The 10 best things to do in Palermo over the weekend

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).

Visit the Bay of Taormina aboard a wooden gozzo boat that will transport you to the most striking beauty of the Mediterranean, passing by Sicily's most fascinating caves and coves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Grotta degli Innamorati.

The excursion departs from Giardini Naxos and will have you explore the Isola Bella Marine Reserve, the Blue Grotto, the Grotta degli Innamorati, and the Grotta dei Coralli. You will also discover the bays of Mazzarò and San Nicola, cruising the Sicilian coast around Taormina.

During the navigation you will be offered an aperitif on board based on typical Sicilian products. In addition, during the different stops you will be able to swim in the waters of the Reserve and snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean.

Maximum capacity: 24 people.

Visit the Bay of Taormina aboard a wooden gozzo boat that will transport you to the most striking beauty of the Mediterranean, passing by Sicily's most fascinating caves and coves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Grotta degli Innamorati.

The excursion departs from Giardini Naxos and will have you explore the Isola Bella Marine Reserve, the Blue Grotto, the Grotta degli Innamorati, and the Grotta dei Coralli. You will also discover the bays of Mazzarò and San Nicola, cruising the Sicilian coast around Taormina.

During the navigation you will be offered an apericena on board based on typical Sicilian products.

During the navigation you will be able to search for and spot dolphins, with a little luck. You can finally take a dip in the water during one of the stops on the itinerary.

Maximum capacity: 24 people.

The shared boat tour from the port of Giardini Naxos allows you to enjoy a unique experience along the Taormina coastline with friends or family.

The excursion lasts about 2 hours and a swimming stop is planned.

The first stop is the Grotta della Conchiglia, famous for its distinctive shape and turquoise waters.

You will then sail to the Faraglioni of Capo Taormina, imposing rocks that provide breathtaking scenery.

The navigation will continue to the famous Isola Bella, the heart of the nature reserve: here you can take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the bay.

The next stop is the magical Blue Grotto, where the filtering light creates striking blue reflections.

Before returning to the port of departure you will skirt the Bay of Mazzarò, one of the most fascinating stretches of coastline.

Embark on an excursion off the Sicilian coast starting from the port of Giardini Naxos on this 2-hour shared boat tour with dolphin spotting.

The first stop is Isola Bella, an authentic jewel set in the bay, connected to the coast by a romantic tongue of sand.

Navigation will then continue to the striking Blue Grotto, where lights and reflections provide a unique spectacle of blue hues.

Afterwards, you will push out to sea for an exciting dolphin watching moment: in the hours near sunset, dolphins swim free in small groups.

The tour will end with a sunset aperitif in the middle of the sea, surrounded by the Sicilian coast and with Mount Etna in the background.

Sailboat excursion with aperitif from Catania, a private or group experience that will allow you to discover the coast of Sicily from a different perspective.

An exciting sailing adventure that celebrates nature, a sustainable lifestyle and the art of sailing. A sporting experience rich in discovery, aboard a comfortable and safe yacht.

3-hour tour

We begin with a short meeting at Caffè del Porto, then set sail from the Catania Nautical Club and open the sails along the volcanic coastline, admiring the Cyclops Island, linked to Etna.

During the sailing, you will learn how to sail and enjoy sports activities. You will prepare an aperitif on board to celebrate, toasting with a glass of prosecco or white wine.

Finally, you will have the opportunity to go for a swim near the Cave of Ulysses or the Riviera of the Cyclops. 

Tour available

•    in the morning: from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
•    at sunset: 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
•    .

6-hour tour

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You will enjoy a Full Day sailing experience enhanced by a delicious pasta lunch, and refreshing drinks and fresh fruit will be provided during the cruise.

You will have the opportunity to bathe in front of the fascinating Ulysses Caves, the impressive Medieval Castle of Acicastello and the majestic Faraglioni of the Isole Ciclopi Nature Reserve.

You will explore the beautiful coastline of Catania and can relax in a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere, with the support of the ever-helpful staff: do not hesitate to ask them to participate in running the boat, help with the sails and stop for a spontaneous dip in the deep blue waters. While sailing, it will be essential to all work together to experience the pleasure of "going with the wind".

Explore Alicudi and Filicudi with this shared boat day tour departing from Lipari.

You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will tell you about local stories and traditions.

You will sail to Alicudi, the westernmost island of the Aeolian Islands, famous for its unspoiled landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. Here a swimming stop is planned.

Once in Alicudi, you will have the opportunity to explore the island from a unique vantage point: its rugged coastline and traditional stone houses that seem to defy time.

Here you will also stop for a rest that will allow you to take a walk or simply enjoy the unique view.

The tour will then continue to Filicudi, the neighboring island, where you will have the opportunity to make a second stop for swimming, perhaps in the vicinity of the famous Sea Ox Cave, where you can snorkel and admire the marine life.

After exploring Filicudi and its wonderful bays, such as Porto Bay, you will take a break ashore of about 1 1/2 hours. Here, you can have lunch at a typical island restaurant (not included in the price) or relax on the beach.

On the way back, there will be time for a toast with a small glass of Malvasia, accompanied by typical Aeolian sweets.

You will return to Marina Corta pier in Lipari at 5:30 p.m., after about 8 1/2 hours of excitement and natural beauty.

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.

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.

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.

This Aeolian Islands boat tour offers you a’unique experience in the heart of the Aeolian Archipelago. You will have the opportunity to admire the beauty of the island of Vulcano, Lipari and Salina.

The departure è scheduled from the port Santa Maria Maggiore. The first bathing stop will be at the Grotta del Cavallo where you can also admire the Piscine di Venere.

Returning to the coast, you will continue to Vulcan Island with its famous black sand beach. The typical color è originated from the lava flows of volcanic nature that still today are visible from the numerous fumaroles.

You will then proceed to the volcanic hills of Pietra Lunga and Pietra Menalda, the so-called “Faraglioni di Lipari” and then reach Salina.

Following this, you are scheduled to stop for a swim in the crystal-clear waters in front of the village of Pollara where there is a beach set within an amphitheater-shaped cliff.

You will then sail back to Lipari, famous for its brilliant white rock mountains and the world-famous pumice quarries. Here, too, you will make a stop and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

You will also have the opportunity to disembark on the island to take a stroll through the center and along the boulevards of Marina Corta and Marina Lunga before beginning the return sail to the port of departure.

When booking, you can choose between the 5-person boat or the 12-person boat. The'itinerary è the same.

This boat tour to the Aeolian Islands allows you to admire the beauty of Panarea and Stromboli and the beautiful islets that surround them.

Departure is scheduled from the Santa Maria Maggiore port. The first stop will be at one of the most picturesque spots in Panarea: the Bay of Cala Junco where you can enjoy a swim of the turquoise waters or relax in the sun.

The navigation will then continue to the islets of di Basiluzzo, Lisca Bianca, Dattilo and Lisca Nera, which form a small archipelago between Lipari and Stromboli Island.

Later you will reach Stromboli, the most striking island in the archipelago and home to one of the three still active volcanoes in Italy.

You will also stop at Ginostra, a small hamlet of Stromboli with a terrace where you can enjoy an aperitif with views of all the other Aeolian Islands.

The next stop will be Strombolicchio, a small volcanic island where you can stroll through the narrow streets of the town among the green prickly pears, caper plants and colorful bougainvillea.

You will also have the chance to admire the Sciara del Fuoco and the spectacular volcanic explosions under a starry sky before heading back toward the port of departure.

You can choose from 2 different options. The itinerary is the same, the departure and return times change.

Day Tour

You can choose between two boats with different capacities: one with a maximum of 5 people and one with a maximum of 12 people.

Departure is at 9 am and return around 7 pm.

Afternoon and evening tour

This experience allows you to leave at 12 noon and return around 10 pm. 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.

The boat tour of Marettimo caves with Walter, the skipper, is a unique experience of relaxation and wonder. Walter deeply loves the Egadi island and wants to share its beauty with everyone. You will explore the main caves and Zone A of the island.

Two boat tours are available departing from Scalo Nuovo in Marettimo: one in the morning at 10:30 a.m. with return at 2:15 p.m. and the other in the afternoon from 3:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Following a natural itinerary, we start with a visit to the Camel Cave, the Thunder Cave and the Pipe Cave, among the most famous in Marettimo.

After a 15- to 20-minute swim stop at Cala Libano, we continue to Cala Bianca, one of Marettimo's most picturesque areas. This is followed by Grotta Perciata, Grotta Ficaredda, Grotta del Presepe, Grotta della Palma and finally the spectacular Grotta degli Innamorati, where you can take a dip.

Continuing on, you will visit the Bombarda Cave and conclude with a stop at Sea Fennel for another dip before returning.

The Egadi Islands boat excursion from Marettimo gives you a full tour of these wonderful islands, spending the whole day on board and discovering Favignana and Levanzo.

Embarkation is at 10:00 a.m. and after about 40 minutes you arrive in Favignana to make 3/4 bathroom stops in coves such as Cala Rossa, Bue Marino, Cala Azzurra or the Grotta degli Innamorati, depending on weather conditions.

During the excursion, you will enjoy a welcome drink with spritz, chips and peanuts. At around 1 p.m., you will reach the port of Favignana to have lunch with local specialties.

After a good hour's break, at 2:45 p.m. you depart for Levanzo, where you will admire boats suspended over a crystal clear sea. We pass by the quaint village of Levanzo and make stops at the Faraglioni, Cala Fredda and Cala Minnola.

Before returning to Marettimo, you will be offered fresh seasonal fruit. Return is scheduled between 5:30 and 6:00 p.m. at the Marettimo pier.

The dinghy excursion to Favignana from Marsala is an experience invites you to explore the beauty of the Egadi Islands. You'll dive into the crystal clear waters with dives straight from the dinghy and discover marine life with surface snorkeling.

During the excursion, either group or private, you will enjoy a typical Sicilian aperitif on board with wines produced by the Gandolfo family and take a walk through the narrow streets of the ancient village, getting in touch with local life and meeting the famous "Tuna Fishermen."

The experience lasts one day and the excursion departs from Marsala. The dinghy will reach the waters of Favignana in about 30 minutes and here you will admire the coastline, caves and the most striking coves, such as Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra and Bue Marino, with the skipper accompanying you at all times.

At lunchtime an aperitif of flatbreads, with fresh cold cuts will be organized by Simona, the hostess, along with a mix of typical appetizers.

The navigation continues and you will reach the port of Favignana. You will have the opportunity to explore the heart of the town, immersed in the charming historic center. Afterwards, navigation resumes and the dinghy will reach Marsala in the late afternoon.

The dinghy excursion to Favignana from Marsala is a unique opportunity to learn about the Egadi Islands and have an unforgettable experience in Sicily.

The dinghy aperitif at the Stagnone in Marsala is a unique opportunity for a romantic sunset experience along the coast of Sicily.

During the excursion, the dinghy will sail slowly to give you the opportunity to relax and take photographs of the islands and the sea. Once you arrive near Isola Lunga, you will have a panoramic view of everything around you: the island of Mozia, the Egadi Islands, and the open sea.

You will be offered an aperitif on board of different kinds of appetizers and fresh fruit, accompanied by music. You will be able to sip Sparkling Wine and other wines produced by Commander Ignatius' local winery in his wine cellar.

The excursion lasts about 3 hours and is suitable for everyone. The dinghy trip is ideal for a romantic sunset experience for couples in Sicily.

The private boat excursion in Marettimo Marine Reserve allows you to discover the Egadi Islands in the company of friends or family.

You will sail in Europe's most extensive marine reserve and visit the area's best-known caves.

You will have access to an exclusive boat and an experienced guide who will give you valuable information about local history, culture and traditions.

Through this private tour, you will have the opportunity to create a flexible and customized itinerary based on your interests and preferences. You can choose which attractions to visit and how much time to devote to each.

On board you will be offered a welcome drink.

This experience is perfect for those who want to spend a day in comfort and privacy: you can travel with friends and family without the presence of strangers, making the experience intimate and personal.