate dining experience with a focus on traditional Sicilian cuisine. The restaurant's menu features a variety of homemade pastas, fresh seafood dishes, and flavorful meat entrees, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with a warm and welcoming hospitality.
- Ristorante La Taverna degli Aragonesi: Situated in a historic building in the town center, Ristorante La Taverna degli Aragonesi delights diners with its elegant ambiance and refined Sicilian cuisine. Guests can enjoy a culinary journey through the region's flavors with dishes like arancini, caponata, and swordfish rolls, all expertly crafted and beautifully presented.
- Trattoria La Rustica: Tucked away in a charming corner of Palazzolo Acreide, Trattoria La Rustica offers a laid-back atmosphere and delicious homemade dishes inspired by Sicilian culinary traditions. Visitors can savor classic specialties such as pasta alla norma, involtini di pesce spada, and cassata siciliana while soaking in the rustic charm of the restaurant's interior.
- Ristorante Mura di Tramontana: With its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Ristorante Mura di Tramontana provides a picturesque setting for a memorable dining experience. The restaurant specializes in Sicilian cuisine with a modern twist, offering innovative dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and complemented by an extensive wine list.
- Antica Trattoria San Sebastiano: Housed in a historic building dating back to the 18th century, Antica Trattoria San Sebastiano exudes old-world charm and hospitality. Guests can indulge in a variety of Sicilian delicacies, including homemade pastas, grilled meats, and decadent desserts, all served in a cozy and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era.
Palazzolo Acreide Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Palazzolo Acreide?
- Hotel Colle Acre: This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet each morning and relax in the hotel's garden terrace.
- B&B Il Giardino degli Ulivi: Situated in a historic building in the heart of Palazzolo Acreide, this bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms with traditional Sicilian decor. Guests can start their day with a homemade breakfast and explore the town's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Agriturismo Borgo dei Pini: Located just outside Palazzolo Acreide, this agriturismo offers rustic accommodations in a peaceful setting. Guests can stay in comfortable rooms or self-catering apartments and enjoy traditional Sicilian meals made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Hotel Colle delle Api: Nestled in the hills overlooking Palazzolo Acreide, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can relax by the outdoor pool, dine at the hotel's restaurant, and explore nearby attractions such as the Greek Theater of Akrai.
- B&B Villa delle Meraviglie: This charming bed and breakfast is housed in a historic villa surrounded by olive groves and orchards. Guests can stay in elegant rooms with antique furnishings and enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning on the terrace overlooking the garden.
What's the closest airport to Palazzolo Acreide?
Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA):
Located approximately 70 kilometers (about 43 miles) northeast of Palazzolo Acreide, 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 250 kilometers (about 155 miles) northwest of Palazzolo Acreide, Falcone–Borsellino Airport, also known as Palermo Airport, is a major international airport serving western Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Located approximately 70 kilometers (about 43 miles) northeast of Palazzolo Acreide, 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 250 kilometers (about 155 miles) northwest of Palazzolo Acreide, Falcone–Borsellino Airport, also known as Palermo Airport, is a major international airport serving western Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
What's the closest train station to Palazzolo Acreide?
Syracuse train station
- 41 minutes away by car (41 kilometres)
What private transfer options are there for Palazzolo Acreide?
A private transfer from Catania Airport to Palazzolo Acreide takes around one hour 10 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 Palazzolo Acreide?