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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.

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

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

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Best places to visit in Sicily

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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.

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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 .

About the author

Karen la rosa la rosaworks sicily, latest italy travel podcasts and articles, episode #221: magical marsala – the sweet taste of sicilian wine, episode #220: italian hospitality – come as a guest, leave as a friend, episode #219: 10 (or more) reasons to visit sardinia, episode #218: how hard is it to learn italian, how to buy tickets for the colosseum in rome, can you travel to italy – latest travel information [april 2024], best beaches in calabria and how to visit them, 15 best hotels near the vatican city, planning a trip to italy.

We love travel in Italy and sharing our knowledge. Read our Italy trip planning guide or join our FREE Italy travel planning community . Our 115,000+ members are happy to answer questions about your itinerary, how to get from place to place, the best places to stay and fun things to do.

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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

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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!

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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!

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

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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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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Published: Feb 19, 2024 · Modified: Apr 25, 2024

Exploring Palermo: The Ultimate Guide to Sicily's Capital

We're diving into the real Palermo, Sicily. It's ancient, buzzing with life, and a mix of old and new chaos. You'll hear vendors in lively markets. And the food — it's something else. This guide's for the curious, adventurers, history and food lovers. Pack your bags, keep an open mind, and let your senses lead. Let's explore it together.

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• 💻 Italy Travel Resources
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This guide cuts to 🟢 Palermo's core , giving you the real deal, far from the usual fluff. Transport here? It's part of the adventure, not just a way to get around. Forget pretty postcards. We're hunting what's hidden, what's real. Our tours dive into Palermo's chaotic history. Beaches, clubs, day excursions ? They're more than stops; they're vibes, beats, journeys back in time. Food's a main attraction. We're opening doors to where locals keep their secret recipes. We've pinpointed the top places to stay, the optimal visit times , navigating December, and festivals that flip the script on what you think you know. You'll blend in, stay alert, and stay safe. Need help? We've got tips, FAQs, and resources. Ready to see beyond the surface? Let's deep dive into Palermo, exposing Sicily's vibrant, untamed side.

📜 A Very Brief History of Palermo Sicily

Palermo, Sicily's capital, is steeped in a mix of conquests and swaps. Its architecture, culture, and people tell a story of survival. Ancient Sicani might've hit Palermo by 8,000 BC , cave art hints. Phoenicians from Canaan dropped anchor, naming it Ziz in 734 BC. It's prime harbor drew many, mixing cultures.

The Greeks, then Carthaginians , and finally Romans took turns at the helm. Palermo thrived under Roman trade, leaving behind ancient roads and ruins. Saracens nabbed Palermo in 831, turning it into a cultural hotspot, but Normans kicked them out in 1072, sparking a building boom.

Come 1194, the Holy Roman Empire rolled in, ushering the Kingdom of Sicily and Naples. Palermo boomed, then bumped along post-1734 Naples merger. The 20th century hit Palermo hard, including WWII bombs. Still, it pushed forward, blending old and new in its rebuild.

Palermo's saga is a clash of eras and empires, a crossroads enriching its vibe. Now, it's a city owning its past, eyeing the future.

🔭 Where Is Palermo (Geographically)

Palermo sits on Sicily, the Mediterranean's biggest island, off Italy's south. It's on the northwest coast. The Tyrrhenian Sea is north. It's in the Conca d'Oro, a fertile plain, ringed by hills. Monte Pellegrino looms north, adding scenery. Hills stretch to the Madonie mountains. This spot mixes climate, farming, and history. It's been a key maritime hub.

Sicily's terrain is wild, thanks to tectonics and volcanoes. It's at the African and Eurasian plates' clash point. This clash raises mountains, carves valleys, and lights up volcanoes. Mount Etna, Europe's most fiery volcano, dominates the east. Near Palermo, the Calabrian Arc ties the Apennines to North Africa. This geology comes from the Ionian slab's retreat. Sicily's geology tells a tale of breaks, dips, crashes, and dives over ages. This makes for a mixed bag of rocks: from salts and carbonates to ancient, transformed stones.

🌍 Map of Palermo Sicily

👀 Things to Do Palermo Sicily

These spots mix history, culture, nature. They spotlight Palermo's deep roots and beauty.

Visit the Palermo Cathedral :

🟢 The Palermo Cathedral stands tall in Sicily, Italy. It's a mix of Norman, Moorish, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. A true blend of Sicily's past.

Originally a Christian basilica in the 6th century, Saracens turned it into a mosque in 831. Walter Ophamil flipped it back in 1185. Its exterior boasts a Gothic-Catalan portico, royal tombs, and two towers. The main entrance? A wide Gothic-Catalan portico on the south. Inside, it's a Latin cross layout with a nave and two aisles. It's the final resting place for emperors and kings like Henry VI and Roger II.

The cathedral's full of chapels and art. Saint Rosalia's chapel shines with jewels. There's a 13th-century Madonna mosaic, a Laurana marble statue, and Gambara's portico. The crypt houses ancient tombs under granite-supported vaults. It's a trip through history, from Roman to Norman times.

The treasury's loaded with goblets, vestments, and the Crown of Constance. It screams wealth and importance. There's a meridian line from 1801 by Giuseppe Piazzi. It was Sicily's timekeeper and calendar fixer. Renovations have kept it up to date. The 18th century saw the biggest makeover, giving it the look we see today.

Explore the Palatine Chapel (Cappella Palatina) :

🟢 The Palatine Chapel in Palermo screams Norman, Arab, Byzantine mix. It's in the Norman Palace. Built in 1132 by King Roger II, it's a melting pot of cultures. The place is famous for its mosaics. They're everywhere, showing off Byzantine skills with Christ Pantocrator taking center stage. The ceiling's a showstopper. It's Islamic muqarnas, painted bright, made by North African Fatimids.

A rare sight of Muslims doing church art. The build was a group effort: Muslims, Christians, Jews, all in. Their teamwork is the chapel's signature. The mosaics are top-tier Byzantine work, dating back to the 1140s. The 19th century added some flair with new mosaics and walnut doors. It's open for all. Sunday mass is a thing, but don't sit or flash your camera. Buy tickets at a kiosk near the palace. A guide's a good idea to catch all the stories.

Discover the Royal Palace of Palermo (Palazzo dei Normanni) :

🟢 Palazzo dei Normanni: Europe's oldest royal pad. Kings lived here. Frederick II and Corrado IV ruled. Mix of styles: Arab, Norman, Byzantine. Sicily's melting pot in stone.

Started as Islamic in the 9th century. Normans beefed it up from 1072. Palermo's history in layers. Cappella Palatina's the gem. King Roger II's project by 1140. Mosaics galore. A mash-up of Latin, Byzantine, Islamic styles.

UNESCO nods to Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel. World heritage, world significance. It's Sicily's regional HQ but opens doors to public. No parliament, come on in.

Open Monday to Saturday, 8:15 AM to 5:45 PM. Sundays till 1:00 PM. Be on time. In Parliament Square, Palermo. Easy to get to. Buses and trains drop nearby.

Tour the Palermo Archaeological Museum :

🟢 The Palermo Archaeological Museum , AKA Antonino Salinas, packs Sicily's history into artifacts and exhibits. Here's the skinny:

Historical Background : Built in the Olivella complex, late 16th to 17th century. Became a museum in 1866 post-religious clampdown. Jole Bovio Marconi saved it from WWII bombs. It's been getting a facelift since July 18, 2011. Only bits are open now.

Sections and Exhibits :

• Underwater finds hit the ground floor. Think Phoenician to Roman: anchors, lamps, amphoras.
• Phoenician big shots include two 5th century BC sarcophagi and stelae.
• Selinunte's Greek highlights? The Gorgon and myth-loaded metopes from Temple C.
• Treasures from old Sicilian spots like Himera and Agrigento. Ever seen a 3rd century BC Ram bronze? It's here.
• Roman era? Sculptures and mosaics from Palermo's Piazza Vittoria.
• Prehistoric loot from local caves shows off early human hustle.

Collections :

• It's got the University Museum stash, Salinas's own haul, and the Etruscan-rich Pietro Bonci Casuccini collection. Tuscany's jealous.

Significance : Sicily's oldest museum. Top shelf for Punic and Greek art. Don't miss the underwater goods and Selinunte's metopes.

Admire La Martorana (Cathedral of St. Mary of the Admiral) :

🟢 The Cathedral of St. Mary of the Admiral punches through Sicily's history. It's a crossroads of styles, smack in the Mediterranean mix. George of Antioch, Norman King Roger II's admiral, kicked this off in 1143. It's all for the Virgin Mary, echoing Sicily's mixed-up past.

It's on the UNESCO list, with Palermo's Arab-Norman mashup. Normans, Arabs, Byzantines—all stirred together. Inside, it's a jumble of Byzantine, Arab, Baroque. Arab hands laid down its mosaics, spotlighting the Virgin, from 1143 to 1148.

It's got quirks: a lapis lazuli tabernacle, a Norman baptismal, a 12th-century door—Arab handiwork. The Monastero della Martorana, tagged by Eloisa Martorana, sticks to making marzipan fruits. A Sicilian hit. It's a rare spot for Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic mash-ups, showcasing its mixed heritage. Overall, visitors dig it for its looks, mosaics, architectural salad. It's cheap to see, and worth every penny.

See San Giovanni degli Eremiti :

🟢 San Giovanni degli Eremiti in Palermo is a UNESCO site. Arab-Norman route star, with Cefalù and Monreale's cathedrals. Roger II kicked it off in 1142. It was the richest convent's buddy. It's small but packed with old tiles, mosaics, frescoes. Got a mosque ceiling. That's about it for the inside. Outside, five red domes steal the show. Pure Arab-Norman style. The gardens are lush. Think citrus, agaves, bougainvilleas. Roses and pomegranates too. Plants hug the cloister's white columns. It smells as good as it looks. The city loves it. It's a Norman Palermo icon.

Hike or visit Monte Pellegrino :

🟢 Monte Pellegrino is Palermo's rugged backyard masterpiece. Goethe called it the world's top promontory. Why? Just look at it.

Here's the deal:

• Location: North of Palermo, Sicily. Monte Pellegrino towers over the city, offering killer views of the sea and cityscape.
• History and Faith: Up top, Santuario di Santa Rosalia waits. It's a beacon for the faithful, locals, and wanderers alike.
• The Hermit's Tale: Santa Rosalia, once a noblewoman, ditched riches for cave life in the 12th century. Died there. Later, she posthumously busted the plague, becoming Palermo's hero.
• Hit the Trails: You want views? Hike Sentiero al Semaforo. It's a path to the top with eye-popping scenery.
• Getting There: Jump on bus #810 from Piazza Politeama. Half an hour later, you're swapping city noise for mountain air.
• Weird but True: Inside the sanctuary, check out the silver plates. Each one's about a body part. It's for prayers, not anatomy class.
• Chill Zone: The mountain's vibe is pure Zen. Perfect for walking off that Sicilian feast or just breathing in Sicily.

Attend a performance or tour Teatro Massimo :

🟢 Teatro Massimo is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, this behemoth, Europe's third-largest, offers tours that slice through its cultural and architectural majesty. Forget about wandering in anytime; the last tour's at 4:50 PM, and there are blackout dates for guided walks.

Here’s the deal with the tours: For a mere €12 (half that if you're under 26, even less for groups), you get 40 minutes to roam the auditorium and key spots, in any language you speak. Want more? Shell out an extra €5 for a backstage pass to see the real magic behind the curtains. Or, if you're feeling fancy, drop some cash on special tours with cocktails in the Royal Box or a concert and cocktail combo – just remember, booking is non-negotiable.

Thinking about catching a show? Teatro Massimo is your spot for top-tier operas, ballets, and concerts. Opened in 1897 and steeped in history, this architectural masterpiece doubles as a film buff's pilgrimage site – yeah, "The Godfather Part III" was shot here.

A couple of pro tips: You can only peek inside on a guided tour unless you're here for a show. And for those who like a side of spooks with their culture, there's a ghost story involving a nun unhappy about her monastery's demolition to build this place.

Booking's a breeze – hit up the box office or 🟢 go online. But do your homework on the Teatro Massimo website to avoid any surprises with tour times or ticket availability.

Marvel at Fontana Pretoria :

Francesco Camilliani built the 🟢 Fontana Pretoria in 1554 in Florence for Don Luigi de Toledo. Sold, moved to Palermo in 1574. Francesco's son, Camillo, put it back together.

It's packed with sculptures: Twelve Olympians, mythological figures, animals, Palermo's rivers. Central basin, bridges, balustrade, sculptures on pedestals, niches with animal heads, monsters. Sits in Palermo's heart, Piazza Pretoria. Near Santa Caterina, San Giuseppe dei Teatini churches. It's the square's highlight, mixing culture with Palermo's messy history.

They call it "Piazza della Vergogna" - Square of Shame. Why? Nude statues, hinting at a rotten city hall. Still, it's a hit. Restored from 1998 to 2003, looking sharp. Easy to get there. Hop on Palermo's Arancione shuttle. Drop off at Piazza Pretoria, just 80 meters away.

Visit the Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo Sicily

Into the macabre or Sicilian ways? Hit the 🟢 Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo. It's a trip from now to then, life to death.

Background : Born in the 16th century, these catacombs show off Palermo's past lives. They're the last stop for many, from monks to big shots.

Notable Dead : Rosalia Lombardo, two, died in 1920. Still looks alive, thanks to Alfredo Salafia's embalming magic. Star mummy.

The Dead Collection : They've got around 8,000 bodies, 1,252 mummies. Men, women, kids, all sorted. Some are shockingly well-kept, showing off old-school body preserving tricks.

Why It Matters : The place pulls crowds. Dumas, Maupassant, and others couldn't stay away. It's a stark look at death's beauty.

Rules to Visit : No photos. They're strict to keep respect and keep things intact. It's open for those who follow the rules, details online.

Digging Deeper : The Sicily Mummy Project digs into these mummies, learning about their old lives, health, and how they were mummified. It's sparking new chats about death in Sicilian life.

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✈️ How to Get to Palermo, Sicily

Palermo's transportation options, in a nutshell:

🛬 Airline Tickets to Palermo, Sicily

Hunting for Palermo flights? Hit up 🟢 CheapOair. Big league in airfare, digs, rides, and bundles. Brands galore on board. They deal in travel fixes and ace support. Climbing fast in the US travel game.

Also, dig 🟢 Priority Pass . Game-changer for travel. Lounge access? Lifesaver in delays. Peace out from chaos. Snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi? Check. Charge without the hunt. Plus, discounts—eats, shops, spas. VIP feel, easy on the wallet.

Lastly, hit 🟢 Radical Storage . Baggage woes? Gone. Late flights, early birds—no sweat. Over 70 countries, 500 cities, 5000+ drop points. Book, choose, chill. Each bag? Insured to 3000 bucks. Drag no more. Palermo awaits, hands-free.

🚙 Car Hire Sicily Palermo

Need wheels in Palermo? Check 🟢 GetTransfer.com . Beats taxis, every time. Just hours needed? Their hourly beats all. Shop around, see the gap. Global reach, even helicopters. Pricing? No fixed game. Drivers bid, you win. Test it—lowest rates guaranteed.

🚘 Car Rental in Palermo

Car rental in Palermo? 🟢 Rentalcars.com is the key. Biggest online. Customer service? 24/7, worldwide. Always delivers. Smooth sailing, every trip. Try them for Palermo. No regrets.

🚕 Taxi Service in Palermo

Ride in Palermo? Hit 🟢 Kiwitaxi . Quick booking, clear prices, no tricks. Pro drivers, licensed, solid. Safe, smooth rides. Always there, 24/7. Any ride—sedan to bus. Kiwitaxi makes it easy. Give them a shot.

🚆 Trains in Palermo, Italy & Europe

Travel by train through Palermo, Europe? 🟢 Rail Europe. Top dog for European rails. Over 50 train companies. Stress-free planning. Just ride. Try it.

Train rides in Palermo slice through Sicily. They carve paths across wild landscapes and ancient stones. Palermo Centrale sits proud in Piazza Giulio Cesare. It's the heart. It pumps life across Sicily on steel veins. Over 250 trains roar daily, Trenitalia's beasts.

Key stops and times:

• Caltanissetta hits in 2 hours.
• Agrigento, 2 hours, 10 minutes.
• Messina stretches to 3 hours, 5 minutes.
• Catania clocks in at 3.
• Termini Imerese, a quick 31.

These trains stitch Sicily together. They link Palermo, Messina, Catania. Not as vast as the mainland's network, but vital. They offer views that punch breaths away. Efficient, yes. Convenient, absolutely. A vein through Sicily's heart, pulsing with life.

🚍 Buses, Trams & Metro in Palermo

AMAT S.p.A. runs the show in Palermo, Sicily, rolling out buses and trams, throwing in car and bike sharing for kicks. Let's cut to the chase on what AMAT's got going:

• Routes: 100 lines zigzag across Palermo. Ninety regular, three special, seven for the beach crowd. They stitch the city and neighbors together.
• Fares: Board with €1.4 or get dinged €1.8 on the bus. Tickets last 90 minutes. Ride all you want for €3.5 a day, or grab 20 rides for €23.5.
• Routes: Since 2015, four tram lines tie knots around key spots: Roccella to Central, Borgo Nuovo to Notarbartolo, and two more you can guess. They're the sleek sidekicks to buses.
• Hours: Trams and day buses kick off at 5:30 am, tap out at 11:00 pm. Night owls have N11, N12, N21, and N22 to roam the dark city.
• The Lowdown: Palermo's metro details are MIA here. Expect it to zip through the city's veins. Check AMAT's site or buzz their line for the real scoop.

🚴 Bicycles, Scooters & Motorcycles

Want bikes or quads in Palermo? Hit up 🟢 BikesBooking.com. Big online spot for two-wheel rides. They list from 950 crews in 40 countries. That's 50,000 rides, 2,000 spots. Everywhere you land, they've got you. Amps up the journey. Easy, exciting.

🛥️ Yacht Rental in Palermo

Thinking yacht rental in Palermo or Europe? Check 🟢 SEARADAR. Prime global yacht service. Booking's a breeze, like snagging a hotel room. Sailing? Surprisingly affordable. SEARADAR throws in free concierge help. They sort the yacht, path, crew, docs. For a legendary journey, hit them up. It's a memory maker, no doubt.

🚶🏽‍♂️Off the Beaten Path Stuff to See & Do in Palermo

• Wake up early. Walk around Capo Market's edge. The city wakes up. It's quiet, serene. See Palermo come alive.
• Breakfast time. Find a small bakery. Locals love it. Get "pane e panelle" or a fresh "cannolo". Add coffee.
• Mid-morning . Hit La Kalsa. It's full of artisan shops. Ceramics, wood, textiles. Real Palermo crafts, not tourist traps.
• Lunch . Look for a hidden trattoria. Secret courtyards. Locals' secret. Traditional Sicilian food . Peaceful, not crowded.
• Early afternoon. Explore Liberty style villas. Off the beaten path. Stunning architecture. See Palermo's different side.
• Late afternoon. Go to Sferracavallo. It's a quiet fishing village. Stroll the coast. Watch fishermen. Peaceful sea views.
• Sunset. Climb Monte Pellegrino. Trails lead to panoramic views. Spiritual journey for locals. Watch the sunset from above.
• Evening. Enjoy an aperitivo in a local's garden. Hidden gardens. Sicilian-style drinks. Friends gather here. Perfect day's end.

Want to catch a Palermo game? Hit the official site or Vivaticket first. Check the schedule, see what's available, and check the price tag. Buying online? Vivaticket makes it easy. Dive into the site, pick your match, select seats, and seal the deal.

Palermo FC, that's Palermo for the fans, kicks the ball in Serie B. It's a City Football Group member. Born in 1900, it's an old-timer in Italian football. The club boasts a Coppa Italia Serie C and five Serie B titles. It hit the Italian Cup finals thrice and showed up in Serie A 29 times. On the European stage, Palermo's been in the UEFA Cup/Europa League five times.

Debate all you want, but November 1, 1900, sticks as Palermo's birthday. Ignazio Majo Pagano, a football-loving Palermitan, got the ball rolling. Originally rocking red and blue, they switched to pink and black in 1907. Despite name changes and reboots, Palermo's stayed in the game. Nicknames? "I Rosanero" and "Le Aquile" sum it up.

👫🏽 Best Guided Tours in Palermo

These tours slice through Palermo. From food hunts to history dives. They lay the city's soul bare.

These 4 tours of ours also hit all the spots: food, history, architecture. They unpack Palermo's layered world.

• 🟢 Palermo Street Food Walking Tour - Dive into Sicilian eats. Hit historic spots. Taste the street.
• 🟢 Palermo: 3-Hour Street Food and History Walking Tour - It's food plus history. A mix that digs deeper into Palermo's guts.
• 🟢 Palermo Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral Half-Day Tour - A double feature. See mummies, then hit Monreale's art. History, architecture, in half a day.
• 🟢 Palermo: Markets and Monuments City Center Walking Tour - Walk the heart of Palermo. From markets to monuments. See the city's beat.

🍴 Palermo Sicily Restaurants

Here's Palermo's top 5 restaurants according to Savoring Italy , slicing Sicily's best. Every spot serves up Sicilian and Italian , no fluff, just flavor. Fine dining, snug trattorias, it's all here. Crave sophistication or a big, homey plate? Palermo's elite kitchens have you covered:

🟢 Gagini Social Restaurant - It's all about Italian flair and seafood. They make dining a group thing, pushing conversation and community.

🟢 Ferro di Cavallo - Classic Sicilian spot. Sticks to its roots with traditional tastes . Casual vibe, big on authentic, hearty dishes.

🟢 Ristorante Cin Cin - Upscale Italian and seafood. Known for its classy atmosphere and top-notch service. Ideal for fancy nights out.

🟢 Trattoria ai Cascinari - Authentic Sicilian food wins here. It's about tradition, warmth, and simple, passionate cooking.

🟢 Osteria Mercede - Cozy place with Italian and healthy options. Freshness and friendliness stand out, making everyone feel at home.

Eat with a Local in Palermo!

Palermo's shouting out to food lovers. 🟢  Eatwith is your key . Top dog in real-deal dining. Picture this: Italian meals, fresh from a local's kitchen.

Eatwith hits 130 spots, Palermo included. They're choosy, hunting for range and richness. Rookie or chef, doesn't matter. Hosts swing from kitchen warriors to Michelin stars. United by one vibe: a love for grub and sharing it. So, pull up a chair in Palermo. It's soul food, taste bud bliss. Buon appetito!

🏘️ Neighborhoods in Palermo

Palermo rips open Sicily's soul. Each neighborhood slaps you with its own vibe.

• Castellammare Vucciria reeks of history. Ancient palaces clash with neon-lit bars. San Domenico Church and the Salinas Museum stand proud.
• Ruggero Settimo is where money sleeps. It's all about high fashion, posh eats, and slick Art Deco. Politeama Theater and Via Ruggero Settimo steal the show.
• Albergaria feels real. It's got the grit of Palazzo dei Normanni and the buzz of Ballarò market. Tourists don't swamp it.
• Monte di Pietà blends the holy and the eerie. Capo Market, Catacombs, and the Cathedral are magnets for the curious and the night owls.
• Politeama Libertà shines with Art Nouveau. It's the go-to for upscale shopping and eating. Safe and chic, families and solo travelers dig it.
• La Kals a sprawls with Arabic tales. Nightlife's cheap, spirits are high. Piazza Pretoria and Palazzo Abatellis are the gems. Young and culture-thirsty folks flock here.
• Albergheria's the old soul. Its lanes and cafes ooze authenticity. It's where you go to live, not just visit.

🛎️ Hostels in Palermo

Headed to Palermo on the cheap? Hit up 🟢 Hostelworld . It's your golden ticket to hostels across the globe. Perfect for adventurers, social butterflies, and tale collectors. Boasting over 17,000 spots in 179 countries, vetted by real-deal travelers. This is where social travel thrives. Easy to use, multilingual, with solid support. Not for your everyday tourist. It's for seekers of the real, the raw. They serve up a feast of hostels, way beyond a mere crash pad.

Dive into Palermo's hostel scene. Just tap into the search bar. Ready, set, explore.

🏨 Palermo Sicily Hotels

Looking for a bed in Palermo? Hit 🟢 Trivago. Tops for sniffing out deals and digs. It drags in choices from everywhere. Here's the deal: 175 million reviews and a sea of snapshots. You get the full picture, no sugarcoating. Reviews are straight-up, no fluff.

Dive into Palermo's hotel scene. Tap that search bar. Go find your spot.

Want more options and deals?

Check 🟢 Booking.com for Palermo hotel deals. Here's our shortlist:

🟢 Eurostars Centrale Palace Hotel hits 8.3. Right in Palermo's pulse, it keeps its noble bones but throws in the new. Shops on Via Maqueda? Steps away.

🟢 Grand Hotel Wagner scores 8.8. It's luxury with a past. Guests dig the mix of old-world glam and today's comfort.

🟢 B&B Hotel Palermo Quattro Canti lands an 8.4. Prime spot for city roaming. It nails the comfort, location, price trifecta.

🟢 Hotel Politeama grabs an 8.8. It stands proud on Palermo's coveted streets. Tradition meets trend here, winning big on room vibes and spot-on siting.

🛍️ Best Shopping in Palermo Sicily

Palermo packs it all. Big malls, fancy stores, quirky vintage, crafts, bustling markets.

Forum Palerm o tops the list. It's big with over 120 shops. Mix of local and global brands.

Ceramiche Tre Erre dazzles with Sicilian pottery. Think vivid, handcrafted majolica. From egg cups to Moor heads.

Via Libertà is where luxury lives. Max Mara, Marina Rinaldi, and more. Fashionistas, this is your spot.

For a retro kick, hit Magazzini Anita and Ballaroots. Vintage finds galore.

ALAB and Basura champion the unique. Artisan vibes, eco-friendly gems.

The real Palermo? Hit the markets. Ballarò, Vucciria, Cap o. Fresh food, crafts, a slice of local life.

La Rinascente on Via Roma. A mix of great independent shops under one roof.

Outdoor markets are a must. Handicrafts, ceramics, cheaper than stores. Pure Sicily.

🏖️ Beaches in Palermo Sicily

Palermo shines, not just for history and streets but for its beaches too. Its climate? Warm, sunny, almost always.

• Mondello Beach : Once a swamp, now a gem with golden sands. It's big, near, full of boats, and seafood.
• Aspra Beach : Tiny fishing spot, east of town. Famous for sunsets, wooden boats, and ice cream.
• Cefalu Beach : An hour east, Cefalu welcomes families with its sand and safety. Gets rockier away from town.
• San Vito Lo Capo Beach : West of Palermo, it's Italy's own Caribbean. Golden sand, clear water, known for fish.
• Isola delle Femmine Beach : West side story. Crystal sea, close to action. White sands, rentable shades.
• Arenella Beach : City's heart, quiet, untouched. Golden sand, clean water. Hidden paths lead the way.

💃🏽 Best Dance Clubs and Bars in Palermo, Sicily

Palermo's nightlife? Here's where to dive in.

Bars, first. Vucciria Market lights up at night. Cheap beer, food stalls, locals everywhere. Sicilo Food & View 360 sits high, drinks pricey, views kill. Punk Funk mixes booze with vinyl, great for music lovers. OJDÅ gets busy, offers top food, natural drinks, and a cool crowd.

Now, clubs. Cantavespri rocks a 16th-century vibe, wines, beats, and live tunes. Near Mondello, Country DiscoClub pulls the young, DJs, global faces. Fabric Club House , cheap drinks, loud music, non-stop dance. I Candelai , big space, diverse music, students love it. Dorian al Tasmira mixes history with beats, from tango to dance hits. Migò Club , the go-to for live DJ acts and big names.

🚙 Day Trip Ideas From Palermo

Palermo, Sicily, throws you into history, nature, and classic towns. Dive in.

🟢 Cefalù hits you with beaches, ancient architecture, and art. Hike La Rocca for the views. Trains run every hour, taking less than 60 minutes.

🟢 Mondello is where sand meets surf. It boasts white beaches, a kids' park, and an art nouveau gem.

🟢 San Vito Lo Capo resembles the Caribbean with its beaches. It's got history and sun. You'll need a car; buses don't go there.

🟢 Castellammare del Golfo showcases a Norman castle and narrow streets. It's real Sicily. Catch a train, then a bus. It's a two-hour journey.

🟢 Agrigento is about ancient Greek ruins. The Valley of the Temples is a historical marvel. Trains from Palermo take two hours.

🟢 Marsala is wine and architecture. Think marble streets and Baroque buildings. No buses; drive for 1.5 hours.

🟢 Villa Romana del Casale packs Roman mosaics in Piazza Armerina. A UNESCO site, it's a two-hour drive from Palermo.

🟢 Corleone offers Mafia tales and the Museo Antimafia, plus churches and waterfalls. It's an hour's drive away.

👩🏽‍🏫 One-Day Itinerary for Palermo, Sicily

Palermo packs a punch with history, culture, and grub. Here's your hit list for dawn till dusk.

Morning: Dive into the Past

• Kick off at Cattedrale di Palermo : Doors swing open at 7:30. It's a mixtape of Norman, Arab, Byzantine styles. Climb the roof for city views if you dare.
• Hit Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina : A stone's throw from the cathedral. The chapel's mosaics will knock your socks off. Opens at 8:30. Pure Sicilian history.
• Wander Mercato del Capo or Ballarò : After a history binge, hit the markets. They're alive with locals, street food, and chatter. Seafood? Go Capo. Want everything? Ballarò's your spot.

Afternoon: Art, Chill, Chow

• Scope out Palazzo Abatellis : Post-lunch, check this Gothic palace. It's crammed with Sicilian art, starring the "Triumph of Death" fresco. Deep stuff.
• Lunch local style : Palermo's food scene is legit. Dive into pasta con le sarde or caponata with local vino. You're welcome.
• Lounge at Giardino Garibaldi : Got a gelato or coffee? Good. Now chill under massive Ficus trees. It's the Sicilian way.

Evening: Sea Views and Seafood

• Stroll Foro Italico : Evening's cooler. Walk this seaside promenade. The Med winks at you here. Breathe it in.
• Dinner in Mondello : Head to Mondello for dinner. Beach views, top-tier seafood. Try the grilled swordfish or squid ink risotto.
• Gelato or granita finale : End on a sweet note. Sicilian desserts are a hug in food form. Go on, indulge.

🌡️ Palermo Sicily Weather

Palermo, Sicily, has mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The weather? Always pleasant. Yearly average temp? 66°F. Peaks hit 87°F, lows can go down to 49°F. Humidity? Sticks at 67%. Rain? Just 1.15 inches a year. Winds? A gentle 8 mph. It's mild, through and through.

Palermo weather in October:

Come October, things stay mild, comfortable. Highs? Around 75°F. Lows? Near 64°F. Average for October? A cozy 70°F. Rain picks up a bit, hitting 1.78 inches. Not too bad. Humidity in October? It's at 68%, feels just right. Wind slows to 6 mph. Visibility? Clear at 7 miles. October's crisp.

This makes October in Palermo a gem for tourists. The weather's just right, not too hot. Historical spots, lively streets, the coast — all shine. And the crowds? Thinner than in summer's peak. It's prime time in Palermo.

• Dodge the Herds: Spring and Fall - Palermo's sweet spots. Less chaos. Cool sights, fewer bodies.
• Cheapskate's Season: Winter - Prices tank. Tourists scarce. Still, Palermo shines, minus the frostbite.
• Sun Worshipper's Time: Summer - Sicily's sun cranks high. Beaches call. Prices soar, crowds swell.
• Culture Vultures: Spring - Easter lights up Sicily. Festivals bloom, traditions throb.
• Thrill-Seekers: Fall - Perfect for leg stretches in mountains or olive groves. Cool air, sparse crowds.

Weather by the Book:

⛅ Winter : Mild. 40-60°F. City glows with holiday lights, less foot traffic.

🌱 Spring : Temps hover 50-70°F. City bursts with life. Museums beckon.

🌞 Summer : It's hot. 80-90°F. Beaches demand attention. Wallets and patience, beware.

🍂 Fall : Outdoor gold. 60-70°F. Harvests roll in. Trails and skies open up.

Plan Smart:

• Festival Watch : Sicily's calendar bursts with eats and beats. Sync up, dive deep.
• Book Ahead : Summer swells. Lock down beds and tours early. Save grief and cash.
• Local Know-How : Holidays and school breaks shift the scene. Peek at calendars, pick wisely.

🎄 Palermo in December and Christmas Holidays

Palermo lights up in December. It's a mix of old-school religion and new-age vibe. Christmas markets pop. Lights dazzle. The party starts December 8th. Think feasts. Think tradition. Think month-long celebration.

• Want real Sicily? Hit the churches. They've got nativity scenes that'll knock your socks off. The big show? At the Primatial Cathedral. Starts December 8th. It's not just about the past. Palermo throws in shows, fun for everyone. It's lit.
• Flea markets buzz harder. Looking for Christmas goodies? Hit Capo, Vucciria, Ballaro, Borgo Vecchio. It's where Palermo's heart beats fastest.
• Foodies, get ready. Christmas means feast time. Fried pumpkin, eggplant caponata, sfincione. It's a Sicilian food blast. Christmas in Palermo? It's where tradition meets festivity head-on.

🎆 Must Experience Festivals and Events in Palermo and Sicily

Sicily and Palermo roll out the red carpet in 2024. Think vibrant festivals, a deep dive into cultural roots.

• Festa del Santo Salvatore hits August 1-6. Expect food, mass, parades, tunes. It's a big nod to Santo Salvatore, mixing faith with fun.
• Saint Agata Festival takes the stage February 3-5. A key religious bash, it's a highlight on Sicily's party calendar.
• Carnevale in Acireale lands on January 6. It's a riot of colors, masks, and floats, a testament to Sicily's carnival lore.
• Easter in Trapani brings the Procession of the Mysteries. Good Friday turns historic with a 400-year tradition. Twenty statues trace Christ's Passion.
• Festa di St. Rosalia lights up Palermo in July's second week. U fistinu" means processions, fireworks, street eats , drinks, and top Sicilian beats.
• Carnival in Sciacca spells fun on February 13, 16, 17, 18. Watch out for big papier-mâché floats, masked crews, tunes, and a feast of events.

🇮🇹 Essential Italian Phrases

Need Italian in Palermo? Here's your cheat sheet:

• Hello - "Ciao" (chow)
• Goodbye - "Arrivederci" (ah-ree-veh-DEHR-chee)
• Please - "Per favore" (pehr fah-VOH-reh)
• Thank you - "Grazie" (GRAHT-zee-eh)
• Yes - "Sì" (see)
• No - "No" (noh)
• Excuse me/Sorry - "Scusi" (SKOO-zee)
• I don't understand - "Non capisco" (non kah-PEES-koh)
• How much is this? - "Quanto costa?" (KWAN-toh KOH-stah)
• Where is the bathroom? - "Dove il bagno?" (DOH-veh eel BAHN-yoh)
• Can I have the menu, please? - "Posso avere il menù, per favore?" (POHS-soh ah-VEH-reh eel meh-NOO, pehr fah-VOH-reh)
• A table for two, please. - "Un tavolo per due, per favore." (oon TAH-voh-loh pehr DOO-eh, pehr fah-VOH-reh)
• Do you speak English? - "Parla inglese?" (PAHR-lah een-GLEH-zeh)
• I would like... - "Vorrei..." (voh-RAY)
• Help! - "Aiuto!" (ah-YOO-toh)
• I'm lost - "Mi sono perso/a" (mee SOH-noh PEHR-soh/ah - "o" for male, "a" for female)
• Water, please. - "Acqua, per favore." (AHK-kwah, pehr fah-VOH-reh)
• The check, please. - "Il conto, per favore." (eel KOHN-toh, pehr fah-VOH-reh)

🙋🏽‍♂️ Local Customs and Etiquette in Palermo, Sicily

Navigating Palermo? Keep it simple, sharp, and savvy.

Greeting and Interactions

• Sicilians are friendly. Shake hands first time, cheek kisses among friends. Say "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera" in shops. Use "Signore" or "Signora" plus surname, but first names fly among pals.
• Palermo is chill on clothes, but cover up in churches. Casual works, but Sicilians dress up for nights out.

Dining Etiquette

• Meals run late here. Lunch kicks off after 1 pm, dinner not before 8. Start with antipasto, then hit primo and secondo. Sharing is caring. Tip around 10% if you're feeling it.

Visiting Religious Sites

• Churches are big here. Keep the noise down, dress right, no flash pics. Phones off, no eating or drinking inside.

Local Customs

• Siesta Time: Afternoon shutdown between 1 and 4 pm. It's chill time.
• Avoiding Stereotypes: Mafia talk? Skip it. It's a sore spot.
• Backpack and Valuables: Palermo's safe, but don't flaunt your gear.
• Tourist Appearance: Ditch the Panama hat. Ask locals for directions instead of maps.
• Interaction with Locals: Sicilians are welcoming. Chat if they approach.
• Exploring Beyond Tourist Guides: Skip the TripAdvisor echo chamber. Ask locals for the real deal.
• Respecting Lunch and Siesta Times: Know the drill for lunch and siesta. It's quiet time.
• Seasonal Awareness: Watch the sun. Use sunscreen. Remember, cannoli are seasonal.

👮🏽 Safety Tips for Tourist in Palermo

Sicily's safe for tourists. But don't drop your guard. Here's how to not screw up in Palermo and beyond.

General Safety Tips

• Valuables : Don't flash your bling. Use cards, not cash.
• Language Barrier : Learn Italian basics. It helps. A lot.
• Mafia Mention : Don't chat about the mafia. Locals hate it.
• Car Rental : Get full insurance. Watch for parking scams.
• Crossing Streets : Look both ways. Drivers are wild.
• Travel Insurance : Just get it. Covers theft, loss, and health.
• Personal Belongings : Watch your stuff. Crowds mean pickpockets.

Scams and Areas to Avoid

• Scams to Watch Out For : Fake cops, pricey tours, bogus goods, restaurant rip-offs. Check everything.
• Areas to Avoid : Skip Ballarò and Brancaccio at night. Catania's got bad spots too.

Night Safety

• Well-Lit Areas : Stick to the bright paths. Dark alleys equal trouble.
• Awareness : Keep your eyes open. Feel weird? Move to crowds.
• Valuables : Hide your loot. Use inner pockets.

Accommodation Recommendations

Stay safe. Pick right. Palermo's La Kalsa, Cefalù, Taormina, Favignana offer safe beds. Choose wisely. Enjoy Sicily without the drama.

📚 Books About Palermo, Sicily

Five Sicily books hit hard with history, culture, and tight stories.

• " My Lemon Grove Summer " - Jo Thomas. Zelda and Lennie hit Sicily. They're chasing new beginnings in Citta d’Ora. They bump into trouble and luck. A local guy could flip their world.
• " A Ruby in her Navel " - Barry Unsworth. Twelfth century Sicily. Thurstan Beauchamp, young and Norman, dives into a mess. Christians, Muslims, Jews, all in the mix. Love and power games play out.
• " Secrets in Sicily " - Penny Feeny. Lily's life flips in 1977 Sicily. She's back ten years later. Family secrets need untangling. It's a rough ride to the truth.
• " The Leopard " - Giuseppe di Lampedusa. Sicily, 1860. Italian unification's shaking things up. Prince of Salina sees the old world fading. Aristocracy's out. New blood's in. It's a stark look at change.
• " Midnight in Sicily " - Peter Robb. Non-fiction. Dives deep into Sicily's heart. Art, food, history. It's all there. Corruption and crime under the microscope. Sicily's raw and real.

💻 Italy Travel Resources

Here's my Italy/Europe travel cheat sheet. Some are personal gold. Others, nomad tips. All, rock-solid.

🏩 Accommodation Booking Services:

🟢 Booking.com: Leading online platform for global accommodations. No fees, content in 40 languages.

🟢 Hostelworld: Focuses on hostels, listing 36,000 properties in 178 countries.

🟢 Tripadvisor: World's biggest travel site with access to 1.4 million stays and 795 million reviews.

🟢 CheapOair: Offers flight tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages.

🚕 Transportation Services:

🟢 Airalo: First global eSim Store, cuts down roaming costs with eSims for travelers.

🟢 Rentalcars: Lets travelers find the right car in over 60,000 locations across 160 countries.

🟢 Kiwitaxi: International airport transfers in 100 countries, various vehicles, English-speaking drivers.

🟢 Omio: Compares trains, buses, and flights in Europe on one platform.

🟢 GetTransfer: Service for transfers and car rentals with personal drivers at competitive prices.

🟢 Kiwi: Books flights, trains, buses, and offers virtual interlining.

🟢 Rail Europe: Guides and tools for European train travel.

🟢 Trainline: Helps customers travel by train and bus across 45 countries.

🚌 Tourism and Leisure Services:

🟢 Go City: Offers multi-attraction passes for top destinations worldwide, up to 65% off.

🟢 Big Bus Tours: Open-top bus tours, river cruises, and walking tours in 23 cities.

🧳 Travel Convenience Services:

🟢 Priority Pass: Airport lounge access worldwide for frequent travelers.

🟢 Radical Storage: Luggage storage solutions for hassle-free holidays.

❓FAQs

Here are the top questions about Palermo, Sicily. We've got the answers.

Palermo bleeds history, eats culture for breakfast, and dresses in architecture. Sicily's heart and its bustling capital. It's old - over 2,700 years. Street markets buzz, history stands tall, food tells its own tales.

Hit Palermo. It's a mix: old meets new. Think history, not boredom. See the Palatine Chapel, Norman Palace. Markets buzz, beaches call. Food? Arancini, panelle. Taste history. Cheap eats, cheaper stays. Good for your wallet. Nightlife? Alive. Street parties, bars. Vucciria Market is the heart. Feel safe. Tourists do fine here. Palermo wraps culture, flavors, fun. Worth the trip.

Palermo? Made for walking. History's just a stroll away. But watch it - hills, tricky sidewalks. Got wheels? Think again. Via Maqueda, Via Vittorio Emanuele? Pedestrians only. City's heart? No cars allowed. Walk, don't drive. Easier, less hassle.

Palermo's tongue is Italian, laced with Sicilian twists. Yet, English finds its way, especially where tourists tread and the young congregate. Schools push English, making tourist spots and hospitality dens more anglophone. About a third of Italians get by in English, a slice likely thicker among Palermo's youth and service folks. So, while not a universal rule, expect some English in the tourist haunts.

Palermo is perfect for those who love to explore on foot. There's no metro to speak of, just you and the historic streets. Buses aren't much help; they mostly bypass the core areas. But that's where the pedestrian zones come in. Stretching from Teatro Politeama to Via Maqueda, you've got 1.3 kilometers of car-free road to enjoy. It's an ideal setup for anyone into shopping, food, or just soaking up the sights. Don't miss out on landmarks like the Teatro Massimo and the cathedral. Experience the essence of Palermo, all on foot.

Palermo offers a rich mix of history and cultural diversity, all without breaking the bank. You'll find affordable accommodations around Via Maqueda and Via Roma, not far from Stazione Centrale. The rise of B&Bs in the area means you're likely to snag a great deal. Hit the streets for some authentic Sicilian eats like panee panelli, crocchè, and pane con la milza, all at street food prices. For the night owls, La Kalsa is the place to be, with its lively bars and pubs. Palermo is a real bargain for those looking to experience the essence of Italy without the hefty tourist markup.

Palermo rolls out the welcome mat. It’s a mix of history, grub, and streets that pull you in. Cathedral and Norman Palace? Check. Markets bursting with life? Vucciria and Ballarò have you covered. Coming in? Easy. Train, bus, car, or sky – pick your poison. Falcone-Borsellino Airport is your gateway. Walking at night? Keep to the bright and busy, you’ll be fine. On a budget? Palermo’s got your back with eats and beds that won’t bleed you dry. Cash is king for the small stuff. Want the full Monty? Give it two, maybe three days. Best times? Spring and fall – when the weather doesn’t slap or soak you.

Ditch the car in Palermo. Walk the streets, soak it in. Grab a bike, feel the breeze. Buses and trams? They've got you. Cheap tickets, easy buys at kiosks. Want beaches or a Mount Pellegrino trek? Public transport's your friend. In Palermo, freedom's on foot, not four wheels.

Palermo's tap water? Safe. EU standards? Check. Regular checks? Done. Taste a bit off? Just minerals. Old pipes? Might need a filter. Prefer bottled? It's everywhere.

In Palermo, it's all about the Euro (€). Divided into 100 cents, you've got a range of banknotes and coins for every deal.

🇮🇹 Explore More of Italy!

Palermo kicks off Italy's marvels. Dive into more magic below. 'Buon Viaggio'!

🟢 Positano: The Ultimate Guide Beyond the Picture-Perfect Postcard

🟢 Catania, Italy: Where Etna’s Gaze Ignites Streets of Fire

🟢 Turin, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Its Timeless Allure

🟢 Capri Island, Italy: The Ultimate Guide Beyond the Blue Grotto

🟢 Rome, Italy: The Ultimate Guide for Your Dream Vacation

🟢 Escape to Ventotene: The Italian Paradise You've Never Heard Of

🟢 Naples: The Perfect Guide for Your Ideal Italian Getaway

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13 of the most beautiful villages and towns in Sicily

I f you found yourself dreaming of a trip to Sicily this year, you are not alone. The island's popularity soared this year thanks to its appearance on the popular HBO series, "The White Lotus," as did one of its most luxurious staging posts, San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel, where the show was filmed.

Part of a larger trend toward "set-jetting" — the phenomenon whereby movies and TV shows inspire travel itineraries — Sicily has dominated social media and Google searches this year. Hoppe r reported that Palermo was one of the top trending destinations for airfare searches this summer, with a 90% spike in interest.

While many travelers flocked to Sicily this year to indulge their White Lotus fantasies — facilitated by new luxe resorts like Rocco Forte's Ville Igiea in Palermo and, of course, the aforementioned San Domenico Palace in Taormina — Sicily's distinctive culture and traditions far and away transcend its moment in the media spotlight.

The largest island in the Mediterranean has long been something of a hidden gem, drawing European jet-setters in the know. It's home to gorgeous, UNESCO-inscribed villages, dazzling beaches, a wine and cuisine scene that easily rivals Italy's mainland, and even its Mount Etna volcano. Sicily is one of the best places in Europe to hire a car and explore without any prescribed agenda.

From the baroque towns of Val di Noto to villages with medieval castles and quaint beachfront fishing communities, Sicily's sheer diversity of cultural and natural treasures enthralls travelers who want to experience the more authentic side of one of Europe's hottest destinations.

Scicli is dramatically sited in a valley sandwiched between rocky cliffs. It's situated in the southeast area of the island, and it's one of the seven famed Val di Noto baroque towns.

Like many towns in the Val di Noto, it was heavily damaged by the 1693 earthquake and rebuilt in baroque style. It's affectionately known as the setting for the hit Italian television series, "Commissario Montalbano."

Plan to explore the city on foot, starting on Via Francisco Mormino Penna, a street with several baroque palaces and churches all constructed in local white stone. Don't miss the emblematic baroque Palazzo Beneventano, an ornate 18th-century palace (the original building dates to the Middle Ages) with a courtyard hailed as the most beautiful in Sicily.

Draped over Mount Marone and dramatically framed by Mount Etna, Gangi is often called the most beautiful village in Italy. Crowned by the 14th-century Ventimiglia castle, the town's charm lies in its authentic Sicilian ambience and evocative medieval alleyways photogenically lined with two- and three-story stone houses.

In the San Nicolo Church, you can visit the rather macabre "tomb of dead priests" (or fossa de parrini), where a crypt contains niches with about 100 mummified priests thought to have lived in Gangi from around 1720-1850.

One of Sicily's most well-known beach towns , Cefalu has more than just golden sands and azure waters.

Visit the 12th-century cathedral, complete with Renaissance sculptures and Byzantine mosaics. If you have some energy to spare, hike the massive Rocca mountain that towers above the town until you reach the old castle remains. If it looks vaguely familiar, this former fishing village was the setting for the Oscar-winning movie "Cinema Paradiso."

This stunning island, once inhabited by Greeks, is filled with ancient monuments and historic churches. Its picturesque squares are lined with elaborate palazzi, and its labyrinthine streets are dotted with shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.

Connected to Sicily's mainland by two bridges, it's best to park your car in Siracusa and walk over to Ortigia's old town. Don't miss the Piazza del Duomo, with its showstopping Duomo, the oldest church in Europe.

Another highlight is the town's lively food markets (pick up some pistachios — Sicily has thousands of acres of pistachio trees). Fresh swordfish is a local delicacy that you'll find on chalkboard menus in many restaurants.

Erice's claim to fame is its Venere Castle, which sits atop the fabled mountain peak of Ertz and boasts expansive views of the Sicilian countryside and the sea.

Within the town's 12th-century walls, you'll find an array of churches — its moniker is the "city of 100 churches." The most famous is the imposing Norman Erice cathedral, built with stones from Rome's Temple of Venus; it's distinctive for its freestanding bell tower and intricately carved vaulted ceiling. The church dates to 1314 but was rebuilt in its current Gothic style in 1865.

You'll find the town's greatest joys wandering its streets, which feature antique stores, craft shops, restaurants, cafes and bakeries (almond pastries are renowned here).

The second of what will be a few of the iconic UNESCO-designed Val di Noto baroque villages on this list, Modica's never-ending rooftops rise along the surrounding hills. Before the earthquake of 1693, the medieval old town was carved into the rock face. Now built on top of the ridge, it's an evocative maze of stunning baroque facades, extravagant churches and beautiful palaces connected by stairways.

Make sure to see the San Giorgio cathedral, and for an afternoon snack, sample some chocolate . The ancient recipe uses special grinding methods at frigid temperatures sans cocoa butter for a grainy and bold taste.

North of Taormina in the province of Messina, Savoca is set between Sicily's aqua waters and the Peloritani mountain range. It's surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.

Another cinematic backdrop, iconic scenes from Francis Ford Coppola's movie "The Godfather" were shot there — most memorably, the wedding of Michael Corleone and Apollonia at church of San Nicolo. Fans of the film should also stop into Bar Vitelli (another famous filming location) for a glass of local wine.

Ragusa Ibla

Nestled among craggy peaks, Ragusa's old town (Ragusa Ibla) is one of the most spectacular spots to view from a distance.

The striking town sits upon a hilltop, complete with blue-domed churches and pink and yellowed crumbling baroque buildings. With its charming tangle of streets and elegant squares lined with gray stone houses and palaces, Ragusa is one of the best places on the island to just relax and watch Sicilian life unfold.

The town is divided into two distinct parts: Ragusa Superiore is the town's more modern enclave with a more prosaic vibe, while Ragusa Ibla is the town's beautifully preserved historic center that unfurls down the hillside. Don't miss sites include the church of San Giorgio and the San Giovanni Cathedral.

Built right into the stone of the surrounding mountains, Sperlinga sounds suspiciously like the word spelunking — caving. As you might guess, there are numerous caves carved into the stone throughout the village, and you can explore them all. Find the best views can by hiking up to the Sperlinga castle, which overlooks the village.

Related: The best way to travel to Europe using points and miles

Novara di Sicilia

Nestled between the two mountain ranges of Nebrodi and Peloritani, Novara di Sicilia has spectacular views from pretty much any angle. Built from local sandstone beneath the remnants of an ancient castle, most of the village dates to the 17th century. The oldest building is the small and unassuming 13th-century Church of St. Francis.

If you're lucky, you'll visit during one of the many food festivals this village has throughout the year, dedicated to local products such as hazelnuts, Maiorchino cheese and bread. If not, you can simply wander the village's magical streets.

The town is steeped in myth — legend has it that Cyclops once lived in Novara di Sicilia.

San Vito Lo Capo

Shoulder season (May-June and September-October) is the best time to visit San Vito Lo Capo, one of Sicily's most beautiful beach villages , to beat the crowds but still have perfect weather. You may not associate couscous as a Sicilian specialty, but the village has an entire festival dedicated to the food each September.

Castiglione di Sicilia

With views of the volcano Mount Etna, this village is similar to many other Sicilian towns in that it has a signature 12th-century castle and many churches. One of the most distinctive is the Santa Domenica chapel, a small stone structure built by Byzantine monks.

This tiny fishing village is famous for its tonnara or tuna fish. It's also a popular beach spot for tourists and locals alike in the summer when the population increases exponentially. People-watching over a spritz in the main plaza, Piazza Regina Margherita, is the activity of choice for a warm, summery evening.

Bottom line

With so much to see and do in a beautiful country like Italy, it can be hard to figure out where to start. But if you end up in Sicily , the best way to explore the island is by car.

Taormina may have stolen the limelight this year thanks to "The White Lotus" effect, but once you get off the beaten path, you'll find stunning villages with timeless cultural traditions at every turn. Make sure to add some of them to your Sicilian vacation itinerary.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

8 things to know before going to Sicily

Mar 1, 2024 • 5 min read

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

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

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

Here’s what you need to know before visiting.

1. Fly in and out of two different airports

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

2. Public transport in Sicily is not for the weak

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

3. Plan to move around

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

4. Understand the real history of the mafia

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. You can drink the tap water

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

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

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

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Travel to italy like an insider with the best local experts.

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A trip to Italy is too special to get wrong. Here's how to do it right. (San Gimignano, Tuscany)

I absolutely love Italy, for many different reasons. But I hate the way in which many Americans go about planning trips there. Survey after survey shows it is the number one dream destination for U.S. leisure travelers, but the way those travelers get their information and advice gives me nightmares.

Throughout the years I’ve heard people say over and over that “I was told to do this in Italy,” or “I was told not to do this in Italy.” By who? “A friend.” I have close friends who recently planned their entire 12-day trip on the basis of another couple they knew who gave them advice—after their first visit. I’ve heard of many people who skipped Rome because “we heard it was too busy, just another big city.” Or passed on Venice, one of the world’s most magical destinations, because, “I heard it was touristy.”

There are American tourists who say you should skip Venice. They are wrong.

It goes on and on, but suffice to say, I have been to Italy in the neighborhood of two dozen times, summer and winter, for food, wine, skiing, golf, hiking, cycling and more food, from north to south and east to west and islands too, and I know a lot about Italian cuisine, but I still ask real experts for advice every time I go. I specifically ask for advice on where to eat, what to see, and who to choose as guides. And by experts, I mean people how live in Italy, specialize in particular areas of travel, and know their subject matter.

“We get multiple guests a year who want to wing it,” says Cherrye Moore, owner of My Bella Vita travel. Moore moved to Calabria two decades ago after falling in love with the region on a visit, and opened a bed and breakfast, learning about what her visitors were looking for. Her company now specializes in planning trips—especially foodie and ancestry trips—to the area in Southern Italy where many Italian Americans trace their heritage. “They say, ‘My neighbor just showed up in their family’s hometown and it went great for them,’ or, ‘Our friends went to Italy last year and said we don't need a driver.’ It’s true that you can rent a car and drive to your family’s hometown, but that experience is vastly different from having a dedicated driver and a heritage specialist who has done research on your family’s history, who has already identified the home your grandfather was born in, and who has arranged meetings with locals upon your arrival.”

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Anyone can tour the Vatican, but only the right guides can get you a private visit.

I just got back from an exploration of Turin followed by a weeklong hiking trip in surrounding Piemonte, Italy’s most prestigious wine region, which included multiple winery visits. For restaurants and guides and sightseeing in Turin I used an Italian-based travel specialist that is the choice of many of the best luxury travel agents/advisors in this country (the best travel agents are savvy enough to know what they do not know and regularly rely on local experts). For the hiking trip, I used an Italy-based active travel specialist that does nothing else, and does it with a food-centric spin. It was another fantastic Italy trip, one amazing day after another, featuring many meals, wineries and experiences I never would have found by myself, especially by asking random friends or watching You Tube influencer videos by people with far less Italy experience than myself.

“We don’t focus on stars or diamonds, we focus on really special one-of-a-kind experiences and lodging that lets you discover our Italy,” said Heather Dowd, who lives in Turin and along with her Italian husband Beppe Salerno. They run Tourissimo , the active travel company we used. We had several friends hiking with us who were on either their very first or second trip to Italy, and when we reviewed our experiences at the end for the trip, one place we stayed, an 18 th century castle turned boutique hotel, was the overwhelming favorite. It did not have whirlpool tubs or Frette linens, it did not have a concierge or room service, but it had excellent food and beautiful gardens in which we had an epic dinner. It had cooking classes, a great location, a fun aperitivo evening cocktail session, and most of all, incredible charm..

Everyone wants the perfect meal in Italy, but not everyone knows where the locals go to find it.

It was exactly what my first timers dreamed Italy would be like, and it was a place we never would have found online. It was perfect, and even in Italy not every place is, but the reality is that Heather and Beppe and their guides spend a lot of time behind the scenes visiting small hotels and vetting them, way more time than the people who rate their stays on booking websites. One of my friends was so impressed he is already planning an extended family hiking trip to Sicily with Tourissimo next year.

If you want to have an insider experience in Italy, and see the places locals go, you need a local insider to help you out.

“Our goal is for guests to experience Calabria like we do, so we’ve built experiences that aren’t available online,” said My Bella Vita’s Moore. “Nowhere else can you find a multi-course lunch hosted at Zia Pina’s or a picnic prepared and delivered by Signora Francesca. Lunch in the home of our friend, Chef Massimo, isn’t available on Google. When creating or reviewing experiences I always think of my sister in Texas. If she were visiting, would I take her here? If that answer is yes, I know we have a winner.” That is exactly the standard by which I’d like my Italy travels to be judged.

A trip to Italy is a beautiful, special, and almost sacred experience, so don’t screw it up by taking bad advice. I do not know every local specialist—and I hope to keep finding more—but I know several experts I would recommend for different kinds of travel. Or use a good travel advisor, something I recommend for all travel (Read my article Why You Need A Travel Agent More Than Ever here at Forbes ), and communicate with them to ensure they are on the same page in terms of sourcing these kinds of local experts. If they are good, they will already be familiar with several of these companies.

Active Travel

All of Tourissimo's cycling and hiking trips in Italy emphasize food and wine, which is how it ... [+] should be.

Italy has long been the dream destination of cyclists, with Tuscany atop the Bucket List for global road riding destinations. But for the past few years the fastest growing sector of cycling has been “gravel grinding,” and with hundreds of miles of its stunning unpaved “white roads,” Tuscany has also emerged as the world’s top travel spot for gravel lovers. There are also plenty of other amazing places to ride in Italy, including Piemonte, Sardinia, Puglia, the Lakes region, and many other areas. World class hiking abounds, especially the stunning Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage Site of beauty unmatched by most other mountain regions on earth. Beyond this there are the Alps in the east, the Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and many other great options.

Italy is so well known for cycling and hiking that every major active travel company in the world runs trips there. But for my last two active trips, one hiking and one biking, I chose a tour operator that is actually based there, founded by an Italian with a passion for cycling and food. Tourissimo may be Italian, but they cater to the American market, and founder Beppe Salerno worked for am American cycling company as a guide before realizing he could do the real Italy better himself—to me, the perfect startup rationale. Over the years since, Tourissimo has grown its library of offerings, with both with an array of scheduled group trips and private custom options. While they do mostly road riding, they are notably one of the only tour operators scheduling gravel trips, and can also arrange custom mountain biking itineraries, with years of expertise in cycling and hiking.

Superstar Chef Mary Sue Milliken has led about galf a dozen Chef's Cycling Tours in Italy for ... [+] Tourissimo.

In addition, Tourissimo has also been a pioneer in “Active Culinary Travel,” a hot new category I have written about here at Forbes (and for other magazines and newspapers). They offer an annual series of six group rides (and a hike) each hosted by an acclaimed chef like Mary Sue Milliken, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author (five!) and co-host of the popular PBS cooking show Two Hot Tamales . She is also an avid cyclist and has led the Tourissimo Chef Bike Tours for several years, along with other big names. These trips are a unique option for serious foodies who also ride, while the other trips cater to just about anyone. Otherwise they offer several styles of trips, from Bici Basics for new riders to Ambitious Tours for the more hard core.

Tourissimo puts a focus on local, choosing small and often historic hotels that they have curated and vetted (like the castle I just stayed at in Piemonte), places that you would never be able to distinguish from hundreds of other non-chain options online. Same for restaurants, wineries, and all the other ways they take you behind the scenes and into their real Italy. Their Mission Statement? “We don't want to be the biggest adventure travel company. We want to design and run the best tours in Italy. We strive to be the most authentic and the most beneficial to local communities.” Fantastico!

Bellagio on Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in Italy — and the perfect place for a ... [+] food-centric bike tour!

Bike It! Bellagio offers another insider biking experience on a much different scale, providing a great one-day experience for visitors to Italy’s most famous lake town. This bike shop on Lake Como is run by a former pro racer and his wife. They rent bikes (road, mountain and e-bikes) out, but also offer one-day guided tours with multiple food and drink stops. Given that the owner grew up here and knows everyone, it’s not surprising that the food and drink spots are insider picks. The shop sits near the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb, the most famous in the Giro di Lombardia, a race more than a century old, and several days a week the shop offers guided group rides with a climb of the pass, on road or e-bikes—Bianchi bikes of course!

There are scheduled tours Monday through Saturday, as well as wide range of customizable private tours. These are often taken by families with mixed ages, but for more aggressive riders they offer longer road tours, mountain biking and gravel riding, along with a wide range of less demanding e-bike tours, including some even more focused on food and wine. They also offer a handful of multi-day tours and can put these together as custom on demand, usually for groups, including an iconic coast to coast traverse of Italy. If you are a guest of one of the many stunning (and pricey) ultra-luxury hotels around Bellagio, and ask the concierge to arrange a bike tour, they are likely going to call this shop anyway (and mark it up) so just do it yourself.

Luxury Travel in Italy

From planning your entire itinerary with flights, hotels, and transfers to just booking the best tours, guides and VIP access (often to non-public highlights), it pays to use a top local specialist.

Last year I attended the annual Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, which has been called “the Oscars of the travel industry.” Virtuoso is the leading global luxury travel consortium, and many of the best travel advisors on earth belong, So does just about every top hotel, resort, safari lodge, cruise line, and luxury tour operator. Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch was explaining the many advantages of using a travel advisor (I wholeheartedly agree) and something he said really stuck with me. He explained that with all of the new online tour booking companies, it was easier than ever to book a tour or guide in just about any destination on earth, but harder than ever to judge the quality. The caveat was that, “you can book a guide, but you can’t book my guide.”

One of Italy's greatest hidden gems, Turin was the nation's first capital and a Winter Olympic host. ... [+] It's worth getting a good guide if you visit.

The Vatican is the Vatican and the Colosseum is the Colosseum, so when you opt for a guided tour, what really matters and makes it a good, bad or great experience is the guide—and their special access, like a tour of the Vatican when no one else is there.

For my recent trip to Turin, I called Imago Artis Travel , an Italy-based luxury travel specialist. They are what is known in the travel industry as a destination management company or DMC, the same companies luxury travel agents call to arrange local details for their clients. There are great DMCs all over the world, and local knowledge is valuable everywhere, but many of them do not deal directly with travelers, while in Italy the best ones do.

I wanted a private day tour of Turin and its surrounding attractions for my wife and I, most importantly the Reggia di Venaria Reale, aka the “Italian Versailles” (one of two places in Italy with this lofty but accurate nickname). The guide they got for me was a licensed guide, and lifelong resident of Turin, and spoke excellent English, which was all good, but she was also an architect, which was great in a city where so much is driven by architecture. That’s not so easy to find on global tour aggregator website. Imago Artis also gave me a list of their favorite restaurant recommendations, which were spot on, then made my reservations for me. At a minimum this eliminates the language barrier of calling or the technology barrier of booking through often tricky (or non-functional) Italian restaurant reservation websites, but in many cases it also gets you a better table and instant VIP treatment—which definitely does not happen when I book myself.

Italy is rich in world-class crafts, and companies like Imago Artis can take you behind the scenes ... [+] to meet the makers.

Imago Artis Travel is a Virtuoso member, which means when you book through them, if you book your luxury hotel, you get extras like room upgrades, late checkout, spa credits etc., one of the big advantages of working with Virtuoso travel advisors. If you have a bigger budget than I do, they can handle all sorts of luxury transport, private jets, helicopters, boat charters, and also offer VIP Meet and Greet services at just about every airport in Italy. They can even arrange private security details. On a more accessible luxury level, they specialize in exclusive experiences, unlocking historic buildings and art collections not open to the public, and taking you behind the scenes with many artisans of Italy, from custom shoemakers to sculptors to jewelry designers. They know food, they know the guides, and I especially like their mission statement, “Our mission is simple: Getting You to the Heart of Italy.” That’s what it is all about.

Another top luxury DMC that is also a member of Virtuoso that I have used in the past with great success is IC Bellagio . They offer a similar array of luxury services and are very well connected, but they also specialize in Villa rentals as well as 5-Star hotels. Differentiating villas in Italy may be the single biggest challenge, more so than restaurants, with so many options and so few valid reviews. IC Bellagio has also boldly acknowledged the overtourism problems some of the most popular parts of Italy face, and are pushing “Slow Season Travel,” which varies in each of the country’s 20 regions but is something they are expert in. Last winter I went to Venice in the off-season, and it was spectacular, and I just traveled in a slow season to Piemonte. It was much, much better than fighting the crowds.

Skiing in Italy is awesome, and it's the best place in the world to stay in mountain rifugios — but ... [+] you need help for the perfect trip.

Skiing in Italy remains a bit under the radar for Europe, especially compared to France and Switzerland. Well, let the crowds go to other countries, because Italy has two different major ski regions, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, and the Games are returning to Milan and Cortina in 2026. The interconnected Dolomiti SuperSki lift and trail network in the Dolomites is arguably the largest “ski resort” in the world, and inarguably one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the planet. The towns are charming, the food is great, there are spectacular hotels from non-chain independent hidden gems to world-class luxury (Aman, Mandarin Oriental, Relais & Chateaux, etc.) and it’s cheaper than much of the rest of Europe. Did I mention the food?

I first went to the Dolomites to go hiking, and was so wowed I thought, “I have to come back and ski here.” I came back the next winter and skied, and the following year I got a group of friends together and went back. I have skied all over the U.S., and all over the world and never had the same compulsion to return to the same place immediately. That’s how good skiing in Italy is ( read much more in my Italy skiing piece here at Forbes ).

I’ve only used one company for ski travel in Italy and see no reason to switch gears, especially since the local logistics (a great guide/instructor, transfers, the best on-mountain meals and staying a couple of nights in the region’s unique on-mountain rifugios) is very hard to organize on your own. The company is Dolomite Mountains , a specialist in both resort ski vacations and backcountry touring trips (using skins and alpine touring or AT gear). They too are a U.S. facing company with mainly American clientele.

Like many active travel companies, they offer both group trip scheduled departure options and private custom trips to fit whatever you want. The group option is called the Dolomites Ski Safari and is a 7-day trip mixing stays in amazing rifugios with in-town hotels (4 and 5-stars on the Italian system) and includes all breakfasts and dinners, a full-time guide, ski pass, luggage transfers and more. Custom options include the same kind of trip for your own group, or anything you want, and while its name suggests local expertise—quite true—Dolomite Mountains also handles ski trips in the rest of Italy, like Courmayeur, and connected border regions of France, Switzerland and Austria, as many lift systems here know no national boundaries (ski with your passport!). They are also a Virtuoso member.

Calabria & Southern Italy

Many Italian Americans trace their ancestry to Southern Italy's Calabria, and if you want to visit, ... [+] make sure you do it right.

My Bella Vita travel focuses on this area, including both small group trips and custom privates. Their specialties include “Heritage Tours” for those interested in their ancestry, and a food focus for the rest of us. For instance, Taste of the South is a 12-day gastronomic journey through Calabria, Basilicata and Naples—the birthplace of pizza! Food & Wine of Calabria is an 11-daty trip and just what it sounds like.

These are some of the scheduled small group tours offered, but the rest of their business is private trip planning and custom options.

“Italy is deceivingly large, and travelers think two weeks is enough time to see everything. It isn’t,” insists Moore. “You can’t even experience all of Calabria in two weeks. Our team collectively spends about six months a year scouting new hotels, restaurants, and experiences in Calabria and we are constantly re-evaluating and tweaking our recommendations.”

There are some other Italy specialists I have not personally experienced, but that come highly recommended by some of my other experts:

My Bella Vita’s Cherrye Moore says, “ In Sicily, I recommend Lucia Davies of Sicily Tour , one of a trio of British expats who have lived in Siracusa, Sicily for decades.” A family-owned tour-guiding company based in Siracusa, they have nearly 40 years of experience on the island and create trips fostering cultural exchange between Italy and English-speaking visitors, specializing in small group and custom tours.

Food & Wine

Life is too short to go to Italy and not eat well.

Beppe and Heather Dowd of Tourissimo recommend Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures , a company that has also earned kudos from other travel industry folks I know. Owner Francesca Montillo grew up in Southern Italy where her father was greengrocer. An Italian-American cookbook author, she launched the company a decade ago, and she personally leads the tours. She does numerous scheduled tours to different regions each year, and also offers custom private itineraries.

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Visiting Syracuse means taking a trip back in history, discovering a thousand-year-old city whose origins lie in the remote past but which remains eternally splendid in our eyes.

The Neapolis and Pantalica , Ortigia and the Ciane papyri, the magic and charm of its territories and coastline, Noto, the beautiful beaches of the Vendicari Reserve , Marzamemi , and the evocative Isola delle Correnti , make it one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Sicily.

Let’s discover the ten unmissable attractions of Syracuse.

• The Greek Theatre

Great, solemn, intriguing, spectacular. As you sit on the stone steps, even if there is no actor on stage, you can imagine hearing the echoes of the heroes of the great Greek tragedies such as Agamemnon, Medea or Oedipus.

Teatro greco – ph. Barone

It treasures evidence from various periods, from protohistoric epochs to late antiquity and the Byzantine Empire. The Greek Theatre of Syracuse is one of the largest in the world, entirely excavated in rock.

In ancient times it was used for shows and popular assemblies, but today it is the place where Greek tragedy lives again through the Cycle of Classical Performances that takes place every year. At sunset, and perhaps even under a full moon, we can enjoy a unique experience here on the steps of the Greek Theatre.

• Ear of Dionysus

The legendary Ear of Dionysus is the most famous of Syracuse’s caves.

It is so called because of its ear-like shape, and above all because of its exceptional acoustic properties that amplify sounds from inside. According to legend, the tyrant Dionysus kept his prisoners here and secretly listened to their discussions. It is an artificial cave located beneath the Greek Theatre, in the ancient stone quarry known as the Latomia del Paradiso.

• The Ortigia market

A feast of colours, scents and authentic flavours of our land, the charm of ancient markets. At the entrance to the island of Ortigia , connected to the city by the Umbertino bridge , you will be greeted by the scent of spices of all kinds: chillies from Etna, almond cakes, as well as seafood and fresh fish. A small market enlivened by colourful “ vanniate “, catchy phrases in Sicilian shouted to attract customers. You can buy a rare treat, u strattu , a concentrated tomato paste used to flavour sauces and stews. A delightful opportunity to get to know our typical products and learn new Sicilian recipes .

Ortigia- ph. F. Sessa

During the celebrations in honour of Saint Lucia , one of the most exciting moments is the fireworks salute to the patron saint as she arrives at Ponte Umbertino, before she resumes her journey to the Cathedral , where she will make her entrance back into her chapel.

• Piazza Duomo

This is one of the most famous squares on the web because it is one of the most beautiful in Italy! Surrounded by magnificent Baroque palaces, it is the heart of civil and religious life in Ortigia , the ancient city of Syracuse and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let’s take a break, sit down for an aperitif and enjoy the atmosphere!

Piazza Duomo – ph.Ignazio Mannarano

The Cathedral is an exceptional case of pagan temple and Christian church at the same time: it stands on the ruins of a temple dedicated to Athena built in 480 B.C., and conceals a jewel of the past behind the Baroque style of the façade, with the Doric columns still visible both outside and inside. At the end of the square, the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia is a baroque treasure chest dedicated to the city’s patron saint..

• Paolo Orsi Regional Archaeological Museum

This is one of the most important and prestigious archaeological museums in Europe. It displays exhibits dating from different periods, from the prehistoric period to the Greco-Roman era, from excavations in the ancient city and other sites in Sicily.

Find out more

• Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Lacrime

This is a place of pilgrimage, a suggestive place where you can breathe an air of peace, tranquillity and mysticism.

Santuario – Ludvig14, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A monumental structure erected in memory of a miraculous event that took place in 1953: the tearing of a plaster effigy of the Virgin Mary (1953). Some precious mementoes of this extraordinary event are kept in the Sanctuary: the original painting, the flap of a cloth that covered it, a handkerchief wet with tears and even crystallised tears.

• Castello Maniace and Castello Eurialo

If you’re a fan of castles, you’ve come to the right place: these are some of the most impressive in southern Sicily .

Maniace Castle was named after the Byzantine commander Giorgio Maniace . A true symbol of the power and genius of Emperor Frederick II, who built it on an ancient fort between 1232 and 1240. Immersed in the colours of the sea, it is the furthest edge of the island of Ortigia.

Castello Eurialo – the Euryalus Castle, is one of the largest and most complete military works of the Greek period. It was built at the behest of Dionysius I, tyrant of Syracuse, to complete the grandiose defensive system known as the Mura Dionigiane – the Dionysian Walls, which ran along the entire edge of the Epipoli plateau.

Walking among the ruins, one seems to go back in time and hear the sound of soldiers’ sandals.

• The Temple of Apollo

The magnificence of these Greek ruins is immediately apparent at the entrance to the islet of Ortigia.

Tempio di Apollo – I, Sailko, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It is the oldest Doric stone temple in Sicily and also one of those with the most troubled history: it was first an early Christian church, then a mosque, then a church again in the Norman period and barracks during the time of Charles V .

In the evening, illuminated by the lights of the city, it offers us an even more impressive spectacle.

• The Arethusa Spring

The spring comes from a freshwater source and forms a small semicircular lake with fish, geese and ducks where the plants of Europe’s only spontaneous papyrus grows luxuriantly. Nearby, inside a restaurant, it is possible to visit, free of charge, the Antico Lavatoio (Old Washhouse) dating back to the 18th century.

The name comes from the legend of the nymph Arethusa, who, to escape the impetuous love of Alphaeus, threw herself into the sea and reached the island of Ortigia. Here, the goddess Diana, pitying her extreme gesture, transformed her into a spring. Alphaeus, in turn, turned into a river and his waters crossed the sea to gush out in a spring of water a short distance from the fountain of Arethusa, to join her forever.

• Piazza Archimede

Piazza Archimede , dedicated to the mathematician and physicist from Syracuse, is home to the fountain that tells the myth of Alphaeus and Arethusa. The square, with its 19th-century charm, is surrounded by buildings that sum up the history of Sicily, from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Discover more about Syracuse on the izi.TRAVEL audio tour.

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Sicily's mafia is expanding its white collar crime

The island's organized criminal gangs have moved beyond their violent past.

Sicily’s tourist hot spots are living an economic boom thanks to shows like HBO’s "The White Lotus," which put the island’s breathtaking vistas on display. But the ancient island’s infamous underbelly remains untouched by the influx of new wealth. In fact, organized crime has only diversified and become more entwined with the legitimate economy.

Sicily and organized crime — the island’s Cosa Nostra — have been synonymous since at least the 19th century. Atrocities dwindled in recent years following an aggressive campaign by police in response to the 1992 roadside bombs near Palermo that killed prosecuting magistrates Paolo Borsellino and Giovanni Falcone. But magistrates say it’s also because the Sicilian mafia and its Calabrian counterpart, ‘ndrangheta, have grown more sophisticated, following the money into drugs, prostitution and people trafficking rather than open confrontation with the authorities.

But post-pandemic, there’s a new trend developing that’s a warning for all of Europe. While mobsters continue to follow the money in big cities, they are also feeding on increasing inequality and polarization to undermine the declining and indebted Italian state.

Michele Ricciardi, deputy director and senior researcher at Transcrime, a research institute in Milan, tells me Italy’s traditional split of wealthy north and poor south is now being cut through with a new divide: between its biggest, most successful cities and the rest. In Sicily, this is translating into an economic revival of its picturesque tourist towns, where super wealthy seeking to unlock Italy’s generous tax breaks in exchange for investments are buying up palatial apartments. But outside of these boom areas, there’s "economic, social and cultural degradation,” says Ricciardi.

That degradation, so visible in Palermo’s backstreets, provides the raw material for the organized crime families and networks of Sicily’s Cosa Nostra to step into the breach.

A court case under way in Palermo provides an insight into how gangster tentacles are reaching more subtly and pervasively into the social and economic fabric. In the case, 31 business owners from a rundown southeastern area of Brancaccio in Palermo, a short stroll from the buzzy city center, are accused of aiding and abetting mobsters. The accused are on trial for denying having paid protection bribes to Cosa Nostra even though they have been caught on police wiretaps talking about having done so. Local prosecutors say the trial’s so crucial because — they allege — it’s not fear that’s stopping the business owners from admitting the payment of protection money but complicity. In return, they get preferential deals on merchandise, legal services, loans and even social services.

Ricciardi from Transcrime says false-invoicing services have become La Cosa Nostra’s killer app. If you’re trying to cut costs to keep your business afloat in a more difficult economic environment, one way is to pay less taxes. That’s where the fake invoices comes in. And the process has become so widespread that "there is a tighter and tighter relationship between tax and financial crime,” he says. Undermining tax collection fuels a vicious circle, as less is available to be invested in already depressed communities, putting them further and further outside the lure to foreign investors and well-heeled tourists, and tying them more closely to the black economy. (Estimates of the size of Italy's black economy vary widely — from some 10% to a third of gross domestic product.)

It’s not just a Sicilian phenomenon. I heard from the same from Alessandra Dolci, one of Italy’s leading anti-mafia prosecutors in Milan. She sees the same widening gulf between the inner city and periphery in Italy’s second city. Dolci insists "to fight organized crime we also need to fight the criminal economy of tax evasion.” Dolci related the story of a mobster who told her he was making more money from his false-invoicing business than drug trafficking. An added bonus, the mobster said, is that it was harder for law enforcement to track the paperwork than the narcotics, Dolci says.

Back in Palermo, Maurizio de Lucia is the chief prosecutor who led the investigations that brought about the arrest of mafia boss Matteo Messina Denaro last year after his 30 years on the run. A killer who boasted his victims could "fill a cemetery," Denaro was considered a godfather like something from a movie, a relic of Italy's traditional mafia of atrocities and terrorism.

But today mafia infiltration has become "a three-legged stool," says De Lucia. It’s more subtle, less violent and more economically stable. The three legs are the mob and its accomplices in politics and business. He too argues tax avoidance is becoming a major front in the battle against organized crime. The dentist who doesn’t issue an invoice has the same effect as as the drug dealer, he says: "They are both using the same service, they are entering the same terrain.”

It’s a reminder that the darker complexity of picturesque Sicilian idylls isn't just the stuff of big budget fictional shows. But it's real life, and more frightening for that too.

Rachel Sanderson is a contributor to Bloomberg Opinion.

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