Castello di Schisò
Medieval castle with breathtaking views of Giardini Naxos bay, offering a glimpse into Sicily's rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Limited opening hours, beat the crowds
Castello di Schisò
Best Time
Limited opening hours, beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Medieval castle with breathtaking views of Giardini Naxos bay, offering a glimpse into Sicily's rich history.
"Stunning views and a touch of history, but plan your visit around its limited hours!"
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Guided tours offer deeper insights, but book in advance as spots are limited.
📸 Arrive Early for Photos
Beat the crowds for the best photo opportunities within the castle grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Castle Views
Castello di Schisò
Explore centuries of history at this medieval castle overlooking the stunning Giardini Naxos bay.
Panoramic Bay Vistas
Castle ramparts
Soak in breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and the picturesque coastline from the castle's vantage points.
Giardini Naxos Beach
Below the castle
Enjoy a beautiful sandy and pebbly beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxing day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Guided tours offer deeper insights, but book in advance as spots are limited.
📸 Arrive Early for Photos
Beat the crowds for the best photo opportunities within the castle grounds.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is difficult; consider public transport or arrive very early.
🏖️ Beach Access
Public beach spots are limited; arrive early or be prepared to pay for beach clubs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Guided tours offer deeper insights, but book in advance as spots are limited.
📸 Arrive Early for Photos
Beat the crowds for the best photo opportunities within the castle grounds.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is difficult; consider public transport or arrive very early.
🏖️ Beach Access
Public beach spots are limited; arrive early or be prepared to pay for beach clubs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Castello di Schisò to be a historically significant site with stunning bay views, though its limited opening hours and the challenging parking situation are frequently mentioned drawbacks. The nearby beach is praised for its clear waters and amenities, but public access is scarce.
"This resort itself is not a great attraction, in fact it seems a little bit run down with a few empty restaurants and bars.
If you are in that area you must visit the hill town of Taormina.
It is absolutely stunning with all the chic shops, bars and restaurants you could want.
Spend a day ambling around or take a Hopon hop off bus tour.
If you want the beach, then it's a short cable car ride down."
David Muir
"Nice beach, but, you don’t have a lot of “public beaches” so, you need to go early to find a place or you need to pay for umbrella (25 euros per person) it will depends of the place that you choose.I don’t recommend go with car because you can’t find parking in the area, it’s imposible."
Daiana Acuña Cuenca
"Very beautiful beach, and crystal clear sea. Also recommended for families with children, the beach is a mixture of sand and pebbles, but the pebbles are too small to bother you. Many restaurants and services on the waterfront."
John D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Castello di Schisò is located in Giardini Naxos. While driving is an option, parking can be extremely difficult, especially during peak season. Many visitors recommend using public transport or a taxi. The nearest major airport is Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), from which you can take a bus or train to Giardini Naxos.
Parking directly at the castle is very limited. There is paid parking available along the road (blue line) at €1/hour, but it fills up quickly. It's often easier to park further away and walk or use public transport.
Yes, the beautiful Giardini Naxos beach is located below the castle. It's a short walk down from the castle area, offering a lovely contrast to the historical site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The castle has very specific visiting hours. It is typically open only on Tuesdays from 9 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 6 PM, and on Saturdays from 9 AM to 1 PM. Always check the latest schedule before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially for guided tours, is highly recommended due to limited capacity and specific opening days.
Information on entrance fees can vary. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most current pricing details. Some sources suggest it's affordable, especially if you're solo.
Yes, you can opt for a non-guided visit, but a guided tour can enhance your understanding of the castle's rich history and architecture.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle ramparts offer stunning panoramic views of the bay, perfect for landscape shots.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, it's always wise to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you plan on using professional equipment or drones.
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful light for photography. However, due to limited opening hours, early morning visits on Tuesdays or Saturdays are ideal for capturing the best light.
🍽️ 🏖️ Beach & Dining
The beach is a mix of sand and small pebbles, with clear water. There are many restaurants and services along the waterfront.
While there are free beach areas, most are reserved for beach clubs where you can rent umbrellas and loungers.
Yes, the waterfront in Giardini Naxos, below the castle, is lined with numerous restaurants and bars offering various dining options.
Beach clubs can be pricey, with umbrellas and loungers costing around €25 per person, depending on the establishment. It's advisable to check prices beforehand if you plan to use these services.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The real draw for families is likely the adjacent Giardini Naxos beach.
💰 Budget Travelers
For beach access, prioritize the limited free beach areas at Giardini Naxos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
It has witnessed various eras, from the Kingdom of Sicily to the Kingdom of Italy, undergoing significant reconstructions and modernizations throughout its existence. Originally built as a military observation tower, it served to patrol Cape Schisò and the bay against raids by Barbary pirates, notably those led by Barbarossa Kheir-ed-Din. The castle's strategic location overlooking the bay of Giardini Naxos made it a vital defensive point. Its architecture reflects the various periods of its use, with additions and modifications made to suit evolving military and residential needs.
Today, it stands as a testament to the region's past, offering visitors a tangible connection to centuries of history and coastal defense. The castle is now part of the Parco Naxos Taormina, and ongoing restoration efforts are underway, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
This commitment to restoration highlights the importance of the castle as a cultural heritage site, inviting exploration and appreciation of its historical significance.Photography Tips for Castello di Schisò
The panoramic views from the castle ramparts are a major draw for photographers.
Aim to capture the expansive Giardini Naxos bay, the sparkling Ionian Sea, and the distant coastline. The best light for these shots is during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. To avoid crowds and ensure unobstructed shots, arriving right when the castle opens is highly recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit