Acireale
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Latest page update: 14 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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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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Acireale • Sicily • Historic Hill Town
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.
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.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Baroque Architecture: Acireale is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture, which is evident in the town's churches, palaces, and public buildings. The Cathedral of Acireale, dedicated to St. Venera, is one of the most notable examples of Baroque artistry in the town.
- Piazza del Duomo: The central square of Acireale, Piazza del Duomo, is a lively and elegant square surrounded by beautiful buildings. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors to gather, especially during festivals and events.
- Puppet Theatre: Acireale has a tradition of puppet theatre, and visitors can experience this fascinating art form at the Museo dei Pupi Siciliani (Sicilian Puppet Museum).
- Scenic Views: The town offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea, and on clear days, the majestic Mount Etna can be seen in the distance. The Lungomare, a scenic promenade along the coast, is an excellent spot for leisurely walks and enjoying the sea breeze.
- Carnival: Acireale hosts an annual Carnival celebration, known as "Carnevale di Acireale," which is one of the most famous and lively in Sicily. The Carnival features impressive allegorical floats, parades, and colorful masks, attracting visitors from all over the island.
- Proximity to Mount Etna: Acireale is located near Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano. Visitors can easily arrange excursions to explore the volcanic landscapes and marvel at the natural wonders of the region.
- Proximity to Taormina: Acireale's location makes it a convenient base for visiting other popular destinations in Sicily, including the charming town of Taormina with its ancient theater and beautiful views of the coast.
Comune di Acireale
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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 |
My recommended accommodation options for 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).
