We've already written about how Sicily is a must-visit destination perfect for a family trip. Now, we want to inspire you with a guide for spending a week in Sicily with your family.
If you only have 7 days, we recommend focusing on just one part of the island, as the distances can be long and tiring, even for adults.
Here's an itinerary we suggest if you're traveling in Eastern Sicily for a week:
Day 1: Arrival in Catania
From here, you can easily head to the Etna area to discover Europe’s highest volcano. There are several easy trails that can be enjoyed even with very young children, such as the Monti Sartorius.
For more adventurous explorations, we recommend contacting a nature guide, who can also take you to unique lava caves.
If you're exploring Etna, don't miss a stop at the Castagno dei Cento Cavalli: is the story behind this natural monument a legend or real history?
Family trekking Tour Etna
Day 2: A fascinating and lively city: Catania
where you can lose yourself in the historic center, discovering myths and legends and enjoying the fun markets. It’s the perfect place for a family tour or a cooking lesson, or even a street food tour where you'll learn to eat like a true Catanian among delis, bars, and kiosks.
Arancini Tasting at the open-air market in Catania
Fish Market in Catania
Day 3: Taormina
with its breathtaking views, will allow your children to play in the orchestra of one of the most photographed Greco-Roman theaters in the world and discover the ancient past of Sicily. Visit the gardens of Taormina to learn its curious history, discover its exotic plants, and enjoy an unforgettable view of the gulf.
Day 4: Head down to Syracuse, the city of Archimedes
where between the Neapolis Park, the Archaeological Museum, and a visit to Ortigia, your children can become real archaeologists.
But that's not all! From the city, you can take a couple-hour boat tour or visit the nature reserves of the Ciane River or Plemmirio.
Family Tour In Ortygia
Family tour in Ortigia
Family Tour at the Neapolis Archaeological Park
Boat Tour in Siracusa
Day 5: If traveling in summer, discover the most beautiful beaches of the coast
You can choose between the Vendicari Reserve, the beaches of San Lorenzo and Portopalo, or the Isola delle Correnti, the southernmost point of Sicily. Some beaches are free and without facilities, so always check for the presence of beach amenities if needed.
If traveling in spring or autumn, explore Noto and then visit an olive oil farm, an almond farm, or a winery, and end with a walk in the fishing village of Marzamemi.
Vendicari Nature Reserve
Day 6: Don't miss Ragusa and Modica
where you can take a family tour and a Modica chocolate lesson. If you prefer good food and trekking, discover how the Ragusano DOP cheese is made on a farm, then start a hike along one of the Hyblean canyons.
For inspiration, you can read this article on some nature trails for kids in the Ragusa area.
Alternatively, head further south to visit Scicli and then the nearby seaside town of Sampieri to enjoy a beautiful sunset and an ice cream.
Ragusa family tour
Ragusa family tour
Chocolate Making Class In Modica
Day 7: Departure from Catania airport
Where to stay?
To avoid long car trips every day, we recommend choosing two base locations. For the first few days, an accommodation in Taormina or on Etna will be perfect, but you can also choose Catania if you like big cities. For the second part of the itinerary, we suggest staying around Noto, and you'll have a wide choice between sea, countryside, and city.
Kid-friendly activities
There are many activities you can do with your children; these vary depending on the season you travel and what you seek in a trip, from family tours to easy treks, visits to farms, and simple cooking lessons to get hands-on!
Contact us for more information on kid-friendly routes and activities to do with children in Sicily. We can help you plan your ideal child-friendly vacation.