This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Francavilla di Sicilia.
Near northern slopes of Italy’s Mount Etna, Francavilla di Sicilia is located within the valley of the River Alcantara and only 15km from the Mediterranean Sea.
This historic area is full of artefacts that date back to the 5th century BC. Located on a hill above the town, explorers can investigate the ruins of an ancient medieval castle, and there are a number of open archaeological excavations to examine – including 6th century BC findings from ancient Greece.
Visitors staying at a hostel or hotel here should also venture out to see the Convent of the Capuchins, adjacent to the Francavilla di Sicilia cemetery, and the Chiesa dell’Annunziata, located in the centre of town. The town developed around the Abbey of San Salvatore di Placa, which was built in 1092.
One of the most exciting landmarks in this area, though, will be especially interesting for geologists. The characteristic lava rocks of the Gole dell’Alcantata, a canyon along the river between Francavilla di Sicilia and Motta Camastra. Over centuries, the River Alcantara worked its way though Mount Etna’s deposits of lava stone, creating a canyon more than 50 metres deep.
Tourists coming to Francavilla di Sicilia can find hotels and hostels to suit any budget, as well as local bed and breakfasts and rental properties for longer stays. There are a few annual events in Francavilla di Sicilia that attract visitors from out of town, including the Celebration of Saint Euplio in August and the celebration of the town’s patron saint, Saint Barbara, in December.
To get to your hostel or hotel in Francavilla di Sicilia, there is bus service from the legendary resort town of Taormina running daily. Shuttles are also available from local airports, with connecting flights to international airports across Italy. Car rentals are also a great idea for tourists in this area.
Written by local enthusiast for Francavilla di Sicilia hostels
Jakob Lombardi
