10 Sights To See In Sicily With Kids

Four years ago, when I was pregnant with my first child, my husband and I went to Sicily for our last holiday before we become parents. Now we have added a second child to our family, I have been thinking back to our trip and wondering whether to return with our two daughters. But, how family-friendly is Sicily?

When we visited in June 2012, we stayed close to Taormina, a bustling hilltop town with amazing views of the ocean and Mount Etna. We hired a car for the day and went in search of some of the locations for Francis Ford Coppola’s Godfather films! If we were to go again as a family, here are 10 sights we would be keen to explore.

Taormina

Founded in the 6th century, this town is definitely worth a second look, not least because of its ancient amphitheatre (see below). Although fairly touristy (especially during July and August), there are medieval churches to explore, plenty of shops, good quality restaurants and gelato stores.

Greek Amphitheatre

Built in the third century, this ancient Greek theatre is perched at the top of Taormina giving spectacular views across the Ionian sea. It is so well preserved, the amphitheatre is still used for opera performances. I was amazed by the ancient structure and would love to share the experience with my daughters.

Mount Etna

An active volcano, this natural phenomenon smokes away and can be seen from miles away. To get closer you can drive up the north side of the volcano where you get the best scenery. It is even possible to teach the kids to ski and toboggan during November to March. There is also a cable car which takes you close to the top and you can walk or get a mini bus to just below the crater (although make sure you are prepared by taking warm clothes and food).

Agrigento Coast And Valley Of The Temples

Stunning beaches line the Agrigento coast while the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Valley of the Temples, lies just outside the town of Agrigento. Once a Greek city, the archaeological site consists of seven temples dating from around the 5th Century BC – a must-see for history lovers and a place where young children can learn and let their imaginations run wild.

Alcantara Gorge

Due to its tectonic activity, Sicily is home to volcanic sedimentary caves and natural formations including the Alcantara Gorge. It’s black lava walls stretch 50m high amidst an unspoiled parkland landscape of flora and fauna. When we visited Sicily, we took a trip to this incredible natural sight which has plenty of hiking trails to explore.

Farm Cultural Park of Favara

This museum has transformed the small town of Favara with its unique art gallery which would not only appeal to art lovers but adults and children alike.

Stromboli and Vulcano

These stunning Aeolian islands are home to active volcanos which show off brilliant volcanic firework displays that can be admired from a safe distance.

Modica

This is often neglected in favour of the beaches by the coastal areas, but its architectural greatness is indisputable and finds expression in artistic wonders like St. Peter’s Church and St. George’s Cathedral. The town is also famous for its chocolate creations – considered the best in the country – another aspect that will appeal to your little ones.

Erice and Enna

These picturesque towns are reminiscent of ancient fantasy settings found in fables and children books. With their medieval castles nestled along the mountain slopes and luscious forest, they emit a fairyland quality. Do not be surprised if your kids ask where the unicorns are! The Castle of Venus in Erice provides a great opportunity to introduce your kids to Greco-Roman mythology, and the cable car rides to the hillside top provide a spectacular panorama.

Caltagirone

Almost all the buildings in Caltagirone old town are decorated with ceramic tiles as well as its streets, bridges and balconies (which are brightly lit at night). The bright hues transform the town into a richly colourful landscape that is straight out of Disneyland. For the parents it is a wonderful occasion to discover the quality and decorative style of Italian ceramics.

Those are just a few of the family-friendly highlights Sicily has to offer. When it comes to accommodation, you can’t beat a villa when holidaying as a family. There are plenty of options available online where you can easily find a wide range of Sicilian villas at budget-friendly prices for big families and groups.

Looking back at my pictures and remembering the time we had there, the fantastic food and all the sights we missed during our last trip, I am definitely sold on a return trip there one day with my family.

Have you ever been to Sicily? Would you visit the Italian island as a family?

*Pictures courtesy of Wander Mum and Pixabay
*This post has been written in collaboration with MD

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