5 best things to do in Palazzolo Acreide, Sicily
Last updated on December 17th, 2025.
One of the best things about traveling around Sicily is coming across small, historic towns like Palazzolo Acreide.
Situated in the province of Syracuse, this charming baroque city is a lesser known, but worthwhile place to visit.
Where is Palazzolo Acreide?
Palazzolo Acreide is in the south of Sicily situated among the picturesque Iblei Mountains. The towns of Buscemi and Giarratana are a short distance away as is the Anapo River.
From our glamping site in Noto, Sicily, it took us around 35 minutes by car to reach Palazzolo Acreide.
The drive takes you through winding roads, past green, and sometimes arid, fields, and over historic bridges. It’s a pretty build-up to the wondrous sights that lie ahead.
A baroque town with Ancient Greek roots, cobbled streets and medieval buildings, these are the 5 best things to do in Palazzolo Acreide.
One of my favorite Sicily day trips, the small town also makes my list of the most beautiful places in Sicily.
Perfect Italy bucket list material, you can also use this post to help plan your trip to Italy.
Best things to do in Palazzolo Acreide, Sicily
1. Visit the Basilica di San Sebastiano
In every city, regardless of its size, there’s usually one landmark that overshadows the rest. And, in Palazzolo Acreide, that landmark is the Basilica di San Sebastiano (St. Sebastian's Basilica).
It’s a jaw-dropping moment when you first set sights on this UNESCO World Heritage Site’s magnificent size and overwhelming beauty.
The baroque facade made of jujube stone gives the church its spotlight in the Piazza del Popolo. From columns to capitals and pillars to plinths, St. Sebastian's Basilica is a baroque masterpiece.
The church is free to enter, but please be respectful of other parishioners if there’s a mass going on. I’d also advise ladies to bring a shawl to cover their shoulders if wearing a sleeveless top.
No one will tell you that you can’t enter (like our experience at Palermo Cathedral on our 2 days in Palermo), but I’d do so out of respect.
Still standing
A church, whose initial construction is said to date to the 15th century, has undergone significant changes over time.
Probably the most damaging historical event to hit the basilica was the 1693 earthquake. The notorious Val di Noto incident not only destroyed parts of the church but also much of south-eastern Sicily.
The city of Catania was worst hit, but the earthquake also destroyed parts of Noto Cathedral.
Take a seat in the piazza and admire the church’s entire breadth and width. At the top of every hour, the church bells ring in accordance to the time of day.
It’s a sight, and sound, that’s worth sticking around for.
2. Stop by the Basilica di San Paolo
A short walk from the Piazza del Popolo is another baroque church of historic importance.
The Basilica di San Paolo (St. Paul's Basilica) is named after the main patron and protector of Palazzolo Acreide, San Paolo.
San Paolo has 11 steps from the ground level to the church doors, compared to 25 at San Sebastiano.
Sicilian architect, Netto Vincenzo Sinatra, designed the striking baroque facade, using cornices and moldings to complete his work of art. There are 10 churches to see in total in Palazzolo Acreide, another notable one being the Chiesa di San Michele.
Though smaller in size than both basilicas, the church is another fine example of baroque architecture. It’s also located in a quiet part of the city, amidst local residences and small businesses.
Map of Sicily
3. Eat something sweet at the pasticceria
If you’ve been following my website for a while, you’ll know that I’ve a serious sweet tooth. From Sicilian sweets to Filipino desserts, my palate doesn’t discriminate.
So, imagine my delight, when I heard of a superb pasticceria in Palazzolo Acreide that came with raving reviews. Antica Pasticceria Corsino has been delighting customers with its mouth-watering range of desserts since 1868.
A dessert lover’s dream
No truer words could best describe the moment upon stepping inside than ‘a kid in a candy store’. Counters filled with rows of freshly made cream cakes and delicate pastries stared lovingly back at me.
On the other side was the counter of creamy gelato in a rainbow of colors and flavors. I was in sweetie heaven and the pressure was on to choose something to try.
In the end, I settled upon a traditional Sicilian Cassata cake. Given the history behind Antica Pasticceria Corsino, I wanted to try something equally traditionally Sicilian.
As I sliced into the pillowy soft green marzipan I knew I’d made the right choice. The filling of ricotta cheese, chocolate chips and candied fruit only added to its deliciousness.
My husband chose a rum baba, while my mother- and father-in-law settled upon a fruity yellow sponge tart and chocolate gelato. In the name of research for this travel guide, I tried a bit of each, and all were equally delicious.
A visit to Antica Pasticceria Corsino is worth every calorie. Plus, you get to walk it all off when exploring the sights of Palazzolo Acreide.
Antica Pasticceria Corsino, Via Nazionale 2, Palazzolo Acreide
4. Discover the Ancient Greek sites
As I mentioned in the introduction, Palazzolo Acreide is a city steeped in Ancient Greek roots. And there’s no landmark more telling of its Greek past that of the Teatro di Akrai.
The historic site was discovered in 1824 after an excavation campaign by archaeologist Gabriele Ludica.
Its exact date of the Teatro di Akrai isn’t known. However, historic sources suggest it was built in the middle of the Second Century BC.
Changes over the centuries
During Roman rule, they added their own touches to the theater during their rule. The Romans extended the stage to 2.20m, greatly reducing the orchestra area.
During the Byzantine period, the Teatro di Akrai was completely scrapped as a theater. Instead, the building was used as a site to build a wheat processing structure.
It’s much smaller than the Greek Theater in the Neapolis Archaeological Park of Syracuse (Teatro Greco di Siracusa) with just 12 rows of seats and 9 sections. However, this doesn’t make it any less interesting to visit, plus you’ll be experiencing centuries of history before your eyes.
Teatro di Akrai is usually open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 6.30pm, but check the hours before visiting.
Teatro di Akrai, Via Teatro Greco 8
5. Explore the streets
In a city as small as Palazzolo Acreide, the best thing you can do is just get lost.
From Piazza del Popolo, walk the main street of Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Warm summer days and nights equate to plenty of alfresco dining courtesy of the roadside restaurants and eateries.
Visitor signposts point you in the direction of the main landmarks to visit. Wander the cobbled paths of the medieval area, and admire the structures that date back several centuries.
Fellow photography buffs will find something captivating to photograph around every corner. The colors, detailing and the imperfect state of the buildings make for interesting captures.
Count the number of unique doorways, narrow paths and courtyards that you come across. One photography highlight I found was in the city’s town hall building (municipio) right by the Piazza del Popolo.
By the end of our visit, I surprised myself with how many photos and videos I’d managed to take. Charming, historic, and with a new angle to photograph, the city impressed me in so many ways.
Tips on visiting Palazzolo Acreide
Arrive in the late afternoon
The Sicilian heat can be unbearable, especially if visiting Sicily during July, August, or even September.
We arrived in Palazzolo Acreide around 4.30pm and it was perfect. There was enough sunlight to photograph the city well, and most of the attractions were still open.
To get more detailed local travel advice, check out my Sicily travel tips and when to visit Sicily guides.
Wear comfortable shoes
Another one that may sound obvious, but comfortable and breathable footwear is a must.
The cobbled streets can be uneven in parts, and there’s also a slight slope in the medieval area. In short, your visit to Palazzolo Acreide will be far more enjoyable with the right pair of shoes.
Park outside the center
Finding a parking spot in Palazzolo Acreide can be challenging, especially if you arrive during the peak period.
Narrow streets and plenty of cars all vie for the same parking spot in the center. Instead, park outside, in one of the surrounding streets nearby Antica Pasticceria Corsino.
You’re more likely to find a parking spot, and it’s also much easier to leave when it’s time to go.
Come for the festivals
As one of my readers, M Fascila, pointed out, Palazzolo Acreide is also known for its festivals. Taking place throughout summer, they're another fun way to enjoy your time in the Sicilian town.
What do you think about visiting Palazzolo Acreide? Is it somewhere you’d like to visit one day? Let me know in the comments below.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
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I feel bad that this is your list (all great things to do). There are so many more things to experience in Palazzolo Acreide! I live there part-time, and in the summer, is my FAVORITE TIME.....Palazzolo is WELL known for its over-the-top festivals. Of course, I could name a bunch of places to eat.....easy. BUT, concerts and/or dancing until your feet fall off at the Panoramica, concerto d'alba, pane calda at 5am, just sitting at an outside table and people watching, the villa in the summer, the PEOPLE are amazing, day view at the panoramic viewpoint, live music all over the place, fruit stands/little shops/markets, events (opera, poetry, theater) at the Greek theater, etc. If you go back, look me up, and I will show you.
Thank you for your comment. I wrote this from a first-time visitor's perspective. Many may not come in summer but during other seasons. But I appreciate your suggestions and will update the post and credit you.
Enjoyed this Lisa, what a delightful place and def a photographer’s dream. I would be gone for days wandering around, taking pictures etc. I don’t really have a sweet tooth but those cakes ?? looked delightful as well?
You're a stronger lady than me Liz! It's such a pretty city, and one for architecture and photography lovers 🙂
You weren’t wrong when you told Lannie not to read with an empty stomach. That dessert. Shame I missed this on my visit. It would be right up my street.
Palazzolo is a photographer's dream John! Maybe next time 🙂
Wow such a stunning place, all those beautiful buildings and streets, this is going on the bucket list
Laura x
Great to know, I'm sure you'll love it there.
You're right, Lisa, it looks like a photographer's dream. Such beautiful cobbled streets and stunning architecture.
It really is Wendy! I hope you get to bring the family here one day 🙂
These pictures are so gorgeous. I really miss traveling.
Thank you, hopefully one day soon 🙂
Wow, the place looks so beautiful. I hope to visit palazzolo acreide someday soon ?
I do too!
Oh wow, this looks amazing and I am definitely adding this to my bucket list of places to see. Thanks for sharing!
You're welcome, it's really a pretty Sicilian town 🙂
Oh wow your photos are stunning and are giving me some serious travel inspiration for sure. Beautiful place x
Thank you! Sicily has so many towns like these, just lesser known 🙂
I have always wanted to go to Sicily! It looks absolutely beautiful and I am such a fan of the stunning architecture.
You have to come and visit one day, it's really beautiful!
The scenery and architecture are absolutely beautiful! I would love to visit Palazzolo Acreide in the near future. I know the experience would be breathtaking.
Aw I'm so glad you enjoyed it! It was a charming surprise for us all
“In the name of research...” Love it! This sounds like my perfect destination with the charming and historical basilicas...so beautiful! And your travel tip about comfortable shoes is so spot on for cobblestones. I wore my cute ankle boots in Tallinn and I was in so much pain...normally could walk for hours in them but those medieval streets were not friendly.
I do it for you guys! You're right Karen, those cobbled streets are so unforgiving; leave the cute boots for dinner maybe 😉
Wow! I cannot wait to visit Sicily!
It's beautiful here
This looks like the perfect place to visit in Italy! I am for sure in need of a getaway and my husband wants to go there to visit family 🙂
You should come and visit one day!
I love the photos you have shared here of Sicily, some stunning arhitecture and loving the cobbled floors. Baroque basilicas is one place I would definitely not miss when I head there
There are 2 basilicas and they're equally amazing 🙂
I am absolutely in love with Sicily and can't wait to explore more! I love these little towns with so much preserved from history. Thank you for bringing these little towns to light for us all!
I'm so glad you enjoyed it Tiffany, it's really an amazing island to visit 🙂
I had been to Sicily once and it is a beautiful place. Entire Italy is full of perfect architecture but Sicily is different. I really loved all the pictures in here!
Thank you so much, hope you come back one day!
This place looks so stunning and mesmerizing one..glad you shared this with us..found it so helpful and interesting one..great work though...
Thank you!
I haven't heard about Palazzolo Acreide before. It's a gorgeus place and I love that you included a sweets refill, always a good idea in Sicily.
I totally agree with you! I'm glad we made a sweet pitstop 🙂
How beautiful!!! And the food, oh wow!
It's a pretty Sicilian town 🙂
I could happily sit in that piazza for hours!
We nearly did Steven!
WOWW so glad i ate my dessert before reading this 🙂 I know the basillica is the star of the show, but you know me - it's gotta be Antica Pasticceria Corsino. you know that's where you'll find me for most of the time, and the rest, wandering around taking photos. Love your Sicily posts, Lisa!
Lol we think alike Lannie! The pasticceria was soooo good 😀
This looks like a beautiful place to visit. I love the buildings, they are gorgeous. I may make it out there someday, I hope.
Aw I hope so too! It's really beautiful
Fabulous! I never loved history class but I do like to travel and experience cultures and historical places. This just looks so inviting and a place I must visit as well as the cakes that I should taste of course.
The cakes are really the icing on top!
This place looks gorgeous. I miss traveling and seeing all these different places, but I just need to be patient.
We all need to right now, but it'll still be here next year 🙂
Love all the history and photos. Can't wait until we can travel around the globe again.
Thank you so much, fingers crossed it won't be too much longer
What a gorgeous city! I love touring old churches, castles and ruins. Italy is on my buccket list!
Perfect! You'll love Palazzolo 🙂
It's absolutely beautiful there! I've always wanted to got to Sicily! So much history!
Come and visit one day, there's plenty to see here!
I never heard of this place. Great post. Beautifully summoned with lovely pictures! Worth of read. Thank you for sharing Lisa.
You're welcome, glad you enjoyed it 🙂
I love the look of the buildings and history here. Pastries a lovely looking treat too.
They were the icing on the cake 😀
This place looks so historically enchanting I love places like this they look like they are stopped in time.
It definitely has that vibe about it!
One day I will get to Italy. This looks like a cool place to see and explore
Palazzolo is really pretty!
I'd love to make it here one day! You have such amazing photos. I've always been a huge fan of Italy.
Thank you! I hope you get to visit one day
I wish I was here right now! It's so picturesque! I also really liked that you mention that the best time to visit Palazzolo Acreide is during the late afternoons. I usually look for these details when I'm planning my travels.
You're so welcome! The Sicilian heat is unforgiving so late afternoon is still doable!
What a beautiful town! For some reason, looking at the photos and reading about it, it made me think of a combination between Catania and Taormina, at a much smaller scale. It's been over 10 years since I was in Sicily but this article brought back my beautiful memories from there.
Aw I'm so happy that you have great memories of Sicily. Palazzolo is a lesser known city but it has plenty of charm
I love reading about your travels, it makes me feel as if I was there, experiencing the foods, the people, the wonderful architecture and all the sights! I'd have a field day in Palazzolo Acreide, just immersing myself in all the baroque and other amazing things to be seen in this part of Italy.
Aw thank you Ashlee! I'm so glad you enjoyed it. I hope you can come and experience it in person one day 🙂
Few people make it up to Palazzolo Acreide, but those who do find a charming, laid-back town with a wealth of baroque architecture and some of the area's finest ancient ruins. Love the Place!
You're spot on Maricar. It was such a lovely surprise; I'm glad we went 😀
That's a great post. Thank you for sharing, and pics are great! I wanna eat sweets now!
Thank you Petar. I should have added a warning at the beginning with the sweets!
This is so beautiful! You took me on yet another (imaginary) trip to gorgeous Sicily. No matter how many times I've been there physically, I will always be in awe at the architecture, history, scenery. And to top il all, you mentioned Cassata:)))
Aw thank you so much, I'm so glad you enjoyed it! The cassata was incredible, it's becoming a firm favourite 🙂
This place looks so charming! Dream to go back to Italy! Every corner is photo-worthy
It really is Leticia! I hope you return one day soon 🙂
Absolutely beautiful architecture. I love that little courtyard and fountain.
It was the hidden highlight of the trip!