The 10 best things to do in Palermo over the weekend

The Naxos Bay and Taormina boat tour gives you a unique nature experience off the Sicilian coast.

You will be accompanied by a skipper who will tell you stories and interesting facts about the places you will visit (languages spoken: Italian and English).

You will depart from the port of Giardini Naxos and sail along the entire coastline of the bay until you reach the Grotta dell'Amore (Cave of Love), so called because, when looked at upside down, it appears to be in the shape of a heart.

The navigation will then continue to the coast of Cape Taormina and the Grotto of the Sirens, until you reach the bay of Isola Bella: a small islet connected to the beach by a tongue of sand that can only be crossed when there is low tide.

You will then reach the Blue Grotto, famous for the play of light that is created inside and that makes the mirror of water appear blue and crystal clear, giving an evocative view of the seabed.

The tour will then continue to the Grotta del Corallo (Coral Cave) and the Scoglio dell'Elefante (named for its peculiar shape).

You will then head to the bay of Isola Bella or Mazzarò for a stop of about 20 to 30 minutes during which you can enjoy a soft aperitif with prosecco and/or almond wine accompanied by almond pastries and savory snacks. During this stop you can take a swim in the Taormina waters.

The group sunset tour in search of dolphins departing from the port of Giardini Naxos gives you a unique experience off the Sicilian coast.

You will be accompanied by a skipper who will tell you anecdotes and trivia about the places you will visit (languages spoken: Italian and English).

You will head about 2 miles off the coast in search of dolphins-a nature experience that will remain etched in your memories.

You will then head to the coast of Naxos and Taormina for a short swim stop.

On board you will be served a reinforced aperitif with prosecco, almond wine, savory snacks and typical Sicilian rotisserie that you can enjoy at sunset.

Depending on the sunset times, departure times may be brought forward to 17:00 and the itinerary may be subject to change. In that case you will be contacted by the facility.

Embark on a relaxing excursion along the coast of Taormina and the bay of Giardini Naxos with views of the striking beaches, caves and coves that characterize the area.

Departing from the port of Giardini Naxos, you will visit the Isola Bella nature reserve, the Grotta degli Innamorati, the Grotta Azzurra, the Grotta del Corallo, where coral colonies can be observed, the Bay of Mazzarò and the Bay of the Sirens. The tour will be accompanied by music and the captain's explanations of the history of the caves and bay you will explore.

There will be a swim stop during the navigation and you will be offered a snack of "almond paste," a local dessert, along with fresh fruit and prosecco. If you choose the tour with snorkeling, you will also snorkel along the coast and view the marine flora and fauna with equipment provided directly by the captain.

The boat is equipped with sun shades so you can enjoy the experience in total relaxation. The tour is organized on a shared or exclusive basis and is suitable for everyone. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

Maximum capacity: 17 people. Two boats are available.

If you are a dolphin lover and want to enjoy a romantic moment on a boat at sunset, this experience is a unique opportunity to admire the marine flora and fauna of the Mediterranean while enjoying an aperitif of Sicilian specialties.

Departing from the port of Giardini Naxos, the excursion will take you along the coast of Taormina so you can take in the beauty of the area including Isola Bella, and caves such as the Blue Grotto and the Lovers' Grotto.

Bathing stops are provided during which you can dive into the Mediterranean waters or search for dolphins at sea from the boat. You will be treated to an onboard aperitif of Sicilian arancini and a traditional prosecco. Upon returning to port you will be able to observe the volcano Etna rising above the bays of the coast.

The boat tour lasts 2 hours and is organized on a shared basis. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

Maximum capacity: 17 people.

The horseback ride along the seashore of Catania's Playa is also suitable for children and beginners.

The hour-long horseback ride starts from the stables and takes place on the shoreline of the long beach in the Gulf of Catania: the Plaja.

In front of you you will admire the volcano Etna towering over the city, making a unique panorama, perfect for your souvenir photos.

Recommended clothing includes long pants and closed-toe shoes. The facility will provide you with all the equipment you need to ride a horse, including helmet (mandatory).

The quad bike excursion on Etna lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes with departure from Rifugio Ragabo - Etna Nord.

The route is technical and very fun with about 80% of the route off-road. During this tour you will drive the ATV through the lava fields while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Taormina and Calabria coastline.

During the stops an expert guide of the Etna volcano area will tell you about the history of the places you stop.

Recommended clothing for the quad bike rental: closed shoes, sunglasses, dust bandana and a small jacket.

Wine tasting at Castellaro Estate in Lipari is an experience dedicated to those who love wine and want to have a total Sicilian experience between Lipari and Etna. 

You will walk through the estate's winery, where you will be shown the production methods of the Sicilian wines produced by the winery, and in its vineyard.

A tasting of four wines and a gastronomic selection from the Castellaro Bistrot complete the magical atmosphere of the sunset.

Dedicated to those who want to discover wine, curious travelers and romantics.

The visit can take place in groups with other visitors and lasts two and a half hours.

Available daily by reservation depending on the time of sunset.

The daily shared boat excursion to Panarea and Stromboli departing from Lipari allows you to experience a relaxing day exploring the Aeolian Islands.

The first scheduled stop is at Cala Junco, a natural pool hidden among the rocks, with turquoise and crystal clear waters, a hidden corner protected by the FAI. Here a swimming stop is planned.

Reset aboard, you will head to the picturesque port of San Pietro in Panarea, where you will have about 2 hours of free time to explore the quaint village, savor the island’s unique atmosphere or have lunch at one of the local restaurants (lunch not included).

On returning to the boat, you will begin a scenic tour of the magical islands of Panarea by sea. You will pass by Bottaro, famous for its fascinating underwater fumaroles, and Lisca Bianca, home to the romantic Grotta degli Innamorati, steeped in legends and beauty.

You will continue sailing among the other surrounding islets, where two additional stops are planned to swim in the archipelago's crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip or snorkeling.

Next, you will sail to the majestic Stromboli. From the boat, you will admire the’imposing profile of this active volcanic island before taking another swim in its dark, evocative waters.

You will then land at the port of Scari, where you will have about 2 hours to explore the island on foot, relax on its iconic black sand beaches or dine at a local restaurant (dinner not included).

At sunset, you will re-board and head to Strombolicchio and the Sciara del Fuoco, where you will witness the spectacular eruptions of Stromboli: smoke and tongues of lava will light up the night sky.

Finally, you will return to Lipari's Marina Corta pier around 10 p.m., after a unique day.

The day trip by boat to Lipari and Salina departing from Marina Corta in Lipari allows you to experience a relaxing day in the heart of the Aeolian Islands.

You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will tell you stories and interesting facts about the places you will visit.

You will begin your navigation by pushing on to the Cave of Pomice, where the first swimming stop is scheduled, allowing you to cool off in the crystal clear Sicilian waters.

The tour will then continue to Salina: you will stop first at Capo Faro and then at Baia Pollara for more swimming stops. Here you will also see the house where the movie "Il Postino" was filmed.

Later you will arrive at the village of Lingua, where you will moor for a stop of about 1 1/2 hours. You will enjoy an excellent typical lunch in one of the local restaurants (not included in the price), refresh yourself with a swim and admire the characteristic salt lake.

Next you will head to the western part of Lipari, where you will stop for a dip at the Grotta degli Innamorati while admiring the Faraglioni rocks.

Finally, a final swimming stop is planned at the Praia di Vinci beach.

On the return trip to the starting point you will be offered a glass of Malvasia wine accompanied by fresh fruit, water and typical desserts.

By booking the Picnic in the Vineyard in Lipari, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a unique experience. This special event offers you the opportunity to enjoy local delicacies in the midst of vineyards, overlooking the crystal clear sea and perfect weather.

Let yourself be taken on a sensory journey where flavors, scents and landscapes come together in an unforgettable experience.

After a short walk in the vineyard you will reach a viewpoint equipped to taste our wine in complete freedom: admiring Alicudi, Filicudi and Salina the magic begins!

The picnic basket includes a bottle of wine and an assortment of traditional gastronomic products:

•    One bottle of wine for every 2 people with a choice of Marsili, Bianco Porticello, Rosa Caolino and Ypsilon
•    Basket with gourmet accompaniments (selection from Castellaro Bistrot)
•    Reserved seats nestled in the vineyards with extraordinary views of the sea

Finally, you can choose to spend a night in one of the three charming houses available at the Estate: Casa Colino, Casa Pomice and Casa Ossidiana, surrounded by the quiet of the vineyards, with a romantic atmosphere and architecture that blends with nature. House prices vary depending on the season!

This boat excursion departing from Porto Marina Corta is a perfect opportunity to visit the Aeolian Islands in full relaxation with stops in the village. You can choose from 5 different itineraries.

Vulcano

Starting from Marina Corta, you will skirt the southeast coast of Lipari, admiring the stacks "Petra Longa" and "Petra Menalda", and then head to Vulcano, where you will have time to explore and have lunch.

In the afternoon, scenic sea tour with stops for swimming and snorkeling at picturesque spots such as the Pool of Venus and the Horse Cave, concluding with a Malvasia tasting before returning.

Lipari and Salina

The excursion includes sailing along the coast of Lipari, passing through Monte Rosa, Canneto, the white beaches, the obsidian flow and Acqua Calda, with a stop in Salina and a visit to the Arco del Perciato and Baia di Pollara.

After a 2-hour lunch stop at Lingua, we will continue along Lipari's west coast with stops for swimming and a Malvasia tasting before returning.

Panarea and Stromboli

Departing from Marina Corta, you will reach Panarea, with a swimming stop and visit to the prehistoric village, before continuing to Stromboli, with lunch and a walk through the island’s streets.

In the afternoon, scenic tour of the islets, swimming stop and observation of the "sea boiling" concluding with a visit to the Sciara del Fuoco to admire the Stromboli eruption, accompanied by Malvasia and cookies.

The duration of the excursion is indicative.

Filicudi and Alicudi

We will depart towards Filicudi, skirting Salina and making a swimming stop at Capo Graziano, continuing on to the Bue Marino Cave. After a visit to Alicudi and the Filicudi stacks, you will conclude with a visit to the village, a final swim and a Malvasia tasting.

Scaling the Stromboli Volcano

With this experience, you will reach Stromboli by boat and, accompanied by expert guides, climb the volcano to 400 meters, the highest vantage point. During the hike, you will traverse lava landscapes and wilderness trails, having a unique experience.

In case of bad weather, the facility may change or cancel the itinerary and its duration.

The day boat excursion to Vulcano from Lipari allows you to enjoy a unique Aeolian Islands experience and taste local products.

You will coast the southern area of Lipari, where you can admire two rocks in the middle of the sea: the Faraglioni of Lipari, Pietra Lunga and Pietra Menalda, classified as volcanic necks.

You will then head to Cala Formaggio for a swimming stop. After the stop, you will reach Grotta del Cavallo, where at the’entrance you can also admire the beautiful Piscina di Venere. Here you will stop for your second bathroom stop.

Once back on board you will depart for the small village of Gelso, a fishing village dominated by a charming lighthouse. Here you'll make a stop at the Asino Beach, where you can have lunch at the Asino Beach lido/restaurant (not included in the price) and take a few dips in the water. 

Next you will sail to the Levante Harbor, where there will be a stop of about two hours to visit the Vulcan thermal lake, known as “The Mud Pool”, the Hot Water Beach, known for the boiling of the water due to gas emissions from the seabed, and finally stop at the Black Sands, where you can find very fine sand and very shallow waters.

Before returning to Lipari, you will make an additional swim stop at Praia Ferrante. On board you will be offered sesame cookies with local Malvasia.

A full day exploring the wonders of the Egadi Islands aboard the Yacht Azzurra, with only 25 passengers for an exclusive and comfortable experience.

•    09:30 am - Departure from the Port of Trapani.
•    Arrival in Favignana: stop for about two hours to freely visit the town, explore the tuna museum or reach the nearest beaches
•    Tour by sea along the island's most beautiful coves, including Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, with stops for swimming
•    Typical lunch on board: rustic appetizer, cold first course, fruit, water and wine
•    Panoramic navigation with aperitif on board
•    Arrival on the island of Levanzo: stop for about an hour to visit the village and swim from the coast
•    Panoramic navigation along the most picturesque coves of Levanzo
•    17:30/18:00 - Return to the Port of Trapani

For the day trip to the Egadi Islands departing from Marsala, you will have a choice of 3 different tours:

Favignana Tour

The first stop will be at Bue Marino and Cala Rossa, including landing on the island of Favignana. Next is lunch on the dinghy (included in the price) and then move on to Cala Pozzo, Cala Rotonda, Cala Preveto and Marasolo beach. Finally, you will be offered an aperitif with typical products and prosecco, before returning to Marsala.

Favignana and Levanzo tour

The first stop will be at Cala Azzurra, Bue Marino, Cala Rossa and Scalo Cavallo, including landing on the island of Favignana. Next is lunch on the dinghy (included in the price) and then move to Levanzo, where you will visit Cala Fredda and Cala Minnola. Finally, you will be offered an aperitif with typical products and prosecco, before returning to Marsala.

Marettimo

The first stop will be at Grotta del Cammello, followed by Castello di Punta Troia, Scalo Maestro and Secca del Cretazzo. Next is lunch on the dinghy (included in the price) and a visit to the seaside village of Marettimo. After skirting Favignana, you will be treated to an aperitif with typical products and prosecco, before returning to Marsala.

The one-day boat tour to the Egadi Islands is guaranteed upon reaching at least 6 people. The maximum capacity of the boat is 12 people.

Discover the most striking bays of the Egadi Islands with an excursion aboard a spacious, fully equipped boat.

Departing from Trapani, the excursion will guide you along the picturesque Sicilian coast, stopping at hidden coves such as Cala Azzurra, Bue Marino and Cala Rossa, before reaching the village of Levanzo. Here, you will enjoy a swim stop in one of the coves. Next, you will set course for Favignana for another swim stop.

On board, a full lunch with Trapani specialties and fresh fish will be served. After lunch, you will have free time to explore Favignana, enjoy Sicilian granita and visit the Grotta degli Innamorati before returning to Trapani.

Two embacations are available: the Egadi Star and the Luxury Shalimar IV. Both carry a maximum of 30 passengers on board. The Luxury Shalimar boat will give you a luxury experience in a mini-cruise equipped with a larger size for a totally relaxed excursion.

Maximum capacity: 30 people. It is mandatory to pay the ecological fee of €5 at the ticket office before departure.

embark on a not-to-be-missed excursion in a motorboat equipped with every comfort and experience a mini cruise in the crystal clear waters of Sicily.

Leaving from Trapani, the motorboat trip will take you to different destinations, visiting the most famous caves and enjoying a typical lunch on board.

During the excursion to Favignana and Levanzo you will skirt the most beautiful and suggestive coves of Favignana such as Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra. There are also two shore stops: a 2-hour stop in Favignana and a 1-hour stop in Levanzo.

You will be scheduled to have lunch on board before reaching Levanzo. Here you will visit Cala Fredda, Cala Minnola and the small fishing village.

Don't miss a unique opportunity to swim in the waters of the Mediterranean and visit the Egadi Islands as a group or as a couple.

Maximum capacity: 185 people.

The day begins with departure from the Port of Trapani at 09:30 am aboard the motor vessel M/n Vieste II or M/n Gaia.

You will reach Favignana, where you are scheduled to stop for about two hours to explore the town, visit the tuna fishery museum or reach the nearest beaches.

Continue with a sea tour along the island's most picturesque coves, including Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, with a stop for swimming.

In the middle of the day, a typical lunch is served on board, consisting of pasta course, fruit, water and wine.

The afternoon is devoted to the island of Levanzo, with a one-hour stop to visit the village and swim from the shore.

It concludes with a scenic sail among the most beautiful coves before returning to Trapani scheduled by 5:30/18:00 pm.