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Where to visit in Sicily: 9 best places for beaches, architecture and Italian charm

The southern italian region is a year-round holiday destination, article bookmarked.

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Louise Thomas

Thanks in part to the “ White Lotus effect “ (the country featured in season two of the hit show), Sicily has become increasingly popular with travellers over the past few years. As the largest Mediterranean island, located just off the main peninsula of Italy , the country is home to beautiful beaches , quaint hilltop towns, and impressive architecture.

The summer months can get very hot – July and August are probably best spent sipping an Aperol spritz by the beach – while the less stifling temperatures in the low seasons are ideal for visiting festivals, exploring the many archaeological sites and maybe even taking a hike up Mount Etna.

Europe’s tallest active volcano is one of seven Unesco sites, which also include Roman palace Villa Romana del Casale near the central town Piazza Armerina, and the eight Baroque towns of the Val di Noto in the southeast.

Planning a Sicilian holiday soon? We’ve rounded up the best places to visit and where to stay during your Sicily trip.

Capital city Palermo is a diverse destination with architectural nods to the Phoenicians, Normans, Turks, Egyptians, Arabs, and Spaniards, who have all inhabited the area throughout its history. One of these buildings is Palermo Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century. Ballaro market and Vucciria market are both popular for street food, and there are various culinary-based walking tours where you can tuck into gelato , arancini , and cannoli .

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The city is home to impressive street art, including a wall near Ballaro market, in the Albergheria district, where you’ll see a tiny hummingbird picking up a huge rock with its wings. There are theatres and cinemas in the industrial area Cantieri Culturali della Zisa, and the Old Town is a hub for nightlife with Piazza Rivoluzione and Piazza Sant’anna both offering a buzzy atmosphere. For a more relaxing outing, head to Mondello Bay to take a boat tour.

Where to stay

Mercure Palermo Centro is situated in the centre of Palermo, only 350 metres from the Teatro Politeama theatre, a 10-minute walk from the harbour and a 15-minute walk from Palermo Cathedral. It has a bar, restaurant, 24-hour front desk and private parking. Family rooms are available, too.

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Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing.

Agrigento in the southwest is built on a hilltop and is home to the archaeological wonder of the Valley of the Temples. The ruins are an impressive site to behold. Excavations uncovered a network of aqueducts below the area, and there are also thought to be further areas of unexcavated archaeological significance in the fields below. The Petro Griffo Archaeological Museum is in modern Agrigento, where you can view Hellenistic and Roman artefacts, ancient coins, and Attic and Italiot pottery dating back to 430 BC.

Just a 25-minute drive from the city you’ll find Scala dei Turchi – a dramatic white, rocky cliff overlooking a sandy beach where you can soak up some sunshine and swim in the azure waters.

Colleverde Park Hotel is a 15-minute walk from the Valley of the Temples. Amenities include a fitness centre, airport shuttle and a bar.

Castellammare del Golfo

Castellammare del Golfo translates into English as “sea fortress on the gulf” because it is built around an Arab fortress constructed in the 11th century (and later developed by the Normans). This history makes the coastal destination an incredibly interesting place to explore. Further appeal lies in it being a relatively quiet coastal town known for its pretty harbour filled with restaurants offering a picturesque view.

There are two sandy beaches nearby, while nature reserve Lo Zingaro is just a 15-minute drive. For boat trips and watersports, head to Scopello, a coastal town 12km away.

Hotel Cetarium is close to the town’s fortress and just a short walk to a sandy beach. It has a terrace and outdoor pool for enjoying the scenery too.

Medieval town Erice is in the province of Travani, and is best known for its Norman castle and ancient temple. The town is set 750 metres above sea level on Mount San Giuliano, and the ruins of the Venus Erycina temple suggest that the town was a tribute to the Roman goddess of love, Venus. Along the quaint cobbled streets, there are craft shops and bakeries selling cannoli. Tourists can visit the medieval church Chiesa Madre, which was built in 1312 and overlooks the main square.

For those seeking an even better view, a cable car links Erice with nearby city Travani.

Former monastery Il Carmine Dimora Storica is unique accommodation situated beside the town walls, with an airport shuttle and family rooms available. Most rooms have their own balcony.

A city located in the southeast, Modica is set within the Hyblaean Mountains. It’s one of the eight Val di Noto Baroque towns with Unesco world heritage site status and was originally all carved into rock. The city boasts classic Sicilian charm, with narrow, winding streets and stairs. This means the climb to Upper Modica is a steep one – or you can catch a bus.

You’ll find boutique shops and 19th-century theatre Teatro Garibaldi on Corso Umberto. Meanwhile, nearby museum Museo Civico is situated in Palazzo della Cultura and is home to archaeological pieces from the Neolithic period. The town is also known for its chocolate, made using a traditional Sicilian technique where ingredients are never warmed to more than 45C, meaning the sugar doesn’t dissolve so it has a unique taste.

Pietre Nere Resort & Spa is a luxurious hotel on the outskirts of Modica, and nearby beach Cava di Ispica can be reached by car in less than five minutes. Spa facilities include a fitness centre, sauna, sensory showers, Turkish bath and relaxation room.

Taormina is a coastal hilltop town in the east of Sicily. One of its most impressive attractions is the ancient Greek and Roman theatre, Teatro Antico di Taormina, which is carved into rock – as well as being a tourist attraction, the venue still hosts performances, including concerts and festivals. From the theatre, there’s a view across to Mount Etna, which is just 56km away.

Mazzaro Funivia is a cable car running down to Isola Bella Beach, a strip of pebbled beach linked to the Isola Bella nature reserve that is particularly popular with Instagrammers. Meanwhile, Mazzaro Beach on the other side of Isola Bella Beach is a small bay with sand and shingle, close to bars and restaurants.

Well-located Hotel Ariston and Palazzo Santa Caterina are situated near the city centre, main bus terminal and just beside a cable car taking you to the beach. The hotel has a swimming pool, garden and two restaurants.

Catania is an ideal base for making a trip to Mount Etna and you’ll find plenty of choice for guided tours up to the volcano. Other tourist attractions include the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, which features Baroque details. It has been rebuilt several times since being originally constructed in the 11th century, courtesy of earthquakes and eruptions.

Like other Sicilian towns, you can expect to find delicious street food on offer. Fish market La Pescheria is a weekly event known just as much for being a fun and rowdy spectacle as it is for supplying seafood to nearby restaurants.

Katane Palace Hotel is situated close to the train station and features classic Sicilian decor. It’s just a 20-minute walk from the cathedral, and trips to Mount Etna can be arranged with the hotel, too.

Golden Noto, a Baroque city in the southeast, has airy aristocratic squares laden with carved gargoyles, opulent palaces and elegant alleyways. Noto’s reconstructed 18th-century cathedral dominates the skyline with its elaborate domes and facades – visit during the annual feast of San Corrado in February to attend mass alongside a lively procession through the city.

Visit the king of pastries, Caffe Sicilia, opposite the cathedral on Corso Vittorio Emanuele for famed sweet Sicilian classics including  cannolo  ricotta pastry tubes and  cassata  marzipan cake.

At Seven Rooms Villadorata on the 18th-century Palazzo Nicolaci, soaring ceilings, chandeliers and Baroque frescoes greet guests. There are also tasty buffet breakfasts of cakes, eggs and almond brittle, all just a 15-minute drive from the fine sands of Lido di Noto.

On the northern coast, medieval Cefalu balances some of Sicily’s finest sands with impressive Baroque architecture. Celebrated for its Unesco-listed Arab-Norman cathedral, the antiquities of Mandralisca Museum and laid-back beach culture on  spiaggias  Mazzaforno and Settefrati, Cefalu rivals Palermo for a Sicilian holiday.

Try local delicacy  pasta a taianu  (pasta in a pan) for flavours of aubergine, meat and pecorino cheese served in an earthenware pot, or hike to the mountaintop ruins at Rocca di Cefalu for views over the sparkling Tyrrhenian coast.

Coastal hotel Le Calette is just a shuttle bus away from the sandy swathes of Cefalu. With whitewashed Sicilian-style rooms, a restaurant serving sea urchin spaghetti and five rocky coves complete with a beach club, it’s a dream for swimming and tasting sumptuous local cuisine.

Read more: Why you should wait until the off season to visit Venice

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Sicily travel alert: Eruption at Europe's largest active volcano in Italy, Mount Etna, forces closure of Catania airport

The airport at catania in sicily, a top italian tourist destination, suspends all flights as ash from an eruption at nearby mount etna entered the airspace..

The airport at Catania in Sicily, a top Italian tourist destination , Tuesday suspended all flights as ash from an eruption at nearby Mount Etna entered the airspace.

Millions of passengers pass through Catania International Airport every year, serving the eastern part of Sicily.

"Due to eruptions and ash emissions, it has been decided to suspend flight operations," the airport operator wrote on X, inviting passengers to contact their airline for flight information.

The message was posted with a warning image of Mount Etna with the text "high intensity" and "volcanic activity in progress" overlayed.

At 3,324 metres (nearly 11,000 feet), Etna is the tallest active volcano in Europe and has erupted frequently in the past 500,000 years.

Most recently, Catania airport was closed on July 5 due to an eruption.

The first message came early this morning from the National Institute of Geophysics and Vulcanology reporting the ash column at an altitude of eight kilometres (five miles).

A second message was issued two hours later, assuring that the ash emissions were now limited to the summit of the volcano.

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Watch CBS News

American tourist dead after suddenly getting sick on Sicily's Mount Etna, rescuers say

July 12, 2024 / 7:23 AM EDT / AP

A 55-year-old American tourist died after taking ill during an excursion on the southern side of Mount Etna, in Sicily, Italy's alpine rescue service said Friday.

Rescuers said the cause of his illness was still unknown, but warned against the risk of high temperatures coupled with humidity that may prove dangerous for tourists who usually have no specific preparation for such excursions.

After being alerted on Thursday afternoon, the alpine rescue team and an air ambulance reached the man in a remote area.

Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead at the scene before his body was transported to the closest service area for transfer to a hospital mortuary, rescuers said.

"Tourists who participate in these excursions should not underestimate the risks related to high temperatures, strong humidity, and the sudden jump in altitude," said Alfio Ferrara, a spokesman for the alpine rescue service.

"Often they agree to take part in these excursions that reach 2,000-2,300 meters (6,500 to 9,800 feet) in altitude, after spending the day at the beach," he added.

On Thursday, the temperatures on Mount Etna were estimated at between 77 and 82 degrees, Ferrara said. Italian authorities had declared a red weather alert in seven cities on Thursday, mostly in the central parts of the country.

The heat conditions are aggravated by humidity and could affect healthy people as well as those with health conditions, they warned.

Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, has seen a significant increase in activity over the past week.

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https://www.barrons.com/news/etna-eruption-forces-closure-of-sicily-s-catania-airport-1670529a

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Sicily's Catania Airport Reopens After Etna Eruption

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Recasts with airport reopened

The airport at Catania in Sicily, a top Italian tourist destination, reopened late Tuesday afternoon after suspending all flights when an eruption at nearby Mount Etna spewed volcanic ash.

Millions of passengers pass every year through Catania International Airport, which serves the eastern part of Sicily with tourist sites such as Syracuse and Taormina.

"Due to the decrease in volcanic activity, flight operations will resume," the airport operator wrote on X.

Departures resumed from 6pm (1600gmt), while four arrivals per hour would be allowed from 8pm (1800gmt), it said.

All flights would resume from 10pm (2000gmt), it added.

The airport had suspended all flights earlier Tuesday "due to eruptions and ash emissions".

That message was posted with a warning image of Mount Etna with the text "high intensity" and "volcanic activity in progress" overlayed.

The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology said the ash column had reached an altitude of eight kilometres (five miles).

At 3,324 metres (nearly 11,000 feet), Etna is the tallest active volcano in Europe and has erupted frequently in the past 500,000 years.

Catania airport was last closed on July 5 due to an eruption.

Sicily's Catania Airport Reopens After Etna Eruption

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Warning issued to tourists as American man dies while hiking up Mount Etna in Sicily

Mount Etna is one of Europe's highest and most active volcanoes.

A 55-year-old American tourist has died while on Mount Etna in Sicily.

The man was taken ill during an excursion on the southern side of the volcano, Italy's alpine rescue service said today.

Rescuers said the cause of his illness was still unknown, but current high temperatures coupled with humidity may prove dangerous for tourists.

“Tourists who participate in these excursions should not underestimate the risks related to high temperatures, strong humidity, and the sudden jump in altitude,” said Alfio Ferrara, a spokesman for the alpine rescue service.

“Often they agree to take part in these excursions that reach 2,000-2,300 meters (6,500 to 9,800 feet) in altitude, after spending the day at the beach,” he added.

There is currently a heatwave in Sicily , with temperatures approaching 40 degrees Celsius in some parts of the island, which is the biggest in the Mediterranean.

• ‘The impact is enormous’: Farmers in Sicily struggle to survive amid worst drought in 30 years
• Mount Etna and Stromboli eruptions: Is it safe to travel to Sicily and are flights cancelled?

Where is Mount Etna?

Mount Etna is a volcano on the east coast of the Italian island of Sicily.

It is one of Europe's most active volcanoes and has been going through an especially active period for the last five years.

Although Mt Etna erupts frequently, lava has not reached nearby towns since the 1800s.

It has more than 200 craters and when one of these does erupt, volcanic ash lands in the city of Catania, as its foot, and the many surrounding towns and villages. This is inconvenient to residents but not usually a problem for visitors.

The nearby Catania international airport occasionally closes if the volcano causes poor visibility but it usually reopens after a few hours.

Even during an eruption, there are many hiking trails and paths that are still safe, though it is a legal requirement to go up with a qualified local mountain guide.

• Sicily: These charming small hotels boast gourmet food, local excursions and gorgeous sunsets
• ‘Imagine your body is like butter on a sunny day’: Exploring Sicily's best yoga and co-working spots

What happened to the tourist who died?

After being alerted on Thursday afternoon, the alpine rescue team and an air ambulance reached the man in a remote area.

Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

• Lava hotlines and captivating infernos: Inside the volatile world of volcano tourism in Iceland
• Hiking experts’ tips for staying safe in hot weather after five tourists die in Greek heatwave

Is it safe to travel to Sicily?

Yes, it is still safe to travel to Sicily, even if Mt Etna is erupting.

Flights and trains are running as usual.

There is an ongoing drought in Sicily but hotels and other tourist accomodation are open and operating as normal.

Travellers should take the usual precautions for hot weather - drink plenty of water, stay in the shade during the hottest hours of the day and seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

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Flights resume at Italy's Catania after Etna ash disruption

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10 Reasons to Visit Sicily on Your Next Trip to Italy

From the lively capital of Palermo to the hilltop city of Taormina, Sicily is finally being discovered for the magical destination that it is.

Italy's classic cities of Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan have long attracted tourists from around the world. All the while, Sicilians quietly produced wine, dined on superb seafood, and grew almonds, pistachios, olives, and citrus. Word has been getting out, though, about the island's picturesque coastline, historic towns, and abundant attractions.

From the lively capital of Palermo and the hilltop city of Taormina to Trapani in the west, the large tricornered island off the toe of Italy's boot is bursting with magical — and diverse — destinations. Sicily offers beaches, mountains, active volcanoes, and even snow skiing. Well-preserved archeological sites, cathedrals, and buildings show evidence of its history as a home for Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, and other peoples. The indigenous Sicanians, about whom little is known, are thought to have occupied the island as far back as 8000 B.C., giving Sicily its name.

The yellow and red flag of Sicily depicts a three-legged woman with the head of the mythical Medusa, called the "Trinacria." The three legs symbolize the three corners of Sicily, and, according to legend, the three mythological nymphs who created the island. You'll see this symbol everywhere on the island, from its flag to the souvenirs you'll want to take home as memories of your extraordinary visit to Sicily.

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

Delicious Food

Sicily has its own style of Italian cuisine; its location and history influence its most popular dishes. It's not unusual to see couscous on a menu, reflecting Arabic tastes, as well as pasta served with ingredients that reflect each locale's specialty. Delicious fresh seafood is plentiful — the island has more than 600 miles of coastline — and sardines are served on their own or in the flavorful pasta con le sarde, which includes fennel, pine nuts, and raisins. Pasta alla Norma features tomato, eggplant, and salted ricotta cheese. Fried rice balls called arancini are popular snacks, and a favorite antipasto is caponata, a luscious mixture of tomatoes, capers, and eggplant.

Sicilians love desserts and are known to make the best cannoli — fried pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta. Granita, crushed ice flavored with fruit, almond, or coffee, and cassata , sponge cake with liqueur, ricotta, and marzipan (almond paste) are also top picks. Frutta Martorana, a Sicilian specialty, are miniature fruits and vegetables embellished by hand. Sicily's almonds, pistachios, and citrus appear in desserts like gelato and biscotti. And where else would you encounter the summertime breakfast treat brioche con gelato — gelato in a brioche bun?

Stunning Archaeological Sites

Sicily is home to some of the world's best-preserved examples of Greek and Roman temples, structures, and art. In the southwest, Agrigento's Valley of the Temples includes the nearly intact Temple of Concordia and columns remaining from several other Greek temples. On Sicily's southeast coast, Siracusa — once the leading city of Greece — a massive amphitheater built around the fifth century B.C. is still used for theatrical presentations. A third-century Roman amphitheater still stands in the area. On the nearby island of Ortigia are the remains of the Temple of Apollo, built in the seventh century B.C.

Farther north in the coastal hilltop city of Taormina, the Teatro Greco, dating to the third century B.C., was later enlarged by the Romans. Today, the theater is home to film festivals, concerts, and plays, with the audience enjoying views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna along with the performances. In Segesta, a striking Doric temple has stood for more than 2,000 years near a massive amphitheater. Selinunte, once a major Greek city on the south coast, is another impressive archaeological site. The Regional Archaeological Museum in Palermo contains historical Sicilian sculpture and artifacts.

Luxurious Beaches

Surrounded by the Tyrrhenian, Ionian, and Mediterranean seas, Sicily boasts miles of varied and beautiful coastline, so visitors will find something they love, whether it's secluded spot or a lively resort. Near Taormina, Isola Bella features a gorgeous beach, and it's common for lidos, or beach clubs, to offer umbrellas, chairs, beverages, and dining. A cable car takes visitors from central Taormina to beaches at Mazzarò. The sea is clear and warm, but the sand is pebbly, so beach shoes are suggested. Nearby Giardini Naxos has both lidos and public areas.

Palermo's beaches on the north shore, including Mondello, Magaggiari, and Cefalù, feature sandy shores. About 40 miles east of Palermo, Cefalù, once a fishing village, offers several beaches, cafés, restaurants, hotels, and nightlife. Near Ragusa, along the southeastern shore, popular beaches include Fontane Bianche, San Lorenzo, and Marina di Ragusa.

Distinctive Wines

Sicilian wines are increasingly popular, and winemaking on the island dates back millennia to the Greeks. Marsala, in western Sicily, produces fortified wines by the same name, categorized by their age and residual sugar. In the Mount Etna area of eastern Sicily, volcanic soil and a favorable climate lead to excellent wines like Carricante (white) and Etna Rosso (red) made mostly from Nerello Mascalese grapes. The widely planted native grape, Nero d'Avola, produces dark, robust, complex wines.

White wines, sometimes called Etna Bianco, are created primarily from the Carricante grape. Catarratto, the most planted grape, produces dry wines. Grillo, another dry white with medium body, is a lovely accompaniment for seafood. Sample local varieties and choose some favorites to look for when you arrive back home so you can relive your Sicilian experience.

Rich Culture and Traditions

The two-wheeled, horse-drawn cart painted with bright colors depicting religious scenes, flowers, and intricate designs is a recognizable symbol of Sicily. Originally used for transportation, the carts were pulled by horses also decorated with ribbons, bells, or plumes. Skilled craftsmen built and painted the carts, seen today at festivals, museums, and in miniature versions for souvenirs.

Sicily's cities and towns host festive events throughout the year, with many honoring patron saints, holidays, or seasons. In Agrigento, the springtime Almond Blossom Festival features 10 days of traditional costumes, music, and parades. The Sagra della Ricotta every April in Vizzini, one of Sicily's oldest cities, celebrates the cheese used in cannoli, cassata, and savory dishes. The Feast of Santa Rosalia in Palermo is a major event in mid-July with music, processions, and fireworks. Easter season brings carnival and Holy Week processions that show the authentic nature of Sicily's culture.

Beautiful Islands

Several groups of islands off Sicily's shores offer some of the most spectacular beaches in the area. The Pelagie Islands are southwest of Sicily in the Mediterranean. Lampedusa, the largest of these islands, features white-sand beaches and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The Egadi Islands off Sicily's west coast are accessible for day trips from Trapani. Favignana, the largest of the Egadis, is home to luxury hotels, beaches, and popular diving spots.

Off Sicily's northern coast in the Tyrrhenian Sea are the volcanic Aeolian Islands. Lipari is the largest and most popular with tourists who enjoy its hot springs and historic architecture. Small, but also a tourist favorite, is Panarea. Stromboli features an active volcano, and many visitors take guided hikes to its summit. The island of Salina is known for its delicious capers and mountain peak. Off Sicily's west coast, volcanic Pantelleria is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with fumaroles, mud baths, and agricultural products that include olives, grapes, and their well-known capers.

Impressive Cathedrals and Architecture

The Cathedral of Monreale , near Palermo, is a stunning example of Norman architecture begun around 1171 by King William II of Sicily. Notable for its mosaics — many made of pure gold, — its marble floor, and the inlaid detail of the columns in the cloister, it is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. On Siracusa's historic Ortigia island, the seventh-century Cathedral of Syracuse was built on the site of a Greek Doric temple whose columns are still visible on the cathedral's exterior. An expansive piazza enhances the cathedral's facade, an impressive view from one of the many cafés lining the area.

The hilltop Cathedral of Cefalù dates to 1131 when King Roger II began construction. The Cathedral of Catania , dedicated to St. Agatha, was originally built in the 11th century on the site of ancient Roman baths. After damage by earthquakes and fires, it was rebuilt in 1711 with a Baroque-style facade. Sicily's cities of Palermo, Noto, Ragusa, and Modica all offer spectacular cathedrals in a variety of architectural styles.

Villa Romana del Casale , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dates to about the fourth century and contains an extensive collection of Roman artwork and mosaics. Set in the interior of Sicily, the villa is open for tours.

Welcoming Accommodations

Sicily is resplendent in top-notch accommodations . From five-star resorts and exclusive villas to casual beach hotels, you'll find the right place to stay in Sicily. Verdura Resort on the south coast offers white-sand beaches, golf, a spa, and luxurious accommodations. Therasia Resort on the island of Vulcano features an expansive spa, pool, and views of the other Aeolians. The Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina is a classic, with elegant rooms, gardens, and views of Mount Etna and the sea. Or book a grand villa overlooking the sea for a group or family.

Hotels in major cities include the boutique Villa Carlotta and the San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel in Taormina, the Monaci delle Terre Nere near Mount Etna, Grand Hotel Wagner in Palermo, and the Baglio Sorìa in Trapani. For a different experience, enjoy the environment and comfort of a farmhouse stay. Choose a locale by the sea, mountains, or amid olive trees and grape vines. Farmhouse lodging can range from rustic to ultra-luxurious.

International airports in Palermo and Catania receive flights from most cities in Europe. Eurostar trains from Rome and Naples and other cities in Italy arrive in Sicily via a ferry across the Strait of Messina, an enjoyable trip. From the Italian ports of Naples, Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Villa San Giovanni, ships sail to Palermo, Catania, and Messina. It's even possible to drive from the mainland and other European countries, taking the ferry to Messina.

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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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9 things you cannot miss on your next trip to Sicily

Mar 16, 2024 • 6 min read

Experience all the beauty and history Sicily has to offer with these amazing experiences Giovenda / Shutterstock

Something of a mini-continent, the island of Sicily in Italy ticks most boxes. Adventurer, art lover, beach bum, ruin explorer: this rugged chunk of sun-spun land at the crossroads of the Tyrrhenian, Ionian and Mediterranean seas has enticed ancient and modern peoples with its charms since time immemorial. The result: one of Europe's richest and most extraordinary histories, with an unmatched booty of artistic and drop-dead-gorgeous natural treasures. The food and drink's not bad either.

Turquoise cove to ridgetop temple. Byzantine mosaics to chubby-cheeked baroque putti (cherubs). Windswept olive and lemon groves and dry, parched gardens planted with pomegranate, fig and carob trees. Traveling around Sicily might feel like sensory overload on steroids, but it exudes Sicilian dolce far niente (sweet nothing) in buckets. 

July and August are the busiest months, but every month has its own beauty. The very real temptation of simply eating and drinking your way around Sicily aside, here are nine top things to see and do on the island.  

1. Discover Sicily's backstory in a kaleidoscope of UNESCO mosaics

Scantily-clad Olympians, African animals, lepers, deities, mythical monsters, Adam and Eve: the wild stories told by Sicily's Herculean cache of Roman, Byzantine and Arab-Norman mosaics will have you hooked for days. Begin your mosaic mini-tour in the glittering gold cathedral crowning the hilltop Monreale , built for William II in 1184 to upstage grandfather Roger II's magnificent building accomplishments in Cefalù ( Duomo di Cefalù ) and Palermo ( Cappella Palatina ). Continue the mosaic fest in Villa Romana del Casale , a Roman patrician's palatial country pad a couple of hours' drive inland.

2. Adventure up Sicily's "other" volcano on Stromboli

Hiking or mountain biking up the emblematic slopes of massive brooding Mount Etna is a classic. But if you're into a fire-spitting volcano with a primordial village vibe and post-hike pizza with fireworks, hit the less-sung Stromboli – legend says that wind god Aeolus and other mythological deities had a hand in this island's marvelous creation. But a guided trek at sunset from the whitewashed village up charred slopes shows the harsh reality of living next to a volcano, a tempestuous environment ruled by Mother Nature alone. From the smaller volcano's Sciara del Fucco viewpoint at 400m, only accessible with a guide, watch red-hot rocks roll down the lava-charred mountainside into the sea, and then hike back down by torchlight for dinner alfresco at Ristorante Osservatorio Stromboli .

3. Wander ancient ruins in the Valley of the Temples by moonlight

On Sicily's southern Mediterranean coast, Agrigento's Valley of the Temples makes an impression like no other ruins on the island. Strung out along a long rocky promontory where the ancient Greeks built sacred temples as holy beacons for sailors 2500 years ago, the vast archaeological site is prized by UNESCO as one of the world's "most outstanding monuments of Greek art and culture." The magic peaks on summer evenings when the moon casts the ruins in a celestial, iridescent light, and the wind plucks tunes on the columns of ghostly Doric temples.

Planning tip: Sicily's flush of ancient Greek ruins runs deep. Add hilltop Segesta and sea-facing Selinunte , both in western Sicily, to your long weekend itinerary to bag the hat trick.

4. Taste vino with winegrowers on the slopes of Mount Etna

Sun-soaked grapes have always been grown on the island – this is Italy's second-largest wine-producing region after all. But with the exception of sweet dessert wines like Marsala , Sicilian wines are hard to come by outside Sicily. Drink in local viticulture, meet wine growers and swill, sniff and sip wines produced on Mount Etna's fertile slopes along the Strada del Vino dell'Etna (Etna Wine Road). This is not a road at all, but a deliciously scenic train journey peppered with sumptuous villa-wineries along the lower slopes of Europe's largest active volcano.

Planning tip:  The Strada's wine trains depart twice weekly from Riposto, an hour's drive from Catania on the Ionian Coast. Tickets  include a guide and bus transfers to wineries for degustazione (tasting).

5. Splash and snorkel like a 1960s movie star on Isola Bella

Vintage glamour queen Taormina is the springboard for chic sea dips and snorkeling forays in the crystal water that laps the pebble beach on Isola Bella – as bella (beautiful) as its name suggests. The dot of an island, linked by cable car to Taormina (which is perched dramatically on a cliff high above), lured Europe's aristocracy during the days of the Grand Tour and the literati likes of DH Lawrence in the 1920s. Glitzy views of smoking Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea vie for the spotlight during summertime theater performances in its resplendent ancient Greek amphitheater.

Planning tip: Taormina gets packed to bursting in July and August and all but shuts down between November and Easter. April, May, September and October are best.

6. Learn about the Mafia past and present in Palermo

Try to better understand what makes Sicily's disheveled, high-octane capital tick at No Mafia Memorial, a multimedia space in a palazzo on Palermo's main street Corso Vittorio Emanuele that explains Mafiosi and anti-Mafia history. Combine the interesting if unsettling exhibitions with a contemplative walk along the powerful Wall of Legality street mural in rough-and-tumble Il Capo; then snap a selfie on the opera-house steps at Teatro Massimo , where the iconic mafia shooting scene from Francis Ford Coppola's Godfather trilogy was filmed.

7. Admire prehistoric art in a cave on Levanzo

When you tire of beach-hopping by bicycle on the Egadi island of Favignana, swap wheels for water and catch a ferry to pin-prick Levanzo. From its tiny port, motorboats whip along the wave-lashed coast to Grotta del Genovese , a cave hidden high in the hillside that shelters Upper Paleolithic and Neolithic rock art. Etchings of goats, dolphins and donkeys reflect farming practices some 12,000 years ago when a vast plain linked to the two islands. Bookend the torch-lit cave visit with huge, glittering sea views.

Planning tip: Cave visits must be booked online at least 48 hours in advance. Ditto in July and August for Liberty Lines hydrofoils to/from Trapani on "mainland'" Sicily and also Favignana. To continue the rock art theme, stay the night on Favignana in rooms at Giardino dell'Impossible , botanical gardens hewn in labyrinthine rock.

8. Uncover the greatest city of ancient Magna Graecia in Syracuse

To think small town Syracuse in southeast Sicily was the largest city in the ancient world in its heyday – bigger even than Athens and Corinth – is mind-boggling. A near-perfect encapsulation of Sicily's timeless beauty, its "once upon a time" begins in 734 BCE. Split your time between the ancient island-city of Ortygia – where honey-hued medieval streets flow like ribbons down to the sea and open-air food market brim with lunchtime oysters  – and the evocative, citrus-scented ruins of Parco Archeologico della Neapolis .

Planning tip: Bag a golden ticket for theater beneath the stars at Syracuse's supremely well-preserved Greek amphitheater during May-June's Festival del Teatro Greco.

9. Get off-grid on the Aeolian island of Alicudi

Magical and mesmerizing, the Aeolian's second-smallest island feels like a mischievous afterthought on the map. As isolated a place as you'll find in the entire Mediterranean basin, this 5.2 sq km island has no roads – just a relentless succession of time-wizened, volcanic-stone steps staggering mercilessly up to the craggy summit of Monte Montagnola (675m). After you step off the hydrofoil at the sleepy port, simply follow the donkeys and mules uphill – they're the only means of transport on this old-timer island. Post-hike, watch fishermen clean fish and nets, or track down a boatman at sundown to bathe in the peace and tranquility of aperitivo al tramonto (early-evening drinks at sea).

This article was first published Nov 18, 2021 and updated Mar 16, 2024.

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25 Best Things to Do in Sicily, Italy

Home | Travel | Europe | Italy | Sicily | 25 Best Things to Do in Sicily, Italy

If you want to know what  things to do in Sicily , Italy, you’re in for a treat. There are so many beautiful  places to visit in Sicily  from dreamy beaches to active volcanoes and historic cities. And of course, its food is out of this world!

Sicily has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation. It’s also a special place for us, as the first trip we took together was to this lovely island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. We did a 10-day Sicily road trip and, while I may be biased, there’s no denying Sicily’s charm. There are plenty of  tourist attractions in Sicily  worth visiting, and we’re planning to return in the future so we can see even more.

Before I share my tips and recommendations, I want to mention that the best way to get around the island is by renting a car. This way, you’ll have more flexibility to see the different sites at your own pace. However, I should warn you that Sicilians aren’t known for their pristine driving skills. So, be sure to check out our  rental car hacks , and don’t skip the insurance.

Find Cheap Rental Cars in Sicily

With that said, let’s dive into the 25 best things to do in Sicily . Get ready to discover the most gorgeous places on this island!

1. Visit Palermo, the best thing to do in Sicily

Palermo  is one of the  best places to visit in Sicily , especially for its history. As with many capital cities, Palermo doesn’t have the best reputation in terms of cleanliness and security, but it’s still one of the most popular sites on the island.

The port city sees hundreds of cruise ships each year, although it’s quite easy to  find cheap flights to Palermo too. For this reason, lots of visitors start their Sicily itineraries here.

Among the most popular  places to visit in Palermo , the  Palace of the Normans  is a top choice. Also known as the Royal Palace, this building is home to the Sicilian Parliament. You’ll also find the  Palatine Chapel  inside, a must-see in Sicily.

Visiting the beautiful  Cathedral of Palermo  and the  Teatro Massimo , the largest opera house in Italy, is another great  thing to do in Sicily ‘s capital city. Afterward, head to the  Vucciria market  for some delicious food. If you don’t mind creepy stuff, check out the Catacombs of the Capuchins and make friends with the corpses.

This free tour is perfect if you’re not sure what to do in Sicily since it takes you to the coolest attractions in the city center. Also, if you have a couple of free days, I suggest visiting Mondello Beach  and the  Cathedral of Monreale , a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site.

You can find more tips about Sicily’s capital in our 25 top things to do in Palermo  guide.

2. Taormina, one of the best places to visit in Sicily

Taormina  is a beautiful medieval city, making it a great historical  attraction in Sicily . There are lots of ancient ruins to explore here, and different areas reflect the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine empires. The European aristocracy admired these old remains so much that Taormina became a luxury destination in the 19th century. To this day, you can find many 5-star hotels along these classic streets.

The  Taormina Theater  is a  beautiful place in Sicily . This Greek Theater is, like the rest of Taormina, over a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Etna.

Another interesting thing to do in Sicily is to take the cable car to  Isola Bella  at the foot of Taormina. I wouldn’t go to Taormina for the beaches, but during the funicular ride, you’ll get spectacular views of the island’s more luxurious tourist attractions.

What makes Taormina a great  place to visit in Sicily  is the cultural heritage. There are many  things to do in Taormina   along  Corso Umberto Street , such as the  Duomo di Taormina , a 13th-century cathedral dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Bari. I also suggest stopping by the  Piazza IX Aprile , the main square with nice views. But where you’ll get the best views in Taormina is in  Madonna della Rocca Sanctuary , so be sure to add it to your list.

3. Climb Mount Etna, the best hike in Sicily

Mount Etna  is the highest active volcano in Europe at 10,990 feet. If you like hiking, a trek up this volcano is one of the  coolest things to do in Sicily .

Unfortunately, during our trip in 2016, the volcano was quite active and dangerous, so we couldn’t get as close to it as we would’ve liked. As soon as we’re back on the island, we’re going to visit this famous  Sicilian landmark  again!

As a top  place of interest in Sicily , Mount Etna is very popular. The most-visited area around the volcano is the  Silvestri Craters  region, which is located below the top of Mount Etna. You can visit this area on your own, but you need  a certified tour guide  to take you to the top.

Most tours start from the Sapienza Refuge just next to the Silvestri Craters. Then, you will take a cable car and 4×4 Jeep to the hiking trail, about 9,500 feet up. From there, it’s about a 2-hour walk and, if you complete it, you’ll be rewarded with the most stunning views of the island.

4. Catania, something you can’t miss in Sicily, Italy

With so much to see and do here,  Catania  is one of the  main attractions in Sicily  you don’t want to miss. Besides, the city has an international airport, so many travelers end up starting their journey here.

Catania’s proximity to Mount Etna has exposed it to several severe eruptions and earthquakes throughout history. Even so, it’s one of the most scenic  places to visit in Sicily , so I recommend checking it out.

Most of Catania’s tourist attractions are in the historic city center, and it’s possible to see them all in one day. If you’re short on time, this  guided walking tour  will ensure you see all the main sites.

Something you can’t miss in Catania is the  Cathedral of Santa Ágata , which many consider the crown jewel of Italian Baroque architecture. I also recommend visiting the  Ursino Castle , where you’ll find the  Communal Museum . This museum is a  must-do in Sicily  if you love art and history. The collection includes over 8,000 archaeological pieces such as sculptures, columns, coins, paintings, sarcophagi, and more.

Another gorgeous site in Catania is the iconic  Elephant Fountain  and  Caltagirone , where you can climb the  Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte . This 142-step ceramic staircase was built in 1608, and each step features a unique composition.

Finally, visit La Pescheria, an old fish market where locals sell fresh fish and some ready-to-eat treats.

5. Syracuse, something you must see in Sicily

Syracuse  is another essential  place to visit in Sicily . Not only is it beautiful, but the streets are like a time capsule of Greek history. Syracuse is an important part of the island’s past, so I recommend adding it to your itinerary.

As a prime  Sicily tourist attraction , Syracuse offers plenty of cool sites and excursions. One of the best places to visit is the island of  Ortygia , where you can see ancient Greek ruins. The island is less than a mile long, but parking is a pain, so I recommend walking across the pedestrian bridge, the Ponte Santa Lucia.

In Ortygia, you can visit the  Cathedral of Syracuse , which sits on an old Greek temple. The  Arethusa Fountain  is another popular attraction, as are the ruins of the  Temple of Apollo , the oldest temple in Sicily.

You can also explore the outskirts of Syracuse, where you’ll find  Neapolis Archaeological Park . The area is so rich in ancient ruins that there’s a  guided walking tour  through the park. I recommend taking this tour to learn more about the old Greek amphitheaters and other archaeological relics from the Roman Empire and the Hellenistic period.

For more information on  what to do in Sicily  on this part of the island, read our  things to do in Syracuse guide.

6. Cefalù, the most beautiful lookout in Sicily, Italy

If you’re wondering  where to go in Sicily  for the best views, look no further than  Cefalù . I would even say that this area is one of the most beautiful places in all of Italy.

Cefalù is nestled on the Sicilian coast between the Tyrrhenian Sea and La Rocca, a mountainous 885-foot rock from which you’ll get fantastic views. The village is less than 45 miles from Palermo, so it’s a popular tourist destination. The downside to this is that the prices in Cefalù are noticeably higher than anywhere on the island.

That said, visiting this area is a  cool thing to do in Sicily , and you’ll find plenty of interesting sights. For example, the  Cathedral of Cefalù  is one of the most important Norman monuments in Sicily. Built in 1131, the basilica is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes an amazing mosaic of Christ Pantokrator.

Cefalù’s sparkling beaches make it a  must-visit in Sicily . However, if you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend the Giudecca Reef or this  boat ride  along the coast.

Other   places to visit in Cefalù  include the  Madralisca Museum , where you can see the work of Italian painter Antonello da Messina; and the  Fiume Cefalino  medieval lavatory, which dates to the Middle Ages.

7. Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples, a unique activity to do in Sicily

Agrigento  is a famous place to visit in Sicily, thanks to its impressive ruins. This is your chance to see one of the best archaeological sites on the island, including the ancient city of  Agrigento  and the  Valley of the Temples .

The city sits on a hill on the southern Sicilian coast. During the Greek and Roman times, the city was in its prime. However, it fell into disarray with the arrival of the Byzantines and Christians in Sicily.

Most people would agree that seeing the Valley of the Temples is one of the  best things to do in Sicily . Besides being an important historical landmark and  UNESCO  World Heritage Site, the ruins are a remarkable archaeological feat.

Where else can you feast your eyes on ancient temples dedicated to Hera, Hercules, Hephaestus, Concordia, Asclepius, Castor, Pollux, and Zeus? Plus, all but the Temple of Hephaestus are in good condition, so it’s like being transported to another world.

Given the historical significance of these temples and how well they’ve been preserved, I consider them a top visit to do in Sicily. If you don’t have much time, this  electric scooter tour  is just 2 hours and takes you around most of the ruins. That said, if you can’t get enough ancient Greek and Roman relics, check out the  Agrigento Regional Archaeological Museum .

8. Scala dei Turchi, one of the best beaches in Sicily

While you’re in Agrigento, you’ll be close to another  Sicily tourist attraction , the  Scala dei Turchi . Also known as the Stair of the Turks, this rocky cliff in southern Italy overlooks the Realmonte coast. The name is a reference to its former use as a port of call for Saracen and Arab pirates.

Not only does Scala dei Turchi have a colorful past, but it’s also a stunning geological wonder. The cliff’s distinct shape is the result of tens of thousands of years of impact from wind and water. Plus, the turquoise waters on Realmonte provide an interesting contrast to the white limestone of the rock.

On either side of the cliff, you will find a white, sandy beach. Many locals admit that the beaches at Scala dei Turchi are among the best beaches in Sicily . It’s no surprise that these marvelous cliffs have been featured in famous books and movies and that they’ve joined the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Scala dei Turchi is among the top  things to see in Sicily . Just be sure to protect yourself from the sun, as there isn’t any shade here.

9. Visit Stromboli and the Aeolian Islands, an extraordinary thing to do in Sicily

No, I’m not talking about the delicious Italian dish!  Stromboli  is an Aeolian island famous for an impressive  Sicilian landmark :  Mount Stromboli . This stratovolcano is one of three active volcanoes in Italy, with a summit of over 3,000 feet.

If you want to climb Mount Stromboli, I recommend  this excursion , which takes you to the  Sciara del Fuoco , a 13,000-year-old horseshoe-shaped crater where you can see flowing lava. The tour leaves a couple of hours before sunset, so you get stunning views of the fiery Mediterranean landscape.

In the town of Stromboli, you’ll feel a sense of calm since the streets are free of cars. That said, you might see a  Piaggio Ape , a strange three-wheeled Vespa. If you have time, check out the black sand beach of  Grotta di Eolo , which has a magnificent cave.

Without a doubt, the  Aeolian Islands  are a  top thing to see in Sicily .  Lipari  is the largest of the islands and is known for the  Lipari Castle  and some beautiful coastal coves.  Panarea  is smaller but boasts underwater eruptions you won’t want to miss.

Vulcano  has several popular fumaroles, steam jets, and therapeutic sulfur mud.  Salina  has one of the highest peaks on the archipelago, as well as the fern forest of  Fossa delle Felci.

Finally,  Alicudi and Filicudi  to the west are full of dormant volcanic craters. So, if you aren’t sure  what to visit in Sicily, Italy , start with the Aeolian Islands.

10. See the Segesta Temple, the best thing to do in Sicily, Italy

If you’re curious about  where to go in Sicily ‘s northern region, I highly recommend  Segesta . This beautiful rural area is a major settlement of the indigenous Elymians in Sicily. It is also home to the  Segesta Temple , an ancient symbol of Athenian architecture.

The temple is just 50 miles from the capital, and the surrounding rocky landscape makes it a picturesque journey. What’s interesting about the temple is that it’s unfinished and doesn’t even have a roof. Still, the 36 completed columns remain in good condition, and the temple has several Doric features, such as a molded doorway and a frieze with triglyphs and metopes, or carved patterns.

It’s not the most impressive temple in Sicily, but if you’re going to be in the capital for only a couple of days, it’s worth seeing. I suggest  this excursion  of Segesta, which includes a visit to Erice and the Trapani salt flats. It’s a great  activity to do in Sicily  if you don’t have much time.

Visiting the  Greek Theater  in Segesta is another cool  thing to do in Sicily, Italy . Unlike other Greek theaters in the region, this one faces the north, so you get lovely views of the foothills and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a pleasant sight that you should take advantage of while you’re in the area.

11. Trapani, an incredible place to visit in Sicily

A visit to  Trapani  is another  fun thing to do in Sicily . This popular city is one of the best places to enjoy a stroll through town. Trapani is a charming, quiet city with a historic district free of vehicles.

Here, you’ll find gorgeous Baroque buildings such as the  Cathedral of San Lorenzo . I recommend walking along  Via Garibaldi  and  Via Vittorio Emanuele  to experience the true essence of this town. Trapani is known as ‘the city of 100 churches,’ many of which you’ll see on the two streets I mentioned.

If you ask any Italian  what to see in Sicily , they’ll point you towards the Trapani salt flats. Visiting this area is a must-do, and if you can go at sunset, that’s even better. They create a crystalline landscape that you won’t find anywhere else.

Other unique sites in Trapani include the  Palazzo Senatorio , a palace for the Senate; and the  Dark Tower , which has one of the oldest astronomical clocks in Europe. If you come here in July, you can partake in the Straugusto Gastronomic Festival and taste delicious local and international dishes.

Also, Trapani’s strong seafaring tradition means that several ferries depart from the port each day. From here, you can reach some of the  best   attractions in Sicily , such as the Aegadian Islands.

12. Aegadian Islands, the best Sicilian islands you can visit

The  Aegadian Islands  are a group of small islands to the west of Trapani. Thanks to their amazing beaches, they’ve become a popular summer  tourist attraction in Sicily .

The archipelago consists of Favignana, Marettimo, Levanzo, and other smaller islets that mark the boundary between the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian Seas. Each island has something unique to offer, and exploring these lands is an exciting  thing to do in western Sicily .

I suggest starting with  Favignana’s  old town, a pedestrian-friendly coastal area. One of the best things to do in Sicily , is to explore the Lido Burrone, Cala Rossa, and Cala Azzurra coves, on Favignana. As the largest of the Aegadian Islands, Favignana boasts the most idyllic beaches in Sicily.

12. Aegadian Islands, one of the best Sicilian islands you can visit

Marettimo  is smaller, with a town of 300 inhabitants. This island offers a beautiful natural landscape and the  Castle of Punta Troia , a Saracen fortification that’s now in ruins. In addition to being a great snorkeling destination, Marettimo is home to several sea caves like Camello, Ficaredda, and Tuono.

Levanzo  is even smaller than Marettimo, but it’s the most beautiful of the islands. Surrounded by clear blue waters, Levanzo has gorgeous beaches and a 912-foot hill,  Pizzo Monaco , from which you can get stunning views. The island is also famous for the  Genovesa Cave , which has prehistoric cave paintings dating back about 10,000 years.

To get to the Aegadian islands I recommend booking this tour .

13. Temples of Selinunte, one of the can’t-miss attractions in Sicily

Selinunte  is in Trapani province, about an hour from some of  Sicily’s main attractions , yet many tourists overlook it.

Even so, this ancient Greek city is well worth visiting and has some impressive temples of its own. The temples have suffered quite a bit of deterioration, so it’s not entirely clear which deity each temple honors. Still, if you love history and ancient ruins, Selinunte is a top  place to go in Sicily .

To better distinguish the temples, historians have named each one after a letter.  Temple E , which is suspected to be Hera’s temple, is in the best condition.  Temple F  is the oldest and is believed to honor Athena or Dionysus.  Temple G  is the largest of all and was probably that of Zeus. Lastly,  Temples A and O  are known as the Twin Temples. They were the last to be built but are the most deteriorated. They may belong to Castor and Pollux, or Apollo, or maybe Poseidon.

The entire archaeological site is divided into five areas: the Eastern Temples, the Acropolis, the Ancient City, the Sanctuary of Malophoros, and the Necropolis. You could spend all day exploring this area, and with the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop, it’s one of the best things to see in Sicily .

14. Erice, an unforgettable place to go in Sicily, Italy

Erice  is another beautiful  place to visit in Sicily ‘s Trapani province. This medieval town sits atop Mount Erice, over 2,460 feet above sea level. From here, you can get incredible views of the Trapani salt flats and the Egadi Islands.

Besides this spectacular lookout, you can also find medieval monuments and rich ancient Greek history here. For example, the  Castello di Venere  is one of the top historical  points of interest in Sicily . This Norman fortress was built on top of an old Roman temple and dates to the 12th century.

Another can’t-miss attraction in Erice is a pair of castles:  Torretta Pepoli  and the  Castle of Venus . The former is a unique stone residence reflecting the Saracen period, while the latter was constructed on top of the ancient Temple of Venus. Both structures are located on a cliff, so you’ll get beautiful views of the sea.

A visit to Erice is  something to do in Sicily  if you’re already in Trapani. It won’t take long to see everything, but the sights are among the most impressive in the region.

15. The Baroque Tour to Ragusa, Noto, and Modica, the best thing to do in Sicily

If you don’t know  what to do in Sicily , one of my top recommendations for you is to visit the baroque cities of  Ragusa, Noto,  and  Modica , which share a rich cultural and artistic history.

Back in 1693, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake destroyed nearly every building in southeast Sicily. During the rebuilding phase, architects turned to the style of the day, creating what is known as Sicilian Baroque. As a result, these three cities display some of the most elaborate architecture in Sicily.

Noto  is known as the Jewel of the Sicilian Baroque or the Garden of Stone, thanks to its massive cathedrals and palaces. Modica  also has a few baroque churches, but is most known for the  Antica Dolceria Bonajuto , the oldest Sicilian chocolate factory.

Finally, Ragusa is divided into Ragusa Ibla, the one built over the ruins after the earthquake, and Ragusa Superiore, that was built over a close hill for a new start.

Noto, Modica, and Ragusa are  beautiful places to visit in Sicily . We were lucky enough to have a local friend guide us around, although  this tour  is a great alternative.

If you plan to visit the baroque cities of Sicily, check our Ragusa, Noto and Modica itinerary.

16. The Alcantara Gorge, one of the best places to go in Sicily, Italy

Seeing the  Alcantara Gorge , is one of the best  things to do in Sicily . Located just 30 minutes from Taormina’s city center, the gorges have a mystical air about them.

Geologists believe that this natural phenomenon occurred after a Mount Etna eruption thousands of years ago. Subsequently, erosion along the Alcantara River created a basaltic canyon over 1,300 feet long and 16 feet wide.

If there is a natural wonder you should  visit in Sicily , it’s these jagged gorges. The black rock walls and craggy, prismatic texture is something you have to see to believe. Plus, when the light hits the canyon just right, the gorges look like a scene out of a fairytale. This setting is a photographer’s paradise, too!

Not only that, but you can access the canyon and wade in the river. Cooling down in the Alcantara Gorge is one of the most unique activities to do in Sicily  on a hot summer day. It’s certainly something you’ll want to brag to your friends about! The  Botanic and Geological Park of the Alcantara Gorges  is open year-round and has several walking paths that lead to the canyon.

17. Marsala, one of the most spectacular places to go in Sicily

Wine tasting  is one of the best things to do in Sicily but there is no better place than Marsala to do so . This western Sicilian city is famous for its great wine, so what are you waiting for?

You’ll find local wineries scattered throughout Marsala, and tastings typically range from 20€-30€ ($24-$35). What makes Marsala wine special is that it’s usually mixed with brandy and makes a great dessert wine, although there are drier varieties, too.

If you’re a teetotaler or just not into wine, Marsala offers a beautiful historic center. Here, you can visit charming shops, lovely cathedrals like the  Church of the Addolarata , and the quaint little houses that are characteristic of the city.

Some other interesting  things to do in western Sicily  include visiting the  Lilibeo Regional Archaeological Museum of Marsala  and watching the sunset over the  Saline Della Laguna  salt flats.

18. Savoca, the best thing to visit around Sicily

If you’re a fan of  The Godfather  movie, then Savoca is one of the  best cities to visit in Sicily . The village of Savoca was the main setting for the film, although it has plenty of hidden gems you might not know about.

As I mentioned in our  guide to Savoca , the town is an intriguing maze of narrow streets, and it’s best to discover its charm on your own. That said, here I’ll tell you  what to see in Sicily ‘s Savoca region if you’re short on time.

First, you must visit the  Vitelli Bar  at  Piazza Fossia , which is famous for  The Godfather  saga. Today, the bar is also a mini-museum, full of film memorabilia that you can check out while you enjoy a beverage or snack.

Not far from the bar is the  Church of San Nicolo , which was also featured in  The Godfather  movies. The Church of Santa Maria in Cielo Assunta  is also worth visiting.

The cathedral is in Savoca’s historic  Pentefur  section and overlooks the entire city. The  Pentefur Castle  is nearby, although it has remained empty since it being riddled by earthquakes in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Another Savoca  activity to do in Sicily, Italy , is visiting the  Historical Ethno-Anthropological Museum .

19. Zíngaro Nature Reserve, another hike to do in Sicily

Visiting the  Zíngaro Nature Reserve  is one of the top  things to do in northern Sicily . As the first place to be declared a nature reserve in Sicily, Zíngaro is a lovely area of lush vegetation, wild animals, and archaeological relics.

Nestled between Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo, Zíngaro Nature Reserve is a refuge of greenery and fresh mountain air. This area has everything a nature lover could want since there is also a beach along the  Gulf of Castellammare .

Spending a few hours here is also a fun  thing to do in Sicily with kids . You’ll all be able to spend time together in the great outdoors and maybe learn a bit about the area’s archaeological past.

There are several trails you can take, and while they’re all enjoyable, I recommend the 4.3-mile path along the coastal coves. Just be mindful of the heat, as it can get quite hot along this unshaded path. I think it’s worth it though, as you’ll discover several  Sicily sights  along your route. Among these are the seven stunning beaches of Zíngaro:  Cala Capreria, Cala Varo, Cala Disa, Cala Berretta, Cala Marinella, Cala dell’Uzzo , and  Cala Tonnarella .

20. Enna, the best place to see the sunset in Sicily

There is a mythical atmosphere in  Enna and visiting this city is a  romantic thing to do in Sicily . It’s the highest city in Sicily, at 3,280 feet above sea level. If you visit on a clear day, you’ll get incredible views of the island and Mount Etna.

Even if the weather isn’t great during your visit, you won’t have any trouble figuring out  what to do in Enna, Sicily . I suggest visiting  Lombardy Castle , an impressive military fortress built in the 1st century and restructured by several kings throughout history. The archaeological sites of  Murgantia  and  Lake Pergusa  are also noteworthy, with the latter being the location of the Persephone myth.

Perhaps the  best thing to do in Sicily ‘s highest city is to see the  Cathedral of Enna  on Via Roma. While the church was built in the 14th century, a fire ravaged it in 1446. The original apse still stands, and even though the rest has been restored, the cathedral is a significant architectural monument in Sicily.

If you have time, stop by the Alessi Museum, where you can see part of the Cathedral’s treasure, including jewels, “Crown of the Virgin,” Byzantine iconography, ornaments, and ancient coins.

21. Visit Aci Trezza and Aci Castello, the best thing to do in Sicily for couples

The most enjoyable  thing to do in Sicily, Italy , is to visit  Aci Trezza  and  Aci Castello . These two coastal towns are a relaxing paradise after a sightseeing excursion around Sicily and they are not far from Catania.

First, the   best thing to do in Aci Trezza  is to take a seaside stroll to see the  Faraglioni . Also known as The Island of the Cyclops, these three sea stacks jut out of the water and are only accessible via boat. They are said to be the giant stones the cyclops Polyphemus threw at Odysseus in  The Odyssey .

Aci Castello is another  must-see in Sicily  that’s equally as impressive. Your first stop should be the  Norman Castle , which was completed in 1081. Besides these ancient ruins, the highlight of Aci Castello is its black sand beach. The color comes from the tiny volcanic stones along the shoreline, which contrast spectacularly against the crystalline waters.

While I don’t think you’ll ever run out of  things to do in Sicily , I recommend making time for Aci Trezza and Aci Castello. They’re conveniently close to each other, and we managed to visit both before boarding the plane home from Catania.

22. Explore Villa Romana del Casale, one of the best things to do in Sicily, Italy

The  Villa Romana del Casale  is one of the most  famous places to visit in Sicily . Located in Piazza Armerina near Enna, this  UNESCO  World Heritage Site has the largest collection of Roman mosaics on earth.

The palace dates to the 4th century and belonged to a powerful Roman family. The ancient mosaics cover nearly 38,000ft², not only on the walls, but also on the floors and ceilings. A series of landslides preserved the work for centuries, so it’s one  main attraction in Sicily  that’s in great condition.

The villa’s entrance is flanked by three arches and leads to a courtyard and central fountain. The southern rooms include the  Diaeta of Orpheus , a small room covered with depictions of Orpheus, as well as a peristyle garden.

The main basilica features marble floors and columns made of pink Egyptian granite. There is also a great hall with a mosaic of Hercules going through the 12 labors.

Afterwards, pay a visit to the center of Piazza Armerina, where you’ll get striking views from 2,365 feet above sea level. Even on its own, this town is a gorgeous example of Baroque architecture. However, if you’re short on time and now sure  what to see in Sicily ‘s Enna province, I recommend the villa.

23. Necropolis of Pantalica, another interesting attraction in Sicily, Italy

The  Necropolis of Pantalica  is another popular  tourist attraction in Sicily  thanks to its great historical significance. Located in Syracuse in the southeastern part of the island, the Necropolis has about 4,000 tombs from the 13th to the 7th centuries BC. The area covers nearly 510 acres and is a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site.

Obviously, this is one of the most historical  points of interest in Sicily , but it’s also a beautiful natural place. The tombs are scattered across a limestone hill surrounded by the Calcinara and Ánapo rivers. While you’re exploring the area, you may come across all kinds of unique flora and fauna.

It’s practically impossible to see all the sites at the Necropolis in a single day, but several trails run through it, and they pass by the main highlights. The most impressive tombs are those of the  Necropolis of Filiporto , which has about 1,000 graves that were excavated around the 4th century BC. They’re the most recently discovered tombs, so they’re the best preserved.

You should also check out the  North Necropolis , the largest area which also has viewing platforms overlooking the Calcinara River. The  Anaktoron  is another intriguing section of prehistoric houses. Finally, the Grotta Pipistrelli is a natural bat cave that seems quite fitting for a Necropolis.

Many would say that this excursion is a creepy  thing to do in Sicily , but it’s also super unique.

24. Cava Grande de Cassibile Nature Reserve, the calmest place to go in Sicily

The  Cava Grande del Cassibile Nature Reserve  is one of the most incredible  things to do in Sicily, Italy . This gorgeous nature reserve is closer to Ávola, about 30 minutes south of Syracuse and just 15 minutes from Noto.

It encompasses over 6,670 acres within the  Iblei Mountains . It’s a protected park, so you can enjoy lush vegetation, impressive geological formations, and a wide variety of wildlife. Spend some time walking through canyons and to waterfalls and serene pools. This is where you’ll find some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Sicily .

You can also get a good hike in while you’re here. If you visit during the summer, you can cool down in the refreshing crystal-clear waters after hiking around. Along the edges of the canyon, keep an eye out for the Paleolithic caves. Some of them date to the 10th century BC.

Even though this is a spectacular place to go, many visitors overlook it. We wouldn’t have known about it if it weren’t for our Sicilian friend, who insisted we check it out. He was right, so we’re including it in our list of top things to do in Sicily .

25. Walk around Morgantina, the best activity to do in Sicily

The final  must-see in Sicily  that I recommend is  Morgantina , also known as Murgantia or Morgantium. It is an ancient Greek city located to the east of the island that often goes unnoticed despite its historical value.

Back in those days, the city served as a connection point between the north coast, the south, and the east. Moreover, archaeological ruins at Morgantina date as far back as the 4th century BC, such as a Greek theater dedicated to Dionysus. The theater had a 2,000-person capacity, not bad for ancient times!

Today, Morgantina is one of the  best cities to visit in Sicily , especially if you love ancient history. As you walk around the town, you’ll see the Agora sanctuary, the public square, Roman gymnasium, and the  ekklesiasteron , an assembly meeting place. The  bouleuterion  Senate house is a good example of Hellenic craftsmanship.

As you observe the commercial area, you’ll notice the remnants of different stores. Also, some of the homes still have recognizable mosaics and other ornamental elements. Morgantina is, without a doubt, a peculiar place, and visiting this city is an excellent  thing to do in east Sicily .

Now you know the 25  places to visit in Sicily  that I recommend. I’m including a map of  what to see in Sicily  to help you find all the cities, monuments, and points of interest. This way, you can plan your Sicily activities and create the perfect itinerary.

There are so many awesome things to do in Sicily , so no matter where you go, you’ll find something amazing. If you have any questions about where to go in Sicily , leave me a comment, and I’ll get back to you.

I wish you safe and happy travels!

Ascen Aynat

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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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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 .

More on Italy

Visit Sicily: Top 20 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 20 best things to do in sicily (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Sicily for you next trip or holidays and you are looking for the best places to visit?

Great choice, there are many things to see on this beautiful Italian island!

With important historical sites such as Agrigento Valley of the Temples , the Roman theatre of Taormina or the Baroque cities of Noto, Ragusa and Modica .

Natural richness , with its volcanoes (Etna, Stromboli and Vulcano), its islands , its beaches and its magnificent nature reserves like the one in Zingaro .

And of course, the fabulous Italian Cuisine! (I am a big fan!), you will for sure enjoy your stay. Now the question is: Where to go in Sicily?

To help you plan your trip, here is the list of the best things to do in Sicily, as always accompanied by my best tips for a memorable stay!

So, what are the best points of interest in Sicily?

3. Taormina

6. syracuse and ortigia island, 7. visit noto, modica and ragusa, 8. the valley of the temples in agrigento, 9. scala dei turchi.

• 10. Selinunte Temples 

11. The temple of Segesta

12. torre salsa nature reserve, 13. marsala salt pans, 14. trapani and erice medieval village, 15. aegadian islands, 16. enna, the heart of sicily, 17. zingaro nature reserve,  18. monte cofano nature reserve, 19. aeolian islands, 20. sicily most beautiful beaches, the best activities in sicily, sicily tours, renting a boat in sicily, tourist map of sicily, you’re traveling in sicily these articles will help you, visit sicily: the 20 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

You’re planning to visit Sicily?

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Sicily – With all my best tips + accommodation suggestions (East + West)
• Itinerary: 1 week in Sicily – The best itinerary to visit Sicily in 6, 7 or 8 days (East coast)
• Itinerary: 10 days in Sicily – Want to spend 10 days in Sicily? Then you should read this guide (West coast)
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Sicily – How to plan your 14, 15 or 16 days trip to Sicily (Full Sicily tour)

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

I can only start this list of the top things to do in Sicily   with the capital, Palermo . It is a very rich city in terms of historical buildings and monuments and the ideal place to visit if you like churches and palaces.

In Palermo , you shouldn’t miss:

• The Norman Palace
• Palermo Cathedral
• The Massimo Theatre
• The Ballaro Market

Not far from Palermo, there is one of the most visited places in Sicily: Monreale Cathedral and its thousands of square meters of golden mosaics . To give you an idea, 2200 kg of pure gold was used to make them!

For more details about Palermo and the best accommodations in town, you should read my article: The 15 best things to do in Palermo

This is a very picturesque place and probably the first Sicily picture you saw!

This small fishing town with its colorful boats moored at the pier seems calm and peaceful.

Ok, I will tell you something, so you will not be disappointed when you will visit Sicily: the reality is nowadays a bit different because Cefalù has become a popular seaside resort. With its sandy beach and medieval alleys , the place is certainly pretty, but quite crowded, especially in high season. I don’t advise you to go there if you only want to enjoy the beach, you will find much better and quieter elsewhere!

However, Cefalù is worth a stop to admire the panorama from the old port and pier and stroll through its narrow streets full of shops and restaurants. If you have time, you should also visit the Cefalù Norman cathedral , the most important building of the city.

Finally, you should climb to the top of La rocca di Cefalù , the cliff that overlooks the town and offers spectacular views.

Let’s continue this bucket list of things to do in Sicily with Taormina , nicknamed “the Pearl of Sicily” . This town is world-famous for the magnificent view it offers on the plain of Catania , Etna and Isola Bella . It’s one of the most touristic cities in Sicily , so it’s best to go off-season to make the most out of your stay.

If you’ve decided to visit the east coas of Sicily , it’s a must-see destination. Here are the things you shouldn’t miss in Taormina :

• Go down to Isola Bella , the small island and its beach that contribute greatly to the fame of the city.
• Visit Taormina Greek Theatre
• The beautiful view on the Etna and the sea from Piazza IX Aprile
• Climb the 300 steps leading to the Madonna della Rocca Church to enjoy a Bird’s-eye view of the surroundings.

I give you all the best tips to visit Taormina during your trip to Sicily in my article: Visit Taormina: The 10 things to do and see.

The Etna volcano is impossible to miss if you are in Sicily . It is one of the island’s main attractions, and it should definitely be included in your tour in Sicily .

From Taormina and Catania , many viewpoints allow you to admire it from a distance. But as it’s so close, it would be sad to miss the opportunity to climb up and see its crater, right?

The best things to do is to choose a day or half-day excursion. From Catania or Taormina , many tour operators offer full package around 55€ with transport , equipment , guide and 4 Wheel drive vehicle to go up to the crater.

Of course you can also drive there , but you will not be supervised, so be careful to have the right shoes and equipment . Check the weather conditions beforehand as well, access is not always allowed. Please note that if you are not accompanied by a guide, you will have to stop at the first level , (after the cable car). To reach the crater, the climb to the second level must be done in a guided minibus .

Going on the volcano is an unforgettable experience!

To make the most out of your day trip to Etna, I highly suggest you to book your tour with Getyourguide. It’s simple, they have the best English speaking guides!

Click on the following button for more info about the trip to Etna volcano:

Catania , the 2 nd largest city in Sicily after Palermo , is located at the foot of the Etna . As I told you before, this is the ideal starting point to get to the volcano.

Nicknamed the black city because of its buildings built in lava stone, Catania has many things to offer.

During your trip to Sicily , I advise to spend between half a day and a full day visiting the city.

Here are some of the things to do in and around Catania , in addition to the Etna excursion:

• Take a walk around the Piazza del Duomo to see the emblem of Catania : The Fontana dell’ Elefante .
• Visit Duomo Di Catania , the Cathedral dedicated to the patron saint of the city, Saint Agatha .
• Visit the “Cyclops rocks” (Faraglioni in Italian) in the seaside resort of Aci Trezza , only 35 minutes from Catania .

Find all the best activities to do in Catania in my article: The 12 best things to do in Catania

On the east coast of Sicily lies the town of Syracuse and the charming Ortigia Island , its historical center. It’s simple: everything in Ortigia is pretty! Monuments, squares, fountains, palaces and churches. There’s also some really good ice cream. You will have guessed it, at Voyage Tips, we loved our stay on this island!

Ortigia Island must-sees attractions:

• The beautiful Piazza del Duomo
• The Castello Maniace
• Arethusa fountain at sunset

In the modern city of Syracuse , there is only one must-see attraction: Neapolis archaeological park with its Roman amphitheater, Greek theatre and the Ear of Dionysius.

Find everything you need to plan your stay in Syracuse in my article: Syracuse: the 15 best things to do

Another great place to visit in Sicily!

If you are looking for the best place to visit in Sicily to discover the amazing baroque architecture, then look no further!

The Baroque towns of Noto , Modica and Ragusa are all listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . There are no specific monuments to visit here. All you have to do is stroll through the historic centers and enjoy it! (Tip: With an ice cream, it’s even better).

Palaces, churches and Baroque cathedrals , architecture lovers will really be happy!

The Valley of the Temples, next to the city of Agrigento, is Sicily best-known archaeological site. It’s the number 1 in terms of visit, before Selinunte Temples and Segesta (I will tell you more about them below).

8 temples are visible in the valley but the 2 best preserved are undoubtedly the temple of Concorde and the temple of Hera . The walk between the temples is very pleasant and easy to do on foot.

If you choose to go by yourself, you can find detailed information to plan your visit in my article: How to visit the Valley of the Temples?

About 20 minutes’ drive from the valley of the temples , the Scala dei Turchi is another must-see if your trip to Sicily takes you in this region!

This white limestone cliff is famous for its particular shape: it looks like erosion has carved steps! And if you add the turquoise color of the sea and the fine sand beaches that border it, you will understand why Scala dei Turchi is a very popular place.

Several dozen people gather here at the end of the day to watch the sunset , probably hundreds in high season. A show you shouldn’t miss!

Adresse de la Scala dei Turchi: Strada Provinciale 68

10. Selinunte Temples  

I will not hide it: Selinunte is my favorite archaeological site in Sicily! The temples with the sea view is simply a must-see during your trip to Sicily .

The archaeological park is split in 2 different sites , so I recommend you take your car to go from one to another. There are several temples to see . Some are very well preserved, others in less good condition.

Since the experts were not sure to which divinity the temples were dedicated, they preferred to name them according to the alphabetical letters. So don’t be surprised to visit temple A, B or C.

The site is really beautiful and will keep you busy for half a day. If you can, I really recommend you to stay there for the sunset .

Details for visiting Selinunte temples can be found in our article : How to Spend 10 Days in Sicily? The Best Itinerary!

Last temple and archaeological site of my Sicily bucket list, the temple of Segesta .

Perched in the middle of the green hills , Segesta Temple dominates the surrounding countryside. Extremely well preserved , it’s definitely worth a look if you are in the area.

Fun fact: if the temple doesn’t have a roof, it’s simply because it was never finished!

Another vestige you can see on the site is the theatre , which is perched at 400 meters above the temple. It’s still used in summer to host concerts and theatrical performances.

All the info to know how to visit the Temple of Segesta is in my article: The 10 things to see in and around Trapani

Torre Salsa nature reserve is located between Agrigento and Selinunte , which makes it a very nice stop during your road trip in Sicily.

Another good reason to go there: the sandy beach is huge and there are really not many people. This not very well-known point of interest is a real paradise for swimming or picnic!

To get there, you will have to go down a dirt road for about 20 minutes , then park your car in the parking lot.

Be careful though:

• It’s not well indicated, so you may be struggling a little to find the right entry (there are several)
• The path to go there is very rocky, so watch out for your rental car!
• Avoid leaving your car on the parking lot with your belongings inside. Don’t leave anything in the car .

When you get out of Marsala town , take the salt road that will take you directly to the salt pans . The road then continues to Trapani .

The salt pans and their mills are on many postcards, and you will quickly understand why when you will see them! Try to go there at sunset if you can, they are even more photogenic!

You can easily stop on the roadside, take a few pictures and maybe buy some of this renowned salt, used by the best Sicilian chefs.

Trapani city itself isn’t a major point of interest of Sicilian tourism, but it is an ideal starting point for at least 3 major attractions:

• The temple of Segesta I mentioned earlier
• Visit Erice medieval village
• Take a trip to the Aegadian Islands . I will tell you more about them in a minute!

Let’s talk a bit about Erice , this small medieval town built at an altitude of 750m, on top of the rocky cliff overlooking Trapani.

You can of course get there by road (good luck finding a parking space in summer!) or go for for something more original: the cable car !

From Trapani , a return trip by cable car costs 9 euros and the view is breathtaking .

Once at the top, here are some of the must-see places in Erice:

• Erice castle , from where you will have a beautiful view on Trapani
• The opposite view, on Monte Cofano reserve and San Vito Lo Capo
• The 14th century medieval church
• Discover the charm of small medieval lanes and shops (Even though touristic!)
• The Maria Grammatico pastry shop, an Erice institution!

For more information on Trapani region, I recommend that you read our article: Visit Trapani: The Ultimate guide.

From Trapani , you can leave for a day trip (or several days!) to one of the Aegadian Islands .

Boats connect Trapani to the islands several times a day.

The 3 Aegadian Islands are Favignana , Levanzo and Marettimo . They are all ideal for long walks, bycicle riding and swimming breaks in beautiful coves . And in addition the use of cars is very regulated, so there are almost none!

However, if you only have one day to devote to Aegadian Islands, I recommend you choose Favignana . Most people then opts for bicycles rental , to be able to see as much as possible in a day. Impossible to get lost, everything is well indicated. The paths have no particular difficulty, except for a few potholes.

Things to see in Favignana :

• Cala Azzura
• Cala Rotonda
• Lido Burrone

Everything you need to know about the Aegadian Islands is in our article : Visit Trapani: The Ultimate guide.

Located in the heart of Sicily, Enna is nicknamed “ the navel of Sicily “.

The region of Enna is the only one without access to the sea. However, it has the most lakes, including Lake Pergusa , the only natural lake of the island.

Perched on a promontory over 900 meters above sea level , Enna has retained its typical charm and offers several points of interest:

• Lombardy castle , which offers an unobstructed view of Etna from the top of its main tower.
• Enna’s Duomo
• Via Roma , the city’s historic center
• Archaeological Museum
• Lake Pergusa , with a racing circuit on its shore

It is undoubtedly the most famous nature reserve in Sicily. The Zingaro Nature Reserve is easily accessible from Scopello or Trapani .

During the easy 3h trail (back and forth), you will be delighted by the beautiful panoramas, with the path overlooking the sea.

And if you still need a reason to go there, this nature reserve offers access to several super beautiful coves. You can go for a swim before, during and after your hike! Isn’t life beautiful?

If you plan to visit the Zingaro during your trip to Sicily, you should read my detailed article: How to visit the Zingaro nature reserve?

Just as beautiful as the  Zingaro Nature Reserve , the Monte Cofano Nature Reserve is not as famous.

Other travel blogs may not tell you about it when you’re looking for points of interest in Sicily, and that’s a good thing! Like the Zingaro, it’s a path that runs along the seaside , however the vegetation and landscape is very different. personally, I loved it!

It’s also a lot quieter, very pleasant to walk around alone or almost.

For more experienced hikers , the reserve also offers another trail that allows you to climb to the top of Mount Cofano. But beware, with very steep passages where it’s necessary to use ropes and chains attached in the rocks, this trail requires good equipment and a good physical condition .

If you want to know more about Monte Cofano Nature reserve , you can read our article : Top 10 Things to see in Tripani.

The Aeolian Islands are located in Northern Sicily . This volcanic archipelago is made of 7 islands + a few islets and rocks. The best known and therefore the most visited are Lipari, Salina, Vulcano and Stromboli.

Each islands has its own charm and atmosphere :

• Lipari is the largest, best served by boats, and therefore it’s more animated than its sisters. It also has beautiful beaches .
• Vulcano is also easily accessible . It is famous for its beautiful volcanic landscapes and mud baths .
• Stromboli , well-known thanks to its continuously active volcano . An impressive night show you shouldn’t miss!
• Salina , has some beautiful hiking trails and good restaurants to eat after activities. It’s less touristy than the previous ones.

To get to Aeolian Islands , you will have to take a hydrofoil or a boat from Milazzo , Palermo or Messina . For example, the boat from Milazzo to Vulcano takes about 1h30. Once on the islands, cars are forbidden and reserved for residents exclusively.

If you only have a day to devote to the Aeolian Islands, I advise to choose only one, but if you want to see them all, you can choose a multi-day cruise .

My Sicily bucket list wouldn’t be complete without a list of the most beautiful beaches. Yep, if you’re going on a tour to Sicily , you will for sure want to enjoy the beach and crystal clear water! It’s one of the best things to do in Sicily after all.

Here are some of my favorite beaches and coves:

• San Vito Lo Capo Beach: Perfect for families with children, this large sandy beach is great for swimming or sunbathing! Public beach + private beach.
• Isola Bella: Small pebble beach with crystal clear water, at the foot of Taormina. Ideal for snorkeling with lots of small fish to observe. Public beach + private beach.
• Scala dei Turchi: This is the most romantic beach to enjoy the sunset in Sicily. Turquoise water + limestone cliffs getting orange and pink tone = the perfect combination! Public beach + private beach.
• Cala Rossa in Favignana: Surrounded by huge rocks, this cove offers crystal clear turquoise water. The view from above is breathtaking.
• Torre Salsa Nature Reserve Beach, a large, fine sandy beach, with very shallow water. Great place to spend a day with family, far from everything. Be careful for 2 things: the road to go there isn’t very good and it’s extremely important not to leave anything in your car.
• Parco Marino del Plemmirio : Close to Syracuse , you can find numerous beautiful small coves there.
• Calamosche Beach: One of the busiest beaches around Syracuse, well known for the beauty of its shallow and translucent water.

During your stay in Sicily, you might want to do something else than cultural tourism or going to the beach .

I have thus selected for you the best activities in Sicily. There is something for everyone ??

Simply click on the links below for more information and to book your activities:

• Paragliding: You can enjoy this activity in Palermo, Agrigento, Taormina , Trapani or Cefalu.
• 4-hour cruise from Catania to Cyclops Bay – And for the Small group version, on a sailboat, click here!
• Canyoning in the Alcantara Gorge – Five-hour trip ( Book here !) 3-hour excursion ( Book there. )
• A boat trip to Isola Bella, in Taormina
• A boat trip to the Aeolian Islands
• Mountain bike tour in Alcantara gorge
• Snorkeling tour (Aeolian islands – Vulkan and Lipari) or a Snorkeling tour in a marine reserve around Catania.
• Kayaking around the beautiful island of Isola Bella, in Taormina – You can also do a snorkeling tour there!
• A Segway tour of Catania
• Diving in Sicily, near Catania – First dive also possible on the Aeolian Islands
• An excursion to Etna from Catania or from Taormina
• Mountain bike on Etna / Also possible with a buggy!
• Parasailing , a great way to enjoy the view over the coast!
• A Kayak course along the coast of Syracuse, or in Catania
• Quad bike tour near Ragusa/Modica
• Quad bike tour in the archaeological park of Segeste
• Jet Ski Rental to discover a part of the south coast of Sicily.
• Jet boat tour (a very fast boat that takes very tight turns)
• Speleology in the lava caves of Etna
• Guided hike to the necropolis of Pantalica , near Syracuse.

And if you have the budget, you should opt for a unique and exceptional activity : A Private helicopter flight over Mount Etna!

Now, I would love to know what you have planned to do during your trip to Sicily!

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Sicily by yourself. (All Sicily articles are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Sicily tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Sicily tours by clicking the button below:

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Sicily, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Sicily? 😊

To help you get a better overview of this big island, I have created a tourist map of Sicily , which lists all the best places to visit I mention in this article. You can view the map’s legend by clicking on the upper left button, the one with a small arrow.

Sicily travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Sicily guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Sicily guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Sicily : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Sicily are listed there.

• Itinerary: 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East + West)
• Itinerary: 1 week in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East coast)
• Itinerary: 10 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (West coast)
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (Full Sicily tour)
• Agrigento: The 10 best things to do in and around the city
• Catania: The 12 must-see attractions
• Palermo: The 15 things to do in the capital
• Syracuse: The 15 best things to discover
• Taormina: Top 10 things to do and must-see!
• Trapani: The 10 best things to do
• Agrigento Valley of the Temples: visit the archaeological site with my detailed guide!
• Zingaro nature Reserve: All my best tips to enjoy this wonderful hike
• Where to stay in Sicily? My guide of the best hotels, sorted by cities and budget!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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4 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Discussion 63 comments.

Hi Vincent!

I’ve really been enjoying reading your information on Sicily. You have offered some great ideas and advice!

I do have a quick question for you. Next April my husband and I are going to Sicily for about 10 days. We’d like to settle in 2-3 areas for that time, as we all really like to linger in a place for a while.

Since this is our plan, I was curious what 2-3 towns would you might suggest for this kind of trip. I have a feeling we’ll be settling on only 2 locations, but we’re just in the beginning stages of our planning, so we may change it to 3 different spots.

Thanks so much!

Hi Allyson!

I am glad my articles are helping you to plan your trip!

If I had to choose 3 cities, I would go for Taormina, Syracuse and Palermo, these are the 3 most interesting cities to visit. But it really depends on what you want to see, if you like more cities, historical sites or nature for example. Tell me what you prefer.

If you are interested in visiting the temples (Agrigento, Selinunte) + Marsala Salt pans + Aegadian Island + Erice village (all 3 next to Trapani city), staying in Selinunte or Sciacca town can be a good idea.

It also depends if you plan to rent a car there? Let me know! Then you can pickup a few places you would like to see from this article: The 20 best things to do in Sicily . I will then tell you where to stay to optimize your trip in Sicily.

Hey Vincent!

Thanks for your response! My husband, David, and I will be traveling with another couple that has been to Italy many, many times. They are pros at traveling around the country! 🙂 We will definitely have a car, and will do a little bit of everything. I’m a big nerd, so I love the history. LOL We will also plan on some active type activities, as well as travel to big cities.

There has been a development in our planning, though. We had decided on Sicily, but in a conversation late last week, Greece was mentioned. Now we are trying to decide if we want to go to Sicily or Greece! It’s a rather difficult one to make, because we would all love to go to both places! The pros to going to Sicily are that my friend Lisa speaks the language, has driven there many times, and the FOOD!! Oh the food!! Pros for Greece include the history and architectural ruins, the many islands, and again, the FOOD!

I checked your website, and I noticed that you haven’t been to Greece. I’ll have to do some searching around on other sites to find information that will help our decision-making. We want to have it decided upon within the next two weeks, so we can book our flights.

Anyway, any advice, tips, or whatever you’d like to share will be most appreciated. Thanks so much!

Hey Allyson,

If you love history, you should really go to at least one of the temples archeological sites, it’s amazing!

I haven’t been to Greece, I am planning to go relatively soon (This year or next year, not sure if I will do Portugal first, or Greece, no idea for now!), but the country is big and attractions aren’t close to each others, so traveling 10 days in Greece seems a bit short in my opinion (15 should be a minimum I think, 20-25 would be best).

So my personnal advice for a relatively short trip would be Sicily, as traveling from place to place with a car is super easy there, you will lose a lot less time in transportation.

After, you decide!

Just one important thing: If you go to Sicily, you need to be very careful with the car rental scams, it’s unfortunatly very common there. I have written an article about it and how to avoid them, but it’s just in french for now. (if needed I can sum it up for you)

The article is here, just in case: Rent a car in Sicily – How to avoid scam (in French)

If you need anything else, don’t hesitate to let me know.

We will be on the Amalfi coast for three days and i plan to go to Sicily for a couple of days by car…the 7 hour drive is bad enough so i dont plan to go all the way to Palermo…for time sake. However I would appreciate you advice on things to do in eastern sicily… i have only two days to allow and then back to Rome for our flight back home…thanks

Hello Johnny,

If you don’t want to drive too much, the best is to spend your 2 days in Taormina, it’s a very beautiful town, and the closest to Messina (where the ferry boat to Sicily arrives). You can spend your 2 days like this: Day 1: Visit Taormina and go to Isola Bella beach Day 2: Go to Castelmola village (less than 10 minutes drive, very beautiful!) + enjoy the beach again, or go to Alcantara Gorges.

Another option for Day 2 is to go to Mount Etna.

You can read my article about Taormina: The 10 best things to do in Towwn

Enjoy your trip to Sicily!

Hello Vincent, I really enjoyed reading all the information in Sicily, my boyfriend & I we are (48 & 64 years old)are wanting to go in November, we enjoy history, beaches, and are big “Foodies” and love to explore new places, I have some Sicilian history (Great Grandfather from a small town that was destroyed by an earthquake in the 1970’s and most of the family moved to Polamero at that point. Anyways… We are thinking 8-10 days maybe ? in Sicily and then pop over to Barcelona for a week or so ?, I could really use some help planning some of the details can you recommend someone? We live in USA and also do not speak any Italian so I want to make sure we don’t get scammed.

I also read that Greece is on your list and I do have a great person for planning that, check out Fantasy Travel, they only plan Greece and Egypt however.

Hello Nicole,

For Sicily, i will be glad to answer your questions and help you plan your trip (for free of course) if you want to organise it yourself.

No need to worry, if you book everything in advance, you can’t really get scammed. The only scams that are problematic in Sicily are the car rental scams, but you can avoid them easily by taking an insurance, as i explain in my itineraries articles.

Unfortunately I don’t know anyone who can organise your trip for you, but, if you want, you can tell me what you would like to visit, and I can tell you how many days you will need.

By the way, have you read my 10 days and 2 weeks itineraries articles? They can give you a good idea about how long it takes to visit the various places!

I am currently in Greece, I have visited most of the country during the past month, so I will prepare some travel guides when i will be back.

I am sure you will love your trip to Sicily, Barcelona and Europe!

Good afternoon Vincent,

Thanks for your great tips for visitors to Sicily. My husband and I are planning a holiday for a month in Italy in May/June 2019 and have decided to include Sicily in our itinerary.

We will certainly be taking your advice and visiting many of the places you have mentioned but are a little undecided what to do about booking accommodation. Would you suggest pre booking from Australia or perhaps just ‘winging’ it when we arrive. We really are at a bit of a loss on this one so hope you may be able to help us out a little with you great knowledge of the country.

Many thanks, Kristine

Hello Kristine,

I would really suggest you to book your accommodations in advance, Sicily is quite touristic and the hotels offering the best value for money are full quite fast.

This is especially true in Taormina, Ortigia (Syracuse) and next to the Valley of the Temples for example.

If you haven’t already, I recommend you to have a look at the itineraries I have written: they give you a better idea of what you can visit in how much time. I also suggest the best hotels for every budget in each cities. Click here for the list of the best Itineraries in Sicily

And if you need help to plan your trip, don’t hesitate!

Thanks Vincent, will take your advice and book prior to going. Will also look at your recommended areas to visit. Nothing like having some local knowledge so will probably be back in touch.

Cheers Kristine😊

You’re very welcome, talk with you soon then 🙂

Hi again Vincent,

Quick question. If we decided to base ourselves in one hotel and then travel to different towns/cities in Sicily, where would you suggest we do that. We will have transport and as we live in Australia we are used to driving distances so that wouldn’t be an issue but just wonder if this idea is feasible.

Thanks again,

Hi Kristine,

I wouldn’t suggest to do this at all, as it is really a waste of time 😊

Even by staying in the most central location (in the middle of Sicily, where there is nothing very interesting to do), you will have around 4 or 5 hours of driving each day to reach the main attractions and come back.

Not to mention a few places deserves at least 2 days to visit, like Syracuse or Trapani if you also want to go to Aegadian islands.

In Sicily, doing an itinerary is really the only viable solution.

My family booked a house for a week in Trappeto. We are already planning to spend a couple days going to Palermo. On top of that what would you recommend? Should we stay on the west side of the island (Castellammare del Golfo/ Trapani)? Or does maybe an overnight, two-day trip to Mt. Etna and Taormina make sense during that week? Thank you so much and I have really enjoyed reading all of your articles!

If you are in Trappeto, it’s really better to stay on the west side of Sicily. There is enough to keep you busy, with attractions such as:

– Palermo of course and Monreale Cathedral – The Zingaro nature reserve – Erice village, near Trapani – or even Selinunte temples, as they are only 1 hour drive from Trappeto – Marsala Salt Pans – The Aegali islands (Favignana or Levanzo) – Cefalu is at around 1h30 if you want to go there too.

You can group some of them. For example, you can do, in 1 day:

Selinunte temples in the morning, then do a loop: Marsala Salt Pans and Erice village at the end of the day. That would be a pretty awesome day of visits!

To go to the east side (Catania), it’s a 3 hours drive. A bit far in my opinion for just a week. Going back and forth, you would be losing half a day in the car.

It’s really better to plan to come back to Sicily another time, and enjoy the east side, as there is enough places to visit to spend another great week there 😃

Have a nice trip, and if you have other questions, don’t hesitate!

I love your blog and will use your advice for our 2 weeks in Sicily and for a few days in Rome, thanks so much for your insights.

We are seniors and the idea of navigating ourselves is a bit intimidating, I was wondering if you could recommend a driver who could take us around on our 2 week sojourn in Sicily.

I suppose we can do it but it would be a real luxury to be able to look out the window and have someone else ( who knows the terrain) get us around.

Thank you in advance for any help and information, we loved your blog!

P.S. we will be traveling in February 😊

I am glad my articles about Sicily are helping you to plan your trip! Unfortunately, I don’t know any driver in Sicily. I think your best bet would be to contact one of your hotels in Sicily and ask them. They generally know a few local taxi drivers.

Have a great day and enjoy your trip to Sicily! And if you have any other question, don’t hesitate.

Hi, My husband and I are going to have just 3 days in Sicily but have yet to decide where to stay. He wants to rent a car but I would rather hire a guide to lead us around. Which would you suggest? Also, we speak no Italian and I am really concerned about the language barrier. Which area of Sicily would be best for English speaking Americans?

It really depends on what you want to visit. If you don’t mind driving a bit, the best place to visit in 3 days would be Catania/Taormina/the etna Volcano and castelmola village. If you do not have the time, you can do just half a day in catania, it is enough to visit the best attractions of the city.

You can read my 3 days in Sicily itineraries article here: the best things do to in 3 days in Sicily .

There are links to my city guides in the article too.

For the car rental/guide question, it depends: the guide would be useful if you want to have detailed historical information about the places you will visit and if you don’t mind being with someone else all day.

Else, it is pretty straightforward, you just have to drive from A to B with the car. The city historical centers are very small, so you cannot get lost.

And don’t worry about the language barrier, Sicily is a very touristic place and everyone speaks a bit of English there.

Great article. My daughter and I will be in Sicily for one week. She would like to do wine tasting. Can you recommend a specific region that would allow for both wine tasting and hitting the sites/cities you recommend.? Thank you!

Hello Elizabeth,

I’m glad my article is helping you to plan your trip to Sicily.

The 2 best regions for wine tasting in Sicily are around Marsala and Trapani on the west coast and around the Etna volcano on the east coast.

I have written 2 detailed itineraries that will help you to plan your stay.

You can read the one about the east coast of Sicily by clicking here And the one about the west coast there .

The west coast itinerary is for a 10 days trip, but it can be slightly modified to fit a 7 days holidays in Sicily. If you need any help for this, don’t hesitate to ask me.

If you choose to visit the east coast, I highly recommend you the following tour:

Mount Etna 5 hours wine tasting tour

Hello Vincent,

Love your website. Thank you so much. Problem is I want to see it ALL and I know that will never be possible. So I’m hoping you might have some ideas for us.

My husband and I will be going to a family wedding in Trapani. The wedding is on Aug. 4. I know, groan, August is not the best time to travel in Italy and especially not Sicily. We will be flying from NY. We were thinking of spending maybe 3 days in Rome and then flying to Sicily.

We would like to spend 2- 3 days in Trapani, perhaps Aug. 3, 4 & 5? And then tour a bit more of the island. We would want to spend no more than 14 days total (including the days devoted to transatlantic flights). If we take a 14 day total trip, subtract 2 days for transatlantic travel, 3 days for Rome, 3 days in Trapani, that would leave us 6 days to tour Sicily. Can you suggest an itinerary?

Would flying home to NY directly from Palermo be possible? Are there flights every day? Would it add a lot to the air fare to book flights NY → Rome, then Rome → Catania, (rental car from Catania ), then Palermo → NY? I am assuming the total trip time will be shorter if we fly directly home to NY from Palermo, but that it will be more expensive .

Thank you so very much for any ideas you have.

Hello Kisa,

Thanks a lot, I am glad my website is useful for you to plan your trip to Sicily.

For the 3 days you will spend in Trapani, you should have a look to my detailed article about the things to do in and around the city, if you haven’t cheked it yet. It also includes itineraries to visit the city in 1, 2 or 3 days. You can read it here: The 10 best things to do in Trapani

For the 6 other days in Sicily, the best would be to land in Catania and do the following itinerary:

– 1 day in Catania – 1 day in Syracuse and Ortigia Island – 1 days in Noto, Modica and Ragusa – 1 day in Agrigento and Scala dei Turchi – 1 day in Selinunte – 3 days in Trapani for the wedding – 1 day in Palermo and take your flight back

It’s a tight schedule, and you will have to change hotel each night, but that’s the best way to see many places in such a short amount of time.

You can read all my articles about Sicily by clicking here , you will find a list of the best things to do for each place + itineraries ideas to plan the visits.

For Palermo to New York flights, you should have a look on a flight comparator such as Skyscanner . I have checked, and it seems there are flights everyday (with 1 stop) for around 400€.

By the way, I have also written a detailed travel guide about Rome, with all the best things to do and itineraries to visit the city in 3 days, you can read it here: The 25 best things to do in Rome .

Don’t hesitate if you have any other questions.

I am planning for a three week trip to Sicily in Mid August. I plan to rent a car.

I am researching places now but was wondering what places you recommended. I am interested in nature, culture and history.

I know that it will require driving but is it possible to base myself in certain places (of an area) for a couple of days and then do day trips to surrounding areas?

Thanks in advance.

The thing is, in Sicily, all the 99% of the must-see attractions are located along the coast. So to visit, you really need to drive around the island.

It’s not really possible to do it with only 3-4 stops for example, you would end up driving 5 or 6 hours per day!

For a first long stay in Sicily, I recommend doing the itinerary I talk about in my “How to spend 2 weeks in Sicily” article. You can read it here: 2 weeks Itinerary in Sicily .

It’s a 9 stops itinerary, and the only ones you can group together are “2) Syracuse / Ortigia Island (2 days)” with “3) Noto / Ragusa / Modica (1 day)”. You can spend one more night in Syrcause and visit Noto/Ragusa and Modica as a day trip. You will waste a bit of time, but as you have 3 weeks, that’s alright in your case!

As you have 3 weeks in Sicily, in addition to the itinerary I linked above, you definitely should add a few days on the Aeolian Islands. 4 days would be a good start to explore them.

If you have any questions to plan your trip to Sicily (advices for your itinerary draft, best places to stay in a city or anything else), don’t hesitate to ask me 🙂

Hi, Thanks for this very informative site; it’s really helped me plan our trip to Sicily. Thought I’d leave you my itinerary to get your opinion on if we will manage with what we doing:

– Day 1: Arrive in Palermo pm – Day 2: Palermo – Day 3: (road trip begins) am Cefalù/ pm Taormina (sleep in T) – Day 4: Taormina/ Castelmola- drive to Syracuse (sleep in S) – Day 5: Syracuse – Day 6: Syracuse + Ortigia (drive to Catania/ sleep in C) – Day 7: Catania – Day 8: Catania…pm ferry to Amalfi

U think it’s all good ? Can you recommend any accommodation ?

Thanks, Dan

Your itinerary seems to be perfect!

About accommodations, I have written suggestions in the detailed articles about each city, in the “where to stay?” section

Here are the direct links, for the cities you will visit during your road trip in Sicily:

Where to stay in Palermo Where to stay in Taormina Where to stay in Syracuse Where to say in Catania

If you have specific questions about accommodations or anything else, don’t hesitate!

Hi Vincent There is so much to see and do I think I need a month! However, we are flying into Palermo late evening and have then 5 nights for a road trip. We want to see Palermo, Agrigento and Syracuse and whatever you suggest along the way. We are then heading for Taormina where we have a hotel booked for a week. We went there last year and loved it so decided to see a little more of the Island first. Would really appreciate your help.

If you want to visit Palermo, Agrigento and Syracuse during your road trip before going to Taormina, I suggest you the following itinerary:

– Day 1: arrive in Palermo – Night in Palermo

– Day 2: Visit Palermo. If you have time, you can also go to Monreale town to see the cathedral. Night in Palermo

– Day 3: Go to Agrigento (2 hours by car) and visit the Valley of Temples. At the end of the afternoon, you can head to the Scala dei Turchi beach to watch the sunset. Night in Agrigento.

– Day 4: Discover the 3 baroque cities: Ragusa, Modica, Noto and then head to Syracuse. Night in Syracuse.

– Day 5: Visit Syracuse and Ortigia. Night in Syracuse.

– Day 6: Visit Catania and night in Catania or Taormina (depends if you count the first night in Palermo in the 5 nights total or not).

If you have other questions to plan your trip to Sicily, don’t hesitate!

Thank you Vincent. The 5 nights includes the first night in Palermo but we can drive to Catania from Taormina for a day trip. Do you think we would have time to visit Trapani/Erice on our full day in Palermo?

From Palermo to Erice, it’s 2 hours by car, so it’s too short to do Palermo + Erice on the same day.

If you prefer, you can skip Palermo and do a day trip to Erice.

From Palermo, you can take the coastal road, go to the Zingaro Nature Reserve or see some nice beaches around San Vito Lo Capo and Monte Cofano (Bue Marino beach for example) for the first part of the day.

Then head to Erice, try to be there around 4-5pm.

Erice is very small, so 1h30-2 hours is really enough and Trapani city iself isn’t very interesting (not worth going).

Thank you for this great site. We are going to be hiring scooters to tour the Island in September, and have found you advise tremendous. What are the roads like in terms of safety?

Hello Jane,

To be honest, I wouldn’t hire scooters to tour the island, for a few reasons:

– Sicily is a very big island, a typical tour of Sicily takes about 2 weeks, if done by car. (You can have a look at my 2 weeks itinerary in Sicily ). With a scooter, unless it’s a 400cc or more, travel times would be very very long. – Sicilian driving is crazy: if you are not used to drive in the South of Italy, renting a scooter is quite dangerous. – You will need to be very careful of thieves. Even if you rent a car, it’s not recommend to leave it unattended with something inside. So you can’t really park the scooter near a wild beach and go swimmming, as you might have a bad surprise when coming back.

While renting a scooter is great for small islands (like the Aeolian islands, reachable from Sicily), it’s really not adapted to visit Sicily itself.

Enjoy your trip, and if you have other questions, don’t hesitate!

I would like to ask you for the best breathtaking panoramic/view points in Sicily. We will be driving a rent car for 4 days starting from Catania.

Hello Mariyana,

The best viewpoints of the east coast are located in Taormina and in castelmola, a small village located near by.

Hi Vincent,

My Boyfriend and I are planning to spend 4/6 weeks in Sicily and hope to see as much as possible during that time.

We are planning to fly to Palermo and spend at least 1 week there first. We were not intending on renting a car for our trip- do you think this is a bad idea? Are there any other modes of transport for getting around the island?

As we will be staying for quite a while we are not in a rush to see everything as quick as possible and can stay a few nights/ a week in each place. I would love to get your advice on the best way to get around the island and if a car is absolutely essential!

Hello Kate,

As you will spend 4/6 weeks in Sicily, it’s in my opinion even more important to rent a car.

Of course, it will be a lot easier to get around with a car, but that’s not all: during such a long trip on the island, you will probably want to explore remote “secret” places, villages, go hiking in the mountain, find secret beaches and so on. And all this can only be done with car, as public transportation in Sicily is rather limited.

Of course, if you want to stick to the main highlights of the island and you have the time, you can for example do something similar to my 2 weeks itinerary in Sicily , but by bus, on a slower pace. That works too!

So it really depends on what you plan to visit, what kind of things you enjoy doing while traveling. In my personal opinion, the complete freedom you get when doing a road trip is totally worth the amount spent on the rental car!

If you really don’t want to rent a car, here are the options you will have in terms of public transports:

– You can take the train. Here is the train schedules: Trenitalia . – You can also take the bus. There are 3 main bus companies: Interbus , SAIS and AST .

However, please note that public transport in Sicily is not very reliable. Most of the time, trains and buses will arrive or depart late.

If you need help to plan your stay in Sicily, don’t hesitate to ask me!

Enjoy your trip,

First of all, I would like to thank you for all the lovely guides you’ve put on this website. They are really useful and in-depth, so thank you for that! I was hoping to get your advice in certain aspects!

Around August 15, I’m flying to Palermo to start a 1-month trip in and around Sicily. I’m 21 years old and I’m going to travel by myself, hoping to meet a lot of new people and to have a wonderful time. I’m just going to travel with 1 large backpack. I’m not planning on renting a car, but I will just travel by train mostly (and sometimes take a bus or taxi). I should also note that I’m a real fan of nature, so I love hiking & visiting coastlines, coves, mountains, … and I’m not really into museum and churches.

I’m planning on visiting the following cities ( in this order):

Palermo (+ Mondello) – Cefalù – Milazzo & the Aeolian islands (Vulcano + Lipari + Salina + Stromboli) – Taormina – Etna visit – Catania – Siracusa & Ortigia island – Ragusa or Noto – Agrigento (Valley of Temples & Scala dei Turchi) – Castelvetrano (for Selinunte) – Trapani + Erice – the 3 Aegadian islands – Monte Cofano and ending in Palermo again.

Next up, I have a couple of questions:

– Should you advice me to visit Enna or Messina? I could integrate both of them in my tour, but I’m not sure if it is really worth the extra time? At first sight, it appeared to me that those cities were not as interesting as the rest of my planned tour.

– I saw you adviced both Noto, Modica or Ragusa, but I think I will only visit 1 of them ( or maybe 2). Currently, Noto & Ragusa seem the nicest to me. In case you would have to choose between them, which one do you believe is the nicest one to visit?

– Do you think it is feasible to book everything just day by day? That includes tickets for museums, ferry tickets, train tickets, hotels (or hostels,…)? Or do you really suggest me to book in advance? ( I would like to avoid this though as I want to have to freedom to stay as long as I want in the places I want to spend more time than anticipated.) This implies that I book my hotels like 24 or 12 hours in advance only.

– Do you have any advice in general before I head off? (Concerning travelling by train or items I should definitely take with me in back pack? Tips and tricks to survive Sicily in the summer?)

I’m really looking forward to your advice! Don’t hesitate to send me a private PM as well, I can show you a powerpoint I prepared with everything that I have planned in my trip. Please also let me know if I should skip some cities and focus more on others instead!

Thanks in advance!

Andreas Windels

Hello Andrea,

Thank you!I’m glad my blog is helping you plan your trip to Sicily.

Regarding your questions about your itinerary:

1) Messina is not worth it. Enna is charming and offers beautiful views over the whole of Sicily, but it’s really quite small. So as it takes quite much time to get there by train, you might want to skip it.

2) I recommend visiting Noto, Modica and Ragusa in 1 day because by car they are very close to one another. So it’s super easy! By train or bus, it’s definitely better to choose just one or two. For me, Noto was the more impressive as it has a few very beautiful monuments. It’s a very nice place, even if small (it will not take you a full day to visit for sure).

3) You can book day by day for the museums and the ferry. For the train, I’m not sure how it works in Sicily but booking your ticket 24 hours in advance should be enough. For hotels or hostels, it’s more complicated. There are already many hotels that are fully booked in August. With Covid, many Italians aren’t going abroad and prefer to spend their holidays in Sicily. So the destination is even more popular than usual! In some places like Cefalù, the Aeolian Islands and Taormina, it would be a lot better to book in advance. At the last minute, you will just end up with prices and “not that good” accomodations.

4) I haven’t travelled in Sicily by train, but I have seen several warnings that they are often late (same for buses).

I think your itinerary is great. You will enjoy your stay in Sicily for sure!

Hey Vincent, thanks for your previous reply!

I’m planning my visits on the northcoast of the Sicily right now. Regarding the Aeolian islands, I’ve noticed that booking hotels is quite expensive, so I’ve decided to stay in Lipari for 3 days (as it is the biggest island, it provides the most possible hotels and air bnb’s.)

I would then use my time there to visit the several islands by ferry. I would discover Lipari on the day of arrival (maybe with a scooter or bike) and we’ll do a boat excursion to Panarea & Stromboli on the 2nd day. My question now is, what to visit on the final day? Vulcano seems like a unique experience, while Salina seems very quiet and peaceful. And what about the remote islands of Alicudi & Filicudi? Would you advise me to visit only 2-3 islands and take my time in doing so or would you recommend to visit all of them in like half a day?

I’m looking forward to your feedback regarding these Aeolian islands.

Kind regards!

Hello Andreas,

You are welcome!

Unfortunately, I won’t be able to help you too much with the Aeolian Islands because I don’t know all of them very well (especially Salina, Alicudi and Filicudi, I can’t tell you if they are worth it or not).

But for sure you should at least plan 1 day per island. It will be impossible to visit them all by spending only half a day on each one.

For the last day, I think the best thing is to wait until you are there to decide. It will allow you to ask your hotel about the details + to decide depending on what you feel like doing that day!

Have a nice day,

Hello, Vincent and thank you for this wonderful resource. My wife and I are planning to spend one week in Sicily next July (2022.). Before I read your blog my plan was to rent an Airbnb in Cefalu because of the beach and then take day trips from there. Now that I have read your comments, I wonder if you would have a different suggestion. We would really like to be by a sandy beach but we are flexible as to where on the island. Do you have a better suggestion?

Hello Gerry,

Thank you very much! I’m glad that my article about the best things to do in Sicily is helping you to prepare your trip.

If you want to be close to a sandy beach and spend the week in one accommodation, you should in my opinion stay around San Vito lo Capo or Castellammare del Golfo.

From there you can visit: – The Zingaro nature reserve – The Monte Cofano nature reserve – Trapani and Erice medieval village – The Aegadian Islands (Favignana) – The temple of Segesta – Marsala

If you want to know more about these places, you can also read my articles: – Trapani: The 10 best things to do – Zingaro nature Reserve – Palermo: The 15 things to do in the capital

It’s better than Cefalu to organize day trips, there are a lot more places to visit in the area.

Enjoy your stay in Sicily!

First of all, Vincent, I can’t get over what a valuable and generous resource you provide. I will look into it right away and perhaps bother you again with a question or two. Thank you again.

Yes, please do not hesitate if you have any further questions about planning your trip to Sicily.

Hello Vincent, Love your help…… we land in Palermo on Wednesday night and we’re thinking of going to Siracusa the next day and visit Taormina and possibly Ragusa too before we head back to Palermo on Saturday. So we can see Palermo too… our flight leaves at 9.00pm on Sunday. My questions are as follows: 1. Should we go to Siracusa and what is the best way to go? We are not renting a car.

2. Should we base in Siracusa? How should we go to Taormina?

Kind regards, Manisha

Hello Manisha,

If you don’t plan to rent a car, you will have to take the train or bus to get around Sicily. You can check the timetables and fares on this website: OMIO

All the visits you want to do are quite far from Palermo. For example it takes more than 4 hours to go from Palermo to Syracuse by car (even more by bus/train). You will already lose a whole day to go there and back. And to go from Syracuse to Taormina by public transport, it takes about 2 hours. To do what you planned, it’s much better to land at Catania airport.

If you arrive in Palermo, I really advise you to visit the west of Sicily (San Vito, Trapani, Erice, Zingaro, temple of Segeste, Favignana).

I am already booked to fly into Palermo since that was the only airport with a direct flight. I was thinking of going to Siracusa and staying there for 2 nights and doing a day trip to Taormina. How do I get to Taormina from Siracusa and how long does it take for a day trip?

You can take the train or bus as I have mentioned in my previous comment, simply click on the Omio orange link above to check the timetables and book a ticket. For Syracuse Taormina, the train is a bit faster than the bus. (With the bus, you generally need to take 2 buses: 1 from Syracuse to Catania and then another one from Catania to Taormina. The train that goes to Taormina from Syracuse takes 2h45. Considering you need time to go to from your hotel to the train station, need to arrive a bit in advance etc… Round trip, that’s more than 6 hours of transport in 1 day. It’s a lot!

You have 4 full days in Sicily (roughly 40 hours of day time), and you plan to spend:

6 hours to go from Palermo to Syracuse 6 hours to go from Syracuse to Taormina and back 6 hours to get back to Palermo for your return flight

That’s 18 hours (and I am being very conservative, in real it can end up being quite more if you include train station to hotel transfert time, waiting time etc.), almost half your visit time in Sicily, in the public transports. That’s why I said I couldn’t recommend you this itinerary, it won’t even be enjoyable. After you do as you please, but really, it’s a question of ethics: I can’t recommend you do organize your stay like this (but after, you do as you please of course!)

Have a nice trip!

Hello Vincent I have just discovered your blog and it’s really helpful. My husband and I are flying into Palermo in April and have 9 nights in Sicily. We want to see as much of the island as possible and are contemplating multiple sites dotted around the coast to spend 1/2 nights at each. We are hiring a car. It all looks so beautiful but can you offer some advice. Thank you, Anna

Hello Anna,

To give you an idea of what you can do in 10 days with an arrival in Palermo, I recommend you to read my other article: 10 days itinerary in Sicily .

During this trip, you will discover all the must-see places in Western Sicily: Palermo, Agrigento, Selinunte, Trapani, Scopello, Castellammare. As Sicily is a really big island, in 10 days, it’s better to focus on the Western part of Sicily. And come back another time to visit the East!

My husband and I are planning to go to the Amalfi Coast and Sicily (east side) for 14 days at the end of August 2022. I am 70 years old and my husband is 73. WE are both in good shape. Can you please tell me, do you think this is too much. Also, we were not planning to rent a car. Could you please suggest an itinerary for us along with accomodations.

I read your blog and found it very interesting.

Much appreciated.

Neil Katz (Toronto, Ontario CANADA)

Hello Neil,

Unfortunately, I can’t help you for your trip to the Amalfi Coast as I didn’t have the chance to visit it yet.

About Sicily, if you only want to do the East Side, you can have a look at this itinerary: One week in Sicily detailed itinerary Here you can find all the things to do and my selection of accomodations.

For this itinerary I recommend to rent a car, but if you don’t want too, you can do it by bus and train. In that case, maybe you can spend 9-10 days there and do a similar itinerary at a slower pace.

Enjoy your trip in Sicily!

Hi Vincent, Thanks for the great info about 2 weeks in Sicily 🇮🇹 My husband and I are going to Sicily for 3 weeks in September 2022. We have rented a car for the whole period, and we are planning to drive around the island. We have a few questions, which we hope you will kindly answer 😊 1) Your trip goes clockwise, we are thinking about doing the opposite starting in Catania driving to Taormina, Palermo etc. Is there a good reason why you suggest to go clockwise around the island? 2) We would like to rent a bike 2 or 3 days during the vacation. Is there 2 or 3 areas on the island you can recommend for mountain and race bike? 3) We have seen photos on Instagram of a new hotel called Villa Saraceni at Scala Dei Turchi that should open in 2022, but we haven’t been able to find further information. Any chance you can help? We are looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you in advance. Kind regards Marc and Ulrikke 🕺🏻💃

Hi Ulrikke,

That sounds like a nice trip!

1) You can definitely do it in reverse, this is really up to your preferences.

2) For biking, the first place that comes to my mind is Favignana island, as it can only be visited by bike. Then, you can also probably rent bikes around the Parco delle Madonie (near Cefalu) and the Parco dei Nebrodi (north east of Sicily).

3) this hotel doesn’t exist, the picture you saw is a 3d render.

It’s not possible to build anything there, as it’s a protected area.

Enjoy your trip to Sicily, and if you have other questions, don’t hesitate!

Wow what a brilliant article. I am off to Sicily for five days late next week and this has been extremely helpful. Thanks so much!

Hello Vincent! Thanks a lot for your articles about Sicilly, I guess I’ve read all of them 🙂 Could you please help me and answer several specific questions? Small backround info: travel time – end of March-beginning of April, we are traveling with 2 kids (2 and 8 y.o.) by a rental car. We love more nature beauty than historical sights. So, back to the questions: 1) Alcantara gorges – is it possible to walk there to see te beauty of the place, since I am not sure that it is possible to do kayaking with a small child. 2) Zingaro natural reserve. Is it worth a visit in April when the water is to cold for swimming. I really want to go there, but if we do, we need to change the itinerary a lot, since we will have 8 full days on Sicilly arriving and departing from Catania. I am hesitating between 2 options now: – stay in the eastern part without rush -skip Syracuse and Taormina and try to make a bigger circle including Etna vulcano, Cefalu, Zingaro reserve, Marsala and Erice, Agrigento-Catania. Do you think second option is doable if we have 8 full days (+2 days for arrival and departure)

Hello Daria,

Thanks a lot! I’m glad that my articles on visiting Sicily are helping you prepare for your trip.

Regarding your questions: 1) Yes there is a small part of the Alcantara Gorges accessible on foot. 2) The Zingaro reserve is beautiful in all seasons. Even if you can’t go swimming, it’s worth taking a walk along the way to enjoy the scenery. But it’s a long way from Catania.

As for your hesitation, that’s really up to you. If you don’t mind doing a lot of driving every day, it might be possible to do a loop. You can look at the journey times on Google maps to give you an idea of the distances.

But of course it would be more relaxing to visit only the east of Sicily if you’re arriving and departing from Catania.

I’d recommend visiting the west by arriving and departing from Palermo, as it’s much more practical. I hope this helps.

Enjoy your family trip to Sicily!

Thanks a lot for your pompt answers, it helps a lot. One more question about Zingaro natural reserve. You wrote that it’s 7 km long and that you did a round trip in 4 hours? Looks like it is nor a round trip, judging by time. Is there some public transport that helps you get back to the southern entrance, if you started from the southern part and reached the northern part?

You’re welcome!

Yes, that’s right, it took us 4 hours to walk there and back (including the photo breaks). There’s no mistake. No, there’s no public transport, you have to do the round trip.

One more question from me:) It is very subjective, but still. If you had a choice between Taormina and Ortigio, which one would you choose, what impressed you more?

Taormina feels more special as the setting of the town is quite unique (the view, the roman theater). But keep in mind it’s also more turistic. Ortigia feels more like an italian old town where italian people actually still live.

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ITINERARIES

Travel tips and advice.

Abundance is the key word for understanding Sicily in its many facets: from one side of the island to the other, there are endless solutions for itineraries lasting a few hours, days or weeks.

In the western part, Palermo ‘s historical and architectural heritage is represented by the Cathedral and the Cappella Palatina, while archaeological triumph is celebrated in Agrigento ‘s Valley of the Temples and in Segesta. A treasure trove of antiquities that rank among the most beautiful in Italy can be found perched on Mount Erice , and the seaside villages such as Castellammare del Golfo and San Vito Lo Capo are home to an indescribable atmosphere. These places go straight to your heart at first glance.

In the eastern part, the lure of Etna is irresistible, between lava and snow. This leads you back to Catania , with a wealth of dynamic charm and a sparkling array of proposals for activities and nightlife.

The baroque of the southeast represents a great beauty among a thousand wonders and brings with it a nobility that starts from the soul.

Clear waters and pristine beaches are not far from urban jewels such as Syracuse , Taormina , Modica and Ragusa Ibla , home to a wealth of charm as well as ancient buildings and monuments.

And how could we not be seduced by literary Sicily , with the places dear to Camilleri and to the great Sicilian writers and poets that came before him? With Castles and sacred paths , food and wine tourism routes and those that lead to ancient rocky necropolises and naturalistic and cultural treasures enclosed and scattered within each of the nine provinces , ancient customs and new trends, Sicily is a single great itinerary, one that is extensive and engaging.

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15 Best Things To Do in Sicily

Updated Apr. 27, 2022

Sicily is big, with a nearly endless list of things to do. Some of the island's top amusements are its beaches, of course. Then there are the curious ruins – the Valley of the Temples and the Greek Theatre of Taormina , among others. Experiencing

• All Things To Do

Aeolian Islands Aeolian Islands

There are many lovely islands off the coast of Sicily, and the hardest part may be choosing which ones to see. A popular choice is the Aeolian Islands, located near Messina and composed of seven main islands, which were created by active volcanoes. There you will find incredible sites like a Greek acropolis, a Norman cathedral, beautiful beaches, volcanic vents and even lava running into the sea.

Past visitors recommended visiting Stromboli volcano (seeing it at night when erupting is extra spectacular), the Museo Archeologico Regionale Eoliano on Lipari, the Scalata al Cratere on Isola Vulcano and Chiesa Vecchia di Quattropani on Lipari, as well.

Mount Etna Mount Etna

Located on the island's east coast, Mount Etna is perhaps Sicily's best-known geological feature encompassing nearly 48,000 acres within Etna National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest volcano in Europe known for its frequent activity (it's erupted as recently as spring 2019), Mount Etna hosts hikers in the summer months and skiers during the winter. It is a great stop for nature lovers. In addition to the volcano itself, there are several interesting geological features like caves, grottos and even a glacier. The Etna Park Visitor Center offers naturalist-guided tours that depart from the center.

Visitors recommend taking the Circumetnea Railway nearly 130-mile ride around the volcano, but advise you may have to pay to park and suggest bringing layers of clothes for changing temperatures. You can also opt for a cable car operated by Funivia Dell'Etna followed by a bus ride to reach the upper crater area of the volcano. The south area with cable car access, Rifugio Sapienza, offers free parking. You can also hike at any point, but certain elevations require you to have a guide.

Greek Theatre of Taormina Greek Theatre of Taormina

History buffs will want to visit this ancient Greek theater, overlooking the Ionian Sea. Built in the third century B.C., the theater could hold thousands of people attending ancient Greek performances and later gladiatorial games. The structure is built out of rock and is designed so attendees could hear well from any part of the theater. Today, it hosts modern concerts and events.

Past visitors said this is a must-see attraction and that the views of the coast and Mount Etna are incredible. They recommended visiting in the morning to avoid crowds.

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Selinunte Archaeological Park Selinunte Archaeological Park

The largest archeological area in Europe at about 670 acres, this site was once home to one of the largest Greek colonies on the island, dating to 600 B.C. Today, visitors can tour the ruins of seven Doric temples, as well as the necropolis and caves. There are different hiking routes to see the various structures that range from about a quarter-mile to about 3 ½ miles.

Recent visitors said the site does require a lot of walking on uneven ground, and they recommended hiring a guide to fully explain the history of the area.

Monreale Cathedral Monreale Cathedral free

Monreale's cathedral, built by William II, dates to 1172 and is now part of a larger UNESCO World Heritage Site that also encompasses the Royal Palace and the Palermo Cathedral, among other sites. Designed by Islamic architects, the cathedral's walls are filled with gilded mosaics depicting Old Testament events, the life of Jesus Christ and the life of the apostles. There's also a Benedictine cloister on site with a courtyard and garden built during the same time period.

Visitors say the duomo is stunning and recommend visiting the cloister. They also suggest allowing a day to see both.

Villa Romana del Casale Villa Romana del Casale

Stroll through the villa of a wealthy Roman family filled with well-preserved mosaics on both the floor and walls. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, which dates back to the fourth century, also contains columns, capitals, statues, coins and the remains of thermal baths.

Recent visitors said the mosaics are stunning and some even described it as the highlight of their trip to Sicily.

Valley of the Temples Valley of the Temples

Located in Agrigento in southwest Sicily, this more than 2,000-acre archeological site dates back to the sixth century B.C. and includes the remains of numerous Greek temples. A highlight is the Temple of Concordia, which is known as one of the greatest remaining Doric temples (along with the Parthenon in Athens) and which was later converted to a Christian church. Other highlights include the remains of aqueducts, mosaic floors and a tomb.

Past visitors said it's worth visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site and recommended allowing at least half a day, if not a full day to explore the area. Others suggested timing your visit for the cooler months, as the ruins are actually situated on a ridge (not in a valley, as its name suggests) and the temperatures in the summer can get quite hot.

Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel

Completed in 1143, this chapel is part of the Royal Palace complex in Palermo and was once described by the French author Guy de Maupassant as "the finest religious jewel ever dreamed up by the human mind." It is a mix of various styles, including European, Sicilian, Byzantine and Arabic, and features Byzantine mosaics and an Islamic-style wooden stalactite ceiling. You can also tour the Royal Apartments area, though they are closed Tuesday through Thursday, as well as the Royal Gardens. The palace also features rotating exhibits.

Recent travelers said the chapel is a must-visit and describe the mosaics as breathtaking.

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Teatro Massimo Teatro Massimo

The largest theater in Italy, Teatro Massimo is located in Palermo and opened in 1897. The theater, which is known for its exceptional acoustics (and its appearance in "The Godfather: Part III"), hosts opera, ballet and music performances throughout the year.

According to recent visitors, the building is impressive and the neoclassical architecture magnificent. Reviewers suggested looking at the performance calendar ahead of your visit to see if any shows pique your interest. If not, consider tagging along on a guided tour of the theater.

Mondello Beach Mondello Beach

When in Sicily, you must visit some of its beautiful beaches, including Mondello, a popular beach in Palermo. Palm trees line this beach with pale sand and emerald waters. Dotting the beach are art nouveau villas and colorful cabins with an old fishing village filled with brightly-colored boats just around the corner.

Past travelers highly recommended a visit to this beach thanks to its clear waters and advise that you can rent chairs and an umbrella for a day in the sun. They also say it's easy to reach from Palermo via bus, although several reviewers warn of inconsistent bus frequency and a crowded ride in the summer. If you're willing to pay for the convenience, travelers suggest you take a taxi from Palermo to the beach. Part of the beach is free to visit (though according to reviewers, it's a very small section). For more space and access to amenities, you'll have to fork over some euros.

Zingaro Reserve Zingaro Reserve

Outdoor enthusiasts won't want to miss the Zingaro Reserve. Stretching for more than 4 miles along the Gulf of Castellammare on Sicily's northwestern tip, the reserve has been left largely untouched by human hands since it was established in 1981. The reserve offers spectacular ocean views, many lovely bays, small beaches and plentiful hiking among abundant flora and fauna.

Past visitors said the area is great for snorkeling and intermediate hikes, and highly recommend its beautiful beaches. Others suggested wearing comfortable shoes and bringing plenty of water and snacks.

Palermo Cathedral Palermo Cathedral

Built by the Normans beginning 1184, the Palermo Cathedral is a must-see for the many architectural styles incorporated into its façade. Altered throughout the centuries since its inception, the cathedral demonstrates Catalan Gothic architecture and features hints at its past life. The site the cathedral now occupies once housed a mosque (among other religious edifices), and you'll see an inscription from the Quran on one of the cathedral's columns. Inside, you will find a crypt, the crown of Constance of Aragon and the tombs of several royal figures.

Recent visitors described the cathedral as an architectural and cultural masterpiece and recommended going up to the roof for fantastic views of Palermo. If you're visiting in the summer, reviewers suggest you stop by early in the day to avoid the queue. Others advised wearing sensible shoes to easily traverse the narrow steps up to the roof.

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The Ultimate Sicily Road Trip: An Epic 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary

Beautiful, mysterious Sicily, with its looming volcano, sparkling azure waters, and hilltop villages, is one of those travel destinations that I have spent most of my life dreaming about. After finally taking a Sicily road trip, I can say confidently that the island was worth the wait… and that we’ll be working our way through another Sicily itinerary before too long.

The largest island in the Mediterranean truly does have it all: whether you’re looking to lounge on a beach, dive headfirst into the cuisine, explore the Roman (or Greek, or Norman, or Arab, or Byzantine) history, or visit famous Mount Etna, a Sicily road trip has something to offer.

Planning your own trip to Sicily and not sure exactly where to go?

We’ve put together this 10 days in Sicily itinerary for first-timers to the island–this is how to make the most of your first Sicily road trip!

Table of Contents

Why to Take a Sicily Road Trip

How we structured this 10 day sicily itinerary, a note on the language of the island, the ultimate 10 day sicily road trip itinerary, other places to visit on your sicily road trip, sicily road trip itinerary map, what to know about driving in sicily, the best time to visit sicily, what to pack for sicily.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Sicily was made for road tripping: with plenty of wide-open spaces, beautiful natural spots, and tiny towns worth visiting, there are few places in Italy more worthy of hitting the open road than Sicily.

Add in a less-than-ideal public transportation system, and a Sicily road trip quickly emerges as the clear best way to explore the island–but you need to be prepared in order to make the most of it.

You could easily create a month-long Sicily itinerary and still leave the island with stones unturned–but let’s face it, most people won’t have that long to spend on the island.

Our Sicily road trip itinerary is designed to hit all the best spots on the island for first-timers to visit, allowing you to get a taste of many different parts of Sicily: complicated yet lovely Palermo, beautiful beaches, and hilltop villages are all covered, as well as some of the most popular cities in Sicily.

Next to each location, we’ve noted the minimum number of full days (so, not counting a day you arrive at 4pm, for example) we’d recommend spending in each location. 

This works out to be quick-paced but reasonable 10 day Sicily itinerary–but if you’re lucky enough to have more time to spend in Sicily, you can extend it far longer, both by increasing the number of days spent in each location and adding new destinations (we’ll provide some suggestions for those below as well).

Though Italian is the official language in Sicily, Sicilian dialect–which is related and yet distinctly different, to the point where Italian speakers will have a hard time understanding it–is widely spoken in Sicily.

In the destinations covered on this Sicily road trip itinerary, you won’t run into many people (especially those who work with or near tourists) who don’t comfortably speak Italian–but if you stop off in smaller towns along the way, you’ll start to hear (and even see, on menus and such) more and more dialect.

As for English, well–like most places in the world, you can get by among those working in the tourism industry by using it, but it’ll be a bit harder here than in most of Italy.

We strongly recommend learning at least some basic Italian phrases before taking your Sicily road trip–the more Italian you speak, the easier your Sicily travels will be.

I don’t speak much Italian, but knowing enough to ask for (and receive) directions, order food in out-of-the-way places, read basic signs, speak with taxi drivers, etc, made our trip a bit simpler.

Palermo: 2 Days

The capital of Sicily is known for being a bit of a rundown place–and though in some ways it is, it’s also a beautiful, laid-back, and endlessly engrossing city. 

We spent an entire week in Palermo and still weren’t ready to leave when it was over, but 2 days in Palermo will be enough to give you a taste of the major sights and start your 10 days in Sicily itinerary off on a great foot.

What to Do in Palermo

Step inside the magnificent palermo cathedral..

Dating back to the 12th century and built in a variety of architectural styles, the beautiful and distinctive Palermo Cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the city.

It’s also home to some very unique touches, like a sundial on the floor marked with zodiac signs and an inscription from the Quran on one of the columns near the entrance–both highly unusual for a Catholic church!

Take a walking + food tour in order to see some of Palermo’s best highlights, fast.

Taking a Palermo food and walking tour on one of the first days of your Sicily travels is an excellent way to orient yourself both to the city and to the island as a whole.

Explore historical landmarks, markets, and cuisine while also getting a taste of what Palermo is all about with a fabulous food and walking tour.

We took this fun tour during our trip to Palermo and absolutely loved it!

Book your Palermo food + walking tour today!

Visit the mummies at the Capuchin Crypt of Palermo.

From the 17th to the 19th century in Palermo, increasing numbers of people were mummified in these catacombs–first naturally, and later intentionally, preserving them for all eternity.

The walls of the catacombs are lined with clothed bodies that have their full skeletons intact, staring down at visitors with sometimes disturbingly aware facial features.

No photos are allowed inside, but I can’t impress enough the creepiness of this place–I think it has something to do with the fact that these people are preserved as themselves that adds an extra layer of disturbing to it all, as opposed to places like the catacombs of Paris where the bones are more or less repurposed into artwork using human remains.

If you find catacombs interesting, we highly recommend visiting these during your trip to Sicily–they are, hands down, the most bizarre and fascinating catacombs we have ever seen.

Palermo Travel Tips

You probably don’t need a car here..

Palermo is one of the two major airport hubs in Sicily (Catania is the other), and if you arrive to the island here, we recommend not picking up your rental car until you’re ready to head to Cefalù–it’ll save you both a bit of cash on your rental bill, and a bit of a headache, as you won’t have to worry about parking it.

The easiest way to get from the airport to the city center is the train.

It costs 5 Euros, avoids the hassle of a taxi, and is perfectly comfortable!

Stay in an ideal location, and you should be able to walk everywhere in Palermo.

This is the biggest reason not to kick off your Sicily road trip until after to leave Palermo: here, a car is a liability but doesn’t really add much of a benefit.

You can walk between all of Palermo’s best things to do, so opt for that instead!

Where to Stay in Palermo

Il Lapino  — Home to simple rooms (some with shared bathrooms) and located only a 10-minute walk from the Palermo Cathedral, Il Lapino is very well-reviewed and is an excellent place to stay in Palermo for those on a budget.

Check rates & book your stay at Il Lapino!

Ciuri Ciuri B&B  — Featuring spacious rooms, included breakfast, and an excellent location, mid-range travelers can’t go wrong with a stay at Ciuri Ciuri B&B while in Palermo!

Check rates & book your stay at Ciuri Ciuri B&B!

Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel  — Boasting near-perfect reviews, Palazzo Natoli is located in the heart of Palermo, just steps from some of the city’s best highlights. Private balcony views, exceptional customer service, and a delicious daily breakfast are all included here–if you’re looking for the ultimate relaxing stay in Palermo, this is it!

Check rates & book your stay at Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel!

Cefalù : 2 Days

Of all the places to visit in Sicily, this is the one outlined on this Sicily road trip itinerary that we personally have the most unfinished business with.

We squeezed a quick visit to Cefalù into one day, but this magnificent seaside town captured our hearts and absolutely deserves more time than that–as we strolled the streets of Cefalù, we fantasized about one day returning here for a month!

In other words, don’t rush: you won’t regret taking two of your 10 days in Sicily to enjoy this beautiful place.

What to Do in Cefalù

Climb to the top of la rocca..

Climbing high over Cefalù to La Rocca takes less than an hour but rewards you with stupendous views over Cefalù and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as providing some interesting stops along the way (namely, the ruins of the Temple of Diana).

Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and ideally, complete this climb in the morning or early evening–the midday sun is brutal up here!

Check out the Cefalù Cathedral.

Not many villages as small as Cefalù have cathedrals as impressive–dating back even further than Palermo’s Cathedral, the Cefalù Duomo is absolutely worth visiting during your Sicily road trip, and if the views at La Rocca weren’t enough for you, you can even climb to the top!

Enjoy being a beach bum.

One of the best things to do in Cefalù is simply to enjoy its beach that is conveniently located right outside of the old town, where you’re never far from gelato or a granita.

Pull up a stretch of sand, dip your toes in the water, and enjoy the beauty of Cefalù without stress.

Cefalù Travel Tips

Savor getting lost here..

The small streets and occasional unexpected sea views give Cefalù a delightful charm that completely captivated us during our Sicily travels–this small village is worth wandering aimlessly, and due to its small size, it’s impossible to get too lost along the way.

Where to Stay in Cefalù

Sweet Home Cefalù  — Located practically next door to Cefalù’s beach and complete with both a balcony and a small kitchen, Sweet Home Cefalù gets rave reviews and is the perfect option for budget travelers in Cefalù.

Check rates & book your stay at Sweet Home Cefalù !

Marina House — What’s better than a well-reviewed apartment in the heart of Cefalù? One that’s located right on the water and includes a balcony overlooking the sea!

Check rates & book your stay at Marina House!

Casa Barone Agnello — Housed in an antique home in the center of Cefalù, this impeccably decorated and well-reviewed apartment is perfect for travelers looking for a bit of old-world charm during their trip to Cefalù.

Check rates & book your stay at Casa Barone Agnello!

Taormina: 2 Days

Taormina is probably the most touristic place on this Sicily itinerary, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth adding to your Sicily travels.

Boasting phenomenal views of both Mount Etna and the sparkling Ionian Sea, great swimming nearby, and an incredible Greek theatre, Taormina is hard not to love.

What to Do in Taormina

Visit the greek theatre..

Of all the Greek theatres we have visited in world–including ones in Greece itself–this one is by far the prettiest we have ever seen, and a visit here absolutely belongs on your 10 day Sicily itinerary.

On a perfectly clear day, you’ll see an epic view of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea behind the theatre–but even on a slightly cloudy day like when we visited (at least over Mount Etna, that is), the views are still pretty phenomenal.

Take a day trip to Mount Etna.

Want to add a little thrill to your list of things to do in Taormina? Book a day trip to the crater of an active volcano!

On a clear day, the views of  Mount Etna  from Taormina are fantastic–but there’s still nothing like standing on an active volcano with your own two feet.

Whether you want to book  a morning hike ,  a scenic tour , or  a full day trip  that also includes a visit to the beautiful Alcantara Canyons, you’re bound to find a visit to Mount Etna that appears to your travel style.

Book your day trip to Mount Etna today! Morning Hike  |  Scenic Tour  |  Full Day Trip

Go for a swim at Isola Bella.

Home to what are widely considered to be the best beaches in Taormina, summer visitors should definitely add a visit to Isola Bella to their Sicily road trip itinerary!

Though you can easily reach the island yourself from Taormina via the cable car,  a cruise along the coast  paired with visits to the island’s best swimming spots is an excellent day to spend a hot day in Taormina!

Book your  boat cruise around Isola Bella  today!

Taormina Travel Tips

Not everything is within walking distance..

In order to visit some of Taormina’s most popular sights like Isola Bella, and its beaches in general, you’ll need to head down to the seaside via cable car.

Check the weather carefully.

If you’re in town for a couple of days and one day looks clearer than the other, use the clearer day to visit Mount Etna (or if you don’t want to head all the way to Mount Etna, admire views of it from the Greek Theatre).

Where to Stay in Taormina

Hostel Taormina  — Boasting great reviews and a perfect location in Taormina’s Old Town, Hostel Taormina is the perfect place for budget travelers looking to keep costs down in what is arguably Sicily’s most expensive city.

Both private rooms and dorms are available, and a shared kitchen is located in the hostel.

The only downside? No parking options–so keep that in mind if you choose to book a stay here!

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Taormina!

Hotel Natalina  — We had a great time at this little hotel!

The location is a short walk from Taormina’s Old Town, the included breakfast quite large by Italian standards, and the customer service excellent. The staff helped us park our rental car for free nearby, which we greatly appreciated!

The rooms are large, but a bit dated–this certainly isn’t a luxury hotel, but it’s definitely a cozy enough place to stay while visiting Taormina, and we’d be happy to stay again.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Natalina!

Hotel Continental  — Want to admire the sea views that Taormina is famous for from the comfort of your hotel, while also staying in the lap of luxury?

If so, the Hotel Continental is for you!

Known for its superb location in the heart of Taormina, its views, and its wonderful included breakfast, luxury travelers can’t go wrong with a stay here.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Continental!

Syracuse: 2 Days

Packed with ancient ruins, beautiful churches, and a maze of quiet streets, Syracuse (or Siracusa) is second only to Taormina in tourism popularity for Sicily vacations.

For your 2 days in Syracuse, we recommend focusing primarily on the island of Ortigia (or Ortygia), which is a small island right off the coast of Sicily (and I do mean right off the coast–no ferry necessary) that is essentially Syracuse’s lovely old town.

What to Do in Syracuse

Check out castello maniace..

Located on the far edge of Ortigia, this citadel-slash-castle dates to the 13th century (an earlier castle on the site dated to the 11th) and boasts beautiful views over the Ionian Sea.

Stroll through the small streets of Ortigia.

Ortigia is a charming place, and we found that we loved it most when wandering the streets in search of coffee bars, churches (we stumbled across one with a festival going on inside!), and the island’s many ruins.

Be sure to make your way to the Piazza Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa during your wandering!

Marvel at the Temple of Apollo.

Of all the ancient ruins in Syracuse, the Temple of Apollo is considered the most important.

Dating to the 6th century BCE, the temple has served a whole host of functions over the centuries, including acting as a temple to both Apollo and Artemis, as a church (more than once), and as a mosque.

Syracuse Travel Tips

Stay in ortigia if you can..

This is essentially the old town of Syracuse and is set on an island nearby the main part of the modern city.

It’s beautiful, easy to get lost in, and delightfully fun to explore on foot, making it the perfect place to stay in Syracuse. 

The only catch is what to do with your car, which leads me to…

Choose where you park in advance.

Parking is severely restricted on the island of Ortigia, and on our Sicily road trip we ended up driving in circles for a bit trying to find the right place to leave our car.

Learn from our mistakes and plan carefully beforehand!

Consider visiting the Greek Theatre on your way into or out of Syracuse.

Syracuse’s Greek Theatre is one of its most popular attractions, however, it’s completely across town from Ortigia.

It’s the perfect place to stop for a quick sightseeing break as you arrive in or leave the city, though.

Where to Stay in Syracuse

Room Calafatari — Ortigia is peppered with dozens of small, simple apartments that are used as budget rentals, and Room Calafatari is both a great option and the perfect example of what to expect in Ortigia in a budget price range: no frills but a great location.

Check rates & book your stay at Room Calafatari!

Hotel Posta — With a fabulous location overlooking a port and within a short walk of many of Syracuse’s top attractions, Hotel Posta is a prime choice for mid-range travelers on their Sicily road trip.

Personally, we’d be tempted to upgrade to a room with a balcony–those views are just too good to pass up.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Posta!

Hotel Livingston — With excellent reviews, and included breakfast, and a prime location on the edge of Ortigia (most rooms include a sea view!), luxury travelers (or just those looking for a splurge) can’t go wrong with a stay at 4-star Hotel Livingston during their 10 day Sicily itinerary!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Livingston!

Val di Noto: 2 Days

Sicily’s Val di Noto is littered with stunning Baroque towns, rolling hills, lovely wine country, and some of the best chocolate in the world–in other words, it’s definitely a place that belongs on your 10 days in Sicily itinerary.

What to Do in the Val di Noto

Hop between the beautiful baroque towns..

Eight of the towns in the Val di Noto are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their incredible Baroque architecture: Ragusa, Modica, Noto, Scicli, Palazzo Acreide, Caltagirone, Militello in Val di Catania, and finally, Catania itself.

Obviously, that is a bit much to cover with just 2 days of your trip to Sicily.

We recommend prioritizing Ragusa, Noto, Modica, and if you have time, Scicli.

Admire views of Ragusa Ilba.

Beautiful Ragusa is divided into two sections: Ragusa Superiore (the upper town) and Ragusa Ilba (the lower town).

The views of Ragusa Ilba looking down from Ragusa Superiore may just be some of the best views in this entire Sicily itinerary, which is really saying something!

Snack on chocolate in Modica.

The beautiful town of Modica is world-famous for its chocolate, which boasts a recipe that originally hails from none other than the Aztecs.

The chocolate is created with “cold processing”, giving it a characteristic grainy texture, inconsistent color, and delicious taste.

Val di Noto Travel Tips

Choose where to stay carefully..

Think about your travel style when you choose where to stay in the Val di Noto: do you want to be the heart of the action? Do you want to be able to do plenty of sightseeing without driving? Would you prefer a countryside stay so that you can easily come and go without worrying about parking or driving through a town to do so?

Personally, we chose to stay in Ragusa for its relative popularity and central location and were very happy with the choice.

Don’t try to see more than 1-2 towns a day.

The Baroque towns of the Val di Noto may look very close together on a map, but add in small, winding roads, the hassles of finding a place to park and making your way (often uphill) to the picturesque town centers, and the delights of savoring each spot, and it’s definitely best to limit your movements when possible.

We recommend sticking to seeing 1-2 towns per day in this section of your Sicily road trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Val di Noto

For the sake of simplicity, we’ve outlined a few well-reviewed places to stay in Ragusa here, but staying somewhere like Modica or Noto will also easily work with this 10 day Sicily itinerary!

SanVito Hostel — With excellent reviews, a prime location in Ragusa near Piazza San Giovanni, an included breakfast, and a gorgeous terrace offering panoramic views of the Val di Noto, SanVito Hostel is a phenomenal option for budget travelers during their Sicily road trip.

Check rates & book your stay at SanVito Hostel!

Hotel Il Barocco — Cozy and comfortable, this small hotel is located in a 19th-century building in central Ragusa, making it the perfect launching pad for your sightseeing. With excellent reviews and a fabulous included breakfast, Hotel Il Barocco is a reliable choice in Ragusa for your Sicily vacation.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Il Barocco!

San Giorgio Palace — Located in the heart of Ragusa Ilba, popular San Giorgio Palace boasts very spacious rooms, as well as modern decor and amenities (including a very well-reviewed included breakfast) in a picture-perfect setting, with some rooms that overlook the valley.

Check rates & book your stay at San Giorgio Palace!

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 10 days in Sicily–or you just prefer an even more fast-paced Sicily road trip–there are plenty more incredible places to visit in Sicily to add to your list!

Here are a few more beautiful places to see in Sicily that you might want to add to your itinerary.

The ancient Valley of the Temples outside of Agrigento is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Sicily.

Once a thriving Ancient Greek city, these ruins are remarkably well-preserved and far less crowded than many better-known Greek ruins throughout Europe.

Located just outside of Palermo, Mondello is best known today for its long stretch of beach, which is one of the most popular places for beach days for both tourists and locals who are staying in Palermo.

This laid-back beach town is perfect for kicking back and enjoying long stretches of sandy beach–in fact, if you want a little more swimming to be included on your Sicily vacation beyond what’s outlined in this 10 day Sicily itinerary, you can even add a quick stop in Avola during your drive from Syracuse to the Baroque towns of the Val di Noto.

Aeolian Islands

Also sometimes called the Lipari Islands, this stunning volcanic island chain is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts some of the most magnificent sea views in all of Sicily (which is, as you can imagine, very high praise).

Located in the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city and second airport hub–you’ll likely fly into and out of either Palermo or Catania (in fact, for this Sicily road trip itinerary it’s easiest to fly into Palermo and out of Catania if you can swing it).

Though Catania is far from Sicily’s most popular tourist attraction, it’s definitely worth a bit of exploring if you happen to be passing through!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Driving in Sicily truly deserves its own post, but here are some essential tips to know before embarking on your Sicily road trip!

Shop around for your rental car.

There are dozens of rental car companies operating in Sicily, all with their own prices and rental agreements. We recommend shopping through Discover Cars in order to search through multiple companies at once.

Not only will you be able to compare prices easily, but you’ll also be able to compare rental inclusions (like insurance, kilometers allotted, etc.), which we found varied dramatically among different rental car companies in Sicily!

Price Sicily rental cars with Discover Cars today!

The driving honestly isn’t as bad as it is portrayed… but it’s not easy.

There’s no way around it: driving in Sicily has a pretty terrible reputation.

However, ultimately, we walked away feeling that driving in Sicily was easier than expected–but we fully admit this impression is likely partially because of how nervous we were about doing it.

The major roads in Sicily are perfectly well maintained–smaller roads, not so much, so beware of potholes. City driving is the trickiest while traveling between cities on major highways is fairly simple.

Drivers can be a bit aggressive, yes, but we wouldn’t say they were drastically more aggressive than in, say, Tuscany.

As much as Sicily has a reputation for being its own world, particularly when it comes to driving, driving in Sicily felt pretty much like driving anywhere else in Italy (which is, admittedly, a harder place to drive than some).

Bear in mind that we are coming at this from the perspective of people who drove daily for nearly a decade and have road-tripped through many countries, including Italy, before. You do need to be a confident, well-practiced driver to comfortably drive in Sicily.

Taking a Sicily road trip if driving makes you anxious, you’re out of practice, you don’t like to drive, or you’ve never driven outside your home country is likely not the best idea.

Also–this is not the place to learn to drive a manual. Unless you are very confident with one, we recommend paying extra for an automatic transmission.

… But be sure you have insurance (preferably with no deductible/excess).

We didn’t incur any damage to our rental car in Sicily… but when we dropped it off, both rentals parked on either side of us had huge dents in them!

Due to the aggressive driving, small roads, and distances covered on this Sicily road trip, we’d recommend purchasing insurance with no deductible/excess for the time it takes you to work through this 10 day Sicily itinerary–it’s simply one less thing to worry about on the road.

Rent the smallest car you can manage.

Tiny roads. Cramped historic centers. Parking lots where cars are parked a mere inch apart (and the lines denoting where the parking places should be seen as mere suggestions at best–people park over them regularly).

Truly, renting a big car in Sicily is a liability, not a benefit. 

We recommend renting the tiniest car you can squeeze your group + luggage into. If the rental desk suggests an upgrade? Turn it down.

Carry lots of coins.

You will pay tolls when driving in Sicily, especially in northern half of the island, so come prepared with a cupholder full of Euros.

Don’t underestimate the time it takes to drive between destinations.

There were days that we pulled into our hotel’s parking space exactly when Google Maps said that we would–and days (like the day we had to catch a flight) that we ended up way behind schedule due to road work and an unfortunate accident that we got stuck behind.

Definitely leave yourself plenty of extra time on days that you have somewhere to be at a specific time!

July and August are peak tourism season in Sicily, and while the beaches will be warm and the sun shining, it’s best to avoid taking your Sicily road trip during those months if you hope to avoid peak crowds and prices.

Luckily, Sicily is characterized by its brilliant weather that allows for swimming over nearly half the year! 

Personally, we’d recommend aiming for a September or early October trip to Sicily if you hope to swim your heart out, and a late April or May trip if you want to avoid the worst of the heat and crowds while still thawing out after a long winter.

Over the winter, lots of small, tourist-focused businesses close and the island, especially in smaller towns, quiets down significantly–but if a slow-paced, off-season 10 days in Sicily itinerary sounds right up your alley, you’ll certainly find plenty of peaceful spots to savor.

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced Sicily road trip is definitely better a case of safe than sorry. We use and recommend Safety Wing  for trips to Italy.

Cell Phone Holder — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your Sicily road trip. Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Additional Car Insurance — Whether you purchase a policy with World Nomads that covers car rental (only some of theirs do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: in Sicily, it’s worth the peace of mine.

International Driving Permit — If you’re coming from outside the EU and plan to rent a car in Sicily, you’ll need to make sure to acquire an International Driving Permit in your home country, before coming to Italy. It is required for all car rentals in Italy, and while the rental company may not ask, it’s not worth the risk of being refused a car once you arrive or getting a fine if you’re pulled over to be without one. 

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable. Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

13 thoughts on “The Ultimate Sicily Road Trip: An Epic 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary”

From someone who has family and typically visits for +30 days every other year, you did a very nice job with the article….many, many other wonder ful places to see and things to experience on the island, and the Eolian, and Egadi…..

Thanks Anthony! We can’t wait to make it back and explore more of Sicily.

Oh waooo Its amazing to know these valuable Information provided by you. Next month we have plan to visit Sicily and these information will be very helpfull. Thank you

Happy to hear that, Josef! Hope you guys have a great time in Sicily. :-)

Wow! That was a very helpful article! I am bookmarking it multiple places so I don’t lose it before our trip in June. Thank you so much for your great tips and very practical advice.

Thanks, Vrinda! Hope you guys have a blast in Sicily!

Quiet a lot of information . One question if not interested in driving then the other options .

You definitely can visit Sicily without a car, but it’s a bit trickier than up on the mainland where there’s more train service.

Essentially, without a car your options are to stick with one town or city as a base and use guided tours to visit more rural areas, cobble together an itinerary with train and bus service (doable, but not as simple as in, say, Florence), or sign up for a full multi-day guided tour of Sicily.

Personally the first option falls most in line with how we tend to travel. Taormina is one of the most popular bases for a trip like that, as many cruise ships stop there and there are lots of options for guided tours to Mount Etna, wine country, etc.

AMAZING info, and helpful tips. Planning a trip to sicily, for 14 days aiming for minimum driving. Landing in Catania-bus to Taormina-bus to Ortiga-car rent from Syracuse-Noto-Cefalu and fly from Palermo. Your thoughts? What would you change? Any tips will be appreciated . Thanks Suzanne

Thanks so much, Suzanne!

Sounds like a very reasonable itinerary, and I think you’ll have a great time! Definitely double-check the bus schedules as you go, especially if you happen to be traveling on any Sundays.

If you have time, I’d visit Ragusa and Modica when you’re in Noto (you may already be planning that, of course).

I think you’ll have an amazing trip–enjoy a cannolo for us!

Hi, Flying into Palermo and flying back to Rome (would like to spend at least 1 day in Rome). With that in mind, the top places to see and duration for a 10 days which include the arrival date. Thank you very much :)

Hi Claudia,

Are you looking to spend that time traveling overland from Palermo to Rome, or are you wanting to spend most of your time in Sicily and then fly to Rome at the end of your trip? There are so many possibilities!

Either way, I’d recommend 2 days in Rome instead of one in most cases–it’s a enormous city, and one of our favorites in the world! We have itinerary suggestions for both one and 2 days in Rome, if you want to see how much you can cover: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/one-day-in-rome-in-a-day/

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Best places to visit in Sicily

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

If you want to know the best places to visit in Sicily then make sure to ask an expert. Our friend Karen La Rosa from Sicily tour specialists La RosaWorks is exactly that person. Her passion for Sicily is infectious and in this article she shares the unmissable towns and sights of this fascinating island.

Join us on tour in sicily

Why visit Sicily  

For years, the Italian mainland has been the desired destination for tourists. Seems they can’t get enough, eating and drinking their way around the triangle from Venice to Florence to Rome. Venturing to the south of Italy never occurred to tourists and didn’t seem necessary.

Recently, that has changed. A switch has flipped, and the light is now shining bright on this magnificent and still somewhat secret island. Or, maybe the light is emanating from the island itself – that unique sunshine that reaches down to embrace Sicily from piercing blue skies more days of the year than most places? Tourists are re-considering.

This just means that on your visit, you will change your historic hat frequently and question frequently the style of architecture, the food, the human gestures and the ambience. In some places, it’s all jumbled together, a reflection of the way the Sicilians adapted, incorporated, and demonstrated great resilience.

Who is Sicilian? The answer, in short, is no one and everyone. Sicily is a great mosaic, still vibrant, still changing and still adapting. It’s an exciting place to visit, and oh, that wine!

Eastern Sicily

First, let’s land in Catania , unsung Catania. Sicily’s second largest city is far less touristed than Palermo, the largest. Situated in the middle of the eastern coast of the island, it is a Baroque town but also has black lava stone buildings. It is one of the few places to see Roman remains.

The Cathedral that houses the relics of their beloved Patron Sant’Agata, the Benedictine Monastery (Catania University), the various churches and the Bellini Gardens that sit across from Sicily’s best arancini at Pasticceria Savia , are all worth a visit. The Museo dello Sbarco , dedicated to the Allied campaign in WWII is terrific.

Catania is alive with entrepreneurial spirit and has one of the Sicily’s must-see markets, the Pescheria . This fish market has been in continuous operation since the 9th century, Arab times, 6 days a week from dawn until lunch time, just steps from the beautiful grand Piazza Duomo .

You can pass through one of the city’s original gates, Porta Uzeda , or emerge from behind the larger than life fountain cascading water above the now submerged Amenano River. In the center of the piazza, a slight turn of the head, you’ll see another fountain and the city’s symbol, the Fontana dell’ Elefante . In the evenings, this area is hopping with musicians and people enjoy the traditional stroll called the passeggiata, along the pedestrian only Via Etnea , arriving to the piazza, gelato in hand.

READ: Our guide to the Best things to do in Catania .

This city is undergoing a food renaissance and good eating is to be had in every corner. From street food of sublimely fried fish-in-a-cone to some of the best arancini around, to re-interpreted classic dishes at Catania’s first Michelin starred restaurant Sapio to Vinoteca Ostier where wines are paired to your entrée, there is so much to feast on.

There is no shortage of wine sourced from Mount Etna, Sicilian craft beers, and local specialties. To tourists, Catania is yet under-appreciated for its sights and food, but it is the ideal place to arrive and from which to venture on day trips before moving on. Okay, let’s head north!

LISTEN: The Tastes of Sicily

People have talked about Mount Etna for millennia. A volcano referred to as Mother, she provides a huge geographic area with remarkable fertility from her ongoing spurts of mineral rich lava ash that settles on the soil. Her imposing profile is visible from miles away and in every direction.

A visit up close is a must. There are various ways to experience her majesty, that begin with a visit to the extinct craters. Driving into the Etna Park, you will observe the landscape changing as you ascend. Boulders are everywhere. You arrive to the Rifugio Sapienza and the Silvestri Craters where you have a chance to climb up slopes of varying steepness and peak inside. The wind is audible, the soil rich in mineral colors, and the vistas, breathtaking.

Venture a little further to the next car park and you will find the cable car . A ticket will get you a seat on a 10-minute ride soaring to a platform where large 4-wheel drive vehicles whisk you further up onto the black lava sea, some 9800 feet high. From this vantage point you see the sky and the sea, the mountains and even Sicily’s center on a clear day. The wind is chilly in the warmer months and cold other times, but wrapped in warmth, you suddenly appreciate the power and magnitude of this volcano.

Private guides can take you on off the beaten path hikes and to experience this UNESCO recognized volcano in other ways. Be sure not to miss a visit to one of Etna’s more than 250 wineries. There is treasure in those hills.

Taormina is a small hilltop town, draped in floral displays of vibrant bougainvillea and about which great writers and romantics have waxed poetic. It is perched high above the sea, with a view to the mainland and draws hordes of international tourists to feast eyes on its unique beauty.

The Greek Theater is one of the most beautiful and at the edge of town it has exceptional views of both Mount Etna and the coastline, too. The historic center is given over to pedestrians who wander among the high-quality shops and cafes, climb up and down steps, and poke around narrow little corners, with restaurants serving aromatic foods tucked in here and there.

Taormina is unique in Sicily for its pristine and refined beauty. It is Sicily’s perfect place to relax and shop. Should you want some activity, take the cable car to the Mazzaro Beach whose white sand is just below the town, and hire a boat to skip you across to the crystal-clear Blue Grotto. Back in town, sit back and sip a crisp Etna white wine overlooking the breathtaking expanse and you’ll understand what all the fuss is about this town.

Ortigia is the small island that sits just steps over a connecting bridge from the mainland. For some, this place defines charm. It is the most historic part of the area with a long history, having been one of Greece’s most important cities after its founding in 734 BC. It can be explored through very narrow lanes that meet up at one of Sicily’s grandest piazzas, a perfect place for people-watching.

Before you is the stunning Baroque Cathedral, but a close look reveals its original Greek Columns, evidence of an earlier time, the ultimate recycled building. In one direction you can find a fountain steeped in mythology and papyrus growing in its sea water. In every direction there are ornately beautiful aristocratic palaces, some still privately owned, and some used for government functions. Shops selling both fine and delightful hand made goods line the streets.

There is a Jewish quarter in which it is possible to see two ritual baths, the Mikveh , and underneath the Church of San Filippo Apostolo there are catacombs and WWII shelter drawings. For a small island there is much to interest a visitor.

Off the island there is the Archeological Park with Sicily’s largest Greek Theater and the intriguing Ear of Dionysius.  Here, in the spring, you can see fabulous interpretations of ancient Greek plays.  There are also remains of a Roman amphitheater. Go with a guide and expect to stay 2-3 hours.

My advice: if you are planning a day trip, stay the whole day and enjoy. There are terrific restaurants and a market with places to eat fresh and delectable things.

South-Eastern Sicily

Just a short 20 minutes away from Siracusa is Noto . Built after the earthquake of 1693 destroyed the original town, it is now recognized by UNESCO for its refined Baroque architecture. The town is laid out in a grid form so the sun shines along the streets, reflecting light off the golden limestone. Perched atop a large flight of steps the Duomo is an imposing feature in the center of the main thoroughfare. Its steps are inviting to all for a sit down. The Duomo faces another beautiful building, the Palazzo Ducezio , now used by the government.

Noto has a slower pace to it than Ortigia and people mill about eating gelato from well-known pastry shops, climbing to one of the two church roofs for fabulous cityscape photos, and exploring the balconies that drip with fanciful and ornate decoration. It is a welcoming place and one of the few where I have seen LGBTQ flags.

Stay at the Gagliardi Hotel for its beautiful spacious rooms and a rooftop for wine and cocktails with a view before dinner. Eat local almonds. Drink Nero d’Avola and Moscato di Noto wines, produced nearby. Visit the Vendicari Reserve in the morning or at dusk to see migrating birds (including pink flamingoes!), the sandy beach and old tuna fishing structures. The boardwalk paths are lovely to traverse.

Ragusa is another town that was a victim of the earthquake of 1693. It combines a newer town above the historic town below with iconic images of beautifully colored domes visible from the windy road in between. Like many other places, the main area is the Piazza Duomo, where many streets converge. Here you can sit and enjoy wine-flavored gelato while gazing at Ragusa’s quintessentially Baroque Cathedral, so recognizable with its steep stairs and wrought-iron gate.

The best view is from the parlor inside the Palazzo Arezzo , which is open to the public. Deeper into town there are steps leading to great vantage points and interesting streets. The Iblean Gardens are a peaceful oasis of exotic plants and ponds, flanked by the old convent. Don’t miss a visit to Rosso Cinabro . Cart-makers in the old tradition, they are the design creators for Dolce and Gabbana’s SMEG line of appliances. From this tiny workshop, the designs reach the world.

Not too far from Ragusa is Modica . If by now you are in need of chocolate, you will find it here. Modica is chocolate central and here the chocolate is made in the same way the Aztecs did, a style brought over by the Spanish. Cooked over a low fire, the chocolate remains granular. It comes in plain or many delicious flavor varieties. There are several places that will give you a tour with samples of their chocolate bars, chocolate syrup and confections, including the traditional ‘Mpanatigghi , that has more than just chocolate baked inside, a secret ingredient that always surprises.

You will then have the energy to climb the steps of the ornate and beautiful Cathedral San Giorgio . Much like Ragusa, the town is full of steps all leading away from the main Corso (Umberto) offering views, intriguing history and fun. Come dusk, you should position yourself next to the San Giorgio Hotel to see the lights as they cover the surrounding hills, another iconic image. Dinner can be in a Michelin-starred restaurant or a small trattoria whose owners bring in cheese and other delectables from their farm. It is aptly named Ricotta.

READ: about the Delicious typical desserts of Sicily

It is well worth a visit to head a little further south to Scicli (pronounced She-cli). Yes, it’s another of the Baroque towns recognized by UNESCO in the Val di Noto and it is probably the smallest, but it has big surprises. Any Detective Montalbano fan can tell you that it is the home of the police station, the center of all story lines. Fans flock to this area to trace the steps of the beloved Inspector who mixes charm, insight, bravado, warmth and humor all into one character.

Visit the Chiesa San Bartolomeo to be amazed by the large and stunning diorama of the Nativity. The Palazzo Beneventano is interesting with its strikingly odd ornamental features. In the afternoon head to Gli Aromi , a nearby herb farm where its passionate owner Enrico will give you an ‘olfactory’ tour and his chef wife Rita will whip up a fabulous lunch. Herbs never tasted this good.

Val di Noto

In all of the surrounding areas of the Val di Noto , you have the opportunity to taste excellent wines. To the west is Vittoria, home to Sicily’s only DOCG wine, the Cerusuolo di Vittoria which blends Frappato with Nero d’Avola. To the east there is Moscato di Noto , a dry, delicious, historic white. There are women winemakers, historic wineries and new producers who arrived to try their hand in Sicily.

LISTEN: Exploring the Val di Noto

Central Sicily

Piazza armerina.

From Catania, Piazza Armerina is a day trip, fewer than 90 minutes away. In Sicily it is always best to talk about the time to travel, not the miles because going off the main roads can be slow with lights, trucks, and sheep traffic. Piazza Armerina is a good-sized town with a beautiful church and some lunch-time eateries, but the reason to drive here is to visit the Villa Romana del Casale , just a few minutes on its outskirts. Think 4th century wealthy Romans.

We don’t know exactly who they were, but the vast expanse of this villa and their intricately decorated rooms, would suggest they were very important. It was a hunting villa in the woods, and it contains miles of some of the best-preserved Roman mosaics in the world. Animal scenes, allegories, mythology and family life is all described with small stone, glass and ceramic tiles in each spectacular room. Another UNESCO site , a tour around will give you a sense of their very advanced living, from hot baths to a gym and much in between.

Caltagirone

The ceramics tradition in Sicily dates back to the indigenous peoples who used the rich clay in the area to make useful things. The Greeks advanced to firing vases and pots. Fast forward to the Arabs who brought with them a knowledge of ceramics-making from the East and they began making decorative objects, later refined further by the Spanish.

History in Sicily is always complex, and all the peoples that came through left their own mark. Caltagirone is the largest of the ceramic centers in Sicily. Walk through the town and it is like you are in an open-air museum seeing glazed pottery on walls, balconies, decorative objects and on the town’s centerpiece, the Scala Maria del Monte .

These 182 steps are each adorned with ceramic tiles that tell a chronological story from most recent to older styles as you climb. Alongside the steps, the workshop doors are ajar for you to come in and browse or watch artistry at work. There are many, many shops in town from museum quality refined to the inexpensive.

The mother-lode of Greek ruins lies in the town once known as Akragas . It was a thriving, highly populated metropolis in the 6th century BCE. In the amazing place known as The Valley of the Temples , visitors will see 7 temples along a paved road (where it is possible to hop on a bus for a fee), among which is one of the world’s best-preserved temples, Concordia. This stunning group of temples all have similar light-colored stone now, but we know that back in the day, each temple was a colorful sight.

There are olive, almond and carob trees, ongoing digs, a few goats, and a rest stop or two as well. Imposing and majestic, this is an unforgettable sight with a complex history and mythology best explained by a guide. Allow yourself half a day for the Archeological Park (with comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen) and if archeology interests you, the well-stocked Archeological Museum is nearby.

The town itself is small but has some old churches worth seeing and a few good restaurants. A visit to the Monastero Santo Spirito is worth the steep walk and rewarded, as these nuns are one of the only ones on the island that still sell their marzipan sweets. Pay attention to parking rules in town. That’s experience talking.

READ: Our guide to Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples .

Sicani Hills

The Sicans were an indigenous population from Sicily’s central area and recent efforts have been successful at bringing tourists to see a bit of pre-history. In tucked away caves and small off-the-beaten-path places, this area is awash with experiences for the curious, food and wine lovers, too, from visiting farms that raise goats to pistachios, from olive oil producers to winemakers.

You can spend a memorable day with a knowledgeable guide, immersing yourself in a bit of Sicily known to few. Afterwards, head to the sea and there you will find sandy beaches from which to watch the sunset. Accommodations in the area run from five-star hotels to wonderful rural properties, known as either a baglio or an agriturismo. You can watch a video about the Sicani hills on the La RosaWorks Sicily Presents YouTube channel .

North-West Sicily

Sciacca and selinunte.

On the windswept sea, along the Southern coastline sits Sciacca . It had thermal springs that served nearby Selinunte , a large Greek settlement in the 5th century BCE. Today Sciacca resembles a charming medieval town, built on an incline affording beautiful views of the sea. It is known for its ceramics with its own distinctive style, with many shops and workshops in town and also for its celebration of Carnevale.

If you visit the town for a half day of relaxed exploring, you can spend the other half roaming the vast Archeological Park of Selinunte . Among the least visited of the archeological sites, here the ancient grain blows in the wind, the stones are strewn about and it is easy to imagine the time when these lands were the scene of great Greek and Carthagenian battles. Buy a book at the newly opened visitors center to learn about the history. Signage at the site is minimal. Remember the sunscreen. Archeological sites generally offer little shade.

Mazara del Vallo

Coming up the west coast, the town of Mazara del Vallo says a lot about Sicily. As the crow flies, it is not far from Tunisia and this port town seems like a colorful extension, complete with a section of town called The Kasbah, Arabic art and signage, and the population itself often in Muslim dress.

There are Mosques and couscous, the signature dish, but there is also an old Jewish Quarter, Catholic churches and a museum housing one of Sicily’s great art treasures, a Greek statue. The Dancing Satyr was found in a fishing net off the coast and after careful restoration, looking up at it is a Stendhal moment. Sicily’s complex history is on display in this small town, a microcosm of diversity. Feast on the fish couscous here.

Not far, further north and also on the sea is Marsala – Mars-Allah, the Port of Allah. The Arab influence in Sicily is distinctly felt in the West in contrast to the Greek influence in the East. This town is known for its fortified wine. Marsala was Sicily’s first DOC wine. It became famous in the mid 19th century because the wine would remain drinkable for sailors and merchants on long voyages.

Although this small town is pleasant enough to explore, visiting wineries here is the thing to do. There are a number of cantine right around town; Florio , Donnafugata , and Pellegrino are all large scale and welcome tourists interested in seeing how Marsala is made and tastes, Florio being the most historic. Alagna Vini , just outside of town, offers a very personal approach to the wines they make, a delicious education. All by appointment only.

Outside of the city are the salt pans, and in the Summer, you can see white, conical piles of salt that were once used to preserve tuna from the local fishing industry. There is a small museum to explain the salt collecting process and different varieties.

Take the 5-minute boat ride over to the island of Mozia , a settlement of Phoenician merchants and sailors from the 7th century BCE. There are remains all over the island and archeological digs to observe. The main attraction is the museum, in which stands another of Sicily’s great art treasures, The Charioteer sculpture. As you gaze upon this stunning Greek body, you are sure to be amazed by its grace, power and unusual pose.

Not on most tourist itineraries is a trip into the interior. Salemi is not far inland from Marsala and well worth the visit. Known for its intricate breads made for the Feast of Saint Joseph , there is a museum that explains the meanings of the many bread shapes that decorate the special feast time altars. In town you will also find the remains of a Norman castle and a grand church. It’s a charming hill town with expansive vistas.

Nearby are many wineries offering tastings and each one offering their unique expression of winemaking. Tenuta Orestiadi combines their winemaking efforts with art and they are situated across the road from the Contemporary Art Foundation Orestiadi , a wonderful museum and relatively new addition to the landscape.

Trapani is further north and west. It was once an important trading port inhabited by wealthy merchants as is evidenced by the impressive houses that still line the streets. Trapani is known for its intensely somber Holy Week events that draw people from all over the world.

There is an historic medieval Jewish quarter that has narrow streets and some good restaurants, including Cantina Siciliana , where Pino’s Fish couscous is a signature dish. Sicily’s Jewish population before the Inquisition was quite large.

From the port of Trapani, you can ferry to the Egadi Islands where the fascinating history of the tuna fishing ritual can be seen at a museum on Favignana . On Levanzo , a less populated island, scooters and light hiking offer beautiful and peaceful moments. Boating and water sports are available. Bring the camera.

From Trapani take the funicular up to the hill town of Erice , or you can drive up a steep and curvaceous road with many switchbacks, but fabulously stunning vistas. The town of Erice is small with a distinct medieval ambience but its history goes back to the Greeks. There was once a temple to Aphrodite, an important spot where a fire always burned and to which travelers came from afar to pay the goddess respects.

In later times there was a Norman castle with a breathtaking view. Flash forward and we can find Maria Grammatico’s Pasticceria . As a young girl from a poor family, Maria was sent to the convent. She spent her days helping to bake the traditional sweets for which the convents were known.

Today she bakes still, and her shop is quite famous. You must not miss her Brutti ma Buoni , almond paste or divine pistachio treats. You can see Erice in a half day, but if you have the time, walking the cobblestone streets and exploring slowly is my recommendation for all town visits.

Segesta rises from the landscape seemingly from nowhere. This was an ancient Elymian settlement and the ruins of the temple and the amphitheater are well preserved, making this site one of Sicily’s most visited.

A guide is useful to explain this particular ancient history. There is a bus every thirty minutes that can shuttle you to the higher ground on which the amphitheater sits, overlooking the rolling hills, or you can walk, although it is a steep climb that will take time. Half a day should be enough time here, and you can move along towards Palermo.

Northern Sicily

Monreale .

Perhaps one of Sicily’s top must see sites is Monreale Cathedral . It is simply spectacular and renowned for its beauty but also because it remains a symbol of a time when multiculturalism was at its height.

Begun in 1174 by William the Good, it exemplifies the best of the Arab/Norman heritage. It is an imposing Norman structure, covered in miles of brilliant Byzantine mosaics and colorful stonework with distinctly Arab motifs. It has decorated wooden ceilings, again displaying intricate Arab craftmanship.

On the side walls are gilded saints and Biblical stories while the glittering iconic Christ Pantocrator looks out towards devout worshipers. You can visit the cloister, a separate entrance, that is surrounded by unique columns and more mosaics, radiant in the sun. Another treat is climbing up to the walkway that surrounds the cloister for an aerial view of the cloister and surroundings.

Monreale is best seen with a guide to understand and not miss the layered meanings of its stunning contents. If you are hungry after being wowed, head to the wonderful Pavone for a very nice lunch with wine, but pizza in the Cathedral piazza is quite good, too.

Palermo is Sicily’s capital, the largest city with roughly one million inhabitants. It has UNESCO designation for its Arab/Norman heritage, but even beyond this important history, Palermo has so much to offer!

LISTEN: Palermo, Not what you expect!

It is advisable to give yourself at least 2-3 days in Palermo to experience its variety: fabulous markets, famous for their chaos, colors, and cacophony; the historic sites, including the Palazzo Royale and its Cappella Palatina the extraordinary private chapel of King Roger II (with more incredible mosaics); Palermo Cathedral that houses the remains of Palermo’s patron saint, Rosalia, medieval tombs and a rooftop experience; the Teatro Massimo , Europe’s third largest opera house (tours are offered); the excellent Archeological Museum Salinas with its unique lay out in an historic convent; the large circular Pretoria Fountain with its particular history; the Galleria Arte Moderne , GAM; the ornately decorated Oratorios decorated in stucco relief by the artist Serpotta, and the charming traditional puppet shows, the most well-known and central of these being L’Opera di Pupi Cuticchio .

There is a wonderful Orto Botanico as well as 16th-18th century Spanish palazzi all around the city, some of which you can visit by appointment. Stanze al Genio , a private collection dedicated to the important history of ceramic tiles in Southern Italy is well worth the guided tour.

READ: Our guide of the Best things to do in Palermo .

These are highlights of what Palermo can offer to fill your days, but Palermo’s nightlife is busy, too. In Palermo’s old Vucciria Market , there is a party of street food and music. On pedestrian only Via Maqueda you can hear street musicians and eat arancini. The Piazza Verdi which fronts the Teatro Massimo is always alive with buskers and tourists. Palermo is a wonderful city, at one time Europe’s most important city, and it is a mistake to overlook it.

LISTEN: Great day trips from Palermo

Cefalù sits on the Tyrrhenian seacoast, a small but very charming town built around its main Cathedral whose sturdy Norman spires dominate the landscape. It’s an iconic image of an unusual setting with sandy beach at its front and the Madonie Mountains at its back. To the side of the Cathedral is La Rocca – a rocky promontory whose top can be reached on a path that leaves the center of town and after a moderate hike gifts you with stunning views of the sea, the town and the mountains.

Cefalù has a good tourist population but it seems far less international than Taormina. In the evenings the narrow streets are full of locals taking the passeggiata or sitting in the Piazza Duomo for an espresso or gelato. There are eateries aplenty here and if you go to the edge of the town on Via Bordonaro, you can sit on one of their terraces on the water and listen to the water gently lapping as you devour a great pizza and local red wine.

Don’t miss the Duomo itself, filled with more amazing and well-preserved Byzantine mosaics in the Arab/Norman style. The small Mandralisca Museum is a gem of a collection and contains the famous ‘Portrait of an Unknown Man’ by Antonella da Messina . If you are looking for down time with a few things to do, for a base from which to do relaxed day trips, consider staying in Cefalù for a couple of nights.

READ: Our guide to the Best places to stay in Sicily .

Which places will you visit in Sicily?

The message for visitors is clear: do not miss feasting on the variety of what Sicily has to offer, on your plate, in a glass, and with your eyes. The history is layered, the contrasts are great, the landscape is stunning and the overall experience otherworldly. And this list is but a sampling, for in every town large and small, there are untold stories to uncover.

DISCOVER: Best Things to do in Sicily during a visit

Delve deeper into the places to see in Sicily

Recommended reading to inspire your Sicilian adventures!

• Seeking Sicily and Sicilian Splendors by John Keahey;
• The Peoples of Sicily by Louis Mendola and Jacqueline Alio
• The Leopard by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa
• The Wine Dark Sea by Leonardo Sciascia

You’ll find more books and inspiration for your trip to Sicily at La RosaWorks .

Karen La Rosa is the heart and soul of La RosaWorks , a boutique company that designs, hosts, and arranges customized tours to Sicily. Passionate about the island, she is dedicated to helping others create lifelong memories through experiential and tasty travel there. Join a La RosaWorks tour and you’ll discover Sicily’s rich culture, traditions, history, food, and wine and above all have lots of fun!

Grazie mille to Karen who provided all words and photos for this article.

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Referring to Italy, in addition to the powerful and mighty of Rome, the rich culture of Tuscany or the vibrant of Naples, surely the name Sicily or Sicilia will evoke lot of emotions to anyone. Sicily, not only has famous for the novel ‘The Godfather’, ‘specialty’ Mafia and Separatism but also owns a lot of great things that no other land in Italy can match, including the rich and diverse culture of the land with the oldest history in Italy after Rome. In terms of landscape, cultural identity and geographical location, Sicily is not inferior to any other place in Italy, but what has made this land stray from the image of a prosperous Europe that people often imagine? This Sicily blog not only shares with you Sicily travel experiences, but also provides a part of the social picture of the evil land in the pages of Mario Puzo’s books. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Sicily — The largest island of Italy for the first-time? Let’s check out our Sicily travel blog (Sicily blog) with the fullest Sicily travel guide (Sicily guide, Sicily tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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• Amalfi Coast travel blog — The fullest travel guide & what to do in Amalfi Coast
• Cinque Terre travel blog — The fullest Cinque Terre travel guide for a great trip on a budget for the first-timers

If you have read the world famous novel ‘The Godfather’ by Mario Puzo, you will surely know the legendary land of Sicily of Italy which is also the beautiful southernmost island with tradition of producing wine for more than a thousand years. Not only being the “land of Mafia”, this place also contains many interesting and strange things.

Unlike many other large cities and regions in Italy, Sicily is not dense with monumental or massive, majestic or high-rise buildings, but it has many palm trees and other rare trees and plants that evoke the feeling of being in a country of Middle East or North Africa. The streets of cities or towns in Sicily are also small, and there are many more flea markets, shops right on the streets, diverse markets from food markets selling meat, fish and vegetables, to clothing stalls, Chinese game electronics, to gas stoves and ovens.

Sicily travel guide: Overview of Sicily

Where is sicily.

Well, if you imagine Italy as a boot or a high-heeled shoe, Sicily is like a kicked ball. Indeed, this image ironically compares Sicily’s position in the heart of Italy: Backward and isolated. Despite the distance from the mainland (ie Italy) to the port of Messina of Sicily is only 6.6km, but Sicily is already considered a remote island of Italy.

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea with an area of up to 25,711 km² and a population of over 5 million (2022), it is separated from mainland Italy by the Strait of Messina, is one of five autonomous regions, officially known in Italian as Regione Siciliana. The most prominent landscape of the island is Mount Etna, the most famous volcano in Europe with the most frequent and powerful eruptions.

Sicily is 3km from Calabria (in mainland Italy), 160km from the coast of Africa, and to this day, it is still impossible to confirm whether Sicily was once attached to Africa or mainland Italy. Due to its geographical location, Sicily is the most important island in Mediterranean Sea.

A brief history of Sicily

Since the appearance of the first inhabitants, the ancient people of Sicanians, there have been many peoples to occupy, successively inhabiting this hilly and rich in flora and fauna island. After the primitive civilization of the Sicanians came the civilization of the people of Sicels (the origin of the name Sicily), then the people of Elymians originated from West Asia (now Turkey), and then continued to be assimilated by Greek army. For hundreds of years, people jostle against each other to occupy this vast and majestic island, Sicily was handed over from the Greeks to the Carthaginians, to the Roman Empire, to Arabia, to Norman, to France, to Spain, to Austria… until Giuseppe Garibaldi unified Italy and regained Sicily in 1860.

Due to its prime location with hundreds of years of changing thrones, Sicily is the cultural exchange of many different cultures, the Sicilian people are famous for their multi-racial diversity and colorful culture. Coming to Sicily, you can see a blending of ancient indigenous civilizations such as Sicanians, Sicels, Elymians, to the civilizations of invaders such as Roman, Greek, Arab, Norman, Albania, France, Spain. A lot of people in Sicily today are of Albanian origin because this people have occupied and settled here since the 16th century…

The Greeks also invaded the southern Italy and Sicily, so Sicily is so heavily influenced by Greek culture and its civilization, so there are a lot of Greeks here, more Greek-style temples than in Greece itself. The language of the Sicilian people therefore also has a lot of foreign elements mixed (there are even some Albanian-influenced communities who have occupied here since the sixteenth century and to day they still speak the ancient Albanian language). Even the eye color and hair color of a large number of people in Sicily (red hair and blue eyes) are also considered traits they inherited from the Normans. In addition, there also are many people with Arab surnames. So, many Italians sometimes joke that Sicily isn’t Italian, and many Sicilian themselves also don’t identify themselves as Italian.

Sicily travel guide: Is Sicily safe?

There is no country is absolutely safe but actually in Sicily you will be surprised because the security here is better than you think. I lived for a year in Sicily and have never been pickpocketed, stolen or cheated while in Rome I was scammed as soon as I arrived at the airport. The proud Sicilian are sincere, generous and respect to foreigners. What about the mafia? I didn’t see the influence of this criminal organization on the daily life here. However, you should not be too casual when talking about this topic or discuss it with natives because it is a rather complicated topic.

Generally, fewer pickpockets than other famous tourist cities such as: Rome, Barcelona, ​​Paris… also not as many robbers as Naples, Sicily is much safer. There is also absolutely no gunfight like in the movies, probably because civilians, tourists are not the object of interest of mafia gangs. However, you should also be careful when wandering around in slums or suburbs, which may not be as safe as in downtown areas.

What about poverty and backwardness? Indeed, Sicily has poorer infrastructure than northern regions and high rates of unemployment, ghost towns and abandoned cities when young people move to the North to finding jobs that makes the cities become deserted, full of elderly people but in general people still have a comfortable life.

Sicily travel blog: When to visit?

Sicily is endowed with a mild Mediterranean climate, warm winters, cool summers, and little rain. The average temperature in winter is about 6-7 degrees Celsius, 18-20 degrees Celsius in summer.

The golden rule when traveling to countries with sea and islands is to go in sunny summer, even if it’s the peak season with higher costs. Summer in Italy is similar to Vietnam, lasting from the end of May to the end of August. The Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and due to its geographical location close to North Africa, summer in Sicily is hotter than other European regions. However, the European summer is very pleasant compared to the summer in the North or Central Vietnam.

You can also come to Sicily in spring with lush green trees, flowers blooming everywhere, it will be more beautiful but not as crowded as in summer, especially for ocean lovers. However, many hotels and restaurants only open in the summer when tourists flocking here.

Sicily travel guide: How to get to Sicily?

The simplest and most efficient way to get to Sicily is by plane. The island has two international airports: Palermo and Catania, connecting to many major cities in the world and the most famous airline is Alitalia – the national carrier of Italy.

There are no direct train routes from mainland cities to Sicily because there is no bridge connecting the island to the mainland. Due to the distance is too far from other regions of Italy, so taking a bus will takes a lot of time, so I do not recommend you to choose this option.

Traveling by boat also is a option to reach Sicily. There are many ferry companies such as Alicudi Palermo Ferry, Alicudi Milazzo Ferry, Civitavecchia Palermo Ferry, Civitavecchia Palermo Termini Imerese Ferry, Favignana Trapani Ferry… which are operating routes to Sicily, you can directly buy tickets at ticket counters at ferry piers or buy online in advance, refer to departture points, routes and timetables here .

Sicily guide: Getting around Sicily

Unlike other developed regions or cities in Italy, public transport in Sicily is even more backward. Usually, in order to save time and make the most comfortable, tourists often choose to travel by coach (passenger car) between tourist destinations on the island. You can refer to the website of the Etna Travel Service Company here or via Facebook , the web is not available in English, so please use Google Translate. According to my experience, you should look up the departure time on the website and then follow the address that listed on the website to buy tickets right on the spot, because online payment also is not available.

For trains you can book and pay online here . However, not every city in Sicily has a train station and the frequency of trains is not as much as that of passenger cars.

Self-driving

However, you should rent a private car if you want to freely explore the tourist attractions on the island. It is recommended to rent in advance online, especially to avoid the holidays or special occasions. The car rental price for a week ranges from €250 to €500. Large rental companies often offer better prices, should not be rented from small firms, they often offer cars with poor quality, prices are not fixed. All car rental companies have offices at the airports and in major cities in Sicily.

Sicily travel guide: What to do and where to go?

Trapani – marsala, salt flats and ancient windmills.

Since ancient times, salt has always played an extremely important role in human life. People get rich from salt, war for salt, even in Italy there are many roads named “Via Salaria” – Salt Route.

The hot winds from Africa, the long sunny summer days, the saltwater coastal lands are all the perfect conditions for the birth of immense salt fields. Here, natural sea salt is still crystallized from the evaporation of water, just as the ancient Phoenicians did 2,700 years ago. Salt was sold throughout the Mediterranean, as far away as the Nordic countries. Thanks to salt, in the mid-16th century it was one of the most important ports in Europe. Today, although there are many different substitutes, the salt here is still preferred by culinary experts because of its purity, no preservatives and the salty taste of natural sea salt.

Leaving the highway, driving along the highway from Trapani to Marsala you will encounter salt fields along both sides of the road. The scene of salt fields is adorned by scattered ancient windmills on the horizon. The first windmills were built in the Middle Ages, today most people use mechanical pumps, but sporadically, there are still 1-2 windmills that continue to lead into and drain water out of the salt fields.

Not available in Sicily tours, and if you want to go, you also have to rent a private car to get there, so not many tourists know this place. But if you have an opportunity to get here, remember to visit the Museum of Salt and the restaurant Trattoria del Sale. You can both visiting, admiring artifacts and documents regard the salt industry in Trapani, and you can also enjoy dishes using salt according to local recipes. And of course, you should also take advantage of buying a few bags of sea salt to use and give as gifts to friends.

Isola Di Vulcano – The Island of Volcanoes

The ancient Greeks named the island Thérmessa, meaning “Source of Heat”, and in Greek mythology it was known as the forge of God Hephaestus (Vulcano in Roman, the god of fire, blacksmiths, and craftsmen). The small island of only 21 square kilometers, 25 kilometers off the northern coast of Sicily, is the closest island to Sicily in the cluster of eight Aeolian Islands. From the main island of Sicily, there are many ports to catch a boat or ferry to the island, but you should go to the port of Messina, the port closest to the island cluster, from there, you can take ferries or boats to reach the island. Buying ticket is simple, just go to the port to see which boat preparing to depart, then go to its ticket counter right on the street and then get on the boat, it only takes 40 minutes to get to the island.

Currently there are 3 volcanoes on the island, of which the Gran volcano is still active. Rated as the most impressive attraction on the island, the scene of the crater is truly breathtaking. The smoldering columns of white smoke, the strong smell of sulfur. However, you should not reach too close, might will be suffocated.

Due to the volcanic terrain, an interesting place to visit is the natural hot mud bath area of ​​Fanghi. The mineral mud here contains very high sulfur content (the smell is quite concentrated), especially good for people with rheumatism and skin diseases (oily skin, acne, psoriasis).

In addition, due to the formation of lava flows, there are many volcanic black sand beaches on the island. The best way to go around the island, stopping at any beach you like is to rent a motorbike, or an ATV, the rental price for a day is not too expensive, about 15-25 Euros depending on the season.

Besides tourist services, people on Vulcano island mainly live by goat farming and hunting. So there are also great local cheeses like goat ricotta, and traditional dishes like fried ricotta, pasta with ricotta, seasoned with local specialties including herbs and spices.

The medieval fishing village of Cefalu

With narrow winding cobblestone streets, small beaches and a lovely harbor, Cefalu is one of Sicily’s most beautiful and most popular medieval fishing villages. The most impressive thing in Cefalu is the Lavatoio – a public laundry area that dates back to the 16th century in the Middle Ages. The laundry area was built where the Cefalino estuary empties into the sea. A special thing is that this river originates in the mountains next to Cefalu, flows underground, slips under the small houses in the village before emptying into the sea. Legend has it that this murmuring stream is the tears of the river goddess, who mourns her beloved husband day and night. From the main street, gracefully curving stairs lead down to the laundry area carved out of monolithic blocks with cool water designed to flow into 22 small faucets, of which 15 are designed in the shape of a dragon’s head which still well preserved to this day.

Until the 60s and 70s of the last century, Cefalu women loved to gather to do laundry here, especially in the hot summer days of the southern Mediterranean because they loved the cool water here due to underground flow through several kilometers before being exposed and flowing into the sea.

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Palermo – the capital of the island of Sicily, is famous for its fresh food and the enthusiasm, generosity, hospitality and kindness of the coastal people. Visitors can return to the past and riding around streets on unique horse-drawn carriages that will not be disappear even when the most modern vehicles appear. Most Palermo people are proud to talk about their homeland, a peaceful coastal city with bold classical European architecture.

And having come to Palermo, it is impossible to ignore its markets. All you need is to walk along the Vucciria market (Mercato della Vucciria) to experience local life. This is a place where locals and tourists come to buy fresh fruit, seafood and fresh cheeses with the enthusiastic, soulful sales style of the Mediterranean people.

Aeolian Islands

Aeonlian Islands is a must-go destination on the journey to Sicily, it is a volcanic archipelago of Sicily, Aeolian not only has pristine coastlines, volcanic black sand beaches, caves and cliffs, but also has a full range of amenities and tourist facilities such as mineral hotspring resorts, water sports, interesting relaxing fishing service.

Don’t miss the beautiful scenery in the town of Marzamemi which is one of the friendliest destinations for a summer vacation. If you want to relax, enjoy beautiful space, experience ancient Italian style, nice climate all year round and saving memories with your family, then Marzamemi is a good choice.

The town of Gangi was built on a small hill in central Sicily, about 80 kilometers to the southeast of Palermo, like a giant tortoise shell. About several years ago, very few people outside of Italy had heard of this village. Considered as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, this 12th-century old town had a population of about 16,000 in the 1950s but today only 7,000 remain.

Sicily Valley

Located next to a mountainside outside the city of Agrigento, the valley of Sicily possesses seven Greek temples, so it is called the valley of the temples. The Temple of Concordia, built in the 5th century BC, is the best preserved in the valley and is one of the largest and best preserved Doric temples still standing. Doric columns with 7 m high, 1.3 m in diameter. Other temples include the Temple of Juno, used for wedding ceremonies, and the Temple of Heracles, the oldest temple in the area.

Town of Piazza Armerina

The people of Piazza Armerina speak a different language than in other parts of Sicily. Here, visitors have the opportunity to visit beautiful Gothic works and buildings, especially the Villa Romana del Casale, a palace built in ancient Roman times in the middle of the 4th Century AD with the extraordinary mosaics decoration.

This town located in the southeast of Sicily is known as the “town of Baroque culture”. The Baroque structures in Val di Noto were remodeled in 1693 after a terrible earthquake and were recognized by UNESCO in 2002. The best time to visit Val di Noto is spring, when there are many festivals are held.

In Greek mythology, Etna is the place where Zeus imprisoned the monster Typhon, ending the war that is considered the most terrible in the history of Greek mythology. Currently, Etna is one of the most active and powerful volcanoes in the world, each time the volcano erupts Italians often joke that it is the wrath of the monster Typhon to escape the captivity of Zeus. Etna is also considered a symbol of Sicily, if you are a person who likes challenges and adventure travel, you cannot miss the opportunity to witness firsthand this great volcano.

Taormina is an extremely famous mountain town in Sicily. From Taormina you can see ravishing pebble beaches below, the beautiful Isola Bella island as its name suggests, the old streets for walking and shopping.

You can get to Taormina by bus and if you want to go down to the pebble beaches at the foot of the mountain, you can choose the bus or cable car, in the peak seasons you can go early to get a seat or access to the private beaches of restaurants. Entrance fees will be charged per person.

In addition to beautiful beaches, Taormina is also famous for its Greek theater, this is a theater built by the Greeks in the 2nd century BC. You can also take a walk in the old town of Corso Umberto – a shopping and culinary paradise to explore every corner of Taormina.

The port city and economic center in Eastern Sicily. Although not as famous as the capital of Palermo, Catania is a city worth visiting due to its location right at the foot of Mount Etna – Europe’s largest active volcano. Due to its proximity to the volcano, the structures, buildings and houses here are built mainly of lava rock, creating a slightly sad gray color for the whole city.

Tourist activities of the city are concentrated along the Via Etnea avenue, where you can visit the Cathedral and Badia of Sant’Agata, the Central Square, the University of Catania – one of the oldest universities in the world, shopping street, fruit market, fish market and Ursino fortress. Just walk along the avenue and turn sideways and turn along the directions of the map. Catania is quite small, so it only takes one afternoon to visit its center. From afar, do not forget to watch the Etna volcano, which is still growling day and night to release smoke into the sky.

This is a small city on the Ionian coast, not as famous as Taormina but as beautiful as a gentle wave of the sea. Acireale has a very small and lovely Central square, not to mention the small and narrow alleys that go forever without seeing an end. Far away is the pale blue sea. We kept walking along small alleys to find that color of blue sea, but we forgot about our tired feet. In the past, Acireale used to be quite crowded with tourists, but due to the economic downturn, today the city is gradually deserted. I listened to uncle Grazia’s story and I saw that faint blue color become sadder.

The city is named for both its culture and architecture, so the beauty of Noto is truly overwhelming. The Baroque architectural style is famous for its sharp shapes, high contrast of colors and delicate curves of sculpture. In Noto, those elements are pushed to an astonishing level of sophistication and exquisition. I have visited many Baroque buildings in Vatican, Naples but Noto really is the most elegant. The cathedral here is not grandiose and the streets here are also small, but it is the honey yellow color of the stone that makes Noto really unique. We originally planned to go to Siracusa, the city where the famous Malena movie was set, but uncle Santi said Noto was equally beautiful without being touristized. Indeed, when traveling far, you have to ask the locals to know the real good places.

Ragusa Ibla

The last city before parting with Sicily and also the city with the most memories for me. Since I lived for 8 months in Ragusa Ibla, this is really my second home. Ragusa is also close to the southernmost point of the island, traveling so far away to meet my Italian friends when I was a student. I was really surrounded by the kind people of Sicily and taught me many things. Ragusa Ibla rose to prominence a few years back as the setting of an Italian TV series. From an average tourist city, it has become a trending destination for Italians. The city is located on a mountain, so just go from the lowest point to the highest peak to enjoy the beauty of the romantic mountain town.

Diving in Lampedusa

Lampedusa is voted by many travel sites as the most beautiful coast in Europe with a long coastline, many beautiful beaches with clear and blue sea water. This is also a very suitable spot for those who love diving and watching coral. In addition, you can also witness turtles come ashore to lay eggs in the evenings of early September, this must be an extremely interesting experience.

Whisper your secrets at the Ear of Dionysius cave

Even if you talk in a whisper in the Ear of Dionysius cave, be careful because any of your secrets can be exposed whether those around you are near or far away.

The Ear of Dionysius man-made rock cave located in the city of Syracuse (southern Sicily), has been designed so that even the slightest whisper is clearly amplified. Legend has it that this cave was created by Dionysius I – the famous abuser of Syracuse to eavesdrop on the whispers of prisoners locked inside.

Rafting and trekking in Gole Alcantara

Gole Alcantara is a botanical and geological park 40 minutes by car from the town of Taormina, Sicily. This park is an interesting destination for locals and tourists instead of crowded beaches, everyone enjoys spectacular gorges, towering cliffs with strange structures, even water can freeze even in summer time. In addition to activities such as rafting, group boating, water parks, etc. Adventurers can also try challenging adventure sports such as mountain climbing, canyoning, etc.

Tasting Sicilian fine wine

This beautiful island with a typical Mediterranean climate, fertile soil is very suitable for growing grapes, and this is the region with the oldest winemaking tradition in Italy with famous wines such as DOCG, DOC, white wine Moscato di Noto and other famous red wines.

Sicily travel guide: What to eat?

Sicily has many dishes using local products such as cheese, olive oil, tomatoes, especially the seafood here is very fresh and quite cheap. If you have time, you should visit the local markets as well as tasting specialties here with full of fresh vegetables and local produce such as Vucciria Market in Palermo or La Pescheria fish market in Catania.

Due to influenced by Arab cuisine, Sicily is flooding with pastries. First, you must try Arancina (Arancini), rice balls that are stuffed with, cheese and tomato sauce then coated with bread crumbs and deep fried. Next is Cannolo (Cannoli), an extremely seductive cream-filled pastry consisting fried pastry dough, stuffed with a sweet, creamy filling usually containing ricotta. It has crispy crust with sweet ricotta cream, soft at every bite. Don’t forget to try the almond milk from the province of Agrigento as well. In Catania, don’t forget to try grilled horse meat.

Smorgasbord is the popular type of serving here with many delightful mixing dishes which are influenced by Arabic, Greek, French, Spanish and North African with an Italian twist, giving it a speacial flavor and style that you should try!

Sarde a beccafico – The famous Sicilian stuffed sardines here.

The restaurant we dined in in Catania was Trattoria Da Zia Tanina (Address: Via Plebiscito, 428, 95122 Catania CT, Italy/Hours: 12–3:30PM, 7PM–12AM; Monday: 7PM–12AM) , which specializes in horse meat dishes. There is another restaurant specializing in Sicilian cuisine called Giaca Ristorante Pizzeria (Address: Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 245, 95029 Viagrande CT, Italy/Hours: 6PM–1AM; Wednesday:Closed) , in the town of Viagrande near Catania. Here we tried pizza and pasta for dinner. If you spend the night in Ragusa Ibla, you can dine at U Saracinu and Da Nito Titos , two popular restaurants in the region.

Sicily travel blog: What to buy?

Definitely the world famous Marsala red wine. In addition, Caltagirone ceramics is also the pride of this dangerous land.

Sicily travel guide: How should I combine my Sicily travel itinerary?

Normally, tourists after finish their journeys to exploring famous destinations in the North of Italy such as Rome, Venice, Florence and then they will going to the South or making another trip to return Italy for the second time and want to explore more deeply the beauty of the boot-shaped country.

Because the island of Sicily is quite large and possesses so many tourists attractions as introduced above, so it will take at least a week or two week to explore all famous places here. For those of you who just want to explore the most famous places, there are two itinerary you can refer to as follows:

Explore the western part of the island:

• Day 1: Arrive in Palermo – Visit the capital city of Palermo
• Day 2: Traveling to Cefalù, a beautiful seaside city near Palermo
• Day 3: Traveling to Erice, a lovely little city and then return to Palermo, ending the trip.

Explore the eastern part of the Island

• Day 1: Arrive in Catania – Visit the port city of Catania
• Day 2: Traveling to Taormina – the most beautiful tourist city in Sicily – Traveling to Acireale – a lovely small city and back to Catania.
• Day 3: Traveling to Noto – A city that representing a school of architecture – Traveling to Ragusa Ibla, the emerging tourist city in Siclia – Return to Catania.

The East and West of Sicily has significant differences in landscape, culture and architecture, so choosing only one of the two is definitely not enough to fully understand this beautiful island. However, due to limited time, I chose the Eastern itinerary, also known as the Val di Noto journey to explore Sicily.

Sicily travel guide: Where to stay?

Check out top ratings and best accommodation, hotels, apartments on Agoda , Booking or Airbnb.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Sicily you can refer to

• Catania: Mount Etna Day Trip with Tasting and Cave Trip
• Etna: Summit Craters Trekking
• Lipari and Vulcano: Day Trip from Milazzo
• Mount Etna Summit and Crater Trek
• From Tropea: Day Tour to the Aeolian Islands
• Palermo 3-Hour Street Food and History Walking Tour
• Catania: Mount Etna Sunset Jeep Tour
• Syracuse and Noto Day Tour from Taormina

Are you looking for more top things to do in Sicily: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Italy travel guide here .

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The 10 Most Beautiful Towns to Visit in Sicily, Italy

Sicily , just off the toe of Italy ’s boot, has Greek and Roman heritage, seemingly eternal sunshine and a warm sea even in November. This package makes it one very attractive destination. From Palermo to Messina, here are the top towns to stop at when touring this beautiful Italian island.

1. catania, for hiking mount etna.

Architectural Landmark

Sitting on the eastern coast of Sicily, at the foot of Mount Etna , this town offers something for everyone. Following a huge volcanic eruption in 1669, most of the old town was destroyed. After this calamity, it took a long time to rebuild Catania , but, thanks to the stamina and determination of the locals, it is in bloom once more. Get an authentic taste of the city by booking a cooking class with locals.

2. Palermo, for grand Sicilian architecture

As the capital of Sicily, this majestic town boasts many grand sites that are well worth a visit. Have a look at the cathedral, the Palazzo dei Normanni and the Palazzo Abatellis for starters. The Museo Archeologico Regionale Antonio Salinas , the botanical gardens and the creepy catacombs at the Capuchin Monastery are also worth exploring. And don’t ignore the great restaurants and the amazing street-food culture for which Palermo is rightly famed. The best way to explore the Sicilian capital is without doubt on a street food walking tour – the perfect blend of history, culture and delicious Sicilian snacks.

3. Syracuse, for ancient Greek history

As with pretty much everywhere else in Sicily, you’ll find relics of the past around every corner in Syracuse . Founded by the Greeks, this town nurtured many famous Greek poets, mathematicians and politicians. The Syracuse Greek Theatre was one of the biggest the Greeks ever constructed, but the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Fountain of Arethusa, the more modern cathedral of Castello Maniace and the many palazzi deserve a visit, too. The historical centre of the city is the tiny island of Ortigia, which you can explore on a boat tour, featuring sea caves and snorkels.

4. Taormina, for views from the rocky hilltop

5. Agrigento, for historical ruins

Agrigento is well known for its Greek ruins, including those in the Valley of the Temples . Some of the ruins were sadly damaged and destroyed over the years, but most of them are still in very good condition. Agrigento was once a wealthy town, due to its trade agreements with Greece , and is now thriving as a major tourist centre.

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6. Messina, for easy ferry access

If you arrive from the Italian mainland, the ferry will drop you off in Messina , and you’ll be impressed from the minute you step off the boat. Huge trees line the roads, and orange, lemon and olive groves cover the sloping hills as far as the eye can see. Stop for a look at the cathedral or the Church of Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, as well as the botanical gardens and the lovely Porta Grazia. Book a two-hour walking tour of the city to get a real grasp for its unique historical significance.

7. Cefalù, for a family-friendly seaside destination

8. Towns of Val di Noto

Say goodbye to the coast and venture inland to the hillside villages of Noto , Ragusa and Modica . Few visitors make it here, but to miss them would be a pity. Rebuilt after a devastating 1693 earthquake, they form part of the Val di Noto Unesco World Heritage Site , designated for its beautiful architecture. Countless churches and palaces were built from the local stone; their ornate detailing draws admiring looks to this day. Fans of Inspector Montalbano may recognise Ragusa and Modica as the filming location. Make sure you grab a gelato in Noto – it’s world famous for it – while Modica produces some of the finest chocolate in the world. Book a full day Baroque tour to discover all three towns with a guide.

9. Castelmola

Natural Feature

More of a village than a town, this remarkable little spot sits on top of a naturally formed terrace overlooking Taormina. Its towering location was an obvious choice for the Normans to build a castle around, but today the vibes are far more quaint, with pretty tiled streets, winding alleys and charming little eateries dotted all over. This place is all about location, location, location though – the views of Taormina, Etna and the surrounding seas, are simply breathtaking. A jolly up to Castelmola is included in most of the best Taormina tours.

This small, unassuming town, sat atop a not-especially-notable rocky hilltop, has seen centuries and centuries of Sicilian history come and go. Quiet, authentic and bursting with lived-in character, Savoca is the place to go if you want a taste of the Sicily that hasn’t changed for years and years. The only tourists you’ll find here are film buffs, as Savoca is where much of the Sicilian scenes in The Godfather (1972) were filmed, including the church that Michael Corleone married in, as well as Bar Vitelli, now adorned with photos from the film. Book a Godfather tour of Sicily and you’ll spend most of your time here.

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• Mar 3, 2023

What to do in Sicily: 60 places you absolutely must not miss

Updated: Aug 23, 2023

If there's one place in Italy that embodies the authenticity and beauty of the Mediterranean, it's undoubtedly Sicily. This magnificent island, nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, offers a unique experience for anyone who visits: from crystal-clear seas to towering mountains, from ancient history to vibrant culture, from delicious gastronomy to artistic and architectural treasures, Sicily has it all. And if you're looking to discover the most beautiful and characteristic places of this land, you're in the right place.

In this article, we'll guide you through the 60 must-visit places in Sicily. We've handpicked a range of unique spots that will leave you breathless and make you fall in love with this stunning island. Whether you're planning a vacation or you're a local wanting to explore your homeland, this guide will help you uncover the true essence of Sicily. Join us on this thrilling journey and get ready to be swept away by the beauty of this enchanted land.

Cammarata: A picturesque town nestled in the mountains of central Sicily. Here, visitors can explore the 13th-century Church of San Nicola and the Cammarata Castle. The town also offers nature hikes through its surrounding hills and reserves.

Monti Sicani: A mountain range in western Sicily, perfect for hiking, horseback riding, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views. The region is renowned for its gastronomic delights like pecorino cheese and olive oil.

Catania: Sicily's second-largest city on the eastern coast. Highlights include the Catania Cathedral, the Elephant Fountain, the Roman Amphitheater, and Ursino Castle. Catania is also celebrated for its vibrant open-air markets and delectable local cuisine.

Aci Castello: A coastal town north of Catania, known for its Norman Castle perched on a lava rock overlooking the sea. Boat tours are available to appreciate the coastline.

Aci Trezza: Another coastal gem north of Catania, where visitors can stroll by the harbor, walk along the seafront, and marvel at the Faraglioni - large volcanic rocks off the coast.

Etna: Europe's tallest active volcano and one of the most active globally. Adventures here range from hiking to quad biking, all while enjoying the unique volcanic landscapes. The region is also a hub for exquisite wine production.

Simeto River Mouth: A protected natural area on Sicily's eastern coast, ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and immersing oneself in pristine nature.

Brucoli: A charming fishing village on the eastern coast, where visitors can explore the harbor, walk by the sea, and savor fresh seafood in local eateries.

Caltagirone: An inland city renowned for its artistic ceramics. The Ceramic Museum is a must-visit, as are the local craft shops.

Piazza Armerina: An inland city famous for its Roman Villa del Casale, a 4th-century archaeological site boasting magnificent mosaics and a historic center.

Ortigia: An island at the heart of Syracuse, renowned for its architectural and artistic wonders. Key attractions include the Syracuse Cathedral, Apollo Temple, Artemis Fountain, Maniace Castle, Greek Theatre, and the Archaeological Museum.

Plemmirio Marine Protected Area: Located on Sicily's southeastern coast near Syracuse, it's a haven for scuba diving and marine life appreciation.

Cavagrande Lakes: Natural lakes in the Anapo valley near Syracuse, offering hiking and stunning natural landscapes.

Noto: A Baroque city in the province of Syracuse, where visitors can admire historic buildings like the San Nicolò Cathedral, Ducezio Palace, and Tina Di Lorenzo Theatre.

Vendicari Reserve: A protected coastal area in the province of Syracuse, boasting beautiful beaches like Calamosche and diverse local fauna and flora.

Fornace Penna: An old furnace in Modica, Ragusa province, showcasing the beauty of an ancient industrial artifact and the brick-making process.

Ispica Caves: Caves carved into the rock in Ispica, Ragusa province, offering excursions to discover the beauty of the underground world.

Marzamemi: A quaint fishing village located in the province of Syracuse. Here, you can relish the beauty of the sea and beaches, and delve into the history and culture by visiting the Old Village and the Castle of the Villadorata Princes.

Isola delle Correnti: A small island at the southernmost tip of Sicily. It's a haven for beach lovers and divers keen to explore the stunning marine life.

Modica: Nestled in the province of Ragusa, Modica is famed for its artisanal chocolate. Visitors can explore ancient churches and Baroque palaces like the San Giorgio Cathedral, the Municipal Palace, and the Beneventano Palace.

Scicli: This picturesque village in eastern Sicily is renowned for its Baroque buildings and rich cultural history. Notable sites include the Beneventano Palace, the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and the Church of Santa Maria la Nova. Nearby marine caves, such as the Grotta dei Santi and the Grotta dei Pescatori, are perfect for boat tours.

Sampieri: A beach resort a few kilometers from Scicli, known for its sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. The Torre del Fiume, a 16th-century watchtower, offers spectacular coastal views.

Marina di Modica: A beach resort on Sicily's southeastern coast, celebrated for its white sandy beaches and clear waters. Nearby attractions include the San Giorgio Church and the Modica Castle.

Donnalucata and Plaja Grande: These beach resorts in the province of Ragusa are famed for their golden sandy beaches and clear waters. Donnalucata boasts the 17th-century Torre di Donnalucata and the Church of San Giovanni Battista. Plaja Grande offers various water activities, from snorkeling to windsurfing.

Punta Secca: A beach resort on Sicily's southeastern coast, known for its golden beach and clear waters. The Punta Secca Lighthouse, an 18th-century watchtower, provides a panoramic view of the coast.

Marina di Ragusa: A beach resort on Sicily's southeastern coast, famous for its white sandy beaches and clear waters. Key attractions include the Donnafugata Castle, an 18th-century noble residence, and the Church of Santa Maria di Porto Salvo.

Ragusa: A hilltop city renowned for its Baroque architecture, ancient buildings, and historical monuments. Highlights include the San Giovanni Battista Cathedral, the Sortino-Trono Palace, and the Ibleo Garden.

Ragusa Ibla: An ancient district of Ragusa, celebrated for its Baroque architecture and winding streets. Key sites include the San Giorgio Cathedral, the Cosentini Palace, and the Church of San Giuseppe. The district is also known for its traditional Sicilian eateries.

Agrigento - Valley of the Temples : Located on Sicily's southwestern coast, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is among the island's and the world's most significant archaeological sites. It's a vast complex of Doric temples dating back to the 5th century BC, including the Temple of Jupiter, the Temple of Hercules, and the Temple of Concordia. The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Scala dei Turchi: This striking white rock formation on Sicily's southwestern coast near Agrigento is named after the Saracen pirate invasions of the past. The rock rises about 50 meters above the sea and is known for its vibrant hues at sunset. Visitors can walk on the formation and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coast.

Eraclea Minoa - Foce dei Platani: Located along the southern coast of Sicily, Eraclea Minoa is an ancient Greek city boasting a well-preserved archaeological site. The beach of Eraclea Minoa is among the region's most beautiful, and the nearby Foce dei Platani offers ample opportunities for nature excursions.

Mazara del Vallo: This coastal town is renowned for its historic center filled with historical buildings, churches, and museums. It's also recognized for its fishing port and the vast array of seafood available in its eateries.

Terme di Sciacca: Located on Sicily's southwestern coast, this spa town is celebrated for its healing waters and therapeutic properties. Here, one can unwind and seek treatment in one of the many spa centers.

Marsala: Known for its fortified wine, Marsala also has much more to offer. The historic center houses numerous churches, historic palaces, and museums, while the nearby Stagnone Nature Reserve is perfect for boat trips and birdwatching.

Favignana: Situated about 7 kilometers off Sicily's western coast, this island is famed for its crystal-clear beaches, caves, and natural coves. It offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from diving and hiking to cycling.

Saline di Trapani e Paceco: Located along Sicily's northwestern coast, these salt pans have been operational since ancient times and represent a significant historical, cultural, and natural heritage. Here, one can visit traditional windmills, stroll through the salt channels, and observe numerous migratory birds nesting.

San Vito Lo Capo and Zingaro Nature Reserve: Located on Sicily's northwestern coast, this beach resort is known for its white sandy beach and the nearby Zingaro Nature Reserve, a protected area of outstanding natural beauty with hiking trails and secluded beaches.

Erice: Perched on a hill above Trapani, Erice is a well-preserved medieval town with numerous churches, historic palaces, and a castle. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding coast and the nearby island of Favignana.

Mondello: Just a few kilometers from Palermo's center, this beach resort is famous for its long white sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. It's a hub for various water sports, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, or simply relaxing and enjoying the landscape.

Bagheria: Located in the province of Palermo, this town is known for its Baroque and Neoclassical villas, many of which are open to the public. Notable villas include Villa Palagonia and Villa Cattolica.

Palermo: Sicily's capital is renowned for its history, architecture, and culture. Key attractions include Palermo Cathedral, the Norman Palace, the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, Ballarò Market, and the Massimo Theater. Be sure to savor the local cuisine, featuring delicacies like pasta with sardines and cannoli.

Cinisi: Located on Sicily's western coast, Cinisi is a picturesque town known for its sandy beach and the Cinisi Castle. Magaggiari Beach is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sea, while the castle offers breathtaking coastal views.

Cefalù: This picturesque coastal town east of Palermo boasts attractions such as the Cefalù Cathedral, the Rocca di Cefalù, and the Mandralisca Museum. The Cefalù beach is among Sicily's most beautiful.

Tusa: A small village on Sicily's northern coast, Tusa is known for its crystal-clear sea and rocky coastline. One of Tusa's main attractions is the San Giorgio Beach, perfect for long beach walks or snorkeling.

Milazzo: A port city on Sicily's northeastern coast, Milazzo is known for its castle and marina. From the port, ferries depart for the Aeolian Islands.

Aeolian Islands: An archipelago off Sicily's northeastern coast, these islands are known for their stunning beaches and wild nature. Lipari is the largest and most populated, while Stromboli is famous for its active volcano.

Taormina: A town on Sicily's eastern coast, Taormina is known for its Greek theater, historic center, and breathtaking coastal views. Must-visit spots include the Ancient Theater, Corso Umberto, and the Public Garden.

Calatabiano Castle: A medieval castle a few kilometers from Taormina, it's renowned for its panoramic position and stunning architecture. From here, one can enjoy panoramic views of the coast and Taormina.

Egadi Islands: An archipelago off Sicily's western coast, these islands are known for their beautiful beaches and pristine nature. Favignana is the largest and most popular.

Enna: A hilltop city in central Sicily, Enna is known for its historic center and the Lombardy Castle. The castle provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Castellammare del Golfo: A beautiful town in the province of Trapani, characterized by a medieval castle overlooking the sea. The town is known for its stunning beaches, including Playa di Castellammare.

Capo d'Orlando: A beach resort in the province of Messina, it's known for its long sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. One of the town's main attractions is the seafront promenade, perfect for evening strolls.

Tindari: An ancient town on Sicily's northern coast, it's known for its archaeological site, which includes a Greek theater, a Roman villa, and a stunning basilica overlooking the sea. Visitors can also explore the nearby nature reserve, home to a beautiful lagoon and various bird species.

Gole dell'Alcantara: These are a natural wonder located in the province of Messina. They consist of a series of deep canyons and gorges carved by the Alcantara river. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rafting, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. The park also features a visitor center, a botanical garden, and a natural history museum.

Sambuca di Sicilia: This is a charming hillside village located in the province of Agrigento. It's known for its beautiful architecture, including several churches and Baroque palaces. The town also boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.

Pantalica: This is an archaeological site located in the province of Siracusa. It houses over 5,000 ancient tombs carved into the cliffs, along with several imposing rock-cut temples. The site is surrounded by beautiful nature, including forests, waterfalls, and rivers.

Portopalo di Capo Passero: This is a fishing village located at the southernmost tip of Sicily. It's famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent seafood restaurants. Visitors can also explore the nearby nature reserve, which hosts a variety of bird species.

Gibellina: This is a unique town located in the province of Trapani. It was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1968 and was rebuilt as a modern art installation. Visitors can explore the town's open-air museums, which feature sculptures and paintings by some of Italy's most famous artists.

Mondello: This is a beach resort located on the outskirts of Palermo. It's famous for its beautiful beach, considered one of the most beautiful in Sicily. Visitors can also explore the town's historic center, which features several Art Nouveau-style villas and a charming promenade.

Bagheria: This is a small town located on the outskirts of Palermo. It's famous for its beautiful villas, including Villa Palagonia, which features strange sculptures of monsters and other mythological creatures. The town also boasts several Baroque churches and a charming historic center.

If you've made it to the end of this article, it means you're ready to discover the treasures of Sicily. We're sure you won't be disappointed, as this land can amaze and enchant anyone who visits. So, don't waste time and start planning your next adventure on this wonderful island. And if you need further advice, don't hesitate to contact us: we'll be happy to help you plan your perfect trip to Sicily!

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