Take a ferryboat to one of the seven islands in this volcanic archipelago, with Vulcan being closest. They offer terrific beaches and wonderful snorkelling in clear-blue waters.

Sicily’s fine sandy beaches include Taormina’s Lido Mazzarò, Mondello beach, Isola Bella and Baia delle Sirene. At Taormina, the beach can also be reached via cable car.

This unusual biopark is especially exciting for younger visitors. There’s play areas, Dinosaur Land and an aquarium. Discover evolution as well as conservation.

If you want to try orienteering, rope climbing and high wires in a superb woodland setting, you’ll be hard at it all day long at Longi. It’s also a great place to see wildlife including eagles and vultures.