mount etna walking tour

The Best Guide to Hiking Mount Etna

Written By: Phil and Izzy

Adventure Travel , Italy

Updated On: March 19, 2023

Mount Etna in Sicily is many things, amongst them one of the most active volcanoes in the world.    We will share with you the best way to hike Italy’s Mount Etna, and all the advice and tips you need to get to the top of this mighty and beautiful volcano.

Mount Etna is not to be conquered as she is the conqueror, but you can hike to the summit, currently at 3,326 meters above sea level.  (10,912 feet)

Table of Contents

A Guide to Hiking Mount Etna

When is the best time to climb mount etna.

• You can visit Mount Etna and hike year-round.
• April to September is the best time for hiking Mount Etna ; if you have the flexibility, visit on a clear day.
• The best months to visit Mount Etna with pleasant temperatures and without the extreme July and August tourist crowds, are  May and late September to October.

Between October and April, you are likely to be  hiking in low cloud with extensive snow on the ground.

Mount Etna Facts

• Mount Etna is located outside the city of Catania on the island of Sicily in Italy.
• The area of Etna covers 1,190km 2  (459sq mi) with a basal circumference of 140km (87 miles).
• This makes it by far the largest of the three active volcanoes in Italy, being about two and a half times the height of the next largest, Mount Vesuvius.
• Mount Etna is the most active volcano in Europe.
• The fertile volcanic soils support extensive agriculture, with vineyards and orchards spread across the lower slopes of the mountain.
• The United Nations have designated Mount Etna a Decade Volcano because of its history of recent activity and nearby population.  
• UNESCO added Etna to its’ list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in June 2013.
• Mount Etna Elevation is 3,326 meters (10,912 feet)

How to Get To Mount Etna

The main hub of Mount Etna is on the south side of the crater, Sapienza Refuge ( Rifugio Sapienza ). Here you will find parking and a variety of shops, restaurants and ticket offices for the various services on offer.

Where to Park for Mount Etna Hiking

There is a large and level car park at Sapienza Refuge at 1,910m with stunning views to the coast.  Parking for a motorhome costs €12 a day, it’s €3.50 for a car. If you arrive after 5pm you are able to park overnight for free

You need to pay for your days parking the following morning at the parking ticket office over the road.

What Equipment & Clothing Do You Need to Climb Mount Etna?

• warm jacket and several removable layers
• winter weight hiking trousers
• Mount Etna Footwear – broken in, ankle-high hiking boots
• hat or head wrap
• water and packed lunch
• hiking poles
• helmet,  mandatory for the main crater

You do not have to be super-fit to summit Mount Etna but you do need to be determined.  The ascent is steep and challenging underfoot.

We encountered icy flows down the lava and steep, sometimes sheer drops, so confidence in your abilities is important. Do not attempt this hike if you have respiratory problems or suffer from vertigo.

Hiking Options for Mount Etna

Option 1 – Independent Trekking Mount Etna

It is possible to hike to the summit without assistance from Sapienza Refuge. This is a punishing full day hike, gaining 1,416m across some very challenging terrain and steep inclines. Guides forge new paths regularly in response to Mount Etna’s ever-changing face.

The only marked path is that which follows the cable car to 2,500m. From this point, there are no marked or even defined paths.

You must be an experienced hiker to attempt Mount Etna without a guide. You must also have knowledge of volcanoes, a high level of fitness and a pre-planned GPS route. It would be very easy to become disorientated, particularly if the weather closes in.

Note: A Spanish tourist died falling into one of the larger craters in 2001, after being overcome by sulphur fumes.

Option 2 – Semi-Independent Trek to Summit

This option involves taking the cable car (€33 per person return) from Sapienza Refuge to 2,500m. You then take the 4×4 bus (€24 per person return) to 2,920m, the start of the crater area. Here you will be met by a guide (€9) who will take you to the two lower craters.

Indeed, one of them is right next to the bus stop (for real!). Each element is paid separately at the cable car station. It is possible to rent jackets, poles, and helmets there also.

Option 3 – Guided Summit Hike Mount Etna

Mid-April is the perfect time to hike Mount Etna, it is shoulder season and so not too busy and the weather is more likely to be kind.   We did not book in advance.

Hiring a Guide for Mount Etna

A quick Google search will find you any number of Mount Etna guided tours with varying itineraries and costs which can be booked online. Trip Advisor  had reliably informed us that is was possible to book a guide on the morning you wished to hike.

Opposite the car park is a semi-permanent trailer called ‘ Trekking Excursions on Etna ‘, we were able to  book a guided hike at 9 am that morning for €85 each. This covers the costs of the guide, cable car, and 4×4 transport. You will also be provided with a helmet and poles if you don’t have your own.

We paid by credit card but it was a disorganized and lengthy process. It is far easier if you give in to the Sicilian way of things and pay by cash!

Groups were around 20 persons in size and on the day we hiked, they sent up three groups.  

In terms of the organization before setting off, expect it to be chaotic and not to start at 9.30am as stated. We didn’t actually leave for the cable car until well after 10 am!

If you want to book before you go make sure to check out this  Mount Etna Summit Tour  for only 45 Euro per person.

Mount Etna Hike Summary

Distance – 8.9km on a circular route Elevation – 421m Mount Etna Hike Time – 5-6 hours

All About Trekking Mount Etna

1. the cable car.

From Rifugio Sapienza we stop at the meeting point to split off into separate groups for a scenic ride up to 2500 metres. Further chaos here, in a building well past its’ “sell-by” date and just not designed for the number of visitors it has to manage on a daily basis.

There have been two attempts to build new cable cars but both have been destroyed by recent eruptions .

You will be asked to wear your helmet so you can join the ‘special line’ for tours, which will really hack off all the people not wearing helmets because your line will move quicker than theirs. 

Eventually, you will filter through a small gap and get onto the cable car.

The views are marred a bit by the scratched perspex of the cable car windows. However, you get your first real sense of just how vast and dramatic Mount Etna is as you head upwards into the clouds, over the black lava fields and the tiny people walking the path.

On arrival, you will be filtered through to wait for the 4×4 bus, again getting special treatment because you are wearing a helmet!

2. The 4×4 Bus

Once we disembark the cable car, we catch a 4X4 bus to drive along the slopes and solidified lava flows to 2,920 meters These are amazing. They are like buses on steroids with huge tires and visible shock absorbers. It was a bumpy ride up to 2,920m where the ‘new’ cable car station got melted by a recent eruption!

There are no facilities here (‘cos they all got melted by the eruption!) so make sure you use the loo at the cable car station before getting on the bus.

3. What to Expect When you Start the Hike

Your guide will introduce him/herself and you will set off over a lava plain; the path here is pretty flat and easy going with lots of volcanic sand and grit.

At some point, the guide will stop and give you an overview of your surroundings, each visible crater, and the dates of the last Mount Etna eruptions.

As you stand and listen, feeling like you are on the moon, steam will wrap around your feet and legs and you will realize you are standing on Mother Nature’s own underfloor heating!

4. The Ascent

The route to the Mount Etna summit changes regularly but you can expect some snow, ice and a fairly steep ascent of the last 421 meters (1280 feet).

At one stage we traversed a steep slope with ice fields across it which I found really challenging; you will absolutely need your poles here,  I had only taken one pole and wished I had two.

Mount Etna Summit area and Crater Trek

It will take around 1 hour 30 minutes to get to the first main crater and your guide will stop regularly on the way up, to provide information and make sure stragglers can keep up.

5. The Main Summit Craters

As you come over the last lip of the ascent and see the crater in front of you, prepare to be awe-struck. The rumbling of the deep magma as it erupts underground is inescapable. Smell the tangy sulfur in the air. Breathe too deeply and you will be coughing with it!  

The summit is a monochrome moonscape. But the occasional ochre and green of the rock and sulfur deposits are beautiful.

There is a strong sense of the power of Mount Etna as you stand on the edge of the abyss looking in at the curling smoke and sulfur coming up from the depths.

It’s unsettling to know the depths but not quite being able to see the bottom. Standing on the rim, you can feel the heat warming your face. It’s a shock to turn away into the biting wind that whistles across the summit.

You will traverse around the crater and along the lip, in a strict single file.

We stopped at various points for information sharing and to wait for clouds of sulfur to blow over. There are fascinating holes which billow steam as you pass, you can reach in and feel the heat but be careful not to topple over.

You are now above the clouds and the view is incredible in every direction. Craters, steam and sulfur one way, piercing blue sky above puffy white clouds the other way.

This will be the best lunch view you’ve ever had!

The lunch stop on Mount Etna is about 20 minutes long, any longer and you will start to get really cold.

Be prepared that there is no-where really private if you need to pee, but everyone is in the same boat and people just look the other way. The guide will give you a lot of red wine and offer coffee; we took a flask of tea and it was truly amazing!

You will spend around an hour, plus lunch, at the summit with lots of opportunities for photographs and questions before beginning the descent.

6. The Descent

The descent was almost as challenging as going up!  We spent a lot of time sliding through soft volcanic sand and ash. Going down was a bit like running down a steep sand dune towards the sea, except there was no sea. Only lava fields stretching out in front of you.

As you come down you realize how vast these are and how truly terrifying it must be when an eruption occurs and the lava flows start. On 3 December 2015, there was an eruption that led to a lava fountain that reached 1km (3,300 ft) in height!

There were areas of ice and snow to cross but these were easily manageable. We were down to the lower craters pretty quickly.

7. The Lower Craters of Mount Etna

Equally as fascinating and easier to traverse around, the lower craters are from recent eruptions.  The path is much thinner here as you follow the rim, with steep drops on either side.

From here you will continue the hike all the way down to the cable car station before boarding to go back to Sapienza Refuge.

The Experience of Climbing Mount Etna

If you are visiting Italy and have Sicily on your itinerary, you  must  go to Mount Etna.  Even if you only go to Sapienza Refuge for a day tour and take a mini-hike up the crater that is  literally next to the car park,  do it.

This is a once in a lifetime, not to be missed, opportunity.

If you can afford it and are fit enough to hike to the summit, then we would highly recommend the guided hike.

Not only will you be safe in the hands of an experienced mountain guide, but they will also share insights and information that will give you a whole new appreciation for the immense power and unpredictability of Mount Etna.

I promise you will be left in awe and wonder at Mother Nature’s ability to create beauty and terror all in the same place.

Read Next: 

• Everything You Need to Know to Climb to Everest Base Camp
• Climbing Kilimanjaro – It’s Harder Than you Think
• Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Fuji
• 5 Winter Layering Tips to Dress for the Deep Freeze

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Phil and Izzy

We are Phil and Izzy. In early 2018, we sold our home that we had spent six years renovating, bought a motorhome and gave up work. We are travel bloggers and photographers with a passion for sharing our stories and adventures at  TheGapDeCaders / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest

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10 thoughts on “The Best Guide to Hiking Mount Etna”

Thanks for the info, we went to Mount Etna in mid September and enjoyed it! We ended up paying the 50 euros to take the cable car up, and then hiked around for a bit before descending. I’m glad we arrived early, at 8:30am, as there were long lines when we were leaving.

Booked !! All the way to the top: cable car, bus and guide to the top…. will be my 2nd time… is worth every cent ..October 2023

This sounds epic!

We only managed to do the cable car and the craters at Rifugio Sapienza as we had the dog with us, but I would love to do this hike next time!

Thanks for sharing 🙂

Hi! Thanks for such an informative article. To clarify, can the local guides (€9) take you up to the summit, or only the lower craters? To go to the summit, do you require a guided tour (e.g the ones on TripAdvisor or the one you found)? Thanks so much.

Can I go alone and only hire a guide at 2900 meters?

Hiking Mount Etna will be really adventurous and it will be a great experience. Thanks for sharing.

Can we hopefully look forward to you making YouTube videos about your blog posts in the near future and seeing you on location in travel? 🙂

Thank you for Sharing this Real Experience About Climbing Mount Etna.

I think I’d be too scared to hike anyone’s mountain.

Climbing Mount Etna looks like a real adventure. I have never been here, maybe I will try to get this year.

• Etna Volcano

Our Etna excursions

Mt. Etna Sunset Tour

An half day excursion to discover the volcano when less crowded and hot, during the…

From 2:30 / 3:00 pm to 8:30/9:30 pm

Mt. Etna Morning Tour

Our Mt Etna Morning tour is the perfect way to visit the Volcano during an…

from 9.00 a.m. to 2.30/3.00 p.m.

Etna Sailing Tour

With our professional skippers, on the same routes of Ulysses, you will discover the wonders…

From 10.00 am to 6.00 pm

Mt. Etna, Wine and Alcantara Gorges Tour

Live an unforgettable experience full of emotions and all the colours of the Volcano, in…

from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00/ 6.30 p.m

Mt. Etna Hiking Full Day Tour

With the Mt Etna Full Day Tour You will have 5/6 hours of trekking, fully…

From 8.30 am to 5.30 / 6.00 pm

Mt. Etna, Wine and Taormina Tour

An amazing full day tour to see two of the most famous and beloved wonders…

from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00/6.30 p.m.

Etna from Syracuse Hiking lunch and Wine

With this tour you will enjoy Etna and its wonders with a guaranteed pick up…

From 8.00 am to 5.30 pm

Food and wineries: Etna tasting tour

Live one day under the badge of Etna DOC and its best wines, having lunch…

from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.

Mt. Etna Summit Easy Tour

A full day tour to reach the base of the summit area, at 2950 meters,…

from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30/6:00 p.m

Mt. Etna Summit Strong Tour

A full day excursion that will safely lead you to the top of Europe's highest…

from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm

• Visit Volcan Etna

Etna Summit Hike

The summit of etna with cable car + 4x4 + guide.

Would you like exclusive access and in the best conditions to the summit of Etna? The ascent to the summit craters is the pinnacle of hiking in Sicily.

In our exclusive all-inclusive formula, the ascent to the summit of Etna is foreseen in small groups, early in the morning and away from the crowds of tourists.

• Hike to the active summit craters at 3340 meters above sea level.
• Caving experience in a lava channel.
• View of the Valle del Bove (place of the ancient summit of Etna).
• Descent on volcanic sand.
• Hike over the latest hot lava flows and recent hot craters.

Geodynamic situation of Etna

Currently the area of the summit craters of Etna is forbidden, by order of the civil protection, due to the eruptive risk. Further information: https://www.etna3340.com/blog/eruptions-etna The limit of the hikes is currently set at 2850 meters of altitude. The situation changes from day to day depending on the unpredictable activity of the Etna volcano. The restrictions on the areas allowed for hiking change often, even during the day depending on the volcanic activity.

Route for the ascent to the summit of Etna

The hike includes walking on the active craters in the summit area, on a recent partly hot lava flow, crossing a lava channel and the view of the Valle del Bove. You will see fumaroles and walk on sulfur-rich volcanic soil. The beauty of this picture, painted by the volcanic forces of nature, leaves hikers breathless. Going around the summit craters of the active volcano is an unforgettable memory, which will remain etched in your memories.

Volcan Etna, the ascent to the summit craters

To climb to the top of the largest and most active volcano in Europe, use the cable car which is near the Silvestri crater and the Sapienza refuge. The ascent continues in a 4x4 Unimog, then on foot, on a not too difficult path in a magnificent lunar landscape. You will see hot craters from recent eruptions. Our volcanologist guide will explain to you the eruptive history and how the Etna volcano works. At the top of Etna we take you on a hike around all the summit craters. The rest of the day is dedicated to the descent on the southern slope towards the cable car and to the discovery of the Valle del Bove, the lava channel and the craters of the great eruption of 2002-2003 and 2001. We arrived at Rifugio Sapienza with the cable car around 4 p.m.

Who can hike to the top of Etna

The climb to the summit craters of Etna is not an excursion suitable for children (under 12 years), due to the presence of irritating sulfuric gases, the difficulty of the excursion and the evident volcanic risk. This excursion is not suitable for pregnant women, heart conditions, asthmatics and people with joint problems. To participate you must be in perfect physical shape and be used to hiking in difficult terrain at high altitudes.

What can be seen at the top of Etna?

There are currently 4 main active craters at the summit of Etna. You will circle the summit craters depending on the conditions of volcanic activity, weather and sulfuric gas emissions. The panorama of Sicily, Catania, Taormina and the Mediterranean offer a magical spectacle from this altitude. On the way back, the descent on the volcanic sand slopes will be a real treat. The downhill route includes hiking to the hot lava of the 2022 eruption, near the Valle del Bove (great depression and place of the former summit of Etna).

Canal / Lava tunnel and Valle del Bove

During the descent there will be the visit of a recent lava channel equipped with a helmet. A lava channel is formed by a flow that has cooled, forming a solid crust. When the flow ceases to be fed, it empties and leaves a cavity in the form of a channel or tunnel. The hiking trail continues towards Valle del Bove. It is a large horseshoe-shaped depression into which most lava flows flow. The view is breathtaking in these volcanic places.

The equipment for the excursion to the top of the Etna volcano

Equipment provided free of charge: helmet, torch, poles, rucksack and raincoat. To participate in the excursions on Etna, high trekking boots are mandatory. If you don't have them, you have to get them or rent them. The price for the rental of trekking shoes is €5 per pair with Etna3340. Tell me your measurements (woman and man) no later than 24 hours before the excursion. Your guide will bring your shoes to you on the day of the hike. Equipment required but not included: gaiters or mid-calf socks (to limit volcanic sand in shoes). Trekking trousers, shirt/fleece, warm waterproof windproof jacket with hood, gloves, hat, cap to protect your head from the sun, sunscreen, sunglasses. Plan ahead for a picnic and water (1.5 liters per person).

• About 5 hours of hiking over about 10 km.
• Difficulty: difficult due to the presence of irritating gases, uneven terrain, volcanic sand and unstable pyroclastic material.
• Elevation: 600 m D+ uphill / 900 m D- downhill.
• Dinner + 1 night + breakfast + pocket lunch.
• Excursion + English-speaking guide + cable car/unimog 4x4 tickets + free loan of equipment (helmet, backpack, k-way, poles).

Excursion selection Other Etna excursions

Etna Helicopter Tour

Etna excursion by cable car

Special sunrise excursion on Etna

The 5 Best Mount Etna Tours From Catania [2024 Reviews]

Mount Etna, Italy is the tallest active volcano in Europe and a fantastic destination for anyone interested in geology, history, or hiking across surreal volcanic landscapes. Its frequent eruptions have shaped the east of Sicily and provided fertile volcanic soil for grapes used in local wine production.

This volcano is the most popular natural attraction in Sicily, and no vacation on this island is complete without visiting Mount Etna. There are many Etna tours available from Catania. Some simply visit the craters while other Etna excursions also take in volcanic caves and local farms or historic towns.

I’ve selected 5 of the top-rated Mount Etna Trips to review. If you’re planning to go Etna touring, I believe one of these Mount Etna tours will be perfect for you.

Best Mount Etna Tours From Catania

Quick answer: the 5 best mount etna tours from catania.

• From Catania: Full-Day Mount Etna and Taormina Tour
• Etna in the Morning: Half Day Excursion from Catania
• Mount Etna Summit and Crater Trek
• From Catania: Etna Nature and Flavors Half-Day Tour
• Catania: Mount Etna Morning Jeep Tour

Best Mount Etna Tours From Catania Reviewed

#1 from catania: full-day mount etna and taormina tour.

• Departure Point : Hotel pick-up from Catania
• Departure Time: 8:30 AM
• Duration : 9 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, transportation to Mount Etna & Taormina, trekking tour, visit to a cave, helmet with a flashlight, and a taste of local produce

On this Etna tour, an expert guide will lead you across the lunar landscape of an active volcano so you can see the craters and explore a lava cave formed during an eruption. You’ll also visit an organic farm that makes use of the fertile volcanic soil beneath the volcano to grow grapes for wine and flowers for honey production. Sample the local produce and taste the difference.

In the wildlife reserve of Isola Bella, you’ll visit a spectacular sea cave famous for its crystal-clear blue waters and abundant marine life. Then, following a lunch break, you’ll be taken on a guided tour around the historic town of Taormina.

The Ancient Greek amphitheater in Taormina is still used for performances today. And you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Nexus as well as the stunning architecture in the Palazzo Corvaja. This is the most comprehensive Etna visit you’ll find from Catania.

For tour prices, transportation and availability:

#2 etna in the morning: half day excursion from catania.

• Departure Time: 9:00 AM
• Duration : 5 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, transportation to Mount Etna, trekking tour, visit to a cave, and helmet with flashlight

Enjoy a guided trek across a surreal landscape of recent lava flows and ancient craters.

Your knowledgeable guide will explain all the volcanic features you experience and answer any queries you may have regarding local geology and history as you tour Etna.

Your guide will also lead you into an amazing lava flow tunnel formed during one of the eruptions. Learn all about how it was formed and the fascinating features inside. Outside of the cave, you’ll stop at a viewpoint with panoramic views of the Valley of the Ox. This valley is an important barrier between flowing rivers of lava and the thriving city of Catania below.

This is one of the most informative Mt Etna tours you’ll find. Make sure you take along your camera for the stunning photographs you can take while you’re creating memories.

#3 Mount Etna Summit and Crater Trek

• Departure Point : Information Desk, Crateri Silvestri Restaurant, Nicolosi
• Departure Time: 9:30 AM
• Duration : 6 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, a cable car ride to Mount Etna, and trekking tour

After a safety briefing, you’ll ascend 8,000 feet up the slopes of Mount Etna in a cable car before transferring into a 4×4 bus. You’ll cover the final 2-hour trek to the summit on foot with regular breaks to admire the stunning scenery from the heights.

Atop the volcano, you’ll walk across the lava fields created by the 2017 eruption and follow the nature trails across a lunar landscape. Your knowledgeable guide will explain about the surrounding geological features and answer any questions you wish to raise about the volcano. If an active volcano crater is what you want to see, this is a perfect excursion to Etna for you.

#4 From Catania: Etna Nature and Flavors Half-Day Tour

• Includes : Experienced tour guide, transportation to Mount Etna, nature trekking tour, visit to a cave, helmet with a flashlight, and a taste of local produce

Your professional guide will take you on a trek through the Sapienza Refuge 6,500 feet up the slopes of Mount Etna. There you can see the craters created during the 1892 eruption and evidence of the latest eruptions. You’ll also see a stunning vista of the Valley of the Ox.

One of the highlights of the tour is exploring a lava tunnel created by flowing lava. Equipped with a headlamp and helmet, your guide will take you into this volcanic cave and teach you how lava flows are formed.

Your excursion includes a visit to the town of Zafferana on the eastern slopes of Mount Etna. In an organic farm there, you’ll discover how much better the local agricultural products grow in the fertile volcanic soil found on the slopes of this volcano.

#5 Catania: Mount Etna Morning Jeep Tour

• Includes : Experienced tour guide, transportation to Mount Etna, 6-hour nature trekking tour, visit to a cave, helmet with a flashlight, and a taste of local produce

From a viewing point, you can admire panoramic views of the Valle del Bove. Your guide will also lead you into a lava tunnel—a cave created by a lave flow. Using the provided safety equipment, you’ll be perfectly safe. And your guide will help you to understand all the unique features of the cave.

Your Etna excursion will conclude with an opportunity to sample some of the wonderful local agricultural products that have benefited from the fertile volcanic soil around the slopes of Mt Etna Sicily, including honey, wines, and liqueurs.

Catania, Sicily Travel Guide

Sicily will shock you. While your first choice for a vacation in Italy might be Rome and the Coliseum or Venice and it’s gondola rides , Sicily actually offers more. Successive waves of invaders have built some of their finest architectural masterpieces on the island, but somehow later generations left them alone.

You’ll find better medieval Norman buildings than anywhere in Normandy, the best-preserved Roman villa in the world, and Ancient Greek temples larger and in better condition than anything found in the Acropolis in Athens.

What’s more, Sicily boasts some amazing scenery, including one of the world’s most active volcanoes. And there are plenty of great beaches to take your family to for fun in the sun. Read this brief guide to find out more.

Airports & Entry

Sicily has two international airports: Catania-Fontanarossa Airport and Palermo Falcone-Borsellino International Airport . Palermo handles around 7 million passengers a year but most flights arrive at Catania, which handles 10 million passengers a year and is one of the busiest airports in Italy. Visitors can also reach the island by sea.

Catania has a small terminal with a good selection of food outlets and shops, including a post office and duty-free. The shops and food outlets all close by midnight. It’s difficult to find power outlets to charge mobile devices and Wi-Fi is only available inside the two airport lounges, which you must pay to enter.

There’s an Information Desk in the Arrivals area and a Tourist Office nearby. Both offices open at 8 am, the tourist office closing at 10 pm and the information office at midnight. You can also find a currency exchange desk and ATMs in the Arrivals area.

The easiest way to get into the city center of Catania is to take the AMT Alibus or a public bus. The AMT Alibus runs services every 25 minutes from 5 am to midnight and takes around 20 minutes to the center and railway station. You purchase €4 tickets from the Bus Ticket Office in the Arrivals area before boarding the bus. Local Bus No. 457 runs the same route every 40 minutes but only costs €1! However, you must buy your ticket from the Newspaper Stand (Tabacchi) in Arrivals.

If you prefer, you can take a taxi into town. These should take around 15 minutes and cost between €25 and €40. The difference in price relates to the number of passengers carried and the time of day. Taxis are more expensive at night. They can be identified by an illuminated TAXI sign atop a yellow or white vehicle.

For greater freedom, you can rent a car at the airport. There are 8 car rental companies at the airport, including Hertz Italiana and Sixt.

The airport near Palermo is a little better. It also has a small terminal, and the shops and eating outlets are on the expensive side. But it does offer free WiFi in the Departure lounge, and there are plenty of mobile device charging outlets.

You’ll find the Information Desk in Arrivals, and it’s open from 6 am to midnight. In a medical emergency, there’s a First Aid Station in the Check-In area and a Pharmacy in Departures. The foreign exchange desk is also in the Check-In area.

The easiest way to get into town is on the train service that links the airport to central Palermo from 5 am to 8 pm. The train takes about an hour and costs €5.50. However, the airport bus is quicker. It takes around 50 minutes and costs €6.50. Bus services run from 4 am to 10:30 pm and you can buy your ticket on the bus.

Taking a taxi from the rank outside the Arrivals area is a little quicker. They generally take 40 minutes to the city center and cost around €45. Or you can rent a car for greater freedom. Car rentals are provided by 12 different agencies including Avis, Europcar, and Hertz.

Since Sicily is less than 2 miles away from mainland Italy, it’s also easy to get there by taking a short ferry crossing which costs around €13. You can cross from Reggio di Calabria or Villa San Giovanni on the mainland to Messina on the northeastern point of Sicily.

Long-distance ferries also link Sicily to more distant places, including Malta and Tunisia as well as major Italian seaports like Genoa and Naples. You’ll need your passport ready if you’re traveling from Tunisia or Malta. Technically, you shouldn’t need your passport traveling from other Italian ports, but you may be asked to show a photo ID to land in Sicily.

Planning Tips

There are a lot of great things to see and do in Sicily. You’ll really enjoy your visit. Here are 5 tips to help you plan your stay.

Tip #1: Decide what you want to do before planning your visit to Sicily

There’s a lot to do around the island, but when you go and where you stay depends upon what you want to do when you get there. If you want to hike up and down mountains or to the many wonderful ruins, avoid the midsummer heat and go in spring or the fall. If you want to ski, go in winter. If you want to snorkel and enjoy the water, summer is great. It takes time to move around the island, so research where you want to spend your time and base yourself nearby or in a central location.

Tip #2: Buy unique art and crafts

Sicily boasts many unique products that make excellent gifts for your friends back home or souvenirs for you. For example, you can buy jewelry made from the local coral, ornaments made from volcanic rock from Mount Etna, and traditional marionette puppets as used in the traditional Opera dei Pupi (Sicilian puppet theater). The puppets from Catania and Palermo are the best known.

Tip #3: Be prepared for arduous hikes

Many of Sicily’s most iconic landmarks are best viewed by ascending steep slopes to a lofty height in hot weather with bright sunshine. So, be prepared. Before your visit, do a few practice hikes up and down hills near home to prepare your muscles. When packing, take a hat for shade, plenty of sunscreen, and well broken-in shoes. On actual hikes, carry plenty of bottled water and stay hydrated.

Tip #4: Book in advance, especially during summer

Sicily is the place Italians come to enjoy the beach in summer, so be ready for huge crowds. Popular activities and the best hotels can be fully booked months in advance. To ensure you don’t miss out, book in advance. Reputable tour companies will agree to refunds for tours tickets canceled with reasonable notice.

Tip #5: Be prepared for the challenge of Sicily

Sicily offers some of the most amazing cultural sites you’ve ever seen. However, it’s not like the rest of Italy. When you get there, you’ll find it’s more like Mexico than Rome…more roadside garbage and graffiti that you’re expecting, run-down structures and infrastructure, and some wild locals. This is all changing very rapidly, with new roads being built and tourism going through the roof as more and more people realize what a prime cultural site the island is. Get there before the tourist crowds and global corporations ruin it and turn it into Rome Mark #2.

Restaurants & Eating Out

Sicilian cuisine is distinctly Italian and Mediterranean but of a distinct local variety shaped by the island’s rich history and the locally available food ingredients. So, you’ll see plenty of pasta, seafood, all cooked with lashings of olive oil. But you’ll also see elements of cooking influenced by the Moors and the Greeks who occupied the island in the past.

Perhaps the most famous dish in Sicily is pasta alla Norma. It’s made using aubergine, locally grown tomatoes, salted ricotta, and garlic served with short pasta. If you’re wondering “who” Norma was, it’s actually the name of an opera written by Bellini. Pasta con le sarde is the equivalent seafood dish, with sardines, anchovy fillets, raisin, pine nuts, and saffron made into a sauce and poured onto a kind of spaghetti called bucantini. You can find tasty Sicilian pasta dishes in Ristorante Bellotero in Palermo.

Like elsewhere in Italy, pizza is a popular dish on the streets. However, Sicilian sfincione pizza has an unusually thick base. You’ll typically find it with a thick topping of cheese, onions, and anchovies. Sarde a beccafico is one of the signature dishes of the island. Sardines are one of the most common fish in the sea around Sicily, and a popular way of cooking them is stuffed with breadcrumbs, raisins, and pine nuts.

A popular vegetarian dish originating in Sicily is caponata. This antipasto is made using fried aubergine mixed with tomatoes, onion, and celery and turned into a stew. The exact recipe changes from restaurant to restaurant, but caponata is seen on menus throughout Italy.

Wandering around the island, you’ll see arancini balls sold in many food stalls and cafés. These are balls of creamy risotto rice breaded and deep-fried. They make a great snack while you’re walking around the picturesque streets of Palermo or Catania.

Granita con brioche is an interesting traditional breakfast. Granita is a frozen sorbet made from ice and sugar with fruit or coffee, and at breakfast, it is typically served with a warm brioche roll. This dish has a long history, and before refrigeration was invented was made using ice brought down from the high mountains on the island. Now it’s a popular morning meal on hot summer days. Every morning, you can see people sitting outside cafés like The Bam Bar in Taormina enjoying granita con brioche.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth like me, you’ll love the vast variety of desserts found around Sicily. A great place to sample traditional Sicilian sweets is Pasticceria Cappello in Palermo.

Torta Setteveli is a delicious, seven-layered chocolate and hazelnut cake. Cassata is a sponge cake flavored with citrus fruits, chocolate, marzipan, and sweet ricotta cream. Cannoli is made from deep-fried pastry tubes filled with creamy ricotta. And Semifreddo alle mandorle is a molded frozen almond parfait that is soft and similar in texture to ice cream.

Nightlife & Entertainment

You’ll find a broad variety of nightlife in Sicily from quiet bars with soft piano music to wild beach bars and nightclubs. Most of the nightlife is found in the two largest cities of Catania and Palermo. Taormina is another popular tourist resort where you’ll find a lively nightlife, though it’s tiny compared to the two cities. In the town center of Taormina, you’ll find some great bars with outside seating areas, like Caffe Wunderbar .

Catania is a student city and a focal point for Sicily’s nightlife. The bars and dance clubs are clustered together making it a great place to tumble from bar to bar. If you want to begin the evening with a snack, the Etnea Roof Bar & Restaurant is a great place to enjoy a drink with stunning views of Mount Etna and a delicious evening buffet. But if you prefer a livelier venue, Afrobar is a bar with a dance floor on the beach. Here you’ll often see bonfires and fire dancers.

The most well-known club in Catania is located in the Contrada Jungetto area south of the city. Mercanti Generali is spread over three rooms and a palm-shaded courtyard and terrace area. The music is eclectic, from hip hop and R&B to house, dubstep, and drum and bass.

Palermo is much more spread out than Catania, so you’d be better staying in one nightclub otherwise you’ll need transport. The nightclubs tend to draw a younger crowd, many of them students. There are 4 main areas for nightlife in Palermo: Old Town, La Cala Marina, Downtown and the beaches.

The historic center is where you’ll find the less formal bars and clubs. While the bars and clubs in other parts of the city are closed by 3 am, some of the venues around Vucciria in Old Town stay open until dawn. Check out the Cantavespri Art Café where you’ll often find live bands on Wednesdays and Fridays. The horseshoe-shaped La Cala Marina is found close to the Old Town, and you can find a selection of trendy bars overlooking the water.

The Politeama and Liberta Downtown area are where you’ll find the quieter crowd of more mature drinkers and the more sophisticated cocktail bars. Along the coastline and beaches, the Addaura, Mondello, and Sferracavallo coasts are where you’ll find the locals drinking and dancing. In summer, it’s cooler on the beaches and a great place for dancing.

Getting Around

Sicily has a well-developed public transport system, so it’s easy to get around by train or bus. In the past four decades, the roads have been upgraded so getting around by rental car is also a good option.

The trains are a fast option and provide great views of Sicily’s landscape. The Inter City Express trains are the fastest and most comfortable, but they’re more expensive than the local trains that stop at every station. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll be happy to hear that kids between 4 and 11 get half-price tickets.

The services are operated by Trenitalia . Before boarding your train, you must stamp your ticket in one of the orange ticket machines in the station to validate it.

When planning connections or booking events at your destination, be aware that Sicilian trains are notorious for running late. Allow extra time between arrival at the railway station and the start of your activity or connecting service.

Buses are usually cheaper but slower than trains, but there are exceptions like the connection between Palermo Airport and the city center where the buses are both quicker and more expensive than the local train connection. Research the particular journey you want to take to compare time and cost.

Orange-colored buses run services around a specific town or city, and you can use them to reach attractions around that city. Blue-colored buses provide connections between cities. Tickets can be purchased in advance from newsagents and other small stores. Note that Sunday services are very diminished.

Renting your own vehicle is a great option if you want the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially on a Sunday. However, the cities do experience the usual problems of traffic jams, one-way systems, and a lack of parking places near the major attractions. Also, note that you may find the pace of traffic much slower than you’re used to. Even on the freeway, people sometimes drive quite slowly.

On the smaller, rural roads, watch out for potholes and landslides. Mount Etna is an active volcano, so the ground around the island isn’t as stable as most other places.

The new freeways are wonderful but note that the A18 from Messina to Catania and the A20 from Messina to Palermo are toll roads. Because most vehicles enter Sicily on ferries from the mainland at Messina and Catania and Palermo are the two main cities, these are the two most important routes. Using the A18 costs €3.70 and the A20 €10.10.

Taxis are generally fast and safe, but they are also expensive. If a bus journey costs €1, expect to pay around €25 for a taxi ride to the same destination. You may find it difficult to hail a taxi in the street or find one at a taxi rank, but hotels can arrange one in advance if you ask at reception.

Accommodations

There are lots of fascinating attractions spread around Sicily, and if you want to visit them all then you might want to consider staying in several locations during your visit rather than settling in just one. Otherwise, where you stay depends upon whether your main interest is soaking up the sun and swimming in the Mediterranean or visiting some of the many cultural and historic sites.

If you want to explore the Ancient Greek temples, consider staying near Syracuse in the southeast or Agrigento in the southwest. For beautiful Baroque architecture, base yourself in the southeast near Val di Noto. To explore the Norman historic sites of Monreale and Palermo, find a hotel in the northwest. If you intend to take a lot of boat tours and visit other islands, you’ll find Messina the most convenient location. And if Mount Etna’s volcanic landscapes appeal to you, then stay somewhere around Catania.

Palermo is the largest city and where you’ll find the most hotels. The city is divided into 25 districts, but only 3 areas are really tourist-friendly: the Old Town, the Politeama and Liberta districts, and Mondello. Generally, the Downtown area of Liberta and Politeama is the best place to base yourself as it’s considered the safest area, and it is still convenient for the tourist sites around the Old Town. The Old Town is also great, but it’s the main party and nightlife area…so it can be wild and the streets full of drunk people in the wee hours of the night.

If you want to do your bit for the environment, check out the Bio Hotel in the Politeama area. They aim to leave a minimal carbon footprint. But if you want to enjoy sumptuous luxury, consider the Grand Hotel Wagner .

Catania is the second-largest city in Sicily and offers a wide range of options for tourists. If you like roof terrace gardens and classic rooms, check out the Hotel Villa Roma . But if you’re traveling with your family, you can get great value family rooms in the Hotel Etnea 316 , which is centrally located close to St Agatha’s Cathedral and within sight of Mount Etna.

But if you want to live out in the beautiful countryside of Sicily, consider renting a villa for the duration of your stay. There are a wide range of modern and historic buildings to choose from in lots of different locations around the island.

Sicily has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Because of African currents reaching the southern coast and high-altitude areas inland, different areas of the island can experience very different weather conditions.

The winter temperatures are coldest in January, with an average daily high of 59 0 F and a low of 50 0 F. Areas above 3,000 feet see enough regular snow for skiing. By April, the fields are green, though the snow yet lingers atop Mount Etna. The temperatures range from a high of 64 0 F to a low of 55 0 F.

In the summer, Sicily occasionally sees scorching sirocco wind from the Sahara and rainfall is rare. Water shortages are common on the island. The hottest month is August, with an average high of 86 0 F and low of 75 0 F. The local harvests begin in August, with crops such as figs and watermelons providing wonderful treats and the wine grape harvest begins.

The main harvests are during September and October, when the pistachios, almonds, and olives are ready to reap. November sees rapid cooling. You can see snow atop Mount Etna again, but the fields remain green. The average daily high drops to 66 0 F and the low 57 0 F.

Attractions

Sicily is a treasure house of world-class cultural and natural attractions. You’d need years to explore them all completely. Here’s a selection of some of the best.

Ragusa and Modica

With an active volcano and its position on the edge of a tectonic plate, Sicily sees a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. An earthquake in 1693 destroyed most of the buildings around the southern tip of the island.

This provided a blank canvas for rebuilding on a grand scale in a fashionable style we now call the Baroque. Because of this, the towns of Ragusa and Modica are one of the best places in the world to view fine Baroque buildings.

Monreale Cathedral

Almost a thousand years ago, the Normans spread out across Europe and occupied many areas of coastland or islands, including Sicily. During this time, they built a grand cathedral in Monreale.

The most remarkable thing about this structure today is that, unlike many other cathedrals across Europe, it has remained largely unaltered since its first construction making it the best-preserved Norman building in Europe. Monreale Cathedral features 12 th -century mosaics in vibrant colors and rows of grand double columns around a courtyard fountain.

Villa Romana del Casale in Enna

Sicily is home to one of the best-preserved Roman villas in Europe. 50 rooms have been excavated by archaeologists to reveal over 38,000 square feet of mosaic floors and lots of fine features, such as a thermal bathhouse with a colonnaded courtyard and fountain. The detailed mosaics paint a picture of everyday life in the Roman Empire along with scenes from history and mythology.

Ancient Greek temples

In Selinunte, you can see 8 Ancient Greek temples, the oldest dating back to the 5 th century BCE. Nearby is a large Acropolis with surrounding walls from the 7 th century BCE. One of these temples, known as Temple G, was one of the largest Greek temples ever built.

But it is the large complex of tombs and temples in Agrigento that most visitors want to see, including the famous Tempio di Concordia—one of the best-preserved Doric temples in existence. The group also includes the circular Tempio di Heracles, the Temple of the Olympian Zeus, and the Tempio di Juno Lacinia.

The tallest active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna dominates the eastern end of Sicily and fascinates millions of visitors every year. It stands 10,912 feet tall as I am writing but may be shorter or taller when you read this because frequent eruptions change its height. In winter, snow tops its peak providing fun for skiers and a beautiful skyline.

Visitors are often treated to views of a smoking cone, bubbling hot springs, volcanic vents, and occasional lava flows. But be careful and only go on organized tours run by experienced locals. The volcano is very active!

Aeolian Islands

Sicily also makes a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding Mediterranean islands. The Aeolian Islands are 7 islands of volcanic origin off the north coast of Sicily. Stromboli boasts the most active volcano, and its pyrotechnics frequently light the night sky. Visitors love to engage in water sports around the islands and admire their unique volcanic landscape.

Tour Guides

The Full-Day Mount Etna and Taormina Tour is our Editors Choice for the Best Mount Etna Tours From Catania

Richard Moore

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• The Essential Guide To Hiking...

The Essential Guide to Hiking Mount Etna, Sicily

Almost constantly erupting, Mount Etna is as thrilling a visit as it is picturesque. If you want to get up close to this stratovolcano, which constantly spews lava as it looms above nearby Catania, here’s your itinerary for hiking near the beastly mountain of Sicily , Italy.

Want to visit Mount Etna? Book Culture Trip’s 10-day Sicilian adventure where you’ll be able to bounce along the lava fields in a 4×4 and explore Monti Silvestri, the Northeast Crater, the Voragine and more.

Step 1 – Preparation

Whether you’ve decided to join a tour group on a well-framed journey or elected to embark on an adventure all your own, you’ll need the essentials first. Even in the summer months, Mount Etna can remain snow. Be sure to bring a few warm layers, in case a sudden drop in temperature takes hold as you scale the slopes.

Be sure to have appropriate, reliable footwear for the mountain trails. Whether you’re treading through snow, carefully walking upon spongy lava pebbles, or balancing alongside barren craters, you must have dependable boots to carry you on your way.

Step 2 – Select Your Route

Before commencing your hike, make sure to research which trail or area of the mountain best suits your skills. Local maps will detail differing paths and trails, and may guide you to discovering caves, ravines and summits along the course of the hike.

There are two popular areas to know of when beginning on your expedition. On the southern side of Etna, reachable by public transport, you’ll find Refugio Sapienza . From there, ascend the volcano by cable car and find a myriad of hikes.

In the northern region of the mountain, passing through the small town of Linguaglossa, you’ll be able to access dozens of sleeping craters, incredible vistas of the frozen pour of lava from hundreds of years ago, and the steaming mouth of Etna’s tireless peak. These treks can be challenging, with steep climbs and changing altitude, but are well worth the effort.

Step 3 – Bring a Camera

No matter where you find your feet on the hiking trails, don’t forget to take a few moments to absorb the natural grandeur that you’ll be surrounded by. Document your voyage into the unspoiled mountains, capture the sprawling lava spills and eruptions, and seize the eerie majesty of the network of caves.

Mount Etna Hiking Tours

If you’re opting for a guided tour, there are numerous local and organised groups with different packages on offer. You can choose between morning and afternoon tours, half- or full-day expeditions, and even multiple-day ventures.

A lot of these tours combine a native Sicilian lunch, visits to wineries or honey manufacturers, and treks through ashy wonderlands and caves. They’re rich with education on the volcano and the energetic past there.

No matter which method of visiting this incredible site you choose, hiking Etna is a challenging and engaging way to spend a day in Sicily.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Mount Etna Tour

About mount etna.

Mount Etna tour is one of the most attractive European tours that will take you on a hiking trail to 3300 metre above the ground. Once you reach the summit you will marvel over the entire frozen part of Sicily and admire the unparalleled wilderness and wildlife like never before.

You will find plenty of things to do at Mount Etna such as cave exploration, mountain hiking, skiing and cable car riding. Mount Etna has vivid beauty, with a wide range of exotic wilderness such as Florida citrus groves, to the vineyards, to the fruit trees, and to the chestnut forests of beeches and pines that can be best explored on horseback riding. Explore more of the wildlife that lives here such as ox, the wild cat, the porcupine, several weasels and dormice, as well as rabbits and hares in your tour. Get ready to indulge in the tour of Europe’s best at a very reasonable cost.

Mount Etna Tour Options

There is nothing more fascinating and thrilling than a trekking excursion to Eurpe’s most talked about attraction, Mount Etna. This 4*4 board allows you to indulge in a group of adventures hiking through some steep and challenging slopes adding on to your complexity levels. As you climb up, make sure to learn about the mountain's geothermal as well as volcanic activities. The full day hike also includes a tour of the lava cave, which will be the most awe-inspiring venture for you.

Mount Etna and its extraordinary beauty makes it one of the most beautiful structures to explore in your European venture. Board a 4*4 SUV and get ready to explore the tough peaks of this active volcano site. In this fun and adventurous Mount Etna Tour you will head upto 6500 feet, which promises you unbeatable views of this massive beauty. Once you reach the top, you will be given head gears and protective covers which will help you discover the lava formations from up close.

An early morning Mount Etna Tour is a fascinating and mesmerising way to discover this active volcano site. The tour begins from Catania, post which you will hike up to the top via an inner trail. All through the trip, you will learn about the intriguing geothermal activities of this pristine location. Don't forget to marvel over the panoramic views from the top and take another exotic tour of the lava cave. Hike along a mountain trail up to 1200mt to spot lava flows and enter a lava cave.

Add more thrilling excursions to your Mount Etna Tour with a fun horse riding session. Mount Etna is considered one of the most beautiful hotspots which has a wide range of wilderness such as Florida citrus groves, to the vineyards, to the fruit trees and to the chestnut forests of beeches and pines that can be best explored on horse back riding. Explore more of the wildlife that lives here such as ox, the wild cat, the porcupine, several weasels and dormice, as well as rabbits and hares in your tour.

The Mount Etna Tour promises you unparalleled panoramic views of this pristine beauty from the top in a helicopter ride. As the fight takes you to 4000 metres above the ground, come across vivid and volcanic activities surrounded by other snow capped mountains. This is a 20 minute flying activity. As you reach the peak, you will spot the smoking Summit Craters, the ancient and more recent lava flows that will definitely amaze you. The ride can be for a family of 10 and thus is an amazing excursion everyone should try out.

Get a chance to indulge deeper into the exploration of these beautiful volcanic mountains by exploring the lava caves. In your Mount Etna Tour you will find three different levels of caves that one can explore. The tour also provides opes, harnesses, helmets, special suits, lighting, insurance fee. During your tour, stop at another local farm and taste delicious authentic honey and wine too. Marvel over the stalactite formation as you strive to deppers into the hideous cave formations in your Mount Etna Tour.

Why Visit Mount Etna

Mount Etna is one of the most beautiful European attractions located on the Eastern coast of Sicily. The fascinating mount etna Trekking is one of the most splendid activities that will definitely add on a challenging excursion for you and your families.

The active colonic site, has numerous underground caves, and recent and ancient lava formation that will inspire you about nature’s geothermal activities.

Also get a splendid chance to spot some of the most endogenous wilderness species such as ox, the wild cat, the porcupine, several weasels and dormice, as well as rabbits and hares.

Best things to Do at Mount Etna

Whilst you are doing the mount etna Trekking you will come across two inner craters, known by the names of Silvestri craters. These two erupted in the 19th century and are safe to explore up close. You will get a chance to explore the crater on foot, and marvel over the spectacular Gulf of Catania on the horizon.

A fun cable car ride provides unparalleled views of the entire Mount Etna. Get awe-inspiring coverage of the entire landscape, and the smoking Summit Craters, the ancient and more recent lava flows. The cable car ride also lets you marvel over the amusing wilderness that surrounds this tough destination.

If you are visiting Mount Etna with kids, then the etna adventure park which comes with various sports activities, and over 11 trials which is something you should not miss out on. You will find here challenging climbing walls for kids with different complexity levels, which are meant to test their strength.

For thrill seekers, skiing is a super cool yet thrilling venture that lets you explore this majestic volcanic site on your own. As you ski down the rigid slopes of Mount Etna, admire the spotless white snow capped surfaces and the peak of green wilderness here and there.

Plan Your Visit

The tour timing differs as per your package. All the activities range between 2 hours to 8 hours that one can enjoy. Tours to the summit typically begin at 8:30 AM and last for 6-8 hours.

Bus : The only public transport that allows you to reach Etna's peak is the AST company bus. It leaves from Catania, at "piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII" (Catania central station square) and reaches the "Rifugio Sapienza", at Nicolosi, starting point of cableway and jeeps that bring you to the central craters.

Car : going by car, you can reach all the starting points of nature trails and excursions on Mount Etna. In the following section we list the main roads around the volcano, together with the points of interest reachable in each area.

The best time to explore Mount Etna is the months of July and August. During these months a huge part of the crowd gathers to marvel over the scenic snow capped mountains which are perfect for cave exploration and hiking. Although Mount Etna has a challenging climatic condition throughout, the months of May and late September and October feature the best climatic conditions for a hiking session. During this time, you will find a number of things to do at Mount Etna at reasonable prices.

Tips To Visit

It is highly recommended to opt for a guided Mount Etna tour if you want to hike all the way to the crater. Guides know the trail like the back of their hands and can navigate them even in bad weather, and they will also ensure your security and safety.

Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes as there are a lot of walking and hiking activities. Make sure to wear winter clothes if you are visiting in the later part of the year. It is smart to reach Rifugio Sapienza (the starting point) by around 8:30 in the morning.

While the cable car officially starts at 9 AM, the first lift sometimes begins 15 minutes earlier. If you get here on time, you’ll be able to avoid the massive crowds that generally start arriving around or after 10 AM.

Where can I buy tickets to the Mount Etna tour?

Look up for Mount Etna tickets on our official page and enjoy a number of fascinating inclusions and discounts as well.

What is the best way to buy tickets to Mount Etna?

Pre book for Mount Etna tour tickets online to enjoy a number of discounts and amazing inclusions as well.

Can I go to Mount Etna summit?

Yes, you can explore the summit with guided tour visits.

What Should I Wear on a Mount Etna Tour?

It is advised to wear good thermal wear as the summit is located at a height of 3300 metres above the ground and features extremely low temperatures. Check out & Book Top Italy Attraction Tickets: St Mark's Basilica Ticket & Castel Sant'Angelo Tickets

Is the Mount Etna tour open to visitors?

Yes, it is open to visit.

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Takes you off the beaten path

Etna Summit tour

• Tour last 8 hours
• Pay the day of the tour
• Caple car ticket or Unimog included
• Shoes and walking pooles

Mount etna summit and crater trek

This full-day  Etna Summit Hike  will take you to an altitude of 3320 meters (10300 ft.) to admire the most fantastic view that Sicily can offer. Along with the excursion, we get onboard of Etna cable car, we enjoy an off-road Unimog Jeep tour, and we are going to walk for a total of six hours, crossing some of the most suggestive trekking trails of the volcano. Get ready to experience the thrill of looking at the vertical walls of the Etna  summit craters plunging and disappearing into the depth of the planet, to hear the rumbling of the explosions, and the look at the emissions of gasses. This guided trekking tour to the summit area is the ultimate Mount Etna tour. The price of the trip includes Transport, tickets for the Cableway and the Unimog Jeep. We provide trekking shoes and walking poles. 

Escursion Details

Our guided tour to the Mt. Etna summit craters starts at 7:30 a.m. One of our guides will pick you up at your hotel, in Taormina, Catania, or surrounding towns. Once at Rifugio Sapienza (Nicolosi) on the south side of Mount Etna, using the cableway and an off-road 4x4 vehicle,  We will reach our trek's starting point at an altitude of 3000 meters. We will climb to the top of the volcano with a three hours walk. Once at the summit, there will be time to enjoy the spectacular view of the sea, the Aeolian island, and most of Sicily's island. The excursion path on the way back passes by some popular landmarks like the Barbagallo craters and the Bove Valley. Our tours to the summit of Etna are scheduled to finish around four p.m.

The price includes transport, cable car, boots and walking poles.

Useful Information

Departure 7:30

Return 4 p.m.

Trail 8/16 km.

Hike 6 hours

Transport included

Are we going to get on board of the cable car?

Mount Etna is an active volcano and if the south side trail is unaccessible we will climb to the summit from the north side, this means we won't board the cable car. The aim of this tour is to reach the summit of Mount Etna not to get on board of the cable car.

Available for the period

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€169 ,00 kids 10 years old pay €129 You can pay with credit card

Customer service

Customer care 7/7 from 09:00 to 21:00, also on WhatsApp >

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• Ivano (+39) 334 263 2697
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Etna Long Hike

An off the beaten path trekking tour to see the suggestive Bove Valley

Etna and Alcantara

A fantastic easy trekking tour to visit Mount Etna and the Alcantara Gorges

Etna Wine tour

A full day tour to visit Mount Etna and to taste some high quality Sicilian wines.

Body Rafting Alcantara

A fantastic Body Rafting tour to discover the Gurne and the Alcantara River.

ETNA ADVENTURE WALKING TOUR

Mt Etna Volcano is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and the most active one in Europe. It has been erupting for several million years. Mt Etna is one of the greatest and most beautiful volcano adventure tour destinations in Sicily, beside many other which can be easily enjoyed from our charming village of Taormina. The Unknown adventure Etna tour is a different way to explore our volcano and our Island. Starting from your place a drive to the northern side of our volcano, We will first visit the Alcantara Gorges, with their wonderful waterfall created from an old lava eruption. We then continue the drive through Francavilla, stop at the most charming and unspoiled Sicilian village of Castiglione di Sicilia and take a walk to the old Greek fortress to admire an amazing spot with a breathtaking view over the Alcantara valley. We will drive up, passing Linguaglossa village, and arrive at 1.900 mt./ 7.000 ft. level (Etna north/Piano Provenzana) known for the splendid sky area which was involved and destroyed in the 2002 eruption. On the way, we take a 45 minutes walk to the “Fronte Lava” where the 2002 lava flow stopped and almost hit Linguaglossa town.

We then visit the “Citelli” refuge for a coup of coffee before we get down the mountain and visit the “Sartorius” craters with a 45 minutes walk through the wonderful Etna national park full of vegetation, pines, birch trees. With a soft hike, we visit these two gorgeous volcanic cones. Driving down we stop and enter to explore the “Grotta del Ladroni”, lava cave formed long time ago. (closed walking shoes are required).

For further information please  email us  or have a look at our company webSite: www.sicilylife.com

Sebastiano & Alessandro

Sicily Life is the product of two young friends "Siciliani" natives: Sebastiano & Alessandro. We like to provide our local experiences to all who like to experience the secrets of Sicily. Our goal is to help people coming to Sicily feel like they are home and not tourists! We both have experience in hotel management and hospitality services; You will find we have an infectious love for our native land. Sicily Life is distinguished by the highest level of personalized service available to each guest. Your host is on hand to make your vacation come true and provide all the needed arrangements.

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What did one volcano say to the other, where is the highest volcano in asia, what is the highest active volcano in south america.

Etna Trekking Tour

Trekking through the rugged terrain of Mount Etna is like stepping into a living, breathing masterpiece of nature’s craftsmanship. The Etna Trekking Tour beckons adventurers to uncover the secrets of this towering volcanic giant.

But what awaits those brave enough to traverse its trails? The journey promises a blend of adrenaline and awe-inspiring landscapes, where participants can witness the raw power of nature up close.

Are you ready to challenge yourself and witness the wonders that Mount Etna has to offer?

• Group dynamics and teamwork are vital for bonding and overcoming challenges.
• Diverse terrain offers memorable obstacles and rewards.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insights and safety.
• Safety measures, equipment , and preparedness ensure an enjoyable exploration.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Etna Morning Trip
• Private 6-Hour Tour of Three Etna Wineries With Food and Wine Tasting
• Liliana Boat Trip With Lunch Included
• Mt. Etna Summit Trekking Experience – Sicily

Tour Overview

When embarking on the Etna Trekking Tour, travelers can expect an exhilarating journey through the stunning landscapes surrounding Mount Etna. Group dynamics play a crucial role in this adventure, as participants bond over shared challenges and triumphs.

The terrain presents its own set of challenges, ranging from rocky paths to steep inclines, adding an element of excitement and thrill to the trek. Navigating through the diverse landscapes requires teamwork and communication, enhancing the overall experience for everyone involved.

As hikers traverse the rugged terrain, they aren’t only testing their physical abilities but also their ability to work together effectively. The varied terrain challenges encountered during the Etna Trekking Tour make it a memorable and rewarding experience for all adventurers.

Itinerary Highlights

Explore the breathtaking lava caves and panoramic vistas that await on the Etna Trekking Tour itinerary. The journey offers some of the best viewpoints, allowing travelers to marvel at the stunning landscapes and volcanic wonders of Mount Etna.

As participants hike through the rugged terrain, they’ll encounter unique geological formations and have the opportunity to explore fascinating lava caves, providing a glimpse into the volcano’s powerful history.

Plus, the itinerary includes a stop to savor local cuisine , where hikers can taste authentic Sicilian flavors and experience the region’s culinary delights.

This combination of natural beauty, geological marvels , and gastronomic experiences makes the Etna Trekking Tour a truly immersive and memorable adventure.

Tour Inclusions

As travelers embark on the Etna Trekking Tour, they can anticipate a range of enriching experiences included in the tour inclusions. Here are some key aspects of the tour:

Guided Trekking Experience : Expert local guides will lead the trek, providing insights into the area’s history and geology.

Transportation : Comfortable and convenient transportation to and from the starting point is included.

Snacks and Refreshments : Enjoy delicious snacks and beverages to keep energized during the journey.

Equipment Rental : Trekking equipment such as walking poles and helmets are provided, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

These inclusions not only enhance the trekking adventure but also provide convenience and peace of mind for travelers.

Safety Guidelines

For a secure and enjoyable Etna Trekking Tour experience, visitors are encouraged to adhere to the following safety guidelines. Proper risk management is crucial, so participants should follow all safety procedures and guidelines provided by the tour guides.

Safety equipment such as helmets, sturdy hiking boots , and appropriate clothing should be worn at all times. It’s essential for participants to take responsibility for their safety by staying with the group, following instructions , and notifying guides of any concerns promptly.

Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and the designated meeting points in case of any unforeseen circumstances. By prioritizing safety and being prepared, trekkers can fully enjoy the breathtaking experience of exploring Mount Etna while minimizing potential risks.

What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and safe Etna Trekking Tour experience, participants should pack essential items that cater to their well-being and enjoyment during the excursion. Here are the top items to bring along:

Sturdy Hiking Shoes : Proper footwear is crucial for navigating the varied terrain on the trek.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing : Dress in layers to account for changing weather conditions on the mountain.

Sun Protection : Bring sunscreen, sunglasses , and a hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays at higher altitudes.

Ample Water and Snacks : Stay hydrated and energized throughout the hike by carrying an adequate supply of water and snacks to refuel.

Being prepared with these packing essentials will help you fully enjoy the adventure while staying comfortable and safe regardless of the weather conditions .

How to Book

When booking the Etna Trekking Tour, travelers can easily secure their spots by visiting the official Viator website and selecting the desired date and group size. The booking process is straightforward, with clear instructions on how to proceed. Travelers can choose from various payment options available on the website to complete their reservation. It’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

Plus, group discounts may be available for larger groups, offering a cost-effective option for those traveling together. By booking through the official website, travelers can have peace of mind knowing that their spots are reserved for this exciting adventure on Mount Etna.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Excursion Around Ortigia Island and Sea Caves
• Small Group Boat Tour of Ortigia With Visits to the Caves and Swimming (Mar )
• Gorges of Tiberius in Rubber Dinghy, Unesco Geopark Site
• Daily Egadi Tour: Favignana and Levanzo in Rubber Dinghy
• At Casa Di Cilla
• Cefalù Boat Tour With Stops to Swim – Sicily

Common questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Etna Trekking Tour?

Age restrictions may apply for safety reasons on tours. It’s essential to review guidelines to ensure participants meet necessary criteria. Understanding any limitations beforehand can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Is Transportation to the Tour Starting Point Included in the Booking?

Transportation arrangements to the tour starting point are not typically included in the booking. It’s advisable to check the inclusions and details when making a reservation. Knowing this can help travelers plan accordingly for their journey.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available Along the Trekking Route?

Restroom availability along trekking routes varies, with some excursions providing facilities at designated breaks. Travelers should inquire about restroom stops when planning their trekking adventure to ensure comfort and convenience during the journey.

Are Meals or Snacks Provided During the Tour, or Should Participants Bring Their Own Food?

Participants should bring their own food as meals or snacks are not provided during the tour. Catering options are not available, so individuals with dietary restrictions should plan accordingly. Group discounts are not applicable.

Is There a Specific Fitness Level Required to Participate in the Etna Trekking Tour?

For the activity, an exceptional level of fitness is mandatory, ensuring safety. Participants must adhere to strict health guidelines due to the demanding physical challenges. Precautions are in place to guarantee the well-being of all involved.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Cefalù Madonie Regional Natural Park Small-Group ATV Excursion – Sicily
• 35 Min Taormina and Etna Private Helicopter Tour From Fiumefreddo
• Catania: Scuba Diving Experience
• Palermo Sightseeing With Vintage Fiat 500!!!
• ETNA – Trekking to the Craters Eruption of 2002
• Private Boat in Taormina and Isola Bella
• Sicilian Cooking Class Gourmet With Chef Antonio
• Emtb Rental in Palermo
• Sicilian Street Food Tour and Wine Tasting in Syracuse
• Private Mt. Etna 4WD Half Day Adventure
• Private Tour of Ortygias Highlights With Enrica De Melio

Embark on the Etna Trekking Tour and explore the captivating beauty of Mount Etna. With a limited group size and personalized experience, adventurers can explore the rich volcanic history of this majestic site.

Soak in the enchanting landscapes and learn about an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Book your journey today and get ready to experience the thrill of exploring one of the world’s most renowned volcanic wonders.

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How to Hike Mt. Etna, an Active Volcano in Italy

M ount Etna loomed large over everything as we arrived in eastern Sicily that early January. From miles away, I could see the steam plumes rising from the snow-topped behemoth, like blown-out candles on a hastily iced birthday cake. Appropriately, I was on a milestone birthday road trip around Sicily, from Palermo to Catania. The second-to-last stop: Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano and also its tallest, at 10,900 feet. Scientists believe Etna has been active for more than 500,000 years, presiding over Sicily long before humans arrived.

I'm no stranger to volcano hikes. I've summited several active stratovolcanoes (composite volcanoes) in my lifetime, from New Zealand's Tongariro to Nicaragua's Concepción. Italy is the only country on mainland Europe with active volcanoes, thanks largely to its location near two tectonic plates. Vesuvius, the most notorious among them, engulfed and preserved the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum after a violent eruption in 79 A.D. Stromboli has had regular minor eruptions for thousands of years. While Mount Etna hasn't had a catastrophic eruption since an infamous incident in 1669, its many eruptions in 2023 filled the news with jaw-dropping photos of lava vaulting into the atmosphere. When I thought of Sicily, I thought of turquoise-colored waters, stunning cathedrals, small villages, ancient ruins and, of course, the wine and food (pasta alla Norma in particular). I hadn't pictured an almost-constantly gurgling volcano that locals ski down in winter.

Now, one might ask, why voluntarily climb something that could blow at any minute? It's a perfectly reasonable question, and it sits at the smoldering heart of volcano tourism, which has exploded (no pun intended) in recent years as eruptions have captured the world-Kīlauea in Hawai'i and Fagradalsfjall in Iceland, for example-even as the volcano blowouts damage or disrupt local economies.

Volcano tourism brings thousands of visitors to Sicily each year. Ten municipalities surround Mount Etna, with several villages of 5,000 residents or fewer who depend heavily on tourism from volcano visitors. Since its 2013 designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Etna has been one of Sicily's top-growing attractions. The Parco dell'Etna has taken steps to keep the crowds in check to maintain the volcano's integrity: specifically, limited parking, steep access fees, and the strong recommendation to take guided visits. The cable car to the start of the trails (8,202 feet) is 50 euros per person. Navigating Etna's unmarked paths and frequently shifting landscape requires the expertise of volcano guides. Visitors are permitted to hike up to about 9,000 feet alone, after which a guide is necessary, for both safety and environmental reasons.

A mountain of many moods

On the morning of our hike, my rental car begrudgingly changed gears on the snake-like winding drive from the town of Nicolosi to Rifugio Sapienza (6,266 feet above sea level) in Parco dell'Etna. As we approached the southern slope of the volcano along a twisting road, we spotted the glistening sea, villas with citrus trees poking over the gates, and small family vineyards making use of the area's fertile volcanic soil.

After acquiring gourmet deli sandwiches for our future lunch break at the meeting point (it's Italy, after all), we took the cable car up to meet our volcano guide, Vincenzo Greco . Vincenzo is a local volcanologist and second-generation Etna guide. He studied geology at the University of Catania and became the youngest person ever to achieve certification as a volcanology guide in Italy.

We started our ascent-excited to work off days of Sicilian cannoli-and trekked through the Valle del Bove. Winter-tanned Vincenzo introduced us to the volcano. He explained which eruption created which new landscape, noting how old this new rock ledge was or how this patch of ground has changed in the past decade. Six weeks before my arrival, in November, a new vent opened on the southeast crater at nearly 9,200 feet. A second vent opened three days later, effusing the new lava . In December, the lava flows reached Valle del Leone and the greater Valle del Bove, depressions on the eastern slope, creating a lava flow field and burping up occasional ash amid the steam and gasses. The lava flows would stop in February, once again reworking the landscape of Etna.

Everything here changes. I recalled the homes we passed on the way in, squarely in the line of Etna's fire if she ever got angry enough. With the windy road and altitude, there could be no escape if something happened. You really have to love the volcano, Vincenzo said, or at least love living by it or perhaps just be a bit stubborn.

Vincenzo and Etna have a passionate Italian relationship. He loves Etna, but their quarrels are, well . . . volcanic. He studies her moods and knows her mannerisms. He flew a drone over an eruption once and her heat melted his camera. It was an expensive mistake, but the few photos he got were spectacular.

About half an hour into the hike, Vincenzo ducked toward a large crevasse between two rocks. "Feel this!" he exclaimed excitedly. "But be careful." I inched forward, waving my hand around in the air aimlessly until a burst of boiling heat hit my skin. It was a small steam vent-Etna saying hello. The power of the invisible heat surprised me. It was a reminder of how easy it is to fall into a false sense of security up here. This isn't your average molehill. Thanks to unmarked paths and a disorienting amount of regular landscape shifts, Vincenzo and his fellow guides have had to rescue tourists when Etna gets moody.

Our hiking group turned a corner and came face-to-face with a lava tunnel formed by a previous eruption. We smushed into the narrowing pathway one at a time. The rock walls towered overhead on both sides, blocking out the sun above. Following the same path as a recent river of molten red lava was a stark reminder of Etna's power.

A crunchy layer of snow covered the black lava rocks throughout the journey, turning the scene into a black-and-white photo anytime the clouds rolled in and covered the bluebird sky. Typically, this time of year, hikers might need snowshoes or cross-country skis in addition to hiking boots. Instead, it was unseasonably warm across Sicily. We sat down for lunch as a crater pumped out billowing white puffs in the distance, our jackets off, the sun blazing. Up next, the final stop: one of Etna's four main craters, at more than 10,000 feet above sea level.

In some parts, the crater rim narrowed to the width of two footsteps side by side, on loose lava pebbles. The winds whipped the smell of sulfur away. I could see the clouds off in the distance, a white blanket over the valley. Above me, the sun beat down from a bright blue sky. The black lava rocks absorbed the light, but the white snow was blinding. For a brief moment, I grew disoriented. I felt like I could walk out onto the blanket of clouds, thousands of feet above sea level. Maybe it was the combination of altitude, sulfur, and adrenaline, but I felt briefly euphoric in this otherworldly atmosphere. In that moment, I realized Etna's pull. I brought myself back to earth by looking down into the crater, the bottom of which was so deep it wasn't visible. Halfway around the crater, a dizzyingly steep drop appeared. With a flourish, Vincenzo appeared to hop off the ledge. Was my guide supposed to jump off? Would I be stuck in Etna's clutches forever?

The descent was arguably more challenging than the climb. Vincenzo took off, hopping down the steep drop of loose lava pebbles. Others followed suit. Unwilling to body surf down thousands of jagged little rocks, I attempted to switchback. My boots sank deep into the ground with each sideways step, as if I had attempted to walk across a ball pit. I felt my shoes fill with lava rocks. Time to throw caution to the wind. Hiking poles in hand, I "skied" down Mount Etna, sending mini avalanches of lava rocks flying with each skip. The lava rocks felt springy at that speed.

Once we arrived at the cable car, the world changed. We had come back down through the clouds, and everything was gray. The seaside views were gone, covered by fog. I tried to catch one last glimpse of Etna from below. She was gone, off in her own world.

Know before you go

Getting there.

Sicily has two major airports: Palermo Airport (Falcone Borsellino Airport) on the west side and Catania Airport (Vincenzo Bellini Airport) on the east. Catania is about an hour from Mount Etna and Palermo about three.

Where to stay

The town of Nicolosi is the gateway to the southern entrance of Mount Etna.

Hotel Alle Pendici is a nine-room B&B dotted with framed photos of Mount Etna throughout the seasons. The rooms are basic but cozy with a ski chalet ambience.

Blanc Maison Etna is a five-room B&B next to a beautifully manicured park. The rooms have views of the pool, the garden, or the volcano.

Tour operators we love

The Society of Guides Vulcanologiche Etna Nord offers a variety of tours with licensed volcano guides, including ours, Vincenzo.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Best things to see and do in Moscow

Moscow is the capital of Russia and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. It’s rich and complex history is a constant reminder of its strategic position between Europe and Asia and makes it one of the cities you should visit once in your life. In terms of the many iconic landmarks, the delicious cuisine, and the characteristic, colorful architecture it has, Moscow is full of surprises for first-timers and seasoned travelers. Apart from the main attractions, it has like the Kremlin or Red Square, Moscow has many hidden gems for you to discover on your free walking tour with your local guide. 

On any of the free guided tours we offer in Moscow , you will be able to find a selection of many tours which are available in different languages and at different times of day, like the morning, afternoon, and evening. Since Moscow is such a large metropolis, getting your bearings by doing a guruwalk with a local guide who will show you all Moscow’s hidden gems is a great idea. This way you get to learn as much as possible about the local culture and way of life. A trip to Moscow wouldn't be complete without visiting iconic places like St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, or the State Historical Museum, before getting some fresh air at Gorky Park, the medieval church of Kolomenskoye, or shopping at Izmailovsky Market. Don’t miss visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Bolshoi Theater, or checking out the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve. 

Many travelers have left their r eviews and opinions about the local guides , gurus, and the routes they walked. If you have any questions about the routes or what is included in the tour, check out their opinions. 

Free walking tour near Moscow

Others cities to visit after moscow, where are you traveling to.