Catania Sicily Cruise Stop: A Guide to Sicily in a Day

Catania Cruise Ship Stop offers a gateway to the enchanting world of Sicily, and there’s no better way to explore its treasures than with a private drive tour. When our cruise ship docked in Catania, Sicily, we knew we had only a day to explore this vibrant island’s treasures. A single day isn’t enough to uncover all this Mediterranean gem’s wonders, but with careful planning and a private drive tour, we were determined to make the most of our time.

Sicily is an island of contrasts, where ancient ruins stand alongside Baroque architecture, and bustling markets give way to tranquil fishing villages. It’s a place where history and culture intertwine seamlessly with natural beauty, offering something for every type of traveler. For us, a private drive allowed the flexibility to explore at our own pace, avoiding the rush of large group tours while diving deep into the island’s charm.

Opting for a private drive lets you craft an itinerary that fits your interests, skip the tourist traps, and maximize your time. In this blog, I’ll share our journey, a day filled with ancient history, cinematic moments, and mouthwatering Sicilian cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who loves exploring picturesque towns, this itinerary will help you make the most of your Sicilian adventure.

Here’s how our day unfolded, with tips and recommendations for your visit to Catania Sicily Cruise Stop.

We started our day early, leaving Catania at 8:00 AM to make the most of our visit to the Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse. The drive took about an hour and a half, and by 9:30 AM, we were among the first visitors to arrive. This was a great decision because it allowed us to explore the park and relax before the midday crowds.

The Neapolis Archaeological Park is like stepping into an open-air museum that tells the story of Syracuse’s fascinating history. It beautifully combines the remains of Greek and Roman architecture with layers of cultural significance built over centuries. Our first stop was the Greek Theater, a breathtaking amphitheater carved directly into the hillside. It’s enormous, and as we stood there, we could almost hear the echoes of ancient performances that once entertained thousands of spectators.

From there, we walked to the Ear of Dionysius, a tall limestone quarry with an unusual S-shaped curve. It’s called the “Ear” because it resembles the human ear, and it has some pretty amazing acoustics. Legend says that it was used by a tyrant named Dionysius to eavesdrop on prisoners because even a whisper could be heard from the top. We spent about 30 minutes here, taking in the towering rock walls and learning how it had served multiple purposes over the centuries, from storing water during sieges to sheltering people during World War II.

Our final stop in the park was the Roman Amphitheater, another incredible structure steeped in history. Unlike the Greek Theater, designed for plays, this arena was built for more action-packed events like gladiator battles. Standing there, it was easy to picture the excitement and drama that must have unfolded in that space.

By the time we finished exploring, nearly three hours had flown by, and it felt like just the right amount of time to see the main highlights without feeling rushed.

Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes because the park covers a large area, and there’s plenty of walking involved. Bring a water bottle, too, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months—it can get hot, and there aren’t many shaded areas.

For more information about the Neapolis Archaeological Park and its historical significance, click here. 

We jumped back into our private car and made the 40-minute drive south to Noto. Arriving around lunchtime, the timing was perfect to enjoy the town’s charm and culinary offerings. Noto is often called a Baroque masterpiece, and as soon as we started walking its honey-colored streets, we could see why. It felt like we had stepped onto a movie set. 

Our first stop was the stunning Noto Cathedral, one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks. Its grand staircase and intricate Baroque façade made it easy to see why it was chosen as a filming location. Just across the piazza, we found Palazzo Ducezio, which now serves as the town hall. Its elegant design and historical significance added to the sense that we were walking through a living postcard.  

The town is like an open-air museum, with ornate balconies, beautifully preserved buildings, and charming alleyways at every turn.   After visiting the main landmarks, we spent the rest of our time exploring, popping into local shops selling handmade crafts, and soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.  

We also made time for a sweet treat. Sicilian gelato is a must-try, and Noto has plenty of places to indulge. Grabbing a cone from one of the local gelaterias, we sat on a bench in the piazza and enjoyed the flavors while watching the world go by.  

We spent just over two hours in Noto in total. This was the perfect time to take in the town’s charm, admire its famous landmarks, and taste its culture.  

Tip: If you visit around lunchtime, pair your gelato with a light meal at a local café. And don’t forget your camera—Noto’s streets and landmarks are incredibly photogenic.

For a more in-depth exploration of Noto, visit their official website here.

From Noto, we went to Marzamemi, a quaint fishing village just 20 minutes away. Arriving around 4:00 PM, we had time to stroll through its charming piazzas before dinner at Taverna La Cialoma. Strolling through the village was an experience in itself. The main square, Piazza Regina Margherita, is surrounded by historic buildings that were once part of the tuna processing industry but are now home to small shops and restaurants.

This restaurant epitomizes Sicilian dining, blending fresh seafood with traditional flavors. We started with a selection of seafood antipasti—octopus salad, marinated anchovies, and shrimp tartare—and followed it with handmade pasta featuring local bottarga. The meal ended with a classic cannoli, paired perfectly with a glass of Sicilian dessert wine.

What truly made the dining experience special, though, was the ambiance. Taverna La Cialoma’s rustic decor and prime location by the sea created a cozy and elegant atmosphere. As we dined, the sun began to set, and we lingered at our table a little longer than planned, savoring the food, the view, and the feeling of having discovered a hidden gem. It was the perfect ending to a day full of history, culture, and incredible Sicilian flavors.

Tip: Reservations are a good idea, especially during peak travel seasons.

To learn more about restaurant offerings around Sicily, click here. 

We left Marzamemi around 7:30 PM. The drive back to Catania took about an hour, giving us time to reflect on the day. Each stop had been unique, from the historical depth of Syracuse to the cinematic charm of Noto and the culinary delights of Marzamemi.

If you’re planning a similar trip, this drive is an opportunity to slow down and absorb the essence of Sicily. If time allows, consider asking your driver to take a scenic route, passing through smaller villages or along coastal roads for additional glimpses of local life. The calmness of the evening, coupled with the picturesque vistas, makes the perfect ending to a day packed with exploration.

For those ending their day here, I suggest taking a short stroll along Catania’s streets before boarding your ship. Grab a gelato, listen to the chatter of locals, and let the city’s rhythm bring your day to a close. It’s the perfect way to bid farewell to Sicily—at least until your next visit.

1. Hire a Private Driver: Navigating Sicily’s roads can be tricky, and having a local driver saved us time and stress.
2. Start Your day early, which lets you avoid crowds and maximize your time at each location.
3. Pack Essentials: Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and a hat are must-haves, especially in the warmer months.
4. Plan Your Meals: Sicily’s food scene is incredible, but popular spots like Taverna La Cialoma fill up fast. Make reservations when possible.
5. Stay Flexible: While we followed a loose itinerary, having a private driver allowed us to adjust our schedule as needed.

Read our travel blogs here to get the most out of your day on your next travel destination!

As our day in Sicily ended, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the incredible experiences we had packed into just a few hours. From walking through ancient history at Neapolis Archaeological Park to strolling the baroque streets of Noto and savoring fresh, flavorful seafood in Marzamemi, every moment felt like a small piece of the larger story that is Sicily.

This island has a way of capturing your heart. It’s not just the grand sights or delicious food—it’s the spirit of the place. Sicily feels alive, with its vibrant mix of old and new, calm and lively. Whether it’s the echoes of ancient civilizations, the warm hospitality of its people, or the stunning landscapes that seem to stretch forever, Sicily leaves an impression that stays with you long after you’ve left its shores.

For anyone planning a cruise stop in Catania, I encourage you to make the most of your time here. A private drive allows you to explore on your terms, focusing on the places that speak to you most. Take your time at each stop, soak in the details, and let the island’s charm work its magic.

Until next time, arrivederci!

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo