We recently went on an unforgettable trip to Sicily, and we can’t wait to share our top tips & favorite spots with you. Sicily is a beautiful island in Southern Italy offering a blend of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and the warmest hospitality you can ever imagine. Whether you’re visiting the ancient ruins, lounging on the beaches, or savoring some mouthwatering Sicilian cuisine — there’s something magical for everyone in the family.
Where To Stay: Donna Carmela Resort & Lodges
During our trip, we stayed at the serene 4* Donna Carmela, nestled amidst lush gardens and citrus groves. The property is about a 25-minute drive outside of Taormina and provides a very authentic experience as it’s not in a touristy location.
This boutique hotel has rooms in the main building, as well as private villas within their nursery, which is where we stayed. This provided utmost privacy, with views of Mt. Etna in one direction and views of the sea in the opposite direction. It’s close enough to major attractions like Mt. Etna and the beautiful beaches of the Ionian coast. To us, it was the best of both worlds.
The spacious family suites and villas are beautifully decorated and equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. One of the standout features is the private plunge pools available in some of the villas. We started most of our days in Sicily with a refreshing dip, followed by a rinse in the outdoor shower! Next, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast daily, which is free when we book your hotel stay here!
The hotel grounds and expansive gardens are perfect for little ones to explore, and the citrus groves add a delightful fragrance. There are plenty of shaded spots to relax with a good book and/or to enjoy a family picnic.
Guests can enjoy delicious Sicilian cuisine at La Cucina di Donna Carmela, renowned for its “As Nature” menu, which highlights seasonal produce from the resort’s own garden and citrus grove. Sintesi, an informal lunch spot offers lighter, typically Sicilian dishes perfect for families looking to enjoy a casual meal together during the day.
Can’t Miss Dining: Trattoria 4 Archi
Now, let’s talk food. One of the best meals we’ve ever had in Italy was at Trattoria 4 Archi in Milo. This rustic, mom-and-pop restaurant serves up authentic Sicilian dishes that left us craving more. The charm of Trattoria 4 Archi lies not only in its food, but also in its warm atmosphere that makes you feel instantly at home. The decor is charmingly traditional, offering a cozy, rustic ambiance.
The star of the show is undoubtedly their pasta dishes. We recommend the rich and hearty pasta alla Norma, with a tomato and eggplant sauce. Or, the perfectly cooked spaghetti alle vongole, with fresh clams. The menu also features a variety of traditional Sicilian specialties, including tender meat dishes and fresh seafood, all cooked to perfection. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine, and you’re in for an unforgettable dining experience.
Best Beach for Kids: San Lorenzo Beach
For a day of sun and fun, San Lorenzo Beach was an absolute hit with our family. Nestled along the southern coastline of Noto, it is a 2-hour drive from our hotel. The golden sand and crystal-clear waters make it safe for kids to splash around and play to their heart’s content. It has shallow waters with hardly any waves, making it very safe for young children.
The nearby nature reserve, Vendicari, is a great place for a family hike, with trails that wind through scenic landscapes and offer glimpses of local wildlife. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the coast, discovering hidden coves and rock pools that are perfect for curious kids to investigate.
To make the most of your visit, perhaps you can pack a picnic and settle in for a day of relaxation and enjoyment. The beach has plenty of spots where you can lay out a blanket and enjoy a family meal with the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. Or, you can dine at the beach club which has affordable dining options that were very yummy!
Exploring and Hiking Mt. Etna
No trip to Sicily is complete without exploring Mt. Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Our family found the experience of visiting Mt. Etna to be a highlight of our Sicilian trip.
The journey begins with a scenic drive up the slopes, passing through villages and vineyards that thrive in the fertile volcanic soil. As you ascend, the landscape transforms dramatically, revealing the rugged beauty of ancient lava fields and craters.
Once at the base station, you can choose from a variety of activities tailored to different interests and fitness levels. For families with young children, the hiking trails offer a perfect balance of adventure and accessibility. The trails are well-marked and family-friendly, winding through volcanic landscapes, offering panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. Along the way, you can see steam vents and other geothermal features that hint at the powerful forces beneath your feet. Our son was particularly fascinated by the idea of walking on an active volcano.
A ride on the cable car can take you even higher up the mountain, offering breathtaking views and a closer look at the summit craters. From the upper stations, you can embark on more challenging hikes or join a Jeep tour to explore areas that are otherwise inaccessible. The higher you go, the more otherworldly the landscape becomes, with barren expanses of black lava rock and surreal rock formations that make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
Explore Taormina in an Ape Calessino
Upon arriving to Sicily, we wanted to get a lay of the land and we did so in a very fun way. We went on a tour aboard a classic Ape Calessino, a unique Italian-made vehicle. Our guide was fantastic and allowed us to stop and photograph the town along the way. He told us stories of the town, and he also showed us the beauty of Taormina and its secret corners. We went through windy tiny roads of the village, admiring breathtaking views of Taormina Bay with the majestic Mt. Etna in the background.
Last but not least, we headed to the town of Castelmola to enjoy an almond wine tasting in the central square, just like a true local. It was the ideal way to experience La Dolce Vita at its finest.
Basic Facts for Traveling to Sicily with Kids
How To Get Around
Renting a car is highly recommended for families. It gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and reach those hidden gems off the beaten path. The roads aren’t particularly difficult to navigate, but parking can be limited depending on where you choose to go. So, do keep this in mind.
We recommend getting full coverage on your rental vehicle and renting the smallest size you can comfortably fit in, since parallel parking is a necessity in most beach towns.
When To Visit
The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is mild but lovely, and the crowds are far smaller. The months of July and August are very hot and typically quite crowded, both with European and foreign tourists alike.
What To Eat
Embrace the local cuisine, because Sicilian food is generally very kid-friendly. Pizza, pasta, and gelato are always a hit with the little ones — but there are so many local dishes they will love too. Beware that food portions are very large in Sicily, so we could typically share our plates amongst at least two people!
Be sure to check out some of the local specialties that Sicily is known for:
Arancini: Deep-fried rice balls filled with different items such as ragù, mozzarella, and/or peas.
Cannoli: Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese.
Pasta alla Norma: Pasta with tomato sauce, fried eggplant, ricotta salata, and basil.
Caponata: A sweet and sour eggplant dish with tomatoes, celery, olives, and capers.
Granita: A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavorings like lemon, almond, or coffee. Sicilians typically enjoy it with a brioche for breakfast, but we personally enjoyed it after dinner.
Sfincione: A thick, spongy pizza topped with tomatoes, onions, anchovies, and breadcrumbs.
Panelle: Chickpea flour fritters often served in a sandwich.
Cassata: A traditional Sicilian cake made with ricotta cheese, sponge cake, marzipan, and candied fruit.
Why Plan Your Sicily Trip With Unfolded Travels
At Unfolded Travels, we understand the importance of seamless family vacations. Not only are we based in Italy and experts at curating trips for young ones, but we have access to Ungoogleable activities that you won’t find on your own searches. We work with some of the best tour guides and they know how to entertain adults + children alike. Plus, we have personal relationships with luxury hoteliers and can help select hotels based on your own specific wants + needs.
We aim to make your Sicilian adventure stress-free and unforgettable by handling all the details for you. Also, we know the best local eateries and will gladly make suggestions on where to dine.
Ready to plan your next family adventure, to Sicily or anywhere else in the world? Contact us today and let’s unfold the beauty of your next vacation! 💙
