A preview image of Luxury Villas in East Sicily.

Luxury Villas in East Sicily

Breathtaking villas in East Sicily, framed by Etna’s slopes and coastal light.

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Travel guide

Our guide to East Sicily

Our guide to East Sicily

East Sicily is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches. With a rich history, picturesque villages, and a mild climate, it offers the perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. The area boasts charming seaside towns, delicious local cuisine, and exceptional wines, ensuring a delightful experience for every visitor. It’s no surprise that so many of our guests return year after year, continuously discovering the hidden gems and natural beauty of the Ionian Riviera.

Getting there

  • Fly to East Sicily via Catania Airport (Fontanarossa) for easy access to this stunning coastal region.

Good to know

  • Main cities: Taormina, Siracusa, and Catania
  • Key attractions: Isola Bella, the Greek Theatre in Taormina, and the stunning beaches of Soverato
  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Necropolis of Pantalica and the ancient city of Syracusae
  • Famous figures: Archimedes, Vincenzo Bellini, and countless artists who have been inspired by this beautiful region

Our locations in Sicily

Our locations in Sicily

Palermo

From Arab-Norman masterpieces to lively piazzas and street food stalls, Palermo captivates with its rich history, distinctive character and infectious energy.
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Taormina

Suspended between the cobalt Ionian and the charcoal silhouette of Etna, Taormina is a place where ancient theatres gaze out to sea, citrus scents drift through honey-coloured streets, and every vista feels lifted from a Renaissance canvas.
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Syracuse

Once the most powerful city in the ancient Greek world, Syracuse remains a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, vibrant local life and luminous coastal beauty.
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Catania

Forged in the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania is a city of dark lava stone, grand Baroque architecture and irrepressible energy, where ancient history and modern Sicilian life collide in spectacular fashion.
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Cefalù

With its golden beach, imposing Norman cathedral and tangle of medieval lanes, Cefalù is one of Sicily's most enchanting seaside towns, where history and nature coexist beautifully.
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Noto

A masterpiece of Baroque architecture, Noto enchants with its ornate façades, imposing balconies and sunlit piazzas, each corner revealing a new expression of Sicily's artistic brilliance.
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The Aeolian Islands

From the fiery spectacle of Stromboli to the tranquil shores of Salina, the Aeolian Islands offer a mesmerising blend of volcanic , rich history, exceptional cuisine and endless Mediterranean charm.
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Egadi Islands

Just beyond Sicily's western shores, the Egadi Islands offer a calmer atmosphere, where turquoise bays, rugged walking trails and sleepy fishing villages invite an unhurried pace of life.

Top Sicily Collections

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Visit East Sicily?

Our East Sicily villas trace Sicily's coastline from the lava-stone streets of Catania to the clifftop town of Taormina, framed throughout by the presence of Mount Etna. Two of our very top villas, Don Arcangelo all'Olmo and Rocca delle Tre Contrade are also situated here. You’ll be met with idyllic views made for the lens, anchored by Taormina's heavenly theatre and the resort town of Giardini Naxos below it. Our luxury villas on the Ionian Riviera cater to itineraries designed around relaxation and exploration. Think properties with flawless amenities, unspoilt views and access to the region's celebrated beaches and towns.

Where Should You Stay in East Sicily?

Our handpicked portfolio of the best East Sicily villas are dotted all along the iconic coastline. Whether you want to stay in the skies in Taormina or by the water in Santa Maria La Scala, you’ll find something to suit with The Thinking Traveller. Taormina is a must-see. Perched high above the sea with views that span Etna and the coast. Those seeking more immediate beach access tend to favour properties around Carruba. Our collection also features impeccable villas that neighbour Mount Etna, for unobstructed access to awe-inspiring views. Get in touch to learn more about this unmissable stretch of coastline.

What Is There to Do in East Sicily?

Taormina's Greek theatre is one of Sicily's must-see sights, particularly in the late afternoon light when Etna catches the sunset behind the stage. The Gole dell'Alcantara, a dramatic gorge carved by ancient lava flows, is a short drive inland. Etna itself can be explored by private 4x4 or on foot, and you can end your day with an immersive wine tasting or fine dining experience. The beaches between Giardini Naxos and Riposto are sandy and swimmable from May through October. Best of all, you can book exclusive, handpicked Sicily experiences through The Thinking Traveller. Get in touch to craft an unforgettable itinerary.

How to Get to the Ionian Riviera

Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) is the gateway to the Ionian Riviera, with regular direct flights from major UK and European airports throughout the year, as well as New York. Taormina is around 45 minutes north by car. Hiring a car or private chauffeur is the most practical way to explore the region, though Taormina itself is best discovered on foot thanks to its pedestrianised centre. For a seamless arrival, private transfers can be arranged from Catania Airport allowing you to travel directly to your villa in comfort.

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From our local specialist

Tree Doorway

"Explore the glamorous town of Taormina, perched high above the sea. Wander its charming streets, visit the ancient Greek Theatre for breathtaking views of Mount Etna, and enjoy dinner with a view at Principe Cerami or Osteria RossoDivino."

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