Enna Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay and explore in Enna, Sicily. Follow our travel guide to plan a memorable trip.


Enna is a historic city in the heart of Sicily, known for its rich culture, scenic views, and warm Mediterranean climate. With its ancient monuments, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Enna is a must-visit destination in Italy. In this guide, we have compiled all you need to know to plan your trip to Enna, including the best places to visit, eat, stay and explore.

Introduction to Enna

Enna is a hilltop city nestled in the mountains of central Sicily. It is the capital of the Enna province and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Italy. Enna is a city of great historical and cultural significance, having been ruled by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans. Today, Enna is a charming city that retains much of its medieval character, with winding alleys, steep staircases, and ancient buildings.

List of Places to Visit in Enna

Enna is a city blessed with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From the ancient temples to the breathtaking landscapes, there is something for everyone here. Here are some of the must-see places in Enna.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cathedral of Enna: A beautiful baroque-style cathedral built on the site of a former mosque. Admire its stunning architecture and ornate decorations.

  • Lombardy Castle: A medieval fortress that dominates the skyline of Enna. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.

  • Villa Romana del Casale: One of the finest examples of Roman villas in Sicily, famous for its mosaics.

  • Museo Archeologico Regionale di Enna: A collection of artifacts dating back to the prehistoric era.

Natural Attractions of Enna: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lago di Pergusa: A beautiful lake surrounded by hills, perfect for picnics and boat rides.

  • Monte Altesina: A mountain peak that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Parco dei Nebrodi: A nature reserve that is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Ideal for hiking and wildlife watching.

  • Valle dei Templi: A valley that houses a large number of ancient Greek temples and ruins.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Enna

Enna is a city that offers ample opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some popular routes include:

  • La Rocca di Cerere: A walking trail that leads to the top of a hill, where you can enjoy scenic views of the countryside.

  • Monte Calvario: A mountain trail that takes you through the scenic landscapes of Enna.

  • Giro del Lago di Pergusa: A biking trail that goes around the beautiful Lake Pergusa.

Best Things to Do in Enna: Activities and Tours

Aside from the stunning sights and scenic landscapes, Enna offers a range of exciting activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Enna:

  • Cooking Classes: Learn the art of Sicilian cooking from the locals and enjoy traditional dishes.

  • Wine Tasting Tours: Explore the vineyards and wineries of Enna and taste the exquisite wines of the region.

  • Horseback Riding: Take a ride on the picturesque country roads and explore the scenic countryside.

  • Street Food Tours: Sample the delicious local cuisine of Enna by taking a guided food tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Enna

If you are planning to spend a week in Enna, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore the old town of Enna and visit the Cathedral and Lombardy Castle.
2 Take a trip to the Villa Romana del Casale and admire the beautiful mosaics.
3 Enjoy the natural beauty of the Lago di Pergusa and take a boat ride.
4 Hike to the top of Monte Altesina and enjoy the panoramic views.
5 Visit the Museo Archeologico Regionale di Enna and learn about the city’s history.
6 Take a wine tasting tour and sample the local wines of Enna.
7 Relax and enjoy the local cuisine by taking a street food tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Enna

Enna is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Sicilian and Arab influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasta alla Norma: A dish made with eggplant, pasta, tomato sauce, and ricotta salata.

  • Arancini: Fried rice balls with a variety of fillings, including meat, peas, and cheese.

  • Cannoli: A sweet pastry filled with ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.

  • Spaghetti alle Vongole: A dish made with spaghetti and clams in a garlic and white wine sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Limone di Siracusa: A lemon liqueur made from the famous Siracusa lemons.

  • Red Wine from the Enna Region: A variety of red wines are produced in the Enna region, including the Nero d’Avola.

Where to Stay in Enna: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Enna has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From hotels to guesthouses and hostels, you can find something that suits your needs. Here are some options:

  • Hotel Bristol Enna: A four-star hotel located in the heart of Enna’s old town.

  • B&B Centro Sicilia Enna: A guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

  • Oasis Hostel Enna: A budget-friendly hostel that offers dormitory-style accommodation.

What to Buy in Enna: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Enna is known for its unique handicrafts and artisanal products. Some popular souvenirs include:

  • Hand-painted ceramics: Beautifully crafted ceramics that make for great home decor or gifts.

  • Olive oil and honey: The Enna region is known for its high-quality olive oil and honey.

  • Lace products: Exquisite lace products handmade by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Enna

Enna is a city steeped in tradition and culture. The locals are warm and friendly, and you are likely to encounter many customs and traditions during your stay. Some common customs include:

  • Celebrating religious festivals: Enna is known for its religious festivals, which are celebrated with great fervor.

  • Respect for elders: The locals place great importance on respecting and taking care of their elders.

  • Wearing modest clothing: It is customary to dress modestly in Enna, particularly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Enna

The best time to visit Enna is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. During the summer months, it can get hot and crowded, while winter can be chilly and rainy. For those interested in attending religious festivals, the Feast of the Madonna della Visitazione in July and the Feast of the Assumption in August offer a unique insight into local traditions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Enna

When visiting Enna, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and sample the regional wines.

  • Take part in the local festivals and celebrations.

  • Respect the customs and traditions of the locals.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.

  • Use disrespectful language or gestures.

  • Litter or damage historical monuments.

Safety and Health

Enna is generally a safe and healthy destination for travelers. It is advisable to take the usual precautions, such as keeping valuables safe and staying in well-lit areas at night. Medical facilities are available in the city, and travelers are advised to have valid health insurance before their trip.

Safety in Enna

  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

  • Do not leave valuables unattended in public places.

  • Use licensed taxis or public transport to get around.

Health in Enna

  • Bring any necessary medication with you.

  • Drink bottled water and avoid tap water.

  • Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect against the sun.

Getting to Enna: Transportation Options and Logistics

Enna is well-connected to other parts of Italy, making it easy to get to and from the city. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Enna

  • Catania Fontanarossa Airport: The closest international airport, located 75 km from Enna.

  • Palermo Airport: Located approximately 150 km from Enna.

Bus Stations Near Enna

  • Enna Bus Station: Located in the city center, with connections to other cities in Sicily.

  • Catania Bus Station: A major bus station that connects to Enna and other cities in Sicily.

Other Options

  • Train: Enna is connected to other parts of Italy by train, with regular services from Catania and Palermo.

  • Car Rental: Rental cars are available at the airports and in the city.

How to Get Around Enna

The best way to explore Enna is on foot, as the city is small and easily navigable. However, if you wish to venture out of the city, you can take a bus or hire a car. Taxis and bicycles are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Enna: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Enna is well-positioned for exploring other parts of Sicily. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Agrigento: Home to the famous Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Taormina: A beautiful hilltop town overlooking the sea.

  • Cefalù: A picturesque medieval town with a beautiful beach.

  • Mount Etna: Europe’s most active volcano, with hiking trails and tours available.

Conclusion

Enna is a hidden gem in the heart of Sicily, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the ancient monuments to the scenic landscapes, there is something for everyone in Enna. We hope that this guide has inspired you to plan your trip to Enna and explore this fascinating city.