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The best in lava kitsch can be had at the base of Etna Sud or Etna Nord. Ashtrays, mini statues of San Pio, turtles – you name it, it has been moulded from molten lava and dipped in blue glitter. There are also more subdued trinkets, literature and videos of eruptions.

Since 1926 this shop has offered the best of local wild fruits and greens, cheese, bread, pistachios, mushrooms, marmalade and wine.

Small street markets spring up in villages on Mount Etna’s slopes. Local farmers offer their produce for sale from their cars and three-wheeled pick-up trucks, many near Fleri, between Viagrande and Santa Venerina.

This district is famed for big-name Italian stores such as Max Mara, Benetton, Rinascente, Frette, as well as inviting pastry shops and cafés. Emporio Armani and other designer boutiques continue on the Corso Italia.

The proprietor of this jewellery store in Taormina creates pieces from old stones, inspired by historical motifs; she also works on commission if you create your own design.

Here you’ll find the top names in classic Italian high fashion, including Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Ferre and Armani.

Signore Managò’s Sicilian ceramics include traditional designs from Caltagirone and Santo Stefano di Camastra.

This store’s booty of Aeolian goods includes capers of every kind, sweet sundried tomatoes, honey, oregano and wine.

You choose the style of heel and pick your own straps, and the artisans in this store will make custom-made sandals of wood and leather. All you have to do is come back later to pick them up.

This shop produces examples of Santo Stefano’s famous orange-and-yellow ceramics.