What to see in Castiglione di Sicilia: exploring Sicily with Record go
Castiglione di Sicilia , located in the heart of the Etna wine region, is a charming town that will transport you to another era with its cobbled streets, medieval castles and endless vineyards.
The journey from Catania or Palermo airports to Castiglione di Sicilia in your rental car is an experience in itself , since during the journey you will be able to soak up the Sicilian environment, unique in the entire world. Once at your destination, this municipality offers you many options so that you can enjoy it to the fullest and always at your own pace, and... in this article we show you all of them!
Essentials in Castiglione di Sicilia
Castiglione di Sicilia is known for its natural beauty and rich history. Here we present some of the highlights that you cannot miss.
The Castello di Lauria
One of the main attractions of Castiglione di Sicilia is the Castello di Lauria. This imposing fortress, dating back to the 12th century, offers a spectacular view of the Alcántara Valley and the majestic Etna . The castle has been restored and you can tour its walls and towers, enjoying a walk through history while admiring the landscape. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the panoramic views from the top of the fortress.
The Church of San Pietro
The Church of San Pietro is another of the architectural treasures of Castiglione di Sicilia. Built in the 16th century, this church combines elements of the Baroque and Norman styles, creating a unique structure that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region . Its interior houses valuable works of art and decorated altars that will leave you amazed.
The Medieval Village
Walking through the historic center of Castiglione di Sicilia is like traveling back in time . Its narrow, cobblestone streets, flanked by old stone houses, invite you to get lost and discover charming corners at every turn. The Borgo Medieval is ideal for a quiet walk, where you can admire the traditional architecture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town.
The Museum of Sacred Art
For lovers of history and culture , the Museum of Sacred Art is a must-see. This museum houses an impressive collection of religious art, including paintings, sculptures and liturgical objects dating back several centuries. It is a great way to learn more about the cultural and religious heritage of Castiglione di Sicilia.
Things to do in Castiglione di Sicilia
In addition to its historical monuments, Castiglione di Sicilia offers a variety of activities for all tastes . Here we present some ideas to fully enjoy your car route through the region.
Wine Tasting at Local Wineries
The Castiglione di Sicilia region is famous for its vineyards and wineries that produce some of the best wines in Sicily . Renting a car will allow you to visit several wineries and enjoy tastings of local wines, such as Etna Rosso and Etna Bianco. Many wineries also offer guided tours where you can learn about the winemaking process and the wine history of the region.
Excursion to Mount Etna
No visit to Castiglione di Sicilia would be complete without an excursion to Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe . You can drive to the mountain huts and from there take a cable car or jeep tour to the upper craters. The view from the top of Etna is simply spectacular, offering a panorama that stretches from the coast to the mountainous interior of Sicily.
Hiking in Etna Park
For nature and hiking lovers, Etna Park offers numerous routes that will allow you to explore the diverse volcanic and forest landscapes of the region . There are trails for all skill levels, from easy hikes to more challenging routes that take you through ancient lava flows and dense forests. Make sure you bring appropriate footwear and water, and prepare to discover the park's impressive biodiversity.
Visit to the Alcántara Gorges
The Alcantara Gorges are a natural wonder located a short drive from Castiglione di Sicilia. These rock formations, sculpted by the Alcántara River, create an impressive landscape of narrow gorges and natural pools . You can hike trails that line the gorges or, if you're feeling adventurous, rent equipment and take a canyoning excursion to explore the gorges from the water.
Enjoy Local Gastronomy
Castiglione di Sicilia is also a perfect place to enjoy delicious Sicilian cuisine . Take advantage of your driving route to stop at local trattorias and restaurants where you can try traditional dishes such as pasta alla Norma, caponata , and a variety of fresh seafood . Don't forget to accompany your meals with a good local wine and finish with a Sicilian cannolo or a granita, a typical dessert of the region.
Route to get to Castiglione di Sicilia by rental car from Catania and Palermo airports
Finally, we leave you the best routes to get to Castiglione di Sicilia by rental car from the main airports in Sicily : Catania and Palermo.
Without a doubt, the trip to this small town gives you the opportunity to enjoy the Sicilian landscape in its maximum splendor throughout the entire journey.
From Catania Airport
Catania-Fontanarossa Airport is the closest to Castiglione di Sicilia , about 65 km away. The most direct and fastest route is to take the A18 motorway towards Messina. After about 30 km, take the exit for Fiumefreddo di Sicilia and follow the signs for Piedimonte Etneo and Linguaglossa . From Linguaglossa , follow the signs to Castiglione di Sicilia, which is just 10 km away. The total trip takes approximately 1 hour and offers spectacular views of Mount Etna and the Sicilian countryside.
From Palermo Airport
If you arrive at Palermo Airport, the journey to Castiglione di Sicilia is a little longer, about 240 km, but equally picturesque . From the airport, take the A19 motorway towards Catania. Upon arrival in Catania, follow the instructions above taking the A18 towards Messina and then the exit towards Fiumefreddo di Sicilia. The trip from Palermo takes approximately 3 hours and will take you through a good part of the beautiful Sicilian countryside.