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Acireale​

Latest page update: 4 June 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The historic town of Acireale is situated within the Metropolitan City of Catania province and has a population of around 52,000.

Standing at an elevation of 161 metres above sea level, it's located a distance of 229 kilometres south east of Palermo, the regional capital of Sicily. Places of interest nearby include Aci Trezza, Aci Castello, Catania, Mount Etna and Bronte.
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Discover

Discover Acireale
Acireale is a historic town located on the eastern coast of Sicily, just north of Catania, and is known for its beautiful baroque architecture and scenic views of the Ionian Sea. Positioned between Mount Etna and the coast, it offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Acireale's town centre is a charming maze of narrow streets, elegant squares, and grand churches, all showcasing the town's rich baroque influence. The town is also famous for its lively Carnival, one of the most renowned in Sicily, with colourful parades and intricate masks.

One of the town’s standout attractions is its Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, with its stunning baroque façade and interior. Acireale is also home to the thermal baths of Santa Venera, where visitors can relax in natural hot springs, and the Villa Belvedere, a park offering sweeping views of the coast and Mount Etna. The town’s seafront is dotted with scenic rocky beaches, perfect for swimming and enjoying the Mediterranean climate. Acireale’s vibrant food scene, with its abundance of seafood, local pastries, and citrus fruits, reflects the town’s rich agricultural surroundings.

Nearby, the bustling city of Catania offers a wealth of historical and cultural landmarks, including its famous cathedral and markets. To the south, the charming seaside village of Aci Castello is home to a striking Norman castle overlooking the sea. Mount Etna, with its majestic volcanic landscapes, is to the northwest, providing hiking and exploration opportunities on one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. To the north, the picturesque village of Aci Trezza is renowned for its dramatic seafront and Greek mythology connections.​

Things to Do

Things to Do in Acireale
  • Cattedrale di Acireale (Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Annunziata) stands at the heart of Piazza Duomo and features a mix of architectural styles, with a Baroque façade and twin bell towers. The interior includes frescoes, marble altars and chapels dedicated to local saints. The cathedral is central to religious life and processions during major feast days. Its position in the main square makes it a focal point of the historic centre.
  • Basilica dei Santi Pietro e Paolo is located opposite the cathedral and showcases a richly decorated Baroque façade with Corinthian columns and intricate carvings. The church was built in the 18th century and is known for its harmonious proportions and refined interior. It forms part of the ensemble of religious buildings around Piazza Duomo. The basilica is often included in cultural and architectural walking tours.
  • Villa Belvedere is Acireale’s largest public park, offering shaded paths, gardens and panoramic terraces overlooking the Ionian Sea. The park includes fountains, statues and open-air seating areas, making it ideal for both relaxation and scenic views. It is popular with families, joggers and tourists alike. Seasonal events and performances are occasionally held here.
  • Teatro dell’Opera dei Pupi is a traditional puppet theatre preserving the Sicilian art of storytelling through marionettes. The shows recount medieval tales of knights, saints and epic battles, continuing a centuries-old tradition. The theatre also functions as a small museum, displaying puppets, backdrops and stage equipment. Performances are held regularly, especially in the tourist season.
  • Chiesa di San Sebastiano is one of the finest Baroque churches in eastern Sicily, built after the 1693 earthquake with an elaborate façade and a spacious interior. The church is known for its sculpted decorations and large organ, as well as its role in the annual Feast of Saint Sebastian. Located near the cathedral, it contributes to the architectural richness of central Acireale.
Acireale Tours and Activities
Comune di Acireale
Province: Metropolitan City of Catania​

Region: Sicily

Population: 50,590​ (in 2024 - source)

​Size: 39 km²

Elevation: 161 metres

​​Close by: Aci Trezza, Aci Castello, Catania, Mount Etna, Bronte

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Acireale
  • San Biagio Resort is a 4-star hotel located in a tranquil area of Acireale, approximately 2 km from the town centre. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisine, and an outdoor pool with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Its peaceful location provides a relaxing atmosphere, while still being within a short drive from Acireale’s historic centre and the coast. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end).
  • Hotel Ionia is a 3-star hotel located in the heart of Acireale, within walking distance of the town’s main attractions, such as the Piazza del Duomo and the Acireale Cathedral. The hotel features modern rooms, a restaurant serving Sicilian dishes, and a bar. Its central location allows easy access to local shops, restaurants, and historical sites, making it an ideal base for exploring the town. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
  • B&B Palazzo Giovanni is a family-run bed and breakfast located in the centre of Acireale, close to the town’s charming squares and historic buildings. The B&B offers cosy rooms with traditional Sicilian décor, a welcoming atmosphere, and a homemade breakfast. Its central location is ideal for visitors who want to explore the local culture and history of Acireale, while enjoying a more personal and affordable stay. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable).
  • Hotel Orizzonte is a 3-star hotel located in Santa Tecla, a small seaside village just 6 km from Acireale. The hotel offers modern rooms with sea views, a restaurant serving local Sicilian cuisine, and an outdoor pool. Its location near the coast provides easy access to the beaches of the Ionian Sea, while still being within a short drive from the historic sites of Acireale. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
  • Agriturismo Il Picciolo is a rural guesthouse located in the Mount Etna area, about 10 km from the centre of Acireale. The agriturismo features rustic rooms with views of the mountains, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving traditional Sicilian meals made from locally sourced ingredients. It’s an ideal choice for guests looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the region while being close to Acireale and the volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).

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