Sciacca Travel Guide
Towns and cities in Sicily
Fishing, carnivals, and spas may seem like an unusual combination, but these are the things that really sum up the town of Sciacca (pronounced Shaka) on the south coast of Sicily. Perched on cliffs that rise dramatically from its bustling port, Sciacca offers stunning views out to sea and inland towards Monte Cronio, home to steaming, gurgling tufa caves that have attracted visitors for centuries. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, enjoying the local seafood, or relaxing in thermal baths, Sciacca promises an unforgettable Sicilian experience.
About the area
A little up the coast from Agrigento, Sciacca is a captivating town with a rich history and vibrant culture. Only a relatively narrow stretch of sea divides Sciacca from North Africa, and the town owes much to the Arabs who sailed across the Mediterranean in 840, transforming the port and promoting agriculture and fishing. The Normans later enhanced the town, but Sciacca is also known for its turbulent past, including the infamous “Sciacca Case,” a century-long feud between the Perello and Luna families. Today, Sciacca thrives on fishing and tourism, drawing visitors to its historic architecture, bustling fish market, and thermal baths of Monte Cronio.
Things to do in Sciacca
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- Explore historic sites: Discover Sciacca's rich history by visiting its charming churches and palazzi. The town's architecture reflects its diverse cultural influences, from the Normans to the Arabs.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Heading down to the port early in the morning is a real spectacle and the restaurants in Sciacca will be serving up the day's catch just a few hours later. Try Ristorante Porto San Paolo for a lunch with a wonderful terrace overlooking the port.
- Relax in the spas: Experience the thermal baths that have attracted visitors for thousands of years. Monte Cronio's tufa caves are particularly famous for their steaming, gurgling waters.
- Join the Carnival celebrations: Don’t miss Sciacca’s Mardi Gras parade, one of the most popular and frequented in Sicily. The carnival is a spectacle of colourful floats, lively music, and festive atmosphere.
- Visit the nearby beaches: Enjoy the sun and sea at Sciacca's beautiful beaches, such as those at San Marco and Sovareto. These relatively uncrowded spots are perfect for a relaxing day by the water. You may also want to explore the coastline with a boat trip, giving unique perspectives of Sciacca's dramatic cliffs and hidden coves.
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