The Cyclops Riviera: black lava beaches, legendary sea stacks, historic carnival, and a volcanic coastline like nowhere else on earth.
Just 20 minutes from Catania Airport, Acireale is the gateway to the Cyclops Riviera, one of Sicily's most distinctive stretches of coast: cliffs and sea stacks of volcanic origin that, according to Homeric legend, are the boulders hurled by the Cyclops Polyphemus at the fleeing Ulysses.
Acireale's historic centre is one of the richest examples of late Sicilian Baroque, with its Cathedral, the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, and noble palaces decorated with wrought-iron balconies. The town is famous throughout Italy for its historic Carnival, one of Sicily's oldest and most spectacular, with allegorical floats and flower displays.
Heading down toward the sea you reach Santa Maria La Scala, a tiny fishing port set among the lava rocks, and Acitrezza, the village of the sea stacks made famous by Giovanni Verga in "I Malavoglia" and by Luchino Visconti's film "La Terra Trema". The water here is deep and clear, ideal for snorkeling among the lava formations.
Acireale is also known for its thermal spas, fed by sulfur springs of volcanic origin, and for its proximity to La Timpa, a nature reserve with scenic trails overlooking the sea. Thanks to its minimal distance from the airport, it's one of the most convenient destinations for those with only a few hours between flights.
Acireale & Riviera is 20 minutes from the airport. You can arrange your transfer with a private transfer, car rental, or the scheduled connections listed in our guide to getting around Eastern Sicily.
The best activities and excursions selected for this destination.