MilazzoThings to do

Things to do in Milazzo

  1. A

    Milazzo Castle

    The strategic position of Milazzo is obvious from the enormous Milazzo Castle, built by Frederick II in 1239 and added to by Charles V Aragon. It constitutes the nucleus of the old town and was originally the site of a Greek acropolis, then that of an Arab-Norman citadel. At one time the whole of Milazzo fitted within its huge walls, which command great views of the bay and the Aeolians.

    The castle contains the city's Duomo Vecchio (old cathedral) and the ruins of the Palazzo dei Giurati (the old town hall). It is a lovely site to clamber around, full of flowers and crumbling structures. To reach the castle climb the Salita Castello, which rises up through the atmospheric…

    reviewed

  2. Capo Milazzo

    If you have a car, take a drive along the Strada Panoramica around Cape Milazzo; the rugged coastline is beautifully unspoilt. Alternatively you can arrange a boat trip (ask at the tourist office) around the rocky cape to Baia del Tonno on the western side of the isthmus. Right at the end of the isthmus is the lighthouse, from where you can make a short walk down to the Santuario Rupestre di San Antonio da Padova (signposted from the car park), situated beside the crystal-clear waters.

    reviewed

  3. Spanish Castle

    Milazzo’s main in-town attraction is its enormous Spanish castle It was closed indefinitely for restoration at the time of research; when open, it has guided tours on the hour and is a lovely site to clamber around, full of flowers and crumbling walls with dreamy views of the Aeolians.

    reviewed

  4. B

    Al Pescatore

    The seafood here is definitely recommended, as is the efficient service (staff members are used to dealing with hordes about to catch boats to the Aeolian Islands). The involtini di pesce spada (swordfish roulade stuffed with breadcrumbs; around €9.25) is delicious.

    reviewed

  5. C

    Washington Bar

    This very pleasant bar is a great spot to unwind with a drink while you watch the passeggiata go by. The excellent nibbles that accompany drinks only add to the charm. You can also get great gelato here.

    reviewed

  6. Salamone e Mare

    A wonderful restaurant north along the isthmus. Its terrace juts out over the water, giving it attractive views, which are accompanied by a delicious array of seafood, including a lobster speciality.

    reviewed

  7. D

    Il Covo del Pirata

    This is one of Milazzo's best restaurants. The ground-floor section is a very popular pizzeria at night, and the service is as smooth as silk. Reservations are advised.

    reviewed

  8. U Pignataru

    With its €13 lunch menu, this place near the waterfront is perfect for a midday bite while awaiting the hydrofoil to the Aeolian Islands.

    reviewed

  9. E

    Tabacchi Edicola

    Excellent newsagent selling good foreign-language books on the Aeolians; it also has a useful map.

    reviewed