sicilian tourist draw

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SICILIAN TOURIST DRAW Crossword Clue

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10 Best Places to Visit in Sicily

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on April 3, 2024

The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily lies at the toe of Italy’s “boot,” separated from the mainland by the narrow Strait of Messina. Home to Europe’s tallest active volcano, Sicily is a mountainous island with rugged landscapes tamed by centuries of cultivation and deforestation. The range of cultures that have dominated the island over its long history have left their mark as well, and while rumbling Mount Etna remains a strong tourist draw, many visitors come to Sicily to explore its diverse array of archeological wonders.

The outlying Aeolian Islands are also popular places to visit in Sicily . With its unique cuisine, temperate climate and sandy beaches, a vacation in sunny Sicily is always memorable.

Map of Sicily

10. Monreale [SEE MAP]

Monreale is a small town located near the city of Palermo , the capital of Sicily. The city sits atop a hill overlooking the Golden Shell, a valley known for its olive, orange and almond trees. The city’s star attraction, however, is the magnificent Cathedral of Monreale, a stunning example of Norman architecture. Although the church has a rather unimpressive façade, the interiors are breathtaking. The Italian cloisters are famed for both their size and incredible detail, but it’s the mosaics covering the walls that make this cathedral so special. Almost every square inch of the interiors gleams spectacular mosaic images set against a gold background.

9. Erice [SEE MAP]

Situated on the summit of Mount Erice, the town of Erice overlooks the city of Trapani nearly a half mile below, making a visit to Erice worthwhile for the views alone. Reached by cable cars from Trapani, the historic city also offers visitors to Sicily a break from the hot summer sun as temperatures tend to be cool and crisp here year round. The town’s main attractions are two medieval castles, one built by Arabs, the other by Britons. The Norman castle was built atop an ancient Temple of Venus.

8. Doric Temple of Segesta [SEE MAP]

Located in the northwestern part of Sicily, Segesta was one of the major cities of the Elymians, an indigenous population of Sicily who also founded Erice. The Doric temple that lies just outside the ancient site is well preserved. It was built in the late 5th century BC and has 6×14 Doric columns. Several things suggest that the temple was never actually finished. The Doric columns have not been fluted as they normally would have been and the temple also seems to have lacked a roof over the main chamber. The setting of the Temple, perched on a hill, is simply beautiful with views that stretch right down to the sea.

7. Villa Romana del Casale [SEE MAP]

Located on the outskirts of the town of Piazza Armerina in southern central Sicily, the Villa Romana del Casale is one of the island’s must-see attractions. The 4th-century Roman villa features one of the largest and best-preserved collections of ancient mosaics in the world. Each of the main rooms in the villa has a mosaic floor decorated in a specific theme, including a hedonistic mosaic in the main bedroom. The mosaic depicting the Olympic games is the most famous as it features the first image of women wearing what are known today as bikinis.

6. Syracuse [SEE MAP]

Also known as Siracusa, Syracuse was once considered the most important city of the ancient Western world. The 2,700-year-old city is mentioned in the Bible, in the writings of Cicero and in the myths and legends of many civilizations. The oldest part of Syracuse is situated offshore on the island of Ortiga and is filled with historic temples, churches and important archeological sites, including a necropolis that dates back from 1270 B.C. Theatrical productions are still staged at the 5th-centry Greek Theatre, which boasts one of the largest seating areas ever built by the ancient Greeks.

5. Palermo [SEE MAP]

Sicily’s bustling capital city, Palermo has a history that dates back 2,700 years. Founded by the Phoenicians, the city reached its cultural peak during its Arab occupation when Palermo was called the “city of delights” for its beautiful gardens and architecture. Today, the city is known more for its boisterous street markets than for its cultural attractions, although there are first-class museums and historic churches in Palermo well worth exploring. The top attraction is the Catacombe dei Cappuccini, an underground maze of open crypts beneath the Capuchin monastery. Some of the 8,000 mummified human remains are extraordinarily well-preserved but creepy.

4. Aeolian Islands [SEE MAP]

Located off the northern shore of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands attract around 200,000 visitors each year. The seven islands that make up the archipelago are the result of volcanic and seismic activity, and climbing the active volcanoes on the islands of Stomboli and Vulcano attract adventurous travelers from around the world. Most visitors, however, come to the Aeolians for their picturesque white-washed villages and luxury resorts. With steaming fumaroles located on most of the isles, relaxing in a percolating pool of mud or lazing in bubbling thermal waters are popular activities as well.

3. Taormina [SEE MAP]

Perched on a cliff near Mount Etna on the island’s eastern shoreline, Taormina has long been a popular place to visit in Sicily. Well-heeled travelers have been including the resort town on their itineraries since the 19th century. There are scenic beaches near the city to enjoy too, and as they’re only accessible by an aerial tramway, traveling to them is half the fun. The Teatro Greco is Taormina’s most popular attraction. While the architecture of the amphitheater is Roman, its layout indicates that it was built upon an older Greek theater. Although the original seats have been replaced, much of the 2nd-century theater remains intact.

2. Mount Etna [SEE MAP]

One of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mount Etna stands around 3,300 meters (11,000 feet) tall, towering over the east coast of Sicily. Most of the volcano’s eruptions occur at the summit, continually adding to or subtracting from the mountain’s height. During the winter, visitors come to Etna to ski on its snowy slopes. In warm-weather months, adventurous travelers make their way to Rifugio Sapienza, a popular departure point for climbs up the mountain. Accessible by private car, the ski station Piano Provenzana on Etna’s less active northern slopes has tour operators who drive visitors up to the Volcanic Observatory station or up to the main crater.

1. Valley of the Temples [SEE MAP]

The city of Agrigento on the southern coast of Sicily was a city of great importance in Ancient Greece, and it’s the archaeological remnants of its gloried past that make the town a popular travel destination. Just outside the city lies the Valley of the Temples where a series of 5th-century Doric temples stand on a ridge facing the sea. Of these, the temples attributed to the goddesses Concordia and Juno Lacinia in the eastern section are the best-preserved. The western section features the unfinished Temple of Zeus, the largest Doric temple ever unearthed.

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Reader interactions.

November 6, 2017 at 8:41 am

I live in Milo, Catania, directly on the most active Volcano in Europe. I am very happy to hear about my beautiful island and its many attractions.

May 17, 2017 at 6:23 am

We also visited Palermo this year. Nice city anyway. There are some best sights to see. Highly recommended. We love Palermo!

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SICILIAN TOURIST DRAW Crossword Clue

All solutions for sicilian tourist draw, top answers for: sicilian tourist draw, sicilian tourist draw crossword puzzle solutions.

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11 Days in Sicily

With eleven days in sicily there are plenty of possibilities to combine an exploration two or three of sicily’s provinces..

Personalized Trips to Sicily

Let me introduce you the 11 day-tour which is a good way to explore the most important local highlights of Sicily. We have shown a few different solutions which involve the west , the east , the south and the south-east .

Feel free to verify which is the one that fit your needs and expectations and in case you wish us to customize your tour feel free to share with us your needs.

Sicily Tour | 11 days | The Peoples of Sicily

Sicily at a glance.

Thanks to its geographical location, Sicily has had the major role in the historical events that have played a key role in the Mediterranean.

The not-to-be-missed cities of Sicily

Palermo . Palermo bears witness to its past—conquered by the Phoenicians, Arabs, and Spanish, its churches and archeological remnants are unrivaled. Then the Palazzo dei Normanni and its Byzantine mosaics never fail to awe visitors; Normal Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel are divine; golden beaches of Mondello Lido, the foodie delights of the city’s markets, the Botanical Gardens—all are must-see sights in Palermo.

Monreale . The city’s Duomo is one of the greatest medieval treasures in the world—the 58,000 square feet of mosaics will take your breath away.

Siracusa  and Ortygia Island . Archimedes, Cicero, Saint Paul, Caravaggio, and the naval hero Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson all made their presence known in Siracusa. In fact, Aeschylus premiered his plays at the still-functioning Teatro Greco here. One of the most beautiful squares in Italy, the Piazza del Duomo, is in the tiny island of Ortygia

Taormina . Perhaps there is no more famous name in Sicily than Taormina.  This resort town draws the international jet set to its romantic alleys and glittering hotels. But Taormina is steeped in ancient history and mythology—Giardini-Naxos, Teatro Greco, and the Norman and Baroque monuments are all worth a visit.

Of course, Mt. Etna, Europe’s highest volcano, is in Taormina, and no visit to Sicily would be complete without gazing at its stunning vistas.

Mt Etna , locally called “Mongibello”, is Europe’s largest and most active volcano. Its frequent eruptions are often accompanied by large lava flows, but rarely pose danger to inhabited areas. Etna is one of the volcanoes with the longest historic records of eruptions, going back more than 2000 years. Read More

Marsala . The city is more than the sweet wines which bear its name and for which the city is famous (but don’t miss the historic Florio Winery and the Donnafugata Winery). You’ll also want to see Marsala’s salt marshes—and be sure to try  busiati,  the oldest handmade pasta in the world. Read More

Trapani . Ornate churches like the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo and the Torre della Colombaia define the architecture here. Don’t miss shopping for the city’s famous exquisite coral jewelry.

Ragusa . Ragusa Ibla is a fairytale of church domes and terracotta roofs. The Duomo di San Giorgio, the Giardino Ibleo, and the 18 listed UNESCO monuments will delight you.

Agrigento . The city’s greatest draw is the Valley of the Temples and its ancient Greek ruins. Tempio della Concordia is one of the best-preserved temples in the world. You’ll definitely want to visit the Museo Regionale Archeologico, perhaps the best museum in Sicily, which features the famous stone statue of Telemon (Atlas).

Catania . In a perfect world, you’d devote two full days to the art, museums, and Roman ruins of Catania. Don’t miss Duomo Square, La Pescheria (the fish market), and the Bellini Gardens.

Erice . This western Sicily gem is famous for its almond biscuits (the pastry shops here are without equal). Erice’s main church and bell tower are striking, as is the Norman castle, also known as Venus Castle, a tribute to the goddess of fertility.

Or what about  Sicily’s  unique cuisine —Arab and Greek spices, Spanish techniques, the world’s finest seafood. And it’s all accompanied by big, fruity, out-of-this-world wines.

Sicilian food is also considered the original fusion cuisine, a unique mix of all of its diverse cultural heritages.

The island has been at the heart of thirteen different empires over the last three millennia, and each one of them has left its mark on the Sicilian Gastronomy.

Must-try Local Dishes and Wines

Pasta alla Norma – pasta served with a special sauce made of tomatoes and fried eggplant with ricotta cheese

Arancine – fried rice balls coated with breadcrumbs and often filled with cheese or ragù sauce

Cannoli – a tube shaped pastry that is stuffed with a sweet, creamy filling often made from ricotta cheese. Read More

Caponata – a typical antipasto that you’ll encounter in every corner of Sicily; a delicious sweet and sour (agrodolce) mixture of fried eggplant, onions, celery, tomatoes, vinegar, capers, and olives, sweetened with a bit of sugar. Read More

Almond Cookies  – a famous local dessert typical of Sicily. Soft and tasty, they are fast to make (and to eat…). They are also a  gluten-free dessert. Read the recipe

The  Chocolate in Modica – made with a very old recipe, the one coming from the  Aztecs . Read More

The Predominant Grapes – Historically, Italian wine regions have clung tightly to its historical grapes, and Sicily is no different. While international varieties are prominent players, for critics, sommeliers, and importers, the wines they dream about at night are indigenous. There are three key red grapes: Nero d’Avola, Frappato and Nerello Mascalese .

Information

Sicily blog.

Map of Sicily

Travel Tips

If it is your first time to sicily, get ready for an incredible experience.

The prospect of visiting Sicily for the first time will provoke a wide range of emotions. For some, traveling to a foreign land-especially one that doesn’t speak English – is so intimidating that any real enjoyment can only be realized with the help of a native to navigate through all the unfamiliar turf. For others, even those who don’t speak Italian, the opportunity to be immersed in an entirely new culture is part of the fun, and they look forward to feeling their way through each of the novelties that Italy throws at them.

• Taxis:  Government-regulated taxis are either white or yellow. Avoid taxis that are not metered and have no official signs. They are private cars that will charge you an expensive fee. Unlike in the U.S. where taxis are hailed on the street, in Sicily they are found at taxi stands or are called by telephone. All charges are listed on a price chart displayed inside the cab. Extra charges are in effect at night, for luggage service and phone booking. A 10% tip is expected but not mandatory.
• Restaurant tipping:  Both  il servizio  (service charge/tip) and  il coperto  (cover charge for bread and water) are usually included in  il conto  (the bill). By Sicilian law the gratuity is included in the bill so extra tipping isn’t required. However, it is customary, especially if the service is good, to leave an additional gratuity between 5% and 10%.
• Hotel Tipping:  Tipping in hotels is a customary practice. The service charge of 15% – 19% is already included in your bill. Other suggested tips include 50 euro cents per day to the chambermaid, 50 euro cents to the doorman for calling you a cab, and between 1 and 2 euros for the bellhop if he carries your bags to your room. The concierge expects about a 15% tip on his or her bill, as well as tips for any extra services. If you are staying at a 4- or 5-Star hotel these suggested amounts should be doubled.

Useful Knowledge:

• Shopping:  Italian stores generally are open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The  siesta/pausa  lunch break lasts until 4 p.m. Stores close for the day by 8 p.m.  Most stores are closed on Sunday.
• Café Culture:  While enjoying an espresso at a table is always possible, the locals enjoy standing at the  banco , or bar area.
• Hand Gestures and Loud Voices:  Unlike in the U.S. of A., hand gestures and loud voices can be a way of expressing profound happiness.

Hotel Information:

• Hotels:  When looking for a place to stay, remember that rates include taxes and service; the IVA (value-added tax, currently 10%) should be added to the total amount.
• Electrical:  Not all hotel rooms provide hairdryers; if you bring your own, an adapter/transformer is a necessity. This will also be important for all other electrical devices, including laptop computers, because in Italy the voltage is different (220). Also, outlets have two round-pronged plugs, which is another reason an adapter plug is necessary.

Just the Basics:

• Sicily’s Time Zone:  one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1). Sicily is generally six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time in the United States, aside from the rare instances affected by the Spring Forward/Fall Back clock-changing discrepancy when the difference is five hours.
• Country Code  (for  international calls  to Italy): +39.
• Currency:  Euro. Available in bills of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros; coins of 1 and 2 euros and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 euro cents.
• Official Language:  Italian and Sicilian
• Flag:  The Italian tricolor is green, white, and red, in three vertical bands, equal in dimension. The Sicilian flag shows a triskeles symbol (a figure of three legs arranged in rotational symmetry), and at its centre a Gorgoneion (depiction of the head of Medusa) and a pair of wings and three wheat ears.
• Religion:  Roman Catholic is the main faith – 85% of native-born citizens are nominally Catholic. There are substantial Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim communities.
• Education:  Sicily has statewide education system, with a five-year primary stage and an eight-year secondary stage.

Like other member countries of the European Union, Sicily uses the euro, symbolized by “€”. For the current conversion rate between your currency and the euro you can check a currency exchange Web site such as  www.xe.com

ATM Cash Machines (bancomats) are everywhere in Sicily as they are in the United States. The Cirrus and Plus systems are the most widely available. Be aware that many Sicilian cash machines will not accept card with PIN codes, five numbers or longer so be sure to reset your PIN to a four numbers before you go. You may also have a problem accessing a savings account so be sure the ATM card(s) you are bringing are linked to checking accounts. You may also be able to use your credit card for a cash advance if it has a PIN code (fees will apply).

Many travelers wonder about bringing travelers checks with them and it simply isn’t a good idea anymore. You’ll pay a fee for the checks at home, will need to find a bank (banks are usually open for a few hours in the morning and a few hours in the afternoon on week days) when it is open, wait in line and pay another service fee when receiving euros.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Sicily . Visa and MasterCard are more commonly accepted so if you’re bringing an American Express card, be sure to bring a Visa/MasterCard as well. Many credit card companies (Capitol One is an exception) are now charging a transaction fees for international purchases. Be sure to check with your credit card company before leaving home. Finally, cash is king in Sicily. Sicilian merchants hate paying service fees on credit card transactions and will often give you a discount ( sconto ) for paying cash. Of course, they also like to hide their earning from the tax authorities too, but that’s a whole other story.

Shopkeepers are also open to giving discounts if you are buying multiple items. Don’t be afraid to ask for a sconto!

When staying overnight in Sicily, certain cities have a tourist tax.

This Sicily City tax must be paid by the PASSENGER directly to the hotel before the end of the stay.

Wireless access is prevalent in restaurants and hotels and most hotels no longer charge for you to use WiFi.

You can access it with your phone or laptop computer.

If you choose not to bring a device with you, most hotels make a desktop computer available for guests to use or have a business center available.

Average temperatures

Sicily airports

There are four airports in Sicily, two serving the east coast (Catania and Comiso airports) and the other two (Palermo and Trapani airports) – the west coast.

Palermo Falcone & Borsellino (PMO)  and  Catania Fontanarossa (CTA)  are the biggest airports operating actively all the year round. Both become very busy in summer months.

Trapani Birgi (TPS)  and especially  Comi so Pio La Torre  airport mostly serve low-cost airlines and seasonal flights.

Air, sea or land?

There are ways to get to Sicily from mainland Italy or from Malta without flying.

These include long-distance buses from other regions in central (mainly Rome) and southern Italy,  trains  or ferries.

However, flying to one of the Sicily airports is probably the fastest, and arguably the most convenient way to arrive at your final destination.

Busy itinerary? Fly anywhere!

If you are planning to explore the island and change your location at least two or three times it does not make much difference which airport to arrive.

You can even consider to arrive at one airport and depart from the other.

This is usually convenient and optimizes timing in case you want to move around and see more. Typically Palermo and Catania would be the preferred options.

Having a clear idea of what kind of a vacation you are planning to have, and what is your itinerary will make the choice of the airports easier. It is also possible to build an itinerary around your arrival and departure points, especially if your plans are not overwhelming.

Still, east or west – what is best?

Roughly speaking, Palermo airport is an optimal arrival point to reach destinations along the west coast between San Vito lo Capo and Cefalu. Corleone and the Madonie mountains would be on the same list, just a bit away from the coastline. Trapani airport is closer than any other one to Castellammare del Golfo, the Egadi islands including Favignana, Marsala, Erice, Segesta, Mazzara del Valo and Selinunte. The southern coast from Agrigento to Trapani itself is also within easy reach.

Catania airport serves best final destinations like Taormina, the Aeolian islands, Messina, Giardini Naxos, Acireale its coast, Etna, Siracuse and Noto, Caltanissetta. Comiso is optimal for Ragusa, Scicli, Modica and Licata, while Piazza Armerina and Caltagirone are similar travel distance from both Catania and Comiso airports. Agrigento, Tindari and Enna are equally convenient from Catania and Palermo airports with Agrigento and Tindari taking some 2 -2,5h drive. These are probably the farthest among popular locations on mainland Sicily. Agrigento is similar 2 – 2.5 h drive distance from Trapani and Comiso as well.

Visiting Sicily: days, weeks, and beyond

Landscapes, cuisine, and dialect differ greatly from one to the next, and each merits its own visit.

If your time is limited, you’ll be able to see Sicily’s highlights in a matter of days—but spending one week or more means you’ll get to explore multiple provinces and fall in love with the authentic Sicily.

If you have a few days in Sicily, it’s best to focus on one city, otherwise you’ll likely feel like you’re spreading yourself too thin! In three or four days  lodge in one city only and from here explore and enjoy the area.

The most important cities are Palermo — located on the west side — Taormina and Syracusa — both located on the east –.

In one week , you’ll be able to explore Sicily’s wonderful cultural cities, undoubtedly a highlight of any trip to the country. Palermo, Agrigento, Taormina and Syracusa attract the bulk of tourists and justifiably so—they harbor some of the world’s most impressive architecture and works of art.

Nine days will give you more time to explore what Sicily offers beyond the usual tourist destinations. You’ll be able to travel along the stunning Marsala, Erice, Ragusa, Modica and Noto, which offer some of Europe’s most enchanting scenery.

However, to experience Sicily at its best, you’ll need to factor in two weeks . That way, you’ll have enough time to discover a large part of the island and one (or perhaps both!) of its major islands, Lipari and Vulcano.

Interesting facts

A dessert now known and appreciated all over the world, a pillar of “ Sicilian Culture “. We can safely say that  visiting Sicily without eating cannoli is like not having visited it at all.

For those who do not know it ( We doubt there is someone who does not know what we are talking about ) the Sicilian cannoli is a dessert consisting of a crunchy fried wafer in lard, called “ scorza (rind) “, filled with sheep’s ricotta cream with a sprinkling of chocolate or pistachio and candied fruit at both ends.

Explore Sicily in 11 days

On this eleven-day itinerary, you’ll uncover layers of history in the island of Sicily. Is a sort of showcase where you can immerse your senses in the art, culture and gastronomy!

Some travelers pass through for a day or two on their way to other destinations, but eleven days is an ideal amount of time to get a feel of Sicily lifestyle.

The Peoples of Sicily Book , at 368 pages, the most revealing history of ancient and medieval Sicily to find its way into print took seven centuries to write. Read this one if you love history, but especially if you don’t. Because here history is just the beginning … and because this story is about much more than an island in the Mediterranean Sea.  Learn More

Highlights 1st day – Arrival in Palermo airport – Transfer to Palermo 2nd day – Palermo and Monreale 3th day – Palermo to Marsala  (visiting: Segesta, Olive Oil and Erice) 4th day – Marsala Experience  (visiting:  Saltpans, Motya Charioteer and Winery) 5th day – Marsala to Agrigento  (visiting:  Mazara Kasbah Maze, Couscous and Selinunte ) 6th day – Agrigento to Ragusa  (visiting:  Valley of the Temples and Mosaics at the Roman villa ) 7th day – Ragusa and Modica Aztec’s Chocolate Tasting 8th day – Ragusa to Siracusa  (visiting: Noto and Tuna Fishing Village ) 9th day – Siracusa and Ortigia Half Day 10th day – Etna Volcano, Winery and Taormina 11th day – Departure from Catania airport – Transfer from Siracusa

TOP 4 Private Tours

Gold tour – private tour of sicily.

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Sicilian experience – private tour of sicily, sicilian highlights – private tour of sicily.

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sicily

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 1, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Sicily is full of superlatives, many of them relating to treasures of the ancient world. In Agrigento's Valley of Temples , for example, you'll see one of the three most perfect temples in the Greek world. At Selinunte is one of the largest of all known Greek temples. Villa Romana del Casale in Enna, with more than 3,500 square meters of mosaics, is one of the best-preserved villas anywhere in the Roman Empire and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

So are the twin towns of Ragusa and Modica for representing Europe's zenith of Baroque art. Both the stunning mosaics and the exquisite cloister at Monreale are considered highlights of European art, and the collections at Palermo's Archeological Museum rank it as one of Italy's best.

Sicily has its share of natural wonders, too, with Mount Etna ranking as continental Europe's tallest active volcano, and the nightly display from Stromboli , in the neighboring Aeolian Islands, its most dependable. Beyond its tourist attractions, you'll enjoy Sicily for its lively local culture and spirited people.

Discover the best things to do on this diverse island with our list of the top attractions in Sicily.

1. The Cathedral of Monreale

2. the valley of temples in agrigento, 3. church mosaics in palermo, 4. eastern temples at selinunte, 5. explore mount etna by rail or cable car, 6. villa romana del casale in enna, 7. parco archeologico della neapolis, syracuse, 8. taormina's townscape and greek theater, 9. aeolian islands, 10. go to the beach, 11. antonino salinas regional archeological museum, 12. ragusa and modica, 13. cefalù cathedral, 14. ortigia, sicily (palermo) - climate chart.

The cathedral of Monreale reflects at once the politics, religion, and artistic heights of Sicily under the Normans. And in doing so, it also achieved a place in the art history of Europe, all the more remarkable because it remains today almost exactly as it was built in the 1100s.

The cathedral's architecture represents the move away from Eastern Byzantine forms, but its decoration with dazzling mosaics – considered the church's magnificent highlight – keep it firmly in the Byzantine traditions. They cover every available surface, in intricate illustrations of Biblical text and themes rendered in vibrant colors and with exceptional artistic virtuosity.

Artistically, the cloister ranks right alongside the mosaics, a masterpiece of 228 double columns, with intricately carved capitals, surrounding a garden with a lovely fountain in one corner. The stone carving is not only beautiful, but the motifs are an engaging mix of mythical, religious, animal, floral, and human figures. Many of the columns are inlaid with colored stones, and no two are alike.

Just a few steps from the cathedral, the boutique hotel Palazzo Cuto occupies a historic home furnished in antiques and decorated by paintings and sculptures. Views from the hotel are spectacular, sweeping across Palermo and the inland mountains.

Address: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, Monreale

• Read More: Exploring Monreale Cathedral: A Visitor's Guide

The large complex of temples and tombs in Agrigento dates as far back as 500 BCE and includes Sicily's best preserved Doric temple – Tempio di Concordia – one of the most perfect to survive anywhere. Along with it in the eastern group is the Tempio di Juno Lacinia , almost as large, and in the western group is Temple of the Olympian Zeus , the largest of them at 40 meters but toppled by an earthquake.

The circular Doric Tempio di Heracles , also in the western group, was destroyed by the Carthaginians and rebuilt by the Romans, only to be partially destroyed in an earthquake. The entire group is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Luxurious guest rooms and suites of the Hotel Villa Athena overlook the Tempio della Concordia in the Valley of the Temples, and the garden surrounding the resort includes a swimming pool and spa.

Address: Valle dei Templi, Agrigento, Sicily

Official site: http://www.valleyofthetemples.com/

• Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Agrigento

Two of Palermo's three major churches, the Cappella Palatina and Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio, better known as La Martorana , are famed for their mosaics. Those in the chancel of the Normans' court church, Cappella Palatina, are thought to be from 1143 and the mosaic of Christ between Peter and Paul from about 1350. Other highlights of the church are the Arabic stalactite ceiling, the pulpit on carved and inlaid pillars, and the tall candelabra.

La Martorana's beautiful mosaics are also from the 12th century on a gold ground and are the oldest of their kind in Sicily. The image of Christ is the centerpiece, and elsewhere in the vaulting, dome, apses, and narthex are scenes from the New Testament.

The third church, the cathedral, is worth visiting for its 1453 Gothic-Catalan portico, monumental Norman tombs, and jewel-encrusted crown of Constance of Aragon in the cathedral treasury.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Palermo

One of the largest and most significant of Sicily's ancient sites, Selinunte has eight Greek temples dating as far back as the fifth century BC, plus the nearby Temple of Demeter. The most important are those known as the Eastern Group, labeled by letter: Temple G for its impressive size and Temple E for its architectural grandeur, considered the highpoint of the Classical period. Temple G, now in ruin, was among the largest of all Greek temples.

In a separate section is the large Acropolis surrounded by defensive walls, some dating from the seventh century BC. Temple C is the largest and oldest, from about 550 BC, and sits on the highest ground.

Etna is an enigma; even its height is never certain, as it changes with each new eruption. But at more than 3,000 meters, it rules the skyline with its often-smoking cone. Volcanic vents, fumaroles, hot springs, and lava flows add to its changing landscape, much of which you can explore (although not too close to the central crater) on foot or in all-terrain vehicles designed for traction in the volcanic surface.

Roads lead to the base of cable cars, which will take you to the 2,500-meter point, an easy day trip from Catania or Taormina . In the winter, you can ski near the summit.

A narrow-gauge railway, Ferrovia Circumetnea takes you almost completely around the mountain, or you can circle it by car, through towns with castles, archeological sites, and splendid scenery. Along Mount Etna's northern side, the Alcantara River has cut a spectacular gorge through a long-ago lava flow to create the Gole dell'Alcántara (Alcantara Gorge).

A 12th-century landslide buried this sprawling Roman villa outside Enna, thus preserving it almost intact to be discovered and excavated eight centuries later. One of the best-preserved villas anywhere in the Roman Empire, it still has most of the original decoration.

In the 50 rooms so far excavated are more than 3,500 square meters of mosaic floors with detailed scenes from mythology and contemporary life, including hunting wild animals for use in gladiatorial combat. The thermal baths with their colonnaded courtyard and fountain are especially beautiful. The villa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Address: Contrada Casale 1, Piazza Armerina, Enna

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Enna

• (1) Entrance
• (3) Aphrodite ante-room
• (4) Frigidarium
• (5) Salve and massage room
• (6) Tepidarium
• (8) Vestibule
• (9) Peristyle
• (10) Water system
• (11) Small temple
• (12) Small latrine
• (13) Palaestra or Salone di Circo
• (14) Large latrine
• (15) Room with stove
• (16) Inner hall
• (17) Dance hall
• (18) Geometrical stellar mosaics
• (19) Lost mosaics
• (20) Room of the Seasons
• (21) Room of the Little Hunt
• (22) Cupids fishing
• (23) Square mosaics
• (24) Octagonal mosaics
• (25) Corridor of the Great Hunt
• (26) Rectangular mosaics
• (27) Maidens exercising
• (28) Orpheus Room
• (29) Xystos
• (30) Amorettos at the grape harvest
• (31) Wine press
• (32) Vine growing
• (37) Vestibule of Polyphemo
• (38) Erotic scenes
• (39) Representations of fruit
• (40) The Great Basilica
• (41) Room with Arion
• (42) Atrium with columned hall
• (43) Boys hunting
• (44) Vestibule with Eros and Pan
• (45) Vestibule with a Small Circus
• (46) Musicians

One of the largest theaters in the ancient Greek Empire is a good reason, but not the only one, to visit the archaeological park in Syracuse. The view of the excavations as you approach along Viale Rizzo will give you an idea of their extent, which includes both the Greek Theater and a large Roman Amphitheater .

The massive Altar of Hiero II dates from the third century BC, a century later than the 15,000-spectator Greek Theater. The Roman Amphitheater is from the third century AD and is partly hewn from the bedrock.

An interesting feature of this archaeological park is the opportunity to see the quarries where the building stone was cut on-site for the various structures. The largest of these is the Latomia del Paradiso , where limestone was quarried since the sixth century BC. One of the underground galleries has such perfect acoustics that it is known as l'Orecchio di Dionisio, the Ear of Dionysius .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Syracuse

Competing with mountaintop Erice as Sicily's most beautiful town setting, Taormina would be a favorite with tourists even without its magnificent Greek Theater and its iconic view of Mount Etna . Taormina's streets open into terraces, each one with postcard-worthy views of the sea or mountain.

Corso Umberto is the main street, crossing the town in a series of squares and terraces and lined by venerable buildings, smart shops, and open-air cafés. Lanes lead upward, becoming long flights of stairs that lead higher and higher to more viewpoints and a castle.

The best-known view, immortalized by painters for centuries, is from the landmark Greek Theater, built in the third century BC by the Greeks and completely rebuilt a century later by the Romans. It is largely intact and used for performances.

For spectacular views of the town and Mt. Etna and a peaceful setting above the busy streets, choose the small, luxury boutique Hotel Villa Ducale . Guest rooms and suites are individually designed in a blend of traditional Sicilian and Italian contemporary style. A free shuttle takes guests to the town center and the beach.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Taormina & Easy Day Trips

These seven islands, all of volcanic origin and some still active, lie off the north coast of Sicily and are easily reached by boat from Messina or Milazzo. The best known is perhaps Stromboli , whose pyrotechnics light the sky each night, much to the delight of passengers on cruise ships, which time their departures for the display.

The volcanic activity has created beautiful coastlines of rough, craggy rocks, as well as natural attractions-fumaroles and thermal and sulfur springs-to visit. Water sports of all kinds are another draw for tourists, who find beaches, boat rentals, diving, and scenic boat excursions, as well as ferry connections between the islands. Prehistoric sites abound, as do later sites from Greek and Roman periods.

Some of the best beaches in Italy lie along the shores of Sicily, long stretches of white sand that slope into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, Tyrrhenian, and Ionian seas. While many of these beaches are equipped with the typical stabilimento balneare , with lounge chairs ( lettini ) to rent and the use of changing tents, showers, and restrooms, there are less developed beaches located inside nature preserves.

One of these is Torre Salsa , inside a World Wildlife Fund nature reserve close to Agrigento and Selinunte. Instead of the usual beach facilities and crowds of sun worshipers, you'll find six kilometers of unspoiled sand beach backed by white chalk cliffs. The water is just as pristine, clear, and filled with marine life, which makes this a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Also protected as part of a World Wildlife Fund nature reserve , the tiny island of Isola Bella is directly below Taormina , and reached by a cable car. It is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of rocky beach, and the beach itself is pebbles instead of sand. But a more beautiful setting is hard to imagine, and the waters are crystal clear. Snorkeling is popular here, and there are lounge chairs for rent, as well as kayaks.

Adjacent to the Zingaro Nature Reserve , on Sicily's northwestern coast, and sheltered by a soaring headland at one end, is the beach of San Vito Lo Capo. The scene is idyllic, complete with palm trees, a kilometer-long beach of soft white sand, and clear blue water, and there are tourist facilities here.

In a place so filled with Greek, Roman, and earlier sites, you'd expect to find many impressive museums. And you'd be right. But even among this abundance, Palermo's Antonino Salinas Regional Archeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Regionale Antonino Salinas) tops them all, and is one of the finest in all Italy.

Among its highlights are the Palermo Stone with hieroglyphics listing Egyptian Pharaohs of the third and fourth millennia BC, a colossal second-century BC statue of Zeus, and the outstanding sculptures and friezes from the temples at Selinunte. Look also for the Etruscan Mercury staff, grave carvings from Chiusi, Attic grave-reliefs, as well as Stone Age and Copper Age tools and vessels.

The earthquake of 1693 leveled much of the southern tip of Sicily, including the neighboring towns of Ragusa and Modica. Both towns were rebuilt in the then-current Baroque style, with local interpretations that became known as Sicilian Baroque. Along with six others, Ragusa and Modica were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the "culmination and final flowering of Baroque art in Europe."

Ragusa built a new town on a hill above the old one, but enough buildings were left in the old town for it to remain active, with new Baroque buildings replacing fallen ones. Modica, too, is built on two levels, and its upper town is highlighted by the Church of San Giorgio , built with materials recovered from fallen buildings after the earthquake. In the lower town, look for the 15th-century Gothic rose window in the Chiesa del Carmine .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ragusa

One of Sicily's most interesting medieval buildings, the imposing cathedral was built, so legend has it, by the Norman King Roger II as a votive offering for surviving a storm at sea. The cathedral is a Sicilian history book, with architecture and decorations reflecting almost every wave of conquest in the island's history. Look for Arab, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Norman elements.

The semi-circular dome of the apse is filled by a mosaic of Christ by Byzantine artists, among the best-preserved mosaics in Sicily. Along with the mosaics, look for the baptismal font from the 12th century and for the highly ornamental plasterwork in the choir.

The cathedral stands out above winding stone streets that drop into the colorful fishing harbor and a long white-sand beach that stretches along the coast from right below the old town. If you're looking for a place to stay, Cefalu Sea Palace is an affordable beachfront resort with a large pool and rooftop restaurant.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, Cefalù

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Cefalù

The Citta Vecchia (Old City) of Syracuse is on an island, a tightly packed warren of streets dating back to ancient times and connected to the larger new city by two narrow bridges. The Greeks fortified it, and built temples to Apollo and Athena.

One of these remains today, incorporated into the cathedral in the 7 th century (you can see its Doric columns in the walls). It later became a mosque for more than two centuries, and was re-Christianized by the Normans, who added the mosaics. It was rebuilt again after a 1693 earthquake, in the Sicilian Baroque style.

Also in the Citta Vecchia are remains of a Greek theater and a Roman amphitheater. These, the Cathedral and the Necropolis of Pantalica on the outskirts of the newer city, are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Besides seeing these landmarks, tourists find plenty of things to do in the narrow lanes and waterside promenades of this old city. Ortigia is a good place to get a feel for local life, in its shops, cafés, and the daily open-air market. Stroll along the promenade of Foro Italico and stop to enjoy the sea view from a shady bench.

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Exploring Sicily: Most tourists arrive in the busy port city of Messina , at the eastern tip of Sicily, and explore the nearby attractions on day trips from Messina . At the western end of the island, the historic port city of Trapani is filled with things to see and do; Selinunte is only one of the interesting day trips from Trapani .

Where to Go from Sicily: Ferries connect Sicily to other Mediterranean islands. Weekly service runs to Cagliari , from which you can explore the attractions of Sardinia . More frequent ferries travel to Valletta , the main port for the island of Malta .

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Sicilian tourist draw

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Answer for the clue "Sicilian tourist draw ", 4 letters: etna

Alternative clues for the word etna

• Where Vulcan worked
• Erupter of 1971
• Mount in Europe
• Site in Sicily
• A gas burner used in laboratories
• Noted stratovolcano
• Erupter of 1992
• It can be seen in Sicily
• Peak near Catania

Word definitions for etna in dictionaries

Wikipedia Word definitions in Wikipedia Etna is a fictional character who appears in the Disgaea series of video games.

Usage examples of etna.

Without lighting up, she set the etna going, and stood looking at the moon-full for the second time since she and Cyril had waited for it in the Abbey.

Clearly he, too, had realised the potential consequences of a second Etna on the bay.

Then we drove west for a while for a last glimpse of Etna and a brief reading from D.

I have studied Etna for years, and Vesuvio is a second cousin to Etna .

To the right towered the majestic peak of Etna , its crest just now golden red in the dying sunset.

So the girls sat on the terrace overlooking the sea and Etna , and breathed the sweet air and enjoyed the caressing sunshine, until they noticed the portiere coming hastily toward them.

Kenneth set up his easel in the garden and began to paint old Etna , with its wreath of snow and the soft gray cloud of vapor that perpetually hovered over it.

Kenneth pleaded for one more day in which to finish his picture of Etna , and this was allowed him.

The road skirted the coast through the oldest and most picturesque part of Sicily, and it amazed them to observe that however far they travelled Etna was always apparently next door, and within reaching distance.

Cologne, hot-water bottle, Etna , shawls, thermometer, everything she had which could serve in illness.

Christmas is upon you, with its conventions of peace and good will, you will find yourself in for a glacial epoch of cold, unforgiving hostility, with an occasional Etna flare of open warfare.

People told of their ascension of Mount Etna and how they had leaned over the immense crater, arm in arm, cheek to cheek, as if to throw themselves into the very abyss.

No one can make an affidavit to the contrary, and therefore I still say nothing against the supposition: indeed, were geologists to assert that the whole continent of America had in like manner been formed by the simultaneous explosion of a train of Etnas laid under the water all the way from the North Pole to the parallel of Cape Horn, I am the last man in the world to contradict them.

In 1924 He gerrymandered the elections, and He has oppressed minorities in the Tyrol and the North-East: He sent our soldiers to take part in the rape of Somalia and Libya, drenching their hands in the blood of innocents, He has doubled the number of the bureaucracy in order to tame the bourgeoisie, He has abolished local government, interfered with the judiciary, and purportedly has divinely stopped the flow of lava on Mt Etna by a mere act of will.

The other day I was in the little nearby town of Etna waiting to bring home one of my children from a piano lesson when a car stopped outside the local post office and a man about my age popped out and dashed inside (and left the engine running-something else that exercises me inordinately).

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• LIVING SICILY
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SICILY a unique feeling

• Where to go? Everywhere Acireale Adrano Agrigento Aidone Alcamo Alcara Li Fusi Avola Bagheria Bisacquino Bivona Blufi Borgo Parrini Bronte Buccheri Burgio Butera Caccamo Calascibetta Calatafimi Segesta Caltabellotta Caltagirone Caltanissetta Capo d’Orlando Carini Castelbuono Castellammare del Golfo Castelmola Castelvetrano Castiglione di Sicilia Castroreale Catania Cefalù Chiusa Sclafani Cinisi Corleone Custonaci Egadi Enna Eolie Erice Etna Favara Ferla Gangi Gela Geraci Siculo Giardini Naxos Gibellina Giuliana Grammichele Gratteri Ispica Lampedusa & Linosa Letojanni Licata Marsala Marzamemi Mazara del Vallo Messina Milazzo Militello in Val di Catania Modica Mojo Alcantara Mondello Monreale Montalbano Elicona Monterosso Almo Naro Nicosia Niscemi Noto Novara di Sicilia Paceco Pachino Palazzo Adriano Palazzolo Acreide Palermo Pantelleria Parco Archeologico di Selinunte Partinico Paternò Patti Petralia Soprana Piana degli Albanesi Piazza Armerina Porto Empedocle Portopalo di Capo Passero Ragusa Randazzo Realmonte Salemi Sambuca di Sicilia San Cono San Marco d’Alunzio San Vito lo Capo Santo Stefano Quisquina Savoca Sciacca Scicli Siracusa Sperlinga Sutera Taormina Terme Vigliatore Termini Imerese Terrasini Trapani Troina Tusa Ustica Zafferana Etnea
• What's your interests? All interests Art and Culture    Archaeological Sicily    Art in Sicily    Handicraft    Living Traditions    Places of Culture    Sicily and Cinema    UNESCO Event    Christmas    Cinema and shows    Conventions and congresses    Exhibitions    Festival    Festivals, fairs and markets    Folklore and traditional festivals    Major Events    Music    Other events    Sport and adventure    Theater Families and Children Inland Outdoors    By Bike    By Motorbike    Sport and Adventure    Trekking and Outdoor Sea in Sicily Spa and Wellness Spirituality    Religious Tourism    Sacred Routes Territory Tourism Commitment Traveling you learn Unmissable flavors Villages Xmas in Sicily

HIGH LIGHTS

Discover unique proposals to consult on the fly

WELCOME TO SICILY  G7 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES 

Syracuse is ready to welcome the G7 Agriculture and Fisheries , with a series of side events that will last 9 days, from 21 to 29 September : exhibition stands, tastings, musical entertainment throughout the historic centre, sporting events and the opportunity of visiting the Diciotti and Gregoretti coastguard ships!

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From 13 December 2023 to 30 September 2024, the Norman Palace in Palermo will host a major exhibition that will [...]

Event Festival Festivals, fairs and markets Major Events Music

Cous Cous Festival

The ten day event of food and music has become an important international gastronomic appointment. On the threshold of autumn, it [...]

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EXPERIENCES TO BE LIVED

How many times have you yearned to enjoy a fully relaxing holiday, to contemplate a beautiful landscape while breathing in clean air and sipping a good glass of Etna DOC?

To stroll through a piazza with open-air bars and get lost in a maze of narrow streets, with your nose in the air, wandering between flowery windowsills and bell towers, noble palaces and rounded balconies, peering into courtyards?

Dreams and desires can come true: it’s time to visit Sicily’s beautiful villages.

These small towns by the sea, surrounded by greenery, nestled in the hinterland or perched on the mountains will offer you what you are looking for, with small curiosities and new discoveries, such as houses carved out of the rock that were inhabited until the last century, or the most famous film set of all time.

In each of the nine Sicilian provinces, you will find the right village for you and, nearby, many other places that may be less renowned but will remain forever in your heart.

These people-friendly places and holidays can be experienced in company and in safety, where the watchword is “unspoiled”, just like your chosen village.

Unmissable flavors

The flavours, shapes, scents and colours of Sicilian food have become symbols of overwhelming pleasure all over the world.

The outstanding desserts include cannolo   and cassata , which bring out the freshness and authenticity of local ricotta. Granita , which does not include ice here, reveals itself in all its creaminess. It can be difficult to choose between the many flavours and it is so delicious it can even give the best homemade ice cream a run for its money. Never alone: it should be accompanied by an aromatic hot brioche , and strictly with a “tuppo” (nobble).

Almonds , another of the island’s points of pride, are used to make the paste that is often chosen as a sweet souvenir by those visiting a distant friend. It is also the basis for a thirst-quenching and sumptuous milk and the choreographic creations of martorana fruit , which add life to the windows of the pastry shops and amuse tourists and passers-by.

In Sicily there are many delicacies rooted in tradition and faith , which become beloved symbols before they being consumed.

Bridging sweet and savoury, the juiciest red oranges  come from the countryside most beloved by the sun, while the most famous pistachios , those from Bronte, now dominate the culinary scene thanks to their gastronomic flexibility, which ranges from their use as sweet cream in desserts to the intense pestos that bring together ancient grains [link to Sicilian Ancient Grains] in the form of inimitable first courses.

A treasure trove of flavours: from Bronte’s green gold to the finest red gold , Saffron , which seduces the palate and inspires you to dream. And digging in the undergrowth, precious jewels and nuggets emerge: mushrooms and truffles .

An icon of Sicilianness, arancin*  has a name that divides people but its taste brings everyone together: it is a rice-based wonder, an essential fried delicacy and the pinnacle of Sicilian street food .

Sicily is the cradle of the Mediterranean diet , which has always been the healthiest and most varied approach to food. It also brings out the best of fish and vegetables through caponata and parmigiana , as well as pickles and infinite speciality dishes, in which the Pachino tomato reigns supreme .

In Sicily, the dinner table becomes a “stage” for exhilarating flavours: one case in point is pasta alla Norma , made with tomato sauce and fried aubergines, and so named because it is considered sublime like the work of the same name by the “Swan”, the composer Vincenzo Bellini.

Meat from historic farms, such as the Nebrodi black pig, rounds off rich and surprisingly impeccable menus.

The price of Sicilian wines is rising rapidly, as the product becomes increasingly sincere, intoxicating and versatile. It serves as an invitation to savour this island in small sips, with a glass in your hand and lightness in your heart.

Walking along the nostalgic paths of taste  you will find that even dipping bread in oil  proves why you will never have enough of Sicily.

Visiting the local markets will be the best way to deeply discover the tasty, spicy and most authentic flavours of Sicilian street food. Sicilian street food is among the most celebrated, and its main symbol is the arancin * of contention, which is loved and appreciated all over the world.

Sicily is the cradle of the Mediterranean diet and will surprise you witha thousand combinations of poor ingredients that enrich vegetarian menus.

And if you are wondering whether Sicily is the right destination for you, you will find the answer in a glass of local wine .

Discover all the flavours of your happy island.

Traveling you learn

In Sicily, you can visit the majestic volcano Etna , the Valley of the Temples , the Greek Theatre of Taormina and the one of Syracuse . You can learn more about Quasimodo, Verga, Il Gattopardo and the Rape of Persephone . Close your geography, science and art history books. Forget everything you learned at school and get ready to live a new experience.

You can follow the verses and passages of the greatest writers in world literature, from Sciascia to Camilleri, from Tomasi di Lampedusa to Pirandello . Travel along the literary routes that will lead you to discover an unusual side of Sicily.

Discover the roots of the fascinating myths and legends . These stories take inspiration from an extraordinary nature whose shapes and colours influenced the course of history itself. All tales reveal one truth: Sicily has always been a place loved by the Gods .

Travelling through Sicily, you can learn what rare botanical wonders live around the island. You can visit corners of paradise such as the Bioparco di Sicilia , or you can choose to follow the footsteps of Charles V around Sicily’s most beautiful cities . Spend some time watching hundreds of colourful kites soar through the sky, then taste and discover the history of real Aztec chocolate .

Travelling is the best way to learn something new and unique about Sicily.

Tourism Commitment

There are stories of men , perspectives, voices and hands that come together and, with commitment, give life to new hopes. They are the symbols of a Sicily that rises from its ashes.

Discover the Sicily that doesn’t give up.

The part of Sicily that does not want to be forgotten creates memorials. Palermo Ecomuseum promotes projects related to shared social responsibility, participatory care of the territory and sustainable tourism. The local community plans cultural, touristic and educational initiatives.

A terrible earthquake destroyed the town of Gibellina . Today its existence echoes through the work of its rebirth: Burri’s Cretto . There is a part of Sicily that shouldn’t be forgotten and abandoned. In Favara , from the greyness of a neighbourhood destined to decay, Florinda and Antonio created the Farm Cultural Park . Today it is one of the world’s most vibrant cultural centres. With Fiumara d’Arte, Antonio Presti has proclaimed the salvific power of beauty, creating one of the largest and most evocative land art parks in Europe. The inhabitants of the small and enchanting Borgo Parrini transformed the town into one of the most evocative places on the island, a virtuous example of urban regeneration.

There is another part of Sicily that does not surrender to fate. It pursues its dreams and reaches for the stars. One example is the shepherd poet Lorenzo Reina , who shapes the Andromeda Theatre in Santo Stefano Quisquina with his bare hands.

We cannot mention the part of Sicily that does not surrender to the Mafia . With infinite gratitude for the men who gave their lives to protect their land, it keeps their memory alive and educates the new generations to fight with messages of peace.

Discover the beautiful stories that Sicily has to tell. Prepare yourself for an exciting journey that will enrich your soul: this is what committed tourism is all about.

Sicily is the perfect and unique destination for those who want to spend a holiday surrounded by art, history and culture.

Let’s discover the cities and small towns of Sicily. Noto is the capital of Sicilian Baroque. In Caltagirone , we will be surprised by the blaze of colours of its ceramics. Syracuse is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a walk through its streets will take you back in time. In Modica , the Duomo di San Giorgio’s great beauty (the Baroque icon in Sicily) will leave you speechless. In Marsala , you can admire the most beautiful sunset in the world, which makes the atmosphere of the Stagnone surreal. We then arrive in Piana degli Albanesi , a tiny Albania in the heart of Sicily, ready to welcome you with its lake teeming with life.

You will get to know such a wide and varied territory that you may wonder whether you are still in the same Region. Sicily seems to be the gateway to another dimension. Heaven and hell make peace in the Etnean landscape. Gods and nymphs weave love stories, unbridled passions and jealousies through forests, rivers and springs. But don’t forget to visit the smaller islands.

In Lipari , you can taste the worldwide famous Malvasia. Panarea is the most exclusive and popular destination. You can explore the Island of Alicudi on the back of a donkey. Don’t miss visiting the characteristic Island of Vulcano , renowned for its mud baths. Stromboli is pyrotechnical, while, in Salina , you can see the home of the poet Neruda, set of Massimo Troisi’s unforgettable movie “ Il Postino ”.

Then there are the Egadi Islands , Pantelleria , Ustica , Linosa and Lampedusa . They are all surrounded by a wonderful sea, and each Island has its palette of reflections, from deep blue to the turquoise sky. You will be completely captivated by the colours and atmosphere of these places.

There is too much to see, and it is hard to choose where to start. Do not waste time then: get ready to go. Sicily is waiting for you!

Spirituality

There is increasing demand for holidays that take us away from crowded places and daily stress, where the body and mind can find rest and meditation.

Excursions lead us to places where nature and silence reign, with monasteries, hermitages and shrines where it is possible to find religious devotion by retracing the paths of Saints and beatified people, as well as a secular moment of serenity.

The Sacred Paths are routes that have been travelled by pilgrims since ancient times, and have now become itineraries with great attraction for tourists. Some are a few dozen kilometres long, others hundreds. Discover the itineraries along the ancient roads of the Via Francigena or along the most beaten religious paths, and get ready to walk through the most enchanting places in Sicily.

Sicily is ready to offer an interesting network of religious routes that allow you to discover bright gems that are still little known, alone or with the help of local nature associations.

Spa and Wellness

Sicily offers a wide range of natural treatments to regenerate the body and mind.

If relaxation, sensory well-being and immersive pleasure are your top travel priorities, when you visit Sicily, you will discover that it is an amazing open-air spa .

It is not a matter of destination or length of your holiday: you will find out that the simplest and most natural things have extraordinary power over your health.

Breathe deeply and find your balance using the wisdom of the centuries-old forests and the energy of the frozen waterfalls . Surround yourself with sunshine and beauty. Relax on the salt crust in the unique setting of the Stagnone . Explore and rest in the natural caves , places of the Gods in the minor islands .

The thermal waters scattered throughout Sicily supply some of the best facilities in Italy .

Let your wellness journey begin. You deserve the best: you deserve Sicily.

Sea in Sicily

A quick look at the beaches, lidos and coves on the wonderful Sicily sea, with surprising transparency and richness of colours.

We’ll start from the coast on the south of this incredible island, going from Capo Passero in Syracuse to Capo Granitola in Trapani , which proudly reveals its golden sand with an exotic flair.

Marina di Ragusa, Pozzallo, Punta Secca in the territory of Ragusa , the Torre Salsa Reserve near Sciacca, the island of Lampedusa and the Scala dei Turchi in Agrigento have very long beaches that are usually not crowded, and which blend the “off-grid” harmony and relaxation we all seek.

This sandy coast extends to Mazara del Vallo and Marsala and continues with the Via del Sale, the Stagnone Reserve and Mozia in Trapani . Here we find out how salt is produced in the museums dedicated to it. Riserva dello Zingaro and the white, fine sandy beach of San Vito lo Capoe need no introduction and open up to the Tyrrhenian coast, characterised by a succession of beaches and cliffs.

The island of Ustica , Cefalù and Mondello in the Palermo area, the Aeolian Islands , Capo d’Orlando and Tindari in the province of Messina and the Egadi Islands in the Trapani region all overlook the Tyrrhenian Sea, where the blue of the sea is intense and snorkelling is very enjoyable.

The eastern coast starts after Messina with the lava rocks and pebble beaches of Taormina and Giardini Naxos, the Acireale Timpa Nature Reserve and the cliffs of Aci Trezza. The sand then returns in the Gulf of Catania , Syracuse , the Vendicari Reserve , going up to Marzamemi and the Isola delle Correnti, the precise point where the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea meet.

Also discover the child-friendly beaches and those that have been awarded the blue flag in 2024 !

The climate and landscapes allow you to pursue many outdoor sports activities in Sicily, combining wellness and fun: you will be spoilt for choice.

If you love the sea, you can dive and snorkel, experiencing the thrill of contact with the most awe-inspiring fauna and flora and discovering the “Divers’ paradise” on the bottom of Ustica, in the heart of Italy’s first marine reserve. You will behold images and colour combinations that you thought were pure science fiction with your own eyes.

On the surface, however, the sea works together with the wind to playfully push you towards kitesurfing: try it in the beautiful setting of Stagnone in Marsala!

The Sicilian natural scenery offers an original and fully comprehensive solutions for any level of fatigue, for all ages and for previous background of physical activity, from those who want to get fit to those who want to push their limits. Choose between a walk with your children   and the extremes of climbing and ski mountaineering. There are challenges with a very wide range of difficulty levels, from golf, which you can play in both the west and east of Sicily, to a highly evocative bike trip, from a day spent feeling truly free on a sailing boat to a horseback ride on Etna or crossing the Argimusco.

The hinterland of Sicily is the heart of the island, it is a little-known area. Here time flows naturally, and the contact with the locals is wonderful. It is a land rich in cultural expressions, millenary traditions, archaeological, architectural and naturalistic treasures. Many places make you want to stay forever.

Let’s discover the slopes of Mount Etna or the Simeto Nature Reserve : this area is rich in lava caves, waterfalls, rapids and small lakes. The Piana degli Albanesi Lake , on the other hand, is an area teeming with life. From the Bosco Della Ficuzza , we find ourselves in the heart of the Parco delle Madonie , dotted with small towns where time flows slowly and quietly.

Enna is the highest town in Italy, and from here you can enjoy a panoramic view over the whole island. Caltanissetta has a historical centre full of Renaissance and Baroque monuments.

Sutera is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The Teatro di Andromeda in Santo Stefano Quisquina is a magical place surrounded by the pastoral landscape of the Monti Sicani .

Despite being in the centre of Sicily, far from the coast, you can enjoy the incredible and unique view of the Aeolian Islands . You will feel like you have just completed a journey into the most unusual and authentic Sicily.

Families and Children

Sicily is the perfect place to spend a carefree and fun holiday with your family and children.

Here you can travel and walk with children in total comfort and safety , discovering beautiful and unexpected natural settings . You can travel on foot, by bicycle or on the back of friendly donkeys . There are many ways to discover a land rich in hidden treasures, observing fauna and flora of rare beauty.

We recommend the best beaches to enjoy the wonderful Sicilian sea and spend your days among sandcastles, velvet seabeds and curious little fish. If you are lucky enough, you may even see a specimen of Caretta Caretta turtle !

In the Valley of the Temples , children can become budding archaeologists. They will be provided with the right equipment and guided by experts in discovering ancient remains. The Ludum is the first science museum in Sicily where you can learn what laws regulate the Universe.

You can discover the rare botanical wonders hidden around the island together with your family. You can visit corners of paradise such as the Bioparco di Sicilia . Or you can test your courage in the Adventure Parks , suspended in the air amidst the greenery.

Another unforgettable experience is driving along the writers’ road . Follow in the footsteps of Charles V on a historical route. Have fun with the children by flying colourful kites and tasting Aztec chocolate . Be inspired and choose the experience that perfectly suits you and your family.

Art and Culture

Some treasures do not need to be touched to perceive their rarity. However, in this triangular and evocative region, you will constantly come across the signs left by history, the passage of man and his creativity.

Get ready to discover how Sicily can amaze you. Sicily will surprise you when you least expect it. As you stroll along the streets, you will come across the works of contemporary street art : it is intense, immediate and universal. Looking out, over the infinity of the Sicilian hinterland, from the Andromeda Theatre, you will see a mystical and ancestral place. You will feel like floating in sidereal space. You have the chance to visit artisan’s workshops , guardians of traditions handed down from father to son.

Some customs are very ancient, such as the working of obsidian or the unique and precious Mediterranean coral . These traditions keep alive arts and knowledge of inestimable value, they are World Heritage Site. This heritage also includes the Sicilian puppets , protagonists of the Opera dei Pupi . Or the art of dry stone walls that embellish landscapes with their ancient beauty.

And what about archaeological sites ? Of Sicily’s 7 UNESCO sites , some are among the most beautiful archaeological sites of all time. Examples, Pantalica , the Valley of the Temples  and the magnificent Theatre of Taormina . They all bear witness to a glorious past in bright colours just waiting to be discovered. In Sicily, you will find countless places of culture , beautiful theatres and museums, artistic routes and endless opportunities to breathe in art en plein air. You will cherish this journey in the depths of your heart, along with your most precious memories.

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Things not to be missed

Termini Imerese

Trapani and paceco salt pans.

SICILY, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD

to the discovery of an immense and always surprising heritage

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Via Francigena Fabaria

Botanical gardens in sicily, horse trail on the etna, sailing sicily: from milazzo to vulcano, on the traces of the florio family in sicily, pantelleria – cala gadir, sacred journeys – faith as a destination, acitrezza – islands of the cyclops.

UNESCO HERITAGE IN SICILY

From the seven wonders of the ancient world to the seven diamonds

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8 things to know before going to Sicily

Mar 1, 2024 • 5 min read

Sicily has a ton of personality and a few unique quirks – here's what you need to know © Jimena Roquero / Stocksy

Sicily is an island of mythic proportions, highly regarded for its natural beauty and the deep well of history it embodies in its ancient archaeological sites and luxe palazzos. A proud triangle, the island has three coastlines and two island chains and is home to the most active volcano in Europe, the indomitable Mount Etna .

In pursuit of claiming my Italian citizenship, I spent five summery months living in the Sicilian heartland, exploring the coast and ruins and immersing myself in the daily life of small-town Sicily. Preceded by its mafia history (both the fictional and the real), it is often misunderstood by visitors coming to the island with Godfather-inspired expectations, but there is a lot more to discover in Sicily beyond the stereotypes.

Here’s what you need to know before visiting.

1. Fly in and out of two different airports

The most efficient way to plan a tour through Sicily is to fly into Palermo and leave from Catania , or vice versa. Palermo and Catania are the island’s two largest cities and are located at opposite ends of the island. Each has its own airport with direct flights to the mainland and other European cities. There is also a small airport in Trapani, on the west coast – ideal if you want to visit the Egadi Islands – but here you’ll only find flights to and from mainland Italian airports.

2. Public transport in Sicily is not for the weak

Traveling by train through Sicily is convenient if you stick to the coasts and plan to travel out of main hubs like Palermo, Messina or Catania. However, the schedules are not always reliable, so you should plan plenty of buffer time into your itinerary if you choose to do Sicily without a car. Many of Sicily’s major destinations, like beachy San Vito Lo Capo and the historical hilltop town of Erice , are inaccessible by train, but you can get there by bus. Forgoing a car rental in Sicily is doable, but your trip will be much easier with a set of wheels.

3. Plan to move around

Sicily’s major attractions are dispersed throughout the island, so you will feel limited if you choose one city as your base for the whole trip. There are so many wonderful towns and islands, beautiful hotels, charming bed-and-breakfasts and a vast array of sights – from the ruins of Agrigento to the volcanoes of the Aeolian Islands , and all the historical villages and sunny vineyards in between. 

4. Understand the real history of the mafia

Sure, you can buy plenty of Godfather merchandise when you get to Sicily, but you will have a deeper appreciation of the reality of the island’s mafia history if you take the time to understand it as a tragic story, not one to be idealized. 

In Palermo, there is a free museum at the No Mafia Memorial , which details the history of organized crime in Sicily and tells the story of Falcone and Borsellino, two heroic judges who were assassinated during the mafia wars of the 1990s. In Corleone – not actually where the movie was filmed – you can also visit CIDMA , a documentation and education center that dives deeper into the saga of the Maxi Trial, a three-year criminal trial that convicted over 300 people involved in organized crime.

5. Italy’s dining dogmas still apply, but one popular breakfast will surprise you

If this isn’t your first time in Italy, you probably already know where Italians stand when it comes to pineapple on pizza, cappuccinos after lunch and chicken in pasta – they will not hear of it. Sicily follows these same rules, but one tradition is likely to delight your inner child: ice cream for breakfast. Italian breakfasts are always sweet, but Sicilians take it to the next level by enjoying either gelato or granita, a type of shaved ice, sandwiched between a fluffy brioche bun first thing in the morning.

6. Sicily’s multicultural history makes it a unique destination

Separated from the mainland by the Strait of Messina, this region of southern Italy has its own cultural identity thanks to its long history of being conquered and influenced by rulers from all over the world. Each culture, from the Greeks and Romans to the Arabs and Crown of Aragon, left its mark in some way. These influences can be found in food – like Sicily's love of couscous – and urban planning and architecture. Whether you’re walking in a city with ancient Greek foundations like Ortigia or delighting in the Baroque streets of Noto , you’ll feel the difference in style but an overall ambiance that is still distinctly Sicilian.

7. You can drink the tap water

Like the rest of Italy, you’ll find many public fountains with free water that is safe to drink unless otherwise marked as “non-potable.” Unless you're advised otherwise, tap water in Sicily is good to drink, but you will find many locals prefer the taste of bottled water. Like elsewhere in Italy and Europe, if you ask for water at a restaurant, they will bring you a bottle and charge you for it. However, if you order an espresso at a cafe bar, it usually comes with a small cup of water on the side to cleanse your palette before you sip.

8. Sicily is the frontier of Europe’s migrant crisis

Ever the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Sicily is one of the main arrival points for refugees seeking asylum in Europe. This is a particularly large issue for the distant Italian island of Lampedusa , which is closer to the coast of Africa than it is to Sicily. The high number of arrivals has at times overwhelmed select areas of Sicily, but in my experience, the effect on the tourism industry has been minimal. Still, it’s wise to educate yourself about these current events before you arrive.

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The Colorful World of the Sicilian Cart

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One of the most recognizable symbols of Sicilian folklore, the Sicilian cart ( carretto siciliano ) is an ornate, colorful horse- or donkey-drawn cart that originated in the early 19 th  century in Sicily to transport goods.

With the advent of motorization in the Sicilian countryside in the mid-20 th  century, the use of the  carretto  became obsolete; today, it is mostly considered a carefully crafted art object. You may be able to still see some when you visit Sicily, mostly for the delight of tourists.

Carts were used both for work, to carry light loads, and for festive occasions, such as weddings and parades. Horses were mostly used in the city and on flat plains, while donkeys or mules were preferred in rough terrain.

Different craftsmen are involved in the construction of a  carretto , each with his own task. The first stage is the work of the ‘carradore’, the person who builds the cart, carves the decorations and prepares the wheels. Then comes the blacksmith, who forges the metal parts. Finally, the painter adds color and liveliness to the cart, through intricate geometric designs and scenes depicting chivalrous, mythological, historical or 'novel-esque' gestures. These scenes also served the purpose of conveying historical information to those who were illiterate.

The colors of Sicily's flag, yellow and red, feature prominently on the carts. The animals pulling the carts are often elaborately adorned as well.

Carretto  artisans keeping the tradition alive have become rare nowadays. Miniature versions are easily found in souvenir shops for those wishing to carry home a  carretto siciliano .

Uno dei simboli più conosciuti del folclore siciliano, il carretto siciliano è un carro riccamente ornato e colorato, trainato da cavalli o da asini, che ebbe origine all'inizio del XIX° secolo in Sicilia per il trasporto di merci.

Con l'avvento della motorizzazione nella campagna siciliana alla metà del XX° secolo, l'uso del carretto divenne obsoleto; oggi è considerato un oggetto artistico, realizzato artigianalmente e con cura. Si possono ancora vedere alcuni carretti in giro, soprattutto per la gioia dei turisti.

I carretti erano utilizzati sia per lavoro, per il trasporto di carichi leggeri, sia per occasioni di festa, come i matrimoni e le sfilate. I cavalli erano utilizzati prevalentemente in città e pianura, mentre gli asini o i muli erano preferiti su terreno accidentato.

Diversi artigiani sono coinvolti nella costruzione di un carretto, ognuno con il proprio compito. La prima fase è ad opera del 'carradore', colui che costruisce il carretto, intaglia le decorazioni e prepara le ruote. Poi c'è il fabbro, che forgia le parti metalliche. Infine, il pittore aggiunge colore e vivacità, attraverso intricati disegni geometrici e scene che raffigurano gesta cavalleresche, mitologiche, storiche o romanzesche. Queste pitture avevano anche lo scopo di trasmettere informazioni storiche a coloro che erano analfabeti.

I colori della bandiera di Sicilia, il giallo e il rosso, compaiono bene in vista sui carretti. Anche gli animali che trascinano i carretti sono riccamente adornati.

Gli artigiani che mantengono viva la tradizione del carretto sono ormai rari oggi. Versioni in miniatura sono facilmente reperibili nei negozi di souvenir per coloro che desiderano portare a casa un carretto siciliano.

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• Country: Italy
• Location: near Aeolian Islands
• Status: island
• Capital city: Palermo
• Area: approximately 9,925 square miles / 25,700 square kilometres
• Population: approximately 5.1 million
• Language: Italian
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Time zone: GMT + 1 hour
• Country dialling code: +39
• Telephone area code: 091, 092, 093, 094, 095
• Average daily Sicily January temperature: 15°C / 59°F
• Average daily Sicily July temperature: 34°C / 93°F

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Sicily orders ban on sale of mafia souvenirs

I t has long been synonymous with the murderous deeds of the Cosa Nostra organised crime network, but the island of Sicily is now cracking down on the sale of mafia-themed souvenirs in an effort to move away from negative stereotypes.

Island authorities say T-shirts and mugs depicting Marlon Brando as Don Vito Corleone from The Godfather and knick-knacks that make light of the bloody feuds carried out by the Sicilian mafia are tarnishing the island ’s reputation.

Many of the novelty items feature cartoonish depictions of mafiosi , wearing black berets and with a “lupara” or shotgun slung across their backs.

The town of Agrigento , one of the biggest tourist draws because of its nearby cluster of ancient Greek temples, has decreed that shops must no longer sell such souvenirs.

The mayor, Francesco Miccichè , said the sale of mafia-themed products “humiliates the community, which has for years been committed to spreading the culture of legality”.

He said he was ordering a ban on “any type of object that praises, or refers in any way and form, to the mafia and organised crime”.

Police will inspect shops to make sure they are no longer selling the prohibited merchandise and there will be fines for businesses that do not comply.

The ruins in the Valley of the Temples , just outside Agrigento, are said to be the finest examples of ancient Greek architecture outside Greece and draw huge numbers of visitors.

In parallel with Agrigento’s ban, the island’s government has ordered airports to stop selling mafia memorabilia .

Alessandro Aricò, the councillor in charge of transport and infrastructure, wrote to managers at the airports of Palermo , Catania and Trapani, as well as those on the tiny islands of Lampedusa and Pantelleria , telling them to clear terminal shops of such products.

Sicily needs to “maintain a dignified image stripped of the usual negative stereotypes”, especially at entry points like airports, he said.

“Let the sale of mafia-themed merchandise and souvenirs end in the shops and commercial areas of Sicilian airports.”

It is not the first time Sicily has tried to curb the sale of such items.

Last year, the regional government decreed that ferries that ply to and from Sicily should be banned from selling mafia-themed trinkets in their gift shops.

Cosa Nostra is made up of a coalition of families and clans, known in Italian as “cosche”, with each having a monopoly on operating in a designated area, engaging in drug dealing, extortion and protection rackets.

The Sicilian mafia is believed to have originated in the 19th century, although some authorities believe its roots go back further than that.

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