Etna

The Etna is, at 3,357 meters, the highest active volcano in Europe — and one of the most active in the world. It erupts regularly (most recently several times in 2023 and 2024), and the lava flows have swallowed villages and created new landscapes over centuries. The lunar landscape of cooled lava, the steaming craters, and the view over all of Sicily to Calabria are a unique experience.

Ascent

• Up to 2,500 m: By car or bus to Rifugio Sapienza (south side). From there by cable car to 2,920 m (€33 return). Then off-road bus + guide up to about 3,000 m (€55–65 extra). Without a guide, you are officially only allowed up to 2,920 m.
• To the crater rim (approx. 3,300 m): Only with an authorized mountain guide (€80–100 incl. equipment). The summit area changes constantly — depending on the volcano's activity. Fitness for a 5–6 hour hike is required.
• Alternatively — North side (Piano Provenzana): Fewer tourists, wilder, with off-road vehicles to the northern craters.

Winery on the Volcano

The volcanic soils on Etna produce some of Italy's most exciting wines: Etna Rosso (from the Nerello-Mascalese grape) and Etna Bianco (from Carricante) are mineral, elegant, and volcanically influenced. Wineries like Benanti, Planeta, and Tenuta delle Terre Nere offer tastings with views of Etna (€15–40).