best places to visit in north west sicily

West Sicily Itinerary: 18 Best Things to Do in Western Sicily

Are you planning to visit West Sicily? you’re in for an absolute treat. Picture this: pristine beaches with turquoise waters. Throw into the mix, vibrant and ancient towns, welcoming locals and mouthwatering food and wine and you have the makings for an unforgettable getaway.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Sicily three times, each trip unravelling something new. Let me assure you, there’s no shortage of remarkable things to do in Western Sicily .

So, whether you’re mapping out a whistle-stop weekend or you’re in it for the long haul with an island-wide road trip, this guide is packed with top picks for your West Sicily itinerary.

How many of these things will you plan to do on your West Sicily trip?

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My Top 10 Western Sicily Highlights

18. cycle the coastal route, is sicily safe.

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Must-Do Things for Your West Sicily Itinerary – At a Glance

If you’re in a rush and wondering what to do in West Sicily, fear not. This concise list packs in all the info you’ll need to plan your itinerary for Sicily .

There’s no denying that the western coastline is among the most beautiful places in Sicily — it’s practically impossible not to fall in love with its charms! If you’re thinking of venturing further into the island, just download this Sicily travel guide right to your mailbox.

• Explore Old Trapani
• Visit the Salt Pans
• Discover Erice Medieval Hilltop Town
• Try the Marsala Wine
• Indulge in Sicilian Cuisine
• Explore the Ancient Runs of Selinunte
• Cruise or Hike Around Zingaro Reserve
• Get lost in the Casbah of Mazzara Del Vallo
• Island Hop Between The Egadi Islands
• eBike Around Favignana or the Coastal Route

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I’ve partnered with West of Sicily Tourism to bring you this travel guide. This article is based on the destinations and experiences I took part in. All views and opinions are my own .

Best Things to Do in Western Sicily

If you’re in the stages of planning a trip to Sicily, be sure to allow at least a few days for the west of the island. The region boasts some of the best places in Sicily for sandy beaches, historical towns and delicious food. Let’s start planning your west coast Sicily itinerary .

West Sicily Must See: Location Map

This map shows where all these West Sicily highlights are located. Click on it to download an interactive version of this map of western Sicily.

1. Explore Old Trapani

Located in northwest Sicily is the bustling town of Trapani . This is one of the major towns in the region, and although it’s a reasonable size, the historical old centre is compact and can easily be explored on foot.

This is one of the best cities to visit in Sicily if you’re interested in beautiful architecture. The historical centre is filled with buildings with styles ranging from Baroque to Art Nouveau and you can easily whittle away a few hours wandering the narrow streets. The most notable streets are Via Garibaldi, Corso Italia and Corso Vittorio Emanuele. 

Don’t forget to walk along the city’s sea walls, Mura di Tramontana . Start at the old fish market square, Piazza Mercato del Pesce , and walk to the old Bastion, Bastione Conca . When you walk this route, you might miss the gateway in the wall (you will walk over the top) so after visiting the old Bastion, retrace your steps and take the steps down to see the Porta delle Botteghelle, the old gateway. 

The best green space in the city is Villa Margherita Park. If you’re after shopping then head to Via Giovanni Battista Fardella, which is a tree-lined boulevard filled with cafes, shops, shoes and restaurants.

If you’re interested in local souvenirs, then you might be interested in traditional red coral jewellery. The items here are all handcrafted on-site, you can see the workshop at the back of the shop. The jewellery on sale here is the work of the Trapani-born coral craftsman, Platimiro Fiorenza, he even has UNESCO Status! 

Be sure to add these landmarks to your Trapani itinerary

• Ligny Watch Tower, (Torre di Ligny)
• The Twin Clock Tower, (Palazzo Senatorio)
• The Gateway of the Clock Tower, (Porta Oscura, Torre dell’Orologio)
• Church of the Jesuit College, (Chiesa del Collegio dei Gesuiti)
• Church of the Souls in Purgatory, (Chiesa delle Anime Sante del Purgatorio)

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Trapani

2. Visit the Salt Flats

Northwest Sicily is home to numerous salt pans. At its peak, in the 1860s the western coast of Sicily was home to 31 salt pans producing over 100,000 tonnes per year. Today, a handful of the salt pans are still in operation, and one is just outside Trapani. 

The family-run salt museum is located inside a 17th-century mill. You’ll see a giant windmill on the top of the building and wander around the salt pans. Inside, you can join a guided tour of the salt flats that will take you through the importance and history of sea salt harvesting. There’s also an onsite shop where you can buy salt-based products. 

These are a must-see on your western Sicily itinerary. The salt pans look particularly stunning during golden hour, which makes the mounds of salt glow in a vibrant orange colour. To experience this, plan your visit towards the end of the day. 

📍 You can get to the salt flats by driving, or taking a taxi. Alternatively, you can join a tour of salt flats from Trapani with transportation included. 📍

3. Go Up to Erice Medieval Hilltop Town

One of the easiest day trips from Trapani is to the hilltop Medieval town of Erice. It’s located about 750 metres (2,460 ft) above sea level and looks down on Trapani and the surroundings including the dramatic landscapes of Punta del Saraceno and Capo San Vito to the northeast.

If you have time during your Sicily west coast itinerary, take a trip out to some of the islands, they are close. You can even see the Aegadian Islands which are just off Sicily’s north-western coast from Erice. 

Although you could drive, cycle and even walk up Mount Erice, the most exciting way to get up there is via the cable car. As you go up, you’ll start to see the thin layer of cloud that nearly always envelops the town. These clouds are known locally as the kisses of Venus. 

You can easily spend a whole day here exploring the timeless and photogenic cobblestone alleyways. There are so many quirky little features too, look out for the row of crosses on the wall of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the adorable little window catches that have a different figure when they are flipped up and down. 

Because of its vantage point, this is one of the best towns in western Sicily for views. There are numerous panoramic look-outs around the city. You’ll find stunning ones at the Garden of Balio and upstairs in the Church and Convent of San Domenico.

If you’re limited on time to explore the region and wondering where to go in Sicily, you’d be absolutely gutted if you missed out on Erice. This is one of the best places to see on the west coast of Sicily and If you intend to see a lot in the city then it might be worthwhile purchasing the Erice Card. 

Read Next: 40+ Incredible Experiences in Italy

4. Try the Wine (all the wine!)

The words wine and Italy are synonyms, so it’s no secret that you’ll find outstanding wine wherever you are on the island. If you’re visiting Erice, I recommed a stop at Strada del Vino Erice D.O.C which is just outside the city walls. 

The soil, dry climate and sun exposure make the region perfect for producing top-quality Sicilian wines . Stop off here to enjoy the tasting experience, you’ll try up to five different wines with a selection of local foods to complement them. 

This is the best place to go in Sicily if you’re looking to try some of the best Sicilian products. You can walk into the shop and book the experience directly or contact them via the website . 

5. Discover the Cuisine

In terms of world cuisines, Italian food always ranks as some of the best. The best place in Sicily to experience Sicilian hospitality with food straight from the farm to plate is as part of a farm stay.

All of the food I ate in Sicily was sublime, from the antipasti to the main dishes. My absolute favourite that I couldn’t get enough of was the caponata . This a sweet and sour-tasting starter dish made from aubergines. Depending on where we ate, sometimes it had additional ingredients including courgettes, olives and tomatoes. 

Another tasty culinary delight was the busiata pasta. This long spiral pasta is handmade by wrapping it around a spindle. It came with various sauces, however, some of the best pasta dishes we had were simply served with olive oil and grilled vegetables. 

And don’t forget to try the cassatelle .

I tried these as a savoury and sweet version. Essentially they are little filled pastries. The savoury version was with ricotta and onion or potato puree served in a light broth. The sweet version was filled with sweetened ricotta being lightly fried and sometimes dusted with icing sugar. They were delicious!

Even as a vegetarian, there were SO MANY delicious options for outstanding food. I certainly ate well during my time in Sicily.   

6. Learn To Cook Traditional Sicilian Food

If you love the food here, and let’s face it, who doesn’t, then one of the top things to do in Sicily is to take part in a cooking class. 

I tried my hand several times during my time in Sicily, making cassatelle (ricotta-filled pillows of pastry), learning how to twirl pasta and creating decorative bread. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I’m notoriously bad in the kitchen, not through lack of trying, I just lack this skill – monumentally! 

Despite my lack of kitchen skills, it was great fun to get stuck in and share Sicilano’s passion for food.

All the ingredients we used were locally sourced and made from scratch, and their secret ingredient; love! All of their food is made with an abundance of love which oozes out of the kitchen. The best part of learning to cook is that you get to eat everything you make (I’m definitely better at this!).

If you’re interested in learning to cook authentic Italian food, a cooking class is one of the best things to do in West Sicily. Check out the brother and sister-owned, Like Italians Do . It’s located around the back of an old mill called Molino Excelsior (which is also worth a visit if you want to see some interesting vintage machinery).

They provide all the ingredients and take you step-by-step to create a delicious traditional Italian lunch.   

7. Island Hop Between The Egadi Islands

There are numerous islands near Sicily, and of these, just off the coast of Sicily’s north-west, are the simply stunning Egadi Islands; Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo. Of the three, Favignana is the largest with a population of around 3000 inhabitants.

If you look up any list of the 10 best places to see in Sicily, I guarantee that the Egadi islands will appear somewhere on the list. Think quaint towns, white (even pink) sandy beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters, enough to rival any Caribbean island. 

Adjacent to the Marina, you’ll find a large pinkish building. This was once the countryside residence of the wealthy Florio family. It’s a mix of Neo-Gothic and Neopolitan styles, and you’ll see the symbology of a Lion dotted all over the exterior and interior of the building.

Initially, the family gained their wealth through trading with the East with the lion symbol representing good health. Then they moved their trade to the production of sulphur and Marsala wine.

The Florio family then made a name for themselves through the tuna trade. The first documented evidence of tuna production on the island dates back to 1577. Along the waterfront, opposite the marina and the mansion, you’ll see a large old building. This building dates back to 1859 and was owned by the Florio family. Tuna production continued until 1977.

Today the building houses a museum with some rooms explaining the importance of this industry to the wealth of the island. You can wander around the rooms and still see the shelters housing the ready boats, and various artefacts linked to the industry. 

Being a vegetarian, admittedly I wasn’t overly interested in the history of fish production, however, some rooms have a couple of great exhibitions along with historical artefacts on the war between the Romans and the Arabs, so it was certainly worth visiting for this alone. Another point of interest here is near the entrance, there is a side room dedicated to marine conservation and the rehabilitation of sea turtles.

The islands are just off the coast of north-west Sicily, and an easy day trip from Trapani. The quick transfer service is run by Liberty Lines, check their website for the full timetable and tickets.  

⛴️ There are several crossings a day by ferry and hydrofoil every day. Getting to the Egadi Islands in West Sicily is easy. ⛴️

8. Cycle or eBike Around Favignana

If you want to explore more of the island of Favignana, then the best way of getting around is via eBike. I first experienced eBikes on a trip around Mount Etna in the east of Sicily, and I’ve been hooked ever since. 

The roads here are fairly quiet, especially if you’re outside of the main town, so it’s safe to cycle here. A great spot to head to, where you’ll find a hidden white sandy beach is Cala Azzurra. This little bay on the southeast of Favignana is calm and shallow.

Thanks to the lack of traffic on the island, this is one of the best destinations in Sicily for leisurely cycling. If you’re feeling really energetic, then you could explore the whole of the island by eBike in a day, also head up to the Castle of Santa Catarina, which is the highest point on the island.

There are several places to hire bikes next to the marina. You can rent them for just an hour right up to a full day. 

Read Next: eBiking and Hiking around Mt Etna, Sicily

9. Cruise or Hike Around Zingaro Reserve

The Sicily west coast is home to some of the most beautiful nature reserves. With no coastal road and the sound of traffic (even cycles!), the Riserva dello Zingaro is one of the best locations in Sicily for anyone looking for pure blissful relaxation. 

The coastal path follows an undulating seven-kilometre-long route between Scopello to San Vito Lo Capo passing numerous secluded coves and some of the most exclusive western Sicily beaches only accessible by foot – or swimming from a boat.

A great way to experience this beautiful area is by boat , which stops off at various spots along the way. You can either relax on the deck, on the beaches or swim in the warm and clear seas. 

Various boats depart from San Vito Marina. If you’re interested in a full-day small-group excursion then book in advance through Hyppocampus. They offer a morning departure per day and limit their passengers to just 12. They often sell out during peak season, so book well in advance. 

🚤 To enjoy the beautiful coastline and crystal clear waters of San Vito Lo Capo and Zingaro Park, book a boat trip 🚤

10. Learn about Gibellina & Visit the Grande Cretto Memorial

If you’re planning a full Sicily road trip, then be sure to add the little town of Gibellina to your itinerary. The original Gibellina was a mountainside town, however, it was destroyed by the 1968 Belice earthquake. 

Today, an enormous monument called Cretto di Burri stands in its place. The block-like monument represents the town of Gibellina, with each block taking up the footprint of a building that once stood there.

Gibellina was not rebuilt in the same place but instead moved 11 kilometres (7 miles) away and is known as Gibellina Nuova. The authorities on mainland Italy offered little in terms of help to the people of Gibellina after their town and lives were destroyed, it was deemed as an unimportant area and the people could just move elsewhere. Word got out and it became a bit of a mecca for prominent artists and architects to create work aimed at rebuilding the town. 

The Contemporary Art Museum of Gibellina houses many of the pieces of work that were created to help rebuild the town, along with information about the people who lived in Gibellina and their plight to get their town rebuilt. 

Surrounding the area there are other iconic landmarks including a gigantic star that stretches over the highway which marks the entrance to the town (Stella d’ingresso al Belice), and a hillside installation of charcoal black horses standing on white concrete (to represent the salt that west Sicily is famous for ( Montagna di sale).

11. Visit the Cave Village of Grotta Mangiapane

One of the most adorable and unique villages in Sicily has to be the cave village of Grotta Mangiapane. This settlement was inhabited from 1819 right up to the mid-1900s. The region consists of a total of nine different caves, however, it’s the largest one, the Mangiapane cave, really showcases what life was like in this unusual Sicily village. 

The cave is about 70 metres high, 13 wide and 50 deep, in the entrance is what feels like a regular high street with different shops, tanners, a bar, cobblers, ironmongers etc. Scattered around the mouth of the cave are small houses and workspaces, including a small mill for the production of olive oil. 

It’s fascinating to see how people would have lived here, under the protection of the cave system.

You can, of course, wander about by yourself, or take a guided tour with a very extroverted, animated and enthusiastic guide to show you around. They don’t speak English, however, this didn’t matter as everything was dramatised and demonstrated to make up for the language barrier.  

12. 4×4 Ride Through Cave di Santoro Marmi Quarry

I absolutely love 4×4 and offroading, so I was pleasantly surprised to hear how in northwest Sicily, you can do just this in a quarry. Something I’d never experienced before.

Santoro Marmi is located in Custonaci and is the second most important marble-producing region in Europe. This is due to the size of the quarries as well as the quality of the marble extracted here.

The quarry was opened in 1992 by the Santoro brothers, Giuseppe and Vincenzo and today it extends over 70 hectares. The marble is exported to buyers all over the world. 

The 4x4s take you through the quarry, up the hillside and drive amongst the huge chunks of sugar-cube-like gleaming blocks. If you want to realise how tiny a human is in the grand scheme of the world, this place certainly puts things into perspective. 

Tours are given to groups and individuals and can be arranged online by contacting Santoro Marmi Quarry directly. 

13. Explore The Ancient City of Salemi

If you’re interested in Sicilian trivia, then did you know that Salemi was the first capital of Sicily? I didn’t know either until I visited. If you’re into history, then this small city will be one of the top highlights Sicily offers. 

The city was shaped by the Greeks, Romans and then the Arabs amongst other civilisations. The name Salemi actually comes from the Arabic word “salem,” which means peace. It was also the Arabs who introduced things like saffron, cloves and cinnamon to the island of Sicily.

One of the best things to do in Salemi is to wander the lightly coloured Medieval streets. In the historic centre, the narrow streets meander on the hillside. At the top of the hills is the 11th-century castle which dates from the reign of the Normans and still remains one of the most prominent landmarks in the city to this day. Close to the castle are the remains of the Madrice Vecchia (“Old Mother Church”). 

Aside from exploring the photogenic town, other things to visit is the former Jesuit College which is now home to several museums including the Museum of Sacred Art, the Museo del Risorgimento and the slightly unnerving Museo della Mafia.  

An ancient tradition in Salemi is the decorative devotional bread. In the past, these were used for the religious festivals of Saint Joseph (19 March), Saint Anthony the Abbot (17 January) and Saint Blaise (3 February). The intricate bread looks too good to eat, features bouquets, wreaths and weaving and is available in bakeries in the city. 

14. Eat Street Food of Palermo

Palermo, the vibrant capital of the Sicilian island, is a paradise for food lovers with its bustling and thriving food scene.

As a veggie traveller, I discovered that it was nearly impossible to go hungry in Sicily. Despite the abundance of meat and fish dishes, I never felt like I was missing out. Sicily offered a wide array of delicious vegetarian options that satisfied my taste buds completely.

Palermo is quite a spread-out city, one of the best ways to all the highlights is on a guided city bike tour . I went with Sicicla, they offer regular bikes and eBikes (of course I opted for eBike), safety equipment and a guide). The tour also included a stop for lunch at the street food markets.

The city’s street food culture is a gastronomic celebration of its rich history and fusion of cultures. Here’s a quick, mouth-watering tour of some must-try street foods in Palermo:

• Arancini – These delicious and filling rice balls are stuffed with various fillings like cheese, meat, or vegetables, coated in bread crumbs, and then deep-fried to perfection.
• Pane e Panelle – A popular chickpea fritter sandwich, Pane e Panelle is a perfect example of Sicilian comfort food.
• Cannoli – You simply can’t leave Palermo without trying Cannoli. This iconic Sicilian treat is a deep-fried pastry tube filled with sweet, creamy ricotta.
• Sfincione – Sfincione as the Sicilian take on pizza. This soft, thick bread is topped with tomatoes, onions, and anchovies (skip this topping if you’re a veggie), and often sprinkled with breadcrumbs.
• Crocchè – Also known as potato croquettes, Crocchè are mashed potato dumplings, often filled with cheese or ham, breaded and fried.
• Granita – To cleanse your palate, grab a Granita, a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavourings. The most popular flavours are lemon, almond, and coffee – the perfect refreshing treat on a hot Sicilian day! You’ll often find granita served in a brioche bun!

15. Explore the Region’s Ancient Ruins

The West of Sicily is blessed with a wealth of ancient ruins. If you’re visiting the region, then I highly recommend adding at least one of these sites to your itinerary.

Selinunte is a sprawling archaeological site in West Sicily – it’s the biggest archaeological site in Europe, it’s so spread out that there’s actually a land train that takes you between the points of interest.

This ancient Greek city was founded in the 7th century BC and today boasts several well-preserved temples and other structures. One of the highlights is the Temple of Hera, which is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient Greek temples in existence.

Located on Mount Barbaro, Segesta is an impressive archaeological site that dates back to the 5th century BC.

The main attraction here is the well-preserved Doric temple, which sits atop a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The site also includes a theatre, agora, and other ruins that give insight into ancient Greek life.

Valley of the Temples

If you’re able to extend your west Sicily trip, then I also recommend one of the island’s most iconic ruins sites. Located on Sicily’s southern coast near Agrigento, the Valley of the Temples is a sprawling archaeological site that features some of the most impressive Greek ruins in Italy.

Some highlights include The Temple of Concordia, the largest and best-preserved temple on the site, as well as The Temple of Juno and The Temple of Hercules.

16. Learn About Marsala and Its Namesake Wine

Marsala, a beautiful coastal town in West Sicily, is known for its stunning beaches , rich history, and of course, its namesake wine. This fortified wine has been produced in Marsala since the late 18th century and is a staple in Italian cuisine.

Marsala wine is made from local grapes, primarily Grillo, Catarratto, and Inzolia. The grapes are aged in oak barrels for a minimum of one year to create a rich and complex flavour.

In addition to its unique production process, Marsala wine also comes in three different styles: fine, superiore , and vergine . Fine is the most commonly used in cooking, while superiore is typically enjoyed as an aperitif. The highest quality, vergine , is often served as a dessert wine and is aged for at least five years.

In the early 19th century, English merchants began to export Marsala wine to England where it gained popularity among the British aristocracy. It also played a significant role in the unification of Italy, with Giuseppe Garibaldi using it as a source of funding for his military campaigns.

Today, Marsala wine is celebrated and recognized around the world for its unique flavour. I highly recommend visiting at least one of the wineries – I visited Alagna Vini . Join a tour to learn more about the wines of the region and the best part – you’ll get to sample them!

17. Explore the Casbah of Mazzara Del Vallo

Located on the west coast of Sicily, Mazzara Del Vallo is a picturesque town that boasts stunning beaches and historical landmarks. One of its must-visit attractions is the Casbah, a charming neighbourhood known for its narrow streets and traditional Arabic-influenced architecture.

Plenty about this little district reminded me of my trip to Morocco . The vibrant colours, the intricate tile work, and the decorative elements.

But what sets the Casbah of Mazzara Del Vallo apart is its unique blend of Italian and North African influences. The Casbah is home to a diverse community that has preserved its cultural heritage for centuries.

As you wander through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways and staircases, you will come across quaint shops selling traditional handicrafts and local delicacies as well as bars where you’ll see people sitting smoking shishas.

If you’re an eco-conscious traveller, one of the best ways to explore a new destination is by cycling. Not only is it great for the environment, but it also allows you to take in the sights and sounds at a slower pace.

The flat coastal roads connecting Trapani and Marsala are a cyclist’s dream. You’ll pass by stunning beaches, quaint villages, and salt pans. Keep an eye out for wildlife – if you’re lucky you might even spot wild flamingoes!

You could cycle this route independently, or join a guided tour that will provide everything you need – opt for either manual bikes or eBikes. I did a tour with Sicicla , who specialises in cycle tourism and ecotourism in Sicily. They have a branch based in Palermo.

West Sicily Travel Guide FAQs & Travel Tips

I’ve gone into detail about the fabulous things to add to your west coast Sicily itinerary. This section has the answers to questions that frequently come up when planning your western Sicily tour.

Getting to the West of Sicily

There are two ways to get to the west of Sicily, these are by boat or by air.

The nearest airports are the ‘Vincenzo Florio’ in Trapani, then get a transfer from Trapani Airport to Trapani city centre . You could also arrive at ‘Falcone e Borsellino’ in Palermo. 

If you’re coming by boat, then the port of Palermo is connected to the major Italian and international ports.

Getting Around Sicily

West Coast Sicily is reasonably easy to get around between the main towns and cities. However, to get the most out of your trip to Sicily, ideally, you will need your own transportation, whether that’s by car, motorbike or bicycle. Many of the places of interest in Sicily are spread out and difficult to get to by public transport.

If you want to drive and plan on doing a road trip around Sicily, then check out car hire in Sicily her e .

The main towns are connected by bus, and in some cases trains if you’re starting from the east of the island. 

What Are The Best Small Group Tours Around Sicily

If you’re planning a trip around Sicily, then check out some of these other great tours for inspiration. Here are some of the best things to do in Sicily.

I found Sicily to be an incredibly safe destination and even walking around the cities on my own at night I felt fine. That being said, it’s always worth using your common sense and not flashing valuables about, having an alternative payment method and telling your accommodation where you’re going if you’re planning on hiking anywhere.

What’s Going On Your West Sicily Itinerary?    

So, now you know about all the best things to do in Western Sicily. Whether you’re on a short city break to the region, or you’re exploring more of the island, there’s a lot to keep you occupied here. 

How many of these ideas have made it onto your west Sicily bucket list?

If you’re doing more travelling in Sicily, then take a look at these other inspirational articles.

• 40+ Incredible Experiences for your Italy Bucket List
• The Best Things to Do in Trapani
• The Amalfi Coast Road Trip in Italy

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If you found this West Sicily itinerary guide useful, or know someone who will, then like, share and Pin for later. 

Have a question about anything in this article? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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Western Sicily Itinerary – 33 Amazing Things to Do in Western Sicily

Before I visited Sicily for the first time, I had no idea just how much this tiny little island in the Mediterranean had to offer. I knew there would be sunshine, sand, and probably some really great pasta, but that was about it. Little did I know what awaited me in Bella Sicilia . Cave villages, medieval hilltop towns, Arab medinas, and castles surrounded by swirling mists are just some of the things you’ll find in Western Sicily, and the best bit is that most of them are still totally undiscovered by international tourists. Western Sicily is geographically, culturally, and gastronomically diverse, and it’s criminal that more people don’t know that! With this in mind then, I decided to create this Western Sicily itinerary, crammed full of my top recommendations for things to do and places to go in Western Sicily. So, if you’re planning a Sicily road trip and scratching your head trying to figure out where to start, look no further, because by the time you’ve finished reading this list, your West Sicily itinerary will be chock-full. Ready? Then let’s get into it.

Table of Contents

33 Best Things to Do in Western Sicily | Western Sicily Itinerary

1. paceco salt pans.

For centuries, the main economic activity of the city of Trapani was its salt extraction, and while this is no longer the case, the salt pans are one of the main things to see in the area, with their photogenic mills, pink flamingos and the best sunsets in the whole of Sicily. The famous Salt Road, or  Via del Sale , takes you along the salt pans from Trapani to Marsala, inside a nature reserve, and if you head to the salt museum, which is located in a 17th century mill, you can rent a bicycle and cycle around the salt pans. Naturally, you can also buy the various gourmet salts produced here – I got one with chilli flakes, and it is  delicious . You can visit the salt pans by yourself, but I recommend booking a tour to get the full experience. This 2-hour salt pans tour   includes a local guide who will explain the traditions of salt-making in the area as you explore 3 family-owned salt pans, a visit to the salt museum, sampling of some different flavoured salts, and the chance to spot some wild flamingos. The price also includes a return transfer.

Palermo is the rugged capital of Sicily, and I make no secret of the fact that it is one of my favourite places on earth. With a gritty, grungy vibe, Palermo is home to bustling street markets, majestic palaces, some absolutely delicious food , and so much more. If you need more convincing, here are my  8 reasons to visit Palermo , and also my whopping list of  21 cool things to do in Palermo .

3. Monte Pellegrino

Monte Pellegrino towers over the city of Palermo and is one of the most popular day trips from the city. Whether you want to enjoy a picnic in the stunning nature reserve or pay homage to Santa Rosalia in her sanctuary atop the mountain, Monte Pellegrino is one of Western Sicily’s best places to visit. Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth going to the top of the mountain just to see the jaw dropping panoramic views over the city of Palermo.

4. Try Pane Cunzatu

A simple Sicilian food that you must try in Western Sicily is a sandwich called  pane cunzatu.  This peasant dish, which literally translates to ‘seasoned bread’ is also called ‘bread of misfortune’ ( pane della disgrazia ) because it mixes old, leftover bread with cheap and easy toppings to make a bite to eat in the absence of a proper meal. Appetising, right? Actually, pane cunzatu is really bloody tasty, and over the years has become a traditional Sicilian sandwich. It is made by taking a hunk of crusty bread, drizzling it with extra virgin olive oil and layered with juicy sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, salt, pepper and oregano, with anchovies or sardines added on top. You can pick this sandwich up for a couple of euros in pretty much any café in Western Sicily (it is always the cheapest sandwich on the menu!).

5. Sunbathe at a ruined tuna factory

Located a short drive away from San Vito Lo Capo, the Tonnara del Secco used to be a ‘tuna trap,’ where fishermen would catch large tuna with 5km nets, massacring them in huge numbers when they came to the waters to reproduce.  Tuna were caught here using this lethal method from the 1400s all the way up until 1969, and you can still visit and admire the ruins of the old  Tonnara  (the old tuna factory) and the aristocratic buildings nearby, before cooling down with a swim and a spot of sunbathing with the locals (rarely do tourists ever make it here).

6. Corleone

Corleone is the home of the Corleonesi, one of Italy’s most infamous Mafia gangs. Located just one hour south of Palermo, it is a surprising favourite among tourists, and locals have set up the  Mafia and Anti-Mafia Museum of Corleone,  a place that preserves history while helping locals move on from the criminal past of the town. Something that I recommend is taking part on an  organised Corleone excursion from Palermo. That way you’ll learn so much more than you would if you did it on your own, plus you don’t have to worry about figuring out Sicily’s terrible public transport system!

7. Capuchin Monastery and Catacombs

One of the eeriest places to visit in Western Sicily is the Capuchin Monastery and Catacombs in Palermo. Back in the 16th century, the monastery outgrew its original cemetery and so the monks began to excavate the crypts below it to create a space to keep mummified corpses. In the beginning, the crypts were reserved for friars, but eventually it became sort of a status symbol to be entombed in the catacombs, and people would write in their wills which clothes they wanted to be dressed in, or how frequently they wanted their clothes changed (often to reflect the fashions of the time!). Relatives would pay for the corpses to be kept in the spot which they had been allocated, but if the payments stopped then the body was taken away and put on a shelf until payments resumed. Today, the Capuchin Monastery and Catacombs are open to the public and contain about 8000 corpses and 1252 mummies that line the walls. One of those is Rosalia Lombardo, who tragically died of pneumonia when she was just aged 2 in 1920 – her body is so well-preserved that she looks as though she is still sleeping and will open her eyes at any moment. Some of the other mummies have been so well preserved that they still have hair and fingernails, which is a very unnerving thing to see!

8. Visit Erice by cable car

The ancient town of Erice is one of the most popular places to visit in Sicily, and it isn’t hard to understand why. Widely heralded as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Erice is a fortified medieval village that towers over Sicily at 751m above sea level, sitting atop Monte San Giuliano. It is often enveloped in a thick fog known as  Venus’ Embrace , and it is famous for its hand painted ceramics, confectionary, woven rugs and many churches. The best way to get to Erice itself is by cable car from Trapani. The journey only takes about 10 minutes, but the views are breathtaking. Check out my full guide to Erice here.

9. The Castle of Venus

While you’re in Erice, don’t forget to pay a visit to the 12th century  Castello de Venere , or Castle of Venus. The castle you see today was built by the Normans, but before the castle was the Temple of Venus Erycina, Goddess of Fertility. Venus has been worshipped in Erice since 1300 BC, and legend has it that Venus herself apparently used to bathe in milk in the well inside the castle! Although it is possible to go inside the castle itself, the best way to experience Castello de Venere is to admire its majesty from the outside, from the viewpoint in the  Giardino del Balio .

10. Take a Sicilian cooking class!

Discovering somewhere through its food is one of the best ways to understand a place, and learning how to make that food is even better. Maria Catja is the face of Like Italians Do , and together with her family she provides intimate cooking classes where you will learn how to prepare and cook a traditional Sicilian meal before sitting around a large table with them in their mother’s home to drink wine and enjoy a feast fit for a king. Get in touch with them via their website to find out more.

11. Eat couscous

You may not think of couscous when you think of Italian food, but Sicily is famous for the North African dish. In fact, couscous is a staple in Western Sicilian cuisine, specifically the province of Trapani. Sicilian couscous, or  Couscous alla Trapanese,  is traditionally made from hand-rolling durum wheat semolina into small grains and steaming them in an earthenware pot. The dish is topped with fresh seafood and served with a rich fish stock seasoned with cinnamon, bay leaves, saffron and almonds. If you’re lucky enough to visit Western Sicily in September, you can even attend the  annual Cous Cous Fest in San Vito Lo Capo! The event spans for an entire week, with chefs from all over the world flying to Sicily to compete in cooking shows to impress the attendees with their various versions of the dish, with stalls selling 40 different couscous recipes,  beach parties lasting all day and night, cooking classes and even Berber tents!  In the city of Trapani, head to Cantina Siciliana , where award-winning couscous chef Pino Maggiore prepares the dish from scratch every day.

12. Mazara del Vallo

Mazara del Vallo is a unique place, and one of my favourite places to visit in Western Sicily. ‘ A city suspended between East and West ,’ Mazara del Vallo is somewhere where you can meander down secret passageways in the Kasbah (the ancient Arab citadel), eat fish curry and samosas, see prayer mats blowing in the breeze as they hang out to dry, as well as visit local wine cellars, eat busiate pasta with red shrimp, and admire Norman churches. If you want a taste of Morocco without having to leave Europe, head to Mazara del Vallo.

13. Favignana

Favignana lies just off the coast of Sicily and is the largest of the 3 Egadi Islands (the other 2 being Levanzo and Marretimo). While you’re there, be sure to visit the old tuna factory (now a museum), the villa where the influential Florio family used to live, and explore the island by e-bike to discover the best Favignana beaches. Favignana island is just a 30 minute boat ride from Trapani, making it one of the easiest and best day trips from Trapani, and you can even visit a couple of islands in one day if you like! This  full-day cruise to Favignana and Levanzo   includes lunch, swimming and time to explore both islands, along with commentary from your guide. Check out my full guide to Favignana here.

14. Drink all the wine

I’ve  written about Sicilian wine before , and it’s no secret that I’m a fan, especially of the white Grillo variety that is so popular in Western Sicily. One of the things that I recommend doing in Western Sicily then, is heading to  Strada del Vino Erice DOC in Erice for a wine tasting experience. The vineyards surrounding Erice have a special climate, with a high altitude, lots of ventilation, sunshine and a close proximity to the sea, which come together to create an  organoleptic   experience . You will try 5 different Erice DOC wines, paired with an aperitivo plate of cured meat, cheese, olive oil, and sweet  casatell e. This experience costs just 15 EUR.

15. Party in La Vucciria

La Vucciria is one of Palermo’s famous historic street markets, but although the market is not what it used to be, when the sun goes down it is a different story. Piazza Caracciolo , the main square that makes up La Vucciria, comes alive at night, when street food vendors begin grilling meat and deep frying other Sicilian delights, makeshift bars pop up selling 1 EUR shots and playing  reggaeton  music, the African restaurant  Ciwara  explodes with traditional Senegalese and Gambian dancing, and the drinks begin to flow. Buy a plastic cup of Sangue (blood wine) from the legendary Taverna Azzurra , soak up the alcohol with a sfincione , and look out for the man who drives around on a moped blasting tunes and balancing beer bottles on his head. Read my guide to La Vucciria here.

Salemi was actually the first capital of Italy (but only for 1 day!), and is a beautifully quaint, sleepy old village in Western Sicily. There is an interesting anti-Mafia museum here (although the exhibit is in Italian), as well as a gorgeous 11th century castle offering panoramic views (Garibaldi Castle), and the pretty medieval streets that are synonymous with Italy. Be sure to seek out some Pani di Salemi (Salemi bread), as it is quite possibly the prettiest bread you will ever see!

17. Agrigento

Agrigento is one of the best places to visit to see the ruins of the Ancient Greek civilisations that one ruled Sicily. The  Valley of the Temples  is one of the largest archaeological sites in the whole of Italy and if you’re an ancient history buff then this is the place for you!

18. See a play at Teatro Massimo

Teatro Massimo is the largest opera house in Italy and the third largest in the whole of Europe, so it’s definitely one to add to your list of things to see in Western Sicily, especially if you’re in Palermo! Not only were some scenes from  The Godfather III  filmed inside Teatro Massimo, but Pavarotti himself has even performed here! If you don’t fancy going to see a show, you can see see inside the building, but it must be as part of a guided tour. English language tours begin every 50 minutes (or thereabouts), between 9.30 and 18.00. Tickets cost 8 EUR and the tours last for around 30 minutes.

19. San Vito Lo Capo

Once a quiet fishing village, San Vito Lo Capo has flourished in popularity in recent years due to its stunning white sandy beaches, azure waters and sugar cube houses with hanging baskets and enticing smells wafting from the kitchens. Stay for a few days and sun yourself on the 3km sandy beach at the foot of Monte Monaco, gorge yourself on fresh seafood and couscous, and enjoy the slow pace of life. You can check out my full guide to San Vito Lo Capo here.

20. Zingaro Nature Reserve

If you love nature, adventure, beautiful scenery, and unspoilt beaches, you’ll love Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve. This protected area was the first ever nature reserve in Sicily, and to this day it is a completely traffic-free zone, and even cycling is not permitted here! You can walk the easy 7km main trail from San Vito Lo Capo to Scopello, or explore one of the many hiking and walking trails that lead to sandy beaches and hidden coves.

21. Meet the Coral Master

Master jeweller and goldsmith Platimiro Fiorenza is considered one of UNESCO’s Living Human Treasures and for over 50 years, he has specialised in creating what can only be described as masterpieces with the setting of Sicilian red coral. He has produced pieces for the fashion house Fendi, and you can even find 6 of his works in the Vatican museum! You can find his jewellery shop in Trapani ( Via Osorio 36 ), where he not only sells his jewellery, but you can also see larger pieces which depict scenes from the bible, as well as a crown worth 80,000 EUR that was originally made for a Russian Tsar! Towards the back of the shop is the workshop, where you might even be lucky enough to see the master at work!

22. Marsala

You may have heard of Marsala because of its sweet dessert wines, but few people are aware that Marsala is actually a charming town in Western Sicily that is well worth a visit! With a name deriving from the Arabic Mars’Allah (God’s Port), we can see how important the strategic location of this town was in years gone by. Today, Marsala is home to stunning Baroque architecture, paved marble streets, and of course, lots of wineries. Fun fact – Marsala wine actually rose to fame thanks to an Englishman from Liverpool named John Woodhouse, who, at the end of the 18th century, discovered Marsala wine and began exporting it to England.

23. Have lunch in a vineyard

Castello Inici is an agriturismo venture that, from the summer of 2023, will allow tourists to enjoy lunches and dinners in their lush olive groves and vineyards. We were lucky enough to be their guinea pigs and try some of their home grown wine and olive oil, antipasti and vegetarian pastas, and cassatelle , and I honestly can’t think of how it could have been more perfect. Visit their website to be kept up to date with experiences that they offer!

24. Scala dei Turchi

Scala dei Turchi , or the Turkish Steps, are a real bucket list experience in Western Sicily, and unfortunately, one that I have yet to tick off my list. Scala dei Turchi  is a white rock formation in the form of steps on the coast of Realmonte. Arab pirates, known as ‘Turks,’ used to anchor their boats here while they robbed and pillaged surrounding towns – nice! Today though, it is one of the most stunning natural wonders of Sicily, so you’d better get there early if you want a good Instagram shot!

Just over an hour away from Palermo (70km) is the stunning coastal town of Cefalù, which boasts both a golden sandy beach and an old town that could have been lifted straight from the pages of a fairy tale. This ancient fishing port is one of the most stunning villages in Italy, and with its majestic Norman cathedral, medieval old town and caramel sandy beach surrounded by craggy rocks and turquoise waters, it’s no surprise that many Italians flock here every summer to enjoy  la dolce vita  and unwind from their hectic lives. You can read my full guide to Cefalu here.

26. Discover Palermo’s ‘interesting’ street food

Palermo’s street food is considered to be among the best in Europe – however, some of Palermo’s more  unusual  dishes may not be for everyone. Something that Palermo is famous for is  offal.  That’s right – waste products or the innards of an animal. Perhaps the most famous example of this is the  pane ca’ meusa , which is a sandwich comprised of  spleen, lung and trachea  – oh, and cheese! You can also try stigghiola (sheep’s intestines wrapped around spring onion and grilled on a BBQ) and  frittula,  which is waste product from calves (ground bone, scrap meat and cartilage) mixed with lard and ladled onto sandwiches. I sampled all of these and more on my  Palermo street food tour with Streaty  (which you can read about  here ).

27. Have dinner with a fisherman in Castellamare del Golfo

Castellamare del Golfo is an absolutely charming town and well worth a couple of nights on your West Sicily itinerary. A unique experience to try while you’re there is visit the cultural ‘Museum of the Sea’ (UZZAREDRU) and dine with Mr Paradise (yes – that’s really his name!), a fisherman whose family has been catching fish in Castellamare del Golfo for generations. The museum is not really a museum as such. It is really his old family home, stuffed to the gills (see what I did there?) with fishing equipment, nautical memorabilia, photographs of the family through the generations, and other miscellaneous ‘sea’ things. If you reserve in advance, you can enjoy a dinner prepared by the fisherman’s wife. Think rich caponata , fried sardines, and salty anchovies, served with cheap wine from plastic cups in a truly authentic Sicilian atmosphere.

28. Mangiapane Cave

One of the most unique places to visit in Western Sicily has to be Mangiapane Cave ( Grotta Mangiapane ), an off-the-beaten-path village that hasn’t been inhabited in almost a century, and functions as an open air ethnographic museum for people to learn about what life was like here in the past. Researchers think that the cave may have been inhabited as far back as the Palaeolithic era, but it takes its recent history from the Mangiapane family, who dwelled in this cave village from the early 1800’s until 1959. It is actually thanks to a Mangiapane family member that the village still exists at all – after Rosario Mangiapane left to live elsewhere, the cave village was used for animals for 20 years or so, before a group of local volunteers spoke with Rosario, who agreed to let them transform the cave into a nativity for people to come and visit at Christmas. While it is still home to a Christmas nativity, you can visit Mangiapane Cave at any time of year and see for yourself how life used to be for the family, peering into the little buildings to see reconstructed businesses including a tannery, cobblers, tavern, a barber’s shop, and more. There are also several animals here, including donkeys, geese, peacocks and chickens.

29. Ruins of Segesta

Situated in the middle of the countryside, the Temple of Segesta is beautifully preserved and offers gorgeous views. You can also go and see the ancient theatre, which is located on the top of Mount Barbaro, 400m above sea level and would have held up to 4000 people in ancient times! Like the old theatre in  Taormina , it still hosts plays and concerts in the summer months. The theatre is a 2km uphill walk from the temple.

30. The Old Town of Trapani

Trapani is a great place to base yourself when exploring Western Sicily, and with a unique blend of Baroque, Moorish and Greek architecture, sea on either side and a seemingly infinite number of palaces, churches and mansions, Trapani itself is incredibly charming. The main promenade,  Corso Vittorio Emanuele , is full of chic bars, cafes, boutiques and restaurants, as well as tonnes of majestic Baroque buildings, which includes the spectacular town hall,  Palazzo Senatorio . Other streets not to miss are  Via Garibaldi  and  Corso Italia , and if you like churches, the 15th century  Cattedrale di San Lorenzo  (Cathedral of Saint Lorenzo),  Chiesa del Collegio dei Gesuiti  (Church of the Jesuit College) and  Chiesa delle Anime Sante del Purgatorio  (Church of the Souls in Purgatory) are definitely worth a visit. Take a stroll along the city walls at golden hour for the best views. You can read my full guide to Trapani here.

31. Tonnara di Scopello

This former tuna fishery is one of the most photogenic places in Sicily, and while it is now an elite hotel, but you can pay to sunbathe on its private beach. While this might not sound very appealing, the Tonnara di Scopello is one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Italy, and being able to visit and enjoy its splendour is a real bucket list experience. You can also admire it from afar on a boat trip from San Vito Lo Capo (the company I went with was called Hippocampus).

32. Cretto di Burri

The Cretto di Burri is a striking monument that sits on what used to be the village of Gibellina, before it was destroyed by the 1968 Belice earthquake.  This colossal, 80,000 square metre monument by Alberto Burri is one of the largest contemporary artworks in the world. It represents the town of Gibellina, with each cement block taking up the area of a building that once stood there, meaning you can still walk the original layout of the streets. Things that were left in the ruins – cars, clothes, books and toys – have been buried within the concrete, and so the site is an everlasting mausoleum preserving what once was. The white colour represents the pale corpse of the city. The Cretto di Burri is a seriously impressive monument, and is a great place to visit if you’re into photography. The town of Gibellina was rebuilt 18km away, and it is known today as Nuovo Gibellina . It’s worth paying a visit to go and see the Contemporary Art Museum of Gibellina, as well as the Montagne di Sale sculpture, which depicts fallen horses on a mountain of salt.

33. Visit Palermo’s historic street markets

The historic Palermo street markets are not only a unique cultural experience, but they are also a gateway to the past, a place where you can buy the freshest and cheapest groceries in the city, and somewhere where you can devour fantastic street food. Ballaro, Capo, and Vucciria are where you can find merchants singing in the Arab tradition that has survived for the last 10 centuries, Sicilian  nonnas  elbowing their way past you to get to the juiciest tomatoes, kids whizzing by on mopeds, and moody teenagers smoking weed on the sidelines. The true multicultural nature of Palermo is most visible here, with cumin, coriander, and curry powder sitting alongside fresh honey, prosciutto, and olives marinated in every herb imaginable.

Posts you may find useful

Travelling in Sicily is not like travelling in mainland Italy, especially if the only places you’ve visited have been in the North of the country. Below are some articles I’ve written about Sicily that may help you prepare for your trip. Is Sicily Safe? All You Need to Know About Safety in Sicily Sicilian Travel – Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Sicily! 22 Classic Sicilian Dishes You Have to Try! What Do Italians Eat for Breakfast? 17 Things Nobody Tells You About Living in Sicily

Western Sicily Itinerary | Final Thoughts

There are hundreds of reasons to visit Western Sicily, but if I’d listed them all here, we’d be here until next summer! Whether you want to visit a charming hilltop village, indulge your cultural curiosities in art galleries and cathedrals, hike to remote sandy coves, or sip an Aperol Spritz while the sun sets along the coast, you really can’t go wrong with Western Sicily. That’s about it for now, but as always, you can ask me any questions you have in the comments section below and I will get back to you! Until next time, XOXO

If you liked this article and would like to support my work, please click the button above to donate a couple of bucks and buy me a coffee. The ad revenue that I receive on this website is minimal, so support from my readers enables me to keep creating content that you (hopefully!) love to read.

Disclaimer: I visited Western Sicily on a press trip with the West of Sicily tourism board. Some of the activities I participated in were gifted experiences, but I was under no obligation to include any of them in this post. Some of the links may be affiliate links.

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Northern Sicily travel guide, tourism and highlights

Visit North Sicily

This region runs along the Sicilian coast from Palermo in the west to Tindari in the east, inland through the scenic mountains as far as the central town of Enna, and stretching out to sea where the volcanic Aeolian Islands are situated.

The combination of historic monuments, fine beaches and lovel scenery make this one of the most popular regions of Sicily.

Coastal north Sicily

The northern region of Sicily includes several important highlights that will feature on your itinerary. Near the coast these include:

The capital of Sicily at Palermo , which is a beautiful city and some truly amazing churches. Nearby is the impressive cathedral at Monreale . A few kilometers south-east of Palermo is the town of Bagheria with its Baroque villas.

East of here the ancient ruins and town at Termini-Imerese will interest history lovers. Our favourite coastal town of  Cefalu , which sits at the base of a huge rock and is home to the beatiful UNESCO listed Cefalu Cathedral , is on the north coast of Sicily.

Also on the north coast is the Sanctuary and Greek and Roman ruins at Tindari which are well worth a visit. 

Cefala-Diana , near to Bagheria has a castle and arab baths to explore.

One of the listed 'most beautiful villages in Italy' - Geraci Siculo - is south of Cefalu, while two more listed villages can be seen to the north-east at Montalbano Elicona and Novara di Sicilia .

Aeolian Islands

Off the coast of northern Sicily, be sure to visit the volcanic Aeolian Islands ( Lipari is the main island and has the most important town (also called Lipari), others are Alicudi, Basiluzzo, Filicudi , Salina, the active volcanic island of Stromboli , Panarea and Vulcano , and Ustica some way to the west).

The Aeolian islands are also known as the Lipari Islands, and are reached by ferry from Milazzo . Ferries also operate between the islands, each of which has its own particular charms to discover. The small islands of Alicudi and Panarea, although slightly more remote than the others, are also highly recommended.

There is a very beautiful walk of a couple of kilometers around the Cape of Milazzo , a promontory next to Milazzo.

Coastal resorts

There are various popular coastal resorts in northern Sicily - among the most popular are Capo Zafferano (near Bagheria in the west) and Capo d'Orlando and Sant'Agata di Militello (both between Cefalu and Tindari).

An autoroute follows along the northern coast of Sicily so access to these resorts is straightforward.

Heading inland - the mountains of northern Sicily

Head a little inland and the landscape changes rapidly as you traverse the mountain regions of Monts Madonie (south of Cefalu, and reasonably easy to access from that town) and Monts Nebrodi (further east). Quiet villages and attractive scenery are the highlights in this region, where access is slower - as is the pace of life - but well worth the effort.

Within Monts Madonie the highlights among the towns and villages include Castelbuono, Geraci Siculo, Gangi, Petralia Soprana, Petralia Sottana, cascading down the hill in a dramatic location to the south of the Madonie Mountains, and Polizzi Generosa.

The Monts Nebrodie are slightly harder to access but equally rewarding, and also offer stunning scenery and a sprinkling of ancient villages.

The town of Enna stands in the heart of Sicily beyond these mountain ranges, in an enviable hilltop location as is San Cataldo .

Map of North Sicily and places to visit

North sicily places to visit.

The Aeolian Islands are a pretty group of volcanic islands.

Bagheria is a coastal town with some beautiful 18th century villas.

Cape of Milazzo

The Cape of Milazzo is a beautiful promontory next to Milazzo with a lovely coastal walk

Castroreale

Castroreale is one of the most beautiful villages of Sicily.

Cefala Diana

Cefala Diana has a castle and Arab baths to visit.

Cefalu is a beautiful seaside town with a magnificent cathedral.

Cefalu Cathedral

Cefalu cathedral is a UNESCO listed Norman cathedral with fabulous Byzantine mosaics.

Enna is an attractive hilltown in a fabulous setting.

Filicudi is one of the Aeolian islands known for its diving.

Geraci-Siculo

Geraci-Siculo is one of the most beautiful villages of Sicily.

Lipari is the largest and most populated of the Aeolian Islands.

Milazzo has an impressive fortified citadel.

Monreale is a small town which sits above Palermo and has a splendid Byzantine cathedral.

Montalbano-Elicona

Montalbano-Elicona is one of the most beautiful villages of Sicily.

Novara di Sicilia

Novara di Sicilia is a beautiful hill village.

Palatine Chapel and Royal Palace

The stunning Byzantine mosaics which decorate the Palatine Chapel are one of Sicily's highlights.

Palermo is a fabulous city with the Cappella Palatina, La Martorana and its Arab-Norman cathedral amongst the highlights.

Panarea is the most chic of the Aeolian Islands.

Patti is not a tourist town but has a cathedral and Roman Villa to visit.

Polizzi Generosa

Polizzi is a hill town in a beautiful setting in the Natural Park of Madonie.

San Cataldo

San Cataldo is an interesting town with a number of monuments.

Scopello has a beautiful small beach with large rock stacks in the sea. It was a film location for Ocean's Twelve.

Sperlinga is one of the 'most beautiful villages of Italy' and is home to a castle and troglodyte caves.

Stromboli is an active volcanic island.

Termini-Imerese

Termini-Imerese has both Greek and Roman ruins to visit.

Tindari is home to the Sanctuary of the Black Madonna and a beautiful ancient site with a Roman Theatre.

Ustica is the smallest of the Aeolian Islands

Vulcano is a volcanic island in the Aeolian islands. Its volcano is dormant but the craters and fumeroles emit steam and sulphur-smelling gases.

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Best places to visit in Sicily

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

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

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Join us on tour in sicily

Why visit Sicily  

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

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

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

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

Eastern Sicily

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

The Cathedral that houses the relics of their beloved Patron Sant’Agata, the Benedictine Monastery (Catania University), the various churches and the Bellini Gardens that sit across from Sicily’s best arancini at Pasticceria Savia , are all worth a visit. The Museo dello Sbarco , dedicated to the Allied campaign in WWII is terrific.

Catania is alive with entrepreneurial spirit and has one of the Sicily’s must-see markets, the Pescheria . This fish market has been in continuous operation since the 9th century, Arab times, 6 days a week from dawn until lunch time, just steps from the beautiful grand Piazza Duomo .

You can pass through one of the city’s original gates, Porta Uzeda , or emerge from behind the larger than life fountain cascading water above the now submerged Amenano River. In the center of the piazza, a slight turn of the head, you’ll see another fountain and the city’s symbol, the Fontana dell’ Elefante . In the evenings, this area is hopping with musicians and people enjoy the traditional stroll called the passeggiata, along the pedestrian only Via Etnea , arriving to the piazza, gelato in hand.

READ: Our guide to the Best things to do in Catania .

This city is undergoing a food renaissance and good eating is to be had in every corner. From street food of sublimely fried fish-in-a-cone to some of the best arancini around, to re-interpreted classic dishes at Catania’s first Michelin starred restaurant Sapio to Vinoteca Ostier where wines are paired to your entrée, there is so much to feast on.

There is no shortage of wine sourced from Mount Etna, Sicilian craft beers, and local specialties. To tourists, Catania is yet under-appreciated for its sights and food, but it is the ideal place to arrive and from which to venture on day trips before moving on. Okay, let’s head north!

LISTEN: The Tastes of Sicily

People have talked about Mount Etna for millennia. A volcano referred to as Mother, she provides a huge geographic area with remarkable fertility from her ongoing spurts of mineral rich lava ash that settles on the soil. Her imposing profile is visible from miles away and in every direction.

A visit up close is a must. There are various ways to experience her majesty, that begin with a visit to the extinct craters. Driving into the Etna Park, you will observe the landscape changing as you ascend. Boulders are everywhere. You arrive to the Rifugio Sapienza and the Silvestri Craters where you have a chance to climb up slopes of varying steepness and peak inside. The wind is audible, the soil rich in mineral colors, and the vistas, breathtaking.

Venture a little further to the next car park and you will find the cable car . A ticket will get you a seat on a 10-minute ride soaring to a platform where large 4-wheel drive vehicles whisk you further up onto the black lava sea, some 9800 feet high. From this vantage point you see the sky and the sea, the mountains and even Sicily’s center on a clear day. The wind is chilly in the warmer months and cold other times, but wrapped in warmth, you suddenly appreciate the power and magnitude of this volcano.

Private guides can take you on off the beaten path hikes and to experience this UNESCO recognized volcano in other ways. Be sure not to miss a visit to one of Etna’s more than 250 wineries. There is treasure in those hills.

Taormina is a small hilltop town, draped in floral displays of vibrant bougainvillea and about which great writers and romantics have waxed poetic. It is perched high above the sea, with a view to the mainland and draws hordes of international tourists to feast eyes on its unique beauty.

The Greek Theater is one of the most beautiful and at the edge of town it has exceptional views of both Mount Etna and the coastline, too. The historic center is given over to pedestrians who wander among the high-quality shops and cafes, climb up and down steps, and poke around narrow little corners, with restaurants serving aromatic foods tucked in here and there.

Taormina is unique in Sicily for its pristine and refined beauty. It is Sicily’s perfect place to relax and shop. Should you want some activity, take the cable car to the Mazzaro Beach whose white sand is just below the town, and hire a boat to skip you across to the crystal-clear Blue Grotto. Back in town, sit back and sip a crisp Etna white wine overlooking the breathtaking expanse and you’ll understand what all the fuss is about this town.

Ortigia is the small island that sits just steps over a connecting bridge from the mainland. For some, this place defines charm. It is the most historic part of the area with a long history, having been one of Greece’s most important cities after its founding in 734 BC. It can be explored through very narrow lanes that meet up at one of Sicily’s grandest piazzas, a perfect place for people-watching.

Before you is the stunning Baroque Cathedral, but a close look reveals its original Greek Columns, evidence of an earlier time, the ultimate recycled building. In one direction you can find a fountain steeped in mythology and papyrus growing in its sea water. In every direction there are ornately beautiful aristocratic palaces, some still privately owned, and some used for government functions. Shops selling both fine and delightful hand made goods line the streets.

There is a Jewish quarter in which it is possible to see two ritual baths, the Mikveh , and underneath the Church of San Filippo Apostolo there are catacombs and WWII shelter drawings. For a small island there is much to interest a visitor.

Off the island there is the Archeological Park with Sicily’s largest Greek Theater and the intriguing Ear of Dionysius.  Here, in the spring, you can see fabulous interpretations of ancient Greek plays.  There are also remains of a Roman amphitheater. Go with a guide and expect to stay 2-3 hours.

My advice: if you are planning a day trip, stay the whole day and enjoy. There are terrific restaurants and a market with places to eat fresh and delectable things.

South-Eastern Sicily

Just a short 20 minutes away from Siracusa is Noto . Built after the earthquake of 1693 destroyed the original town, it is now recognized by UNESCO for its refined Baroque architecture. The town is laid out in a grid form so the sun shines along the streets, reflecting light off the golden limestone. Perched atop a large flight of steps the Duomo is an imposing feature in the center of the main thoroughfare. Its steps are inviting to all for a sit down. The Duomo faces another beautiful building, the Palazzo Ducezio , now used by the government.

Noto has a slower pace to it than Ortigia and people mill about eating gelato from well-known pastry shops, climbing to one of the two church roofs for fabulous cityscape photos, and exploring the balconies that drip with fanciful and ornate decoration. It is a welcoming place and one of the few where I have seen LGBTQ flags.

Stay at the Gagliardi Hotel for its beautiful spacious rooms and a rooftop for wine and cocktails with a view before dinner. Eat local almonds. Drink Nero d’Avola and Moscato di Noto wines, produced nearby. Visit the Vendicari Reserve in the morning or at dusk to see migrating birds (including pink flamingoes!), the sandy beach and old tuna fishing structures. The boardwalk paths are lovely to traverse.

Ragusa is another town that was a victim of the earthquake of 1693. It combines a newer town above the historic town below with iconic images of beautifully colored domes visible from the windy road in between. Like many other places, the main area is the Piazza Duomo, where many streets converge. Here you can sit and enjoy wine-flavored gelato while gazing at Ragusa’s quintessentially Baroque Cathedral, so recognizable with its steep stairs and wrought-iron gate.

The best view is from the parlor inside the Palazzo Arezzo , which is open to the public. Deeper into town there are steps leading to great vantage points and interesting streets. The Iblean Gardens are a peaceful oasis of exotic plants and ponds, flanked by the old convent. Don’t miss a visit to Rosso Cinabro . Cart-makers in the old tradition, they are the design creators for Dolce and Gabbana’s SMEG line of appliances. From this tiny workshop, the designs reach the world.

Not too far from Ragusa is Modica . If by now you are in need of chocolate, you will find it here. Modica is chocolate central and here the chocolate is made in the same way the Aztecs did, a style brought over by the Spanish. Cooked over a low fire, the chocolate remains granular. It comes in plain or many delicious flavor varieties. There are several places that will give you a tour with samples of their chocolate bars, chocolate syrup and confections, including the traditional ‘Mpanatigghi , that has more than just chocolate baked inside, a secret ingredient that always surprises.

You will then have the energy to climb the steps of the ornate and beautiful Cathedral San Giorgio . Much like Ragusa, the town is full of steps all leading away from the main Corso (Umberto) offering views, intriguing history and fun. Come dusk, you should position yourself next to the San Giorgio Hotel to see the lights as they cover the surrounding hills, another iconic image. Dinner can be in a Michelin-starred restaurant or a small trattoria whose owners bring in cheese and other delectables from their farm. It is aptly named Ricotta.

READ: about the Delicious typical desserts of Sicily

It is well worth a visit to head a little further south to Scicli (pronounced She-cli). Yes, it’s another of the Baroque towns recognized by UNESCO in the Val di Noto and it is probably the smallest, but it has big surprises. Any Detective Montalbano fan can tell you that it is the home of the police station, the center of all story lines. Fans flock to this area to trace the steps of the beloved Inspector who mixes charm, insight, bravado, warmth and humor all into one character.

Visit the Chiesa San Bartolomeo to be amazed by the large and stunning diorama of the Nativity. The Palazzo Beneventano is interesting with its strikingly odd ornamental features. In the afternoon head to Gli Aromi , a nearby herb farm where its passionate owner Enrico will give you an ‘olfactory’ tour and his chef wife Rita will whip up a fabulous lunch. Herbs never tasted this good.

Val di Noto

In all of the surrounding areas of the Val di Noto , you have the opportunity to taste excellent wines. To the west is Vittoria, home to Sicily’s only DOCG wine, the Cerusuolo di Vittoria which blends Frappato with Nero d’Avola. To the east there is Moscato di Noto , a dry, delicious, historic white. There are women winemakers, historic wineries and new producers who arrived to try their hand in Sicily.

LISTEN: Exploring the Val di Noto

Central Sicily

Piazza armerina.

From Catania, Piazza Armerina is a day trip, fewer than 90 minutes away. In Sicily it is always best to talk about the time to travel, not the miles because going off the main roads can be slow with lights, trucks, and sheep traffic. Piazza Armerina is a good-sized town with a beautiful church and some lunch-time eateries, but the reason to drive here is to visit the Villa Romana del Casale , just a few minutes on its outskirts. Think 4th century wealthy Romans.

We don’t know exactly who they were, but the vast expanse of this villa and their intricately decorated rooms, would suggest they were very important. It was a hunting villa in the woods, and it contains miles of some of the best-preserved Roman mosaics in the world. Animal scenes, allegories, mythology and family life is all described with small stone, glass and ceramic tiles in each spectacular room. Another UNESCO site , a tour around will give you a sense of their very advanced living, from hot baths to a gym and much in between.

Caltagirone

The ceramics tradition in Sicily dates back to the indigenous peoples who used the rich clay in the area to make useful things. The Greeks advanced to firing vases and pots. Fast forward to the Arabs who brought with them a knowledge of ceramics-making from the East and they began making decorative objects, later refined further by the Spanish.

History in Sicily is always complex, and all the peoples that came through left their own mark. Caltagirone is the largest of the ceramic centers in Sicily. Walk through the town and it is like you are in an open-air museum seeing glazed pottery on walls, balconies, decorative objects and on the town’s centerpiece, the Scala Maria del Monte .

These 182 steps are each adorned with ceramic tiles that tell a chronological story from most recent to older styles as you climb. Alongside the steps, the workshop doors are ajar for you to come in and browse or watch artistry at work. There are many, many shops in town from museum quality refined to the inexpensive.

The mother-lode of Greek ruins lies in the town once known as Akragas . It was a thriving, highly populated metropolis in the 6th century BCE. In the amazing place known as The Valley of the Temples , visitors will see 7 temples along a paved road (where it is possible to hop on a bus for a fee), among which is one of the world’s best-preserved temples, Concordia. This stunning group of temples all have similar light-colored stone now, but we know that back in the day, each temple was a colorful sight.

There are olive, almond and carob trees, ongoing digs, a few goats, and a rest stop or two as well. Imposing and majestic, this is an unforgettable sight with a complex history and mythology best explained by a guide. Allow yourself half a day for the Archeological Park (with comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen) and if archeology interests you, the well-stocked Archeological Museum is nearby.

The town itself is small but has some old churches worth seeing and a few good restaurants. A visit to the Monastero Santo Spirito is worth the steep walk and rewarded, as these nuns are one of the only ones on the island that still sell their marzipan sweets. Pay attention to parking rules in town. That’s experience talking.

READ: Our guide to Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples .

Sicani Hills

The Sicans were an indigenous population from Sicily’s central area and recent efforts have been successful at bringing tourists to see a bit of pre-history. In tucked away caves and small off-the-beaten-path places, this area is awash with experiences for the curious, food and wine lovers, too, from visiting farms that raise goats to pistachios, from olive oil producers to winemakers.

You can spend a memorable day with a knowledgeable guide, immersing yourself in a bit of Sicily known to few. Afterwards, head to the sea and there you will find sandy beaches from which to watch the sunset. Accommodations in the area run from five-star hotels to wonderful rural properties, known as either a baglio or an agriturismo. You can watch a video about the Sicani hills on the La RosaWorks Sicily Presents YouTube channel .

North-West Sicily

Sciacca and selinunte.

On the windswept sea, along the Southern coastline sits Sciacca . It had thermal springs that served nearby Selinunte , a large Greek settlement in the 5th century BCE. Today Sciacca resembles a charming medieval town, built on an incline affording beautiful views of the sea. It is known for its ceramics with its own distinctive style, with many shops and workshops in town and also for its celebration of Carnevale.

If you visit the town for a half day of relaxed exploring, you can spend the other half roaming the vast Archeological Park of Selinunte . Among the least visited of the archeological sites, here the ancient grain blows in the wind, the stones are strewn about and it is easy to imagine the time when these lands were the scene of great Greek and Carthagenian battles. Buy a book at the newly opened visitors center to learn about the history. Signage at the site is minimal. Remember the sunscreen. Archeological sites generally offer little shade.

Mazara del Vallo

Coming up the west coast, the town of Mazara del Vallo says a lot about Sicily. As the crow flies, it is not far from Tunisia and this port town seems like a colorful extension, complete with a section of town called The Kasbah, Arabic art and signage, and the population itself often in Muslim dress.

There are Mosques and couscous, the signature dish, but there is also an old Jewish Quarter, Catholic churches and a museum housing one of Sicily’s great art treasures, a Greek statue. The Dancing Satyr was found in a fishing net off the coast and after careful restoration, looking up at it is a Stendhal moment. Sicily’s complex history is on display in this small town, a microcosm of diversity. Feast on the fish couscous here.

Not far, further north and also on the sea is Marsala – Mars-Allah, the Port of Allah. The Arab influence in Sicily is distinctly felt in the West in contrast to the Greek influence in the East. This town is known for its fortified wine. Marsala was Sicily’s first DOC wine. It became famous in the mid 19th century because the wine would remain drinkable for sailors and merchants on long voyages.

Although this small town is pleasant enough to explore, visiting wineries here is the thing to do. There are a number of cantine right around town; Florio , Donnafugata , and Pellegrino are all large scale and welcome tourists interested in seeing how Marsala is made and tastes, Florio being the most historic. Alagna Vini , just outside of town, offers a very personal approach to the wines they make, a delicious education. All by appointment only.

Outside of the city are the salt pans, and in the Summer, you can see white, conical piles of salt that were once used to preserve tuna from the local fishing industry. There is a small museum to explain the salt collecting process and different varieties.

Take the 5-minute boat ride over to the island of Mozia , a settlement of Phoenician merchants and sailors from the 7th century BCE. There are remains all over the island and archeological digs to observe. The main attraction is the museum, in which stands another of Sicily’s great art treasures, The Charioteer sculpture. As you gaze upon this stunning Greek body, you are sure to be amazed by its grace, power and unusual pose.

Not on most tourist itineraries is a trip into the interior. Salemi is not far inland from Marsala and well worth the visit. Known for its intricate breads made for the Feast of Saint Joseph , there is a museum that explains the meanings of the many bread shapes that decorate the special feast time altars. In town you will also find the remains of a Norman castle and a grand church. It’s a charming hill town with expansive vistas.

Nearby are many wineries offering tastings and each one offering their unique expression of winemaking. Tenuta Orestiadi combines their winemaking efforts with art and they are situated across the road from the Contemporary Art Foundation Orestiadi , a wonderful museum and relatively new addition to the landscape.

Trapani is further north and west. It was once an important trading port inhabited by wealthy merchants as is evidenced by the impressive houses that still line the streets. Trapani is known for its intensely somber Holy Week events that draw people from all over the world.

There is an historic medieval Jewish quarter that has narrow streets and some good restaurants, including Cantina Siciliana , where Pino’s Fish couscous is a signature dish. Sicily’s Jewish population before the Inquisition was quite large.

From the port of Trapani, you can ferry to the Egadi Islands where the fascinating history of the tuna fishing ritual can be seen at a museum on Favignana . On Levanzo , a less populated island, scooters and light hiking offer beautiful and peaceful moments. Boating and water sports are available. Bring the camera.

From Trapani take the funicular up to the hill town of Erice , or you can drive up a steep and curvaceous road with many switchbacks, but fabulously stunning vistas. The town of Erice is small with a distinct medieval ambience but its history goes back to the Greeks. There was once a temple to Aphrodite, an important spot where a fire always burned and to which travelers came from afar to pay the goddess respects.

In later times there was a Norman castle with a breathtaking view. Flash forward and we can find Maria Grammatico’s Pasticceria . As a young girl from a poor family, Maria was sent to the convent. She spent her days helping to bake the traditional sweets for which the convents were known.

Today she bakes still, and her shop is quite famous. You must not miss her Brutti ma Buoni , almond paste or divine pistachio treats. You can see Erice in a half day, but if you have the time, walking the cobblestone streets and exploring slowly is my recommendation for all town visits.

Segesta rises from the landscape seemingly from nowhere. This was an ancient Elymian settlement and the ruins of the temple and the amphitheater are well preserved, making this site one of Sicily’s most visited.

A guide is useful to explain this particular ancient history. There is a bus every thirty minutes that can shuttle you to the higher ground on which the amphitheater sits, overlooking the rolling hills, or you can walk, although it is a steep climb that will take time. Half a day should be enough time here, and you can move along towards Palermo.

Northern Sicily

Monreale .

Perhaps one of Sicily’s top must see sites is Monreale Cathedral . It is simply spectacular and renowned for its beauty but also because it remains a symbol of a time when multiculturalism was at its height.

Begun in 1174 by William the Good, it exemplifies the best of the Arab/Norman heritage. It is an imposing Norman structure, covered in miles of brilliant Byzantine mosaics and colorful stonework with distinctly Arab motifs. It has decorated wooden ceilings, again displaying intricate Arab craftmanship.

On the side walls are gilded saints and Biblical stories while the glittering iconic Christ Pantocrator looks out towards devout worshipers. You can visit the cloister, a separate entrance, that is surrounded by unique columns and more mosaics, radiant in the sun. Another treat is climbing up to the walkway that surrounds the cloister for an aerial view of the cloister and surroundings.

Monreale is best seen with a guide to understand and not miss the layered meanings of its stunning contents. If you are hungry after being wowed, head to the wonderful Pavone for a very nice lunch with wine, but pizza in the Cathedral piazza is quite good, too.

Palermo is Sicily’s capital, the largest city with roughly one million inhabitants. It has UNESCO designation for its Arab/Norman heritage, but even beyond this important history, Palermo has so much to offer!

LISTEN: Palermo, Not what you expect!

It is advisable to give yourself at least 2-3 days in Palermo to experience its variety: fabulous markets, famous for their chaos, colors, and cacophony; the historic sites, including the Palazzo Royale and its Cappella Palatina the extraordinary private chapel of King Roger II (with more incredible mosaics); Palermo Cathedral that houses the remains of Palermo’s patron saint, Rosalia, medieval tombs and a rooftop experience; the Teatro Massimo , Europe’s third largest opera house (tours are offered); the excellent Archeological Museum Salinas with its unique lay out in an historic convent; the large circular Pretoria Fountain with its particular history; the Galleria Arte Moderne , GAM; the ornately decorated Oratorios decorated in stucco relief by the artist Serpotta, and the charming traditional puppet shows, the most well-known and central of these being L’Opera di Pupi Cuticchio .

There is a wonderful Orto Botanico as well as 16th-18th century Spanish palazzi all around the city, some of which you can visit by appointment. Stanze al Genio , a private collection dedicated to the important history of ceramic tiles in Southern Italy is well worth the guided tour.

READ: Our guide of the Best things to do in Palermo .

These are highlights of what Palermo can offer to fill your days, but Palermo’s nightlife is busy, too. In Palermo’s old Vucciria Market , there is a party of street food and music. On pedestrian only Via Maqueda you can hear street musicians and eat arancini. The Piazza Verdi which fronts the Teatro Massimo is always alive with buskers and tourists. Palermo is a wonderful city, at one time Europe’s most important city, and it is a mistake to overlook it.

LISTEN: Great day trips from Palermo

Cefalù sits on the Tyrrhenian seacoast, a small but very charming town built around its main Cathedral whose sturdy Norman spires dominate the landscape. It’s an iconic image of an unusual setting with sandy beach at its front and the Madonie Mountains at its back. To the side of the Cathedral is La Rocca – a rocky promontory whose top can be reached on a path that leaves the center of town and after a moderate hike gifts you with stunning views of the sea, the town and the mountains.

Cefalù has a good tourist population but it seems far less international than Taormina. In the evenings the narrow streets are full of locals taking the passeggiata or sitting in the Piazza Duomo for an espresso or gelato. There are eateries aplenty here and if you go to the edge of the town on Via Bordonaro, you can sit on one of their terraces on the water and listen to the water gently lapping as you devour a great pizza and local red wine.

Don’t miss the Duomo itself, filled with more amazing and well-preserved Byzantine mosaics in the Arab/Norman style. The small Mandralisca Museum is a gem of a collection and contains the famous ‘Portrait of an Unknown Man’ by Antonella da Messina . If you are looking for down time with a few things to do, for a base from which to do relaxed day trips, consider staying in Cefalù for a couple of nights.

READ: Our guide to the Best places to stay in Sicily .

Which places will you visit in Sicily?

The message for visitors is clear: do not miss feasting on the variety of what Sicily has to offer, on your plate, in a glass, and with your eyes. The history is layered, the contrasts are great, the landscape is stunning and the overall experience otherworldly. And this list is but a sampling, for in every town large and small, there are untold stories to uncover.

DISCOVER: Best Things to do in Sicily during a visit

Delve deeper into the places to see in Sicily

Recommended reading to inspire your Sicilian adventures!

• Seeking Sicily and Sicilian Splendors by John Keahey;
• The Peoples of Sicily by Louis Mendola and Jacqueline Alio
• The Leopard by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa
• The Wine Dark Sea by Leonardo Sciascia

You’ll find more books and inspiration for your trip to Sicily at La RosaWorks .

About the author

Karen la rosa la rosaworks sicily, latest italy travel podcasts and articles, 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, where to stay in calabria: best towns and hotels [updated 2024], planning a trip to italy.

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A northern Sicily itinerary

For the perfect northern sicily itinerary, it’s best to start high in the north, in palermo . the italian city is the capital of sicily and lies right on the coast. as there are some fascinating historical sights to visit here, i recommend to allow enough time for this wonderful, edgy city. here’s which other places to visit in sicily:.

Scopello - a Sicilian insider tip

The coastal town is the perfect place for a dip in the cold water. The beach west of Castellammare del Golfo is a white pebble beach facing beautiful turquoise waters. As it is rather small and unknown, it is not overrun by tourists. Or just because of that it is one of the most beautiful and cleanest beaches in Sicily. Scopello is a kind of small fishing village. This one is charming and idyllic. You can also visit the old tuna fishing station (Tonnara di Scopello), which now houses a museum and a small guesthouse.

Erice - a small town right on top of the hill

The medieval town Erice is located in the western part of Sicily, high on Monte Erice and a must see Spot in Sicily. At about 750 meters above sea level, you have a wonderful view of the surrounding towns, the Mediterranean Sea, and the beautiful beach of San Vito Lo Capo. In the distance, you can even see the Aegades, a group of islands.

To reach the impressive viewpoint, you can either take the narrow mountain road or the cable car.  

Cornino & Monte Cofanino

Close to Erice lies the small village of Cornino right at the Mediterranean coast. It is best to bring your diving goggles, because you’ll find an impressive underwater world. The clean and sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing and a walk.

For hikers, it is well worth visiting Monte Cofanino. The hiking route surrounding the 315-meter peak is about 8 km and takes about 3 hours. However, there is no shady spot and no possibility for an early pit stop, so the best time for this activity is in the early mornings and late afternoons. Do not forget water and a hat!

Castellammare del Golfo - a place to relax, stroll and enjoy

This Italian village is located on the north-west coast of Sicily at the Gulf of Sicily. You can stroll through the atmospheric old town and to the harbour at this famous tourist town. You can book various excursions by boat from there.

In the late evening hours, i.e. at the blue hour , grab your camera and take some shots from above the village. The colorful sky and the surrounding mountains are wonderful scenery to capture.

The Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro - hiking in Sicily

For sure, there is one thing not to be missed on your Sicily itinerary: a hike through the nature reserve Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro. It covers an area of 1,600 ha, including an 8 km long coastal strip. You can easily drive to the end of the avenue and park your car there. Within the area, it will amaze you at how beautiful nature is.

On the hiking route, you will have a fantastic view of the wide, bright blue sea all the time.

Dinner by the sea

After an exhausting day of hiking and other activities, a dinner by the sea is the perfect retreat. Tonnara di Bonagia in Valderice with the old tuna fishing station is the perfect place to do this. In one of the restaurants, you can finish the day with delicious food and a perfect view.

Marsala - salt & sunset

The harbour town is located on the west coast of Sicily and is known above all for its salt production in the salt mines. In the past, the extraction of salt from Marsala was one of the most important sources of income. Today, they also allow tourists to enter the salt mines. 

Beside that, Marsala is also known for the Marsala wine. You can treat yourself with a glass in one of many beach bars. From there, you have a perfect view of the sun setting behind the salt lagoons in the evening. 

A day trip from Trapani

You should plan a whole day for a boat trip to Levanzo and Favignana . These two islands are surrounded by beautiful bays and turquoise sea. At the port of Favignana, you have the possibility to rent a bike and explore the small, manageable island. 

Learn a couple of Italian phrases, because you might not find many people speaking English. This is mainly because there are not too many tourists in the area.

Selinunte - Excavations of the Greeks

A Sicilian highlight is this archaeological site on the south coast: Selinunte. Mainly you will see the last remains of the Greek city Selinus. These include two necropolises and extensive temples. You can visit the archaeological finds until 1 hour before sunset. My tip: In the evening at the golden hour, the place is magical.

Where to stay for your Northern Sicily itinerary?

I stayed in Valderice in B&B Z’Angelina *. A lovely small bed and breakfast with a lovely host, super clean rooms and a pool. Plus: the breakfast is awesome!

Let's talk history

Sicily has been influenced by many cultures, countries and organizations. The Mafia also plays a role, but not half as important as you might think.

In the early days of 750 B.C. – 215 B.C. Sicily still belonged to Greece. The Greeks built a lot of towers and other buildings, which you can still visit today. They concentrated on agriculture and the profitable export of various goods. The famous scientist Archimedes, however, provided more understanding of science and art and culture. One might think this period had a very peaceful atmosphere. Well, the exact opposite was the truth. There was a war between the two great powers of the Romans and the Carthaginians. Today we know it as the Punic War.

The Roman people triumphed and long-lasting peace returned. After about 500 years, however, Christianity spread and Sicily split. In the eastern part, the Byzantine Empire and its capital Constantinople came into existence. While this became stronger and stronger and spread, the great power of the Arabs and Islam arose in the south.

Another war followed, from which the Arabs emerged victorious in 831 AD. They achieved great progress in agriculture through new irrigation methods and gave Sicily an Arab touch. Christians, Jews, and Muslims lived together peacefully until 1300 AD. Meanwhile, the Normans and then the Staufers roamed the country. During the Anjou period, there was a historical popular uprising against foreign occupiers. This became known under the name Sicilian Vespers. When it became peaceful then, the Sicilians did not really know what to do, so they asked a Spanish foreign ruler to rule the province.

The predominantly Spanish rule of the next 600 years was broken in the meantime mainly by the land barons. They lawfully took over Sicilian domestic politics and thus gained more power. From this, the Mafia arose, which celebrated its rise particularly in the 19th century and displaced the Spanish aristocracy.

Around the year 1860, Sicily was liberated from all occupation by the guerrilla fighter Giuseppe Garibaldi within the framework of the so-called Risorgimento. With the foundation of the Italian nation state, Sicily was now officially part of Italy. The changes brought by the liberators did not please the population in favour of the Mafia. After the 2nd World War, the land barons regained power.

Since 1970, the Mafia has been actively fought. In 1985, the first Antimafia Mayor was elected and in 2012 Sicily received an Antimafia Prime Minister. 

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A road trip tour of the best places in Sicily

By Rosalyn Wikeley

‘In Sicily it doesn’t matter whether things are done well or done badly; the sin which we Sicilians never forgive is simply that of "doing" at all.’ ― Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa, 'The Leopard'

Lampedusa’s words in his 1958 novel, chronicling the decline of a noble Sicilian family during the Risorgimento, neatly sums up the state of being we were hankering after when planning this road trip in Italy. In just two weeks, we explore Lampedusa’s old noble city, Palermo , pick up the keys to a Fiat 500 and drive west to Trapani’s Scopello beach. From here, we journey through Sicily ’s rural heart to the ancient columns of Agrigento, the south-east’s baroque marvels, and up the east coast via Taormina to the north-eastern tip of Sicily. We leave our little car in the port town of Milazzo and jump on a boat, bound for the sleepy Aeolian Islands .

A church sits on every Palermo street corner – crumbling stone splendour drizzled in honey, then baked in the sun. Evening lifts and melts these honey hues into a blurred and balmy labyrinth of restaurants and alfresco wine bars. Palermo’s old palazzos, tangles of telephone wires and ancient statues are caught in the glow of 18th-century lanterns, much like the island found itself caught and conquered by every power passing through it.

Morning brings sweet pastry tradition – deep-fried ciambella and brioche con il gelato at Prestipino café – and an unusually hot breeze. Majestic palms shift and tickle the feet of cherubs dangling over vast doorways, while statues of voluptuous women draped over lions greet visitors and nod to Sicily’s golden age. We drive into one that’s considerably shabbier – yet no less beguiling.

Languorous hours are lost gazing at Palazzo Lungarini’s frescoed ceiling from an enormous bed, giggling on its marble balconies with Negronis, being late for lunch. We dodge Vespas, flinch at sheets slapping balconies above us, then settle into plates of arancini al ragù at local favourite Antica Focacceria San Francesco in another of Palermo’s film-set-ready squares.

The cooler end of the afternoon lends itself to inspecting the stamps of the city’s multiple occupiers: the Norman Palace with its Moorish mosaics, the grand Spanish courtyards, the couscous di pesce brought to Sicily’s shores by Arab and North African invaders. The relics abound: trinkets at the mercato delle pulci (flea market) – chandeliers, intricate vases and gilt mirrors – the bounty of indifferent vendors; noisy food markets reminiscent of Moroccan souks. Then there are the quiet backstreets and their treasures: a pocket-sized bookshop with a marble mezzanine and classics that, when translated, peer into the Sicilian soul (the Lampedusas and Camilleris), and restaurants such as Osteria Ballarò: old palace stables elevated with softly lit stone, swordfish rolls and fine wines.

Outside the exotic Garibaldi gardens, with their enormous Morton Bay fig’s roots gripping the dry earth like lion’s claws, we pause at the spot where Giuseppe “Joe” Petrosino (America’s first Sicilian police lieutenant, who investigated the mafia in New York ) was murdered having been malevolently lured to Piazza Marina – a sobering reminder of the Mafia’s historical grip on the city.

The scars are manifest, but Palermo possesses the same spirit of possibility that resurrected Athens after the financial crisis. Progressive young people are mapping out the city’s future with values that suit its ancient walls.

Palermo insider guide

Scopello beach, Trapani

We leave Palermo and its splendid palazzos for Scopello beach on the north-east coast in Trapani, long lauded for its beauty (Homer placed Ulysses here before his return to Ithaca), and just over an hour’s drive. Italians sprawl like seals on the slab of concrete, dipped in the calm water. Above them, a faded pink house blinks through white cutwork curtains caught in the sea air. On the ascent to our Fiat 500, the ground feels scorched and crunchy, too desert-like for the Mediterranean.

Skirting the coast, where rushes of sandy meadow and olive groves meet the blue, we head south for two hours, slicing through Sicily’s underpopulated rural heart until the sea greets us again. It’s particularly captivating to gaze upon the water from Agrigento, from its ancient columns high on a hill, and to imagine the Greeks doing the same as a Carthaginian invasion breaks the horizon. Exploring these ruins, we gently roast in the midday sun.

The almonds in Mandranova Agricola’s courtyard suffer the same fate, although theirs is by design, bound for milk-alternative coffees and healthy snacks across Europe . Tucked just off a main road, the house recalls a grand Spanish finca , standing tall with gilt mirrors, wrought-iron candelabras and original stone floors inside. On the terrace, supper arrives along with a Hyblaean breeze and dogs weaving between our legs. Exquisitely simple dishes – such as buttery rigatoni with broccoli and pine nuts – blend Italian ingredients with Japanese precision (courtesy of the owner’s son, who trained in Kyoto ). The family jovially tuck into cena alongside us, with the exaggerated gesticulation and intonation tourists long for. Tomorrow is harvest day, when the estate’s olives are pruned, pressed and poured into famous Mandranova bottles – its deep, well-rounded taste once sipped renders supermarket bottles bland and obsolete.

The light splays across the pool in marble shapes, a smooth contrast to its backdrop of sparse and jagged hills. Their mustard hues would paint the baroque towns we are bound for – imposing, elaborate buildings softened, like an old man’s temper, with age and fatigue.

The first of these towns is Scicli, two hours south-east and the lesser known of the four baroques, whose flamboyant architecture and interiors tell stories of wild parties, family dynasties and bygone prosperity. Once-grand windows are framed by crumbling stucco arches, dark green shutters and iron balconies that swirl and rust.

Two traditional Sicilian pastries at Cannolia elicit unearthly joy and several napkins. We take our sugar rush out of the sun and into an antiques shop shaded by the glorious San Bartolomeo church. ‘I left my Milan life in finance for this,’ explains the owner, whose upstairs warren of guest rooms at Sanbatholomeo Casa e Putia is a tastefully choreographed expression of his and his wife’s new start. Lace bed toppers, mahogany dressers and eccentric Italian trinkets dress them in a manner reflective of the light and loyal design footprint these historically rich yet economically fragile towns deserve. ‘If you’re interested in antiques, my mother-in-law is the best for it.’ He scribbles her number on a scrunched receipt, then neatly wraps my Sicilian pine ceramic.

Sampieri Beach

Nearby Sampieri Beach echoes Scicli’s mottled golden buildings – though these are bleached with sea salt and blistered by the sun. We follow locals into the sea, slipping under the warm water like otters before flopping back onto the sand with more Birra Messina and sugary granita. The sunsets along Sampieri are as flat and deep red as the glasses of Donnafugata Tancredi we’re served at our next stop.

Set in the Ragusan countryside a 35-minute drive from Sampieri, contemporary hotel Relais Chiaramonte offers a brief hiatus from baroque façades and frescoed ceilings. Its balconies and terrace peer over olive groves and carob trees and across the Irminio valley’s neatly groomed wheat fields, which trail off to meet the sea. The wine accompanies a local lamb recipe (Ragusan, not Sicilian) and warm bread soaked in puddles of Relais Chiaramonte’s own olive oil.

Doing our best to avoid erratic weaving at great speed, we journey west for half an hour to our second baroque. A strong coffee in Modica (‘the town of one hundred churches’) takes the edge off the shakes. It’s difficult not to liken angles of this town to those of Jerusalem – not perhaps the wide, orderly Corso Umberto dominated by the magnificent Church of Saint Peter and its pastel-fancy innards, but rather Modica’s hazy, hilly sprawl that surges in the distance.

Having occupied Sicily for just over three centuries, Spain left a legacy that can be seen in both Modica’s flamboyant architecture and, famously, its chocolate, the former having imported Aztec chocolate-making prowess from its South American conquests to Sicilian soil. Modican chocolate is defined as ‘cold’ for its crumbly texture, and local chocolatiers still use the process passed indirectly to them from the Aztecs. We scrutinise the movement of knowledge and skill, the controversial issue of provenance and ownership as we queue for the mandatory bar in Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, Sicily’s oldest chocolate factory.

Its sugar-coated almonds are the popcorn for our theatrical half-hour drive north into the Hyblaean Mountains to reach Ragusa Ibla. This fairy-tale town, with its limestone labyrinth of bijoux houses, baroque palazzos and churches, engulfs us for two gelato-heavy days.

Krystin Arneson

Sarah James

Olivia Morelli

Ragusa Ibla

Here, Locanda Don Serafino sprawls across several old houses and down below the town for its famous cave rooms. Upstairs, shutters open to a jovial scene – locals going about their day, a chef whistling, an animated nonna greeting a companion – but in our moody cave rooms, we’re left alone with bowls of exotic fruit, traditional cakes and Champagne. Even more tempting is the sea urchin spaghetti primos , the pork-belly secondis or indeed the sinful alchemy of solid and liquid Modica chocolate, cooked up by chef Vincenzo Candiano at the hotel’s vaulted restaurant (once stables for the church).

‘These are owned by sisters.’ Locanda Don Serafino’s executive director, Alex Massari gestures towards two pastel-pretty palazzos. He has just introduced me to olive-and-onion-flavoured ice cream at Gelati DiVini and sold me on the foodie virtues of A’ Rusticana. Yes, this is one of Sicily’s south-eastern baroque towns, but Ragusa Ibla evokes Nutcracker , toymaker, Pinocchio scenes, with its workshops such as Rosso Cinabro, where Damiano Rotella and Biagio Castilletti carve, hammer and paint traditional carts. A book of their collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana rests proudly on the worktop. This aspect of the Sicilian psyche unfurls itself throughout our trip: an innate ability to celebrate traditions rather than preserve them in glass cabinets. The island’s reverence for its past (and disdain for its less savoury aspects) translates into a sensory, up-close experience for voyeurs like us, accustomed to viewing history from a distance.

Having scrambled up the stone steps (dipped by the centuries) behind the cathedral for killer views over the Hyblaean Mountains, we chug down the hillside in our trusty Fiat 500, following the spiral of a snail’s shell for the baroque finale: Noto.

Pictured: Rosso Cinabro, Ragusa Ibla

More than an hour east from Ragusa Ibla and just outside the city of Noto lies Dimora delle Balze . Any semblance of critical appraisal is lost once inside its castle door (from Marrakech ) and the hotel’s sun-dappled stone courtyard. An organic edict runs throughout, from its earthy linens and lilac curtains to the peachy room colours and compact kitchen-garden menu. Bandits routinely ransacked this fortified castle in the 18th century – now guests recline alongside its pool wrapped in prairie-style scrubland and Val di Noto, concerned with only a hot breeze and cocktail menu.

Noto, Sicily guide

Pictured: Dimora Delle Balze, Noto

Our Noto visit fails to comply with Sicilian siesta law (1pm to 5pm is dead, save a few restaurants soldiering on till 2pm). Past the paninis, postcards and blinding tourist regalia, in this strange window when only tourists walk Noto’s streets, is its Roman Catholic cathedral: a splendid, hefty bastion of baroque glory.

Striking architecture is sweetened with a pistachio gelato from Gelati Bianca. Couples squeeze on Vespas, frangipani dresses scruffy walls and a maximalist wedding spills lace and laughter down the cathedral steps.

A little further along the butter-coated Corso Vittorio Emanuele lies Caffè Sicilia, the grande dame of Noto’s coffee scene dating back to 1892, with poetry supposedly spun from its granita and brioche. Also closed.

We drive north scraping the east coast. Catania is to our right, the mighty Etna bearing down on us for the two-hour drive to Taormina. John Julius Norwich’s deft account of Sicily’s history bellows to be heard above the wind, hammering our ears and rattling our sunglasses as we cruise into Taormina, Sicily’s high-rolling, dolce vita town commanding Amalfi -style views and scenes of Slim Aarons reverie. Convertible Fiat 500 territory.

The onyx statement earrings are as dazzling as they are expensive, one of family-run Novello Oggetti d’Arte’s delicate treasures (an ornate find off Corso Umberto’s tourist run). As is the historic Belmond Hotel Grand Timeo and its jaw-dropping views.

Otto Geleng (a Michelin-starred ode to the German painter whose fondness for Taormina was documented in gold and blue strokes) plays to this bygone glamour. Flickering oil lamps trace the swirls of lace along the table and velvety sauces run over squid, tuna, chocolate. Breakfast is composed of tall glasses of orange juice, pastries slathered in butter and strawberry jam, and granita brioche served with a polished silver spoon. Then there’s the jazz, the parquet floors to dance on, the menacing backdrop of Mount Etna, whose coils of smoke recall those of 19th-century grand tourees puffing on cigars.

In a hot stupor, we slump down the many steps to Timeo’s little sister, Belmond Villa Sant'Andrea , too distracted by the twinkling views of Naxos Bay (and our body heat) to dodge the fallen prickly pears scattered across the way like confetti. A pretty cabana awaits, a shady refuge of ice buckets and Evian face mist behind the beau monde crowds lining the beach. The sea is as photogenic and inviting as the faces serving Bellinis, plates of exotic fruit and baking soda for jellyfish run-ins.

Salina, Aeolian Islands

We leave Taormina’s Greco-Roman amphitheatre and its bougainvillaea-framed views of the coast for Milazzo, a gloriously tatty port lined with palm trees, lost Rimowa cases and cobalt-blue and white ferries.

From the hydrafoil’s windows, I discern Vulcano’s grey mass rising from the sea like an elephant’s wrinkly bottom. Patches of green, then white specks of houses begin to fill the crevices of its dark and dramatic topography, its harbour dominated by a handsome palazzo, and then Salina, the greenest Aeolian.

This go-slow, bountiful island is dotted with white houses and Maldivian vineyards, and appears to have drifted from its volcanic friends to find its own patch of tropical-grade water. Piaggio Apes filled with capers, olives or grapes, which bounce precariously, chug up and down narrow roads.

Afternoons here are deliciously drowsy – we spend them dozing in the shade, gently parting calm, tar-like water come evening or gliding past Salina’s craggy rock formations in a little motor boat. Salina’s cliffs read like slices of cake – red velvet, grainy walnut and coffee, boulders and patches of green cascading and crumbling amid cacti, moss and herbs to meet the water. ‘Look up!’ Falcons ride the hot air before migrating to Madagascar.

We migrate home every night from a different patch of this exuberant island to Hotel Signum , a family-owned sprawl of pastel-coloured houses, whose genteel, maritime sensibility manifests in antique furniture, long white curtains and curly wrought-iron beds. Every morning, our porous room inhales the cool, salty air off the Tyrrhenian Sea. Every evening, Etta James and crisp Etna wine lull us into a strange delirium on the terrace, flanked by a wild tangle of lemon trees, palms, honeysuckle, jasmine and bougainvillaea, its white Victoriana cast-iron chairs positioned for Stromboli’s smoke show and occasional fiery belch. We plot to extend Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa’s sinful existence, throwing caution to the wind, drunk on wild fantasy and Amarillo Brillo.

Pictured: Hotel Signum, Salina

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Western Sicily

Sicily's windswept western coast has beckoned invaders for millennia. Its richly stocked fishing grounds, hilltop vineyards and coastal saltpans were coveted by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and Normans, all of whom influenced the region's landscape and culture. Even the English left their mark, with 18th-century entrepreneurs lured here and made rich by one of the world's most famous sweet wines, marsala.

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Western Sicily and beyond

ADVENTURE TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE

5 Things to See and Do in Northern Sicily

5 amazing things to see and do in northern sicily.

A ride through the countryside of northern Sicily

I dare say,  Sicily is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Apart from the bigger cities like Palermo and Catania, not many people know about the treasures that this Mediterranean island has to offer. I guess the Italians and Sicilians would like to keep a slice of the cake for themselves considering that most other parts of Italy get so many visitors each year.

There is so much to be seen and done in Sicily. From its heavenly clean, blue seas, to its volcanoes and Islands, there is something for everyone here!

Being from Siracusa (Syracuse in English), Pietro and I share our time between Malta and Sicily so we know a lot about the area. Northern Sicily on the other hand, is new to us and so we decided that for our very first motorcycle road trip, we would explore the North.

Northern Sicily is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions on the Island. From its mountain ranges to waterfalls and beaches for miles, the region has so much to offer. It starts from Tindari in the northeast to Palermo in the northwest. Our top suggestions for things to see and do in Northern Sicily besides the usual culprits include:

• Visit Milazzo – A medieval town with a Norman castle with fantastic views of the coast.
• Visit Tindari- A small town boasting a Greek acropolis and a sanctuary for pilgrims.
• Ride to the Parco Dei Nebrodi – Sicily’s largest national park.
•  Swim in the cool lakes of the Catafurco waterfalls.
• Eat fresh, local produce in  Nebrodi Park.
• Lodge in an agriturismo establishment.

Why Northern Sicily?

The charm of northern Sicily to us, is the diversity of its landscapes, people, and, best of all, food!

I like taking short hikes and discovering lakes and such while stopping to admire little things like strange-looking leaves or the likes (this sometimes exasperates Pietro). So the mountains and their parks do that for me. On the other hand, Pietro is more of a seaman A few hundred meters out, we’re in the crystal waters of the Tyrrhenian sea.

Win-win for us both!

So in July of 2021, just after the Covid restrictions were partially lifted, we decided that exploring Pietro’s motherland might be a safer idea since it was close to home. Turned out to be the best decision for that solemn year! 

We had been taking weekend trips around Sicily for years now but this was going to be our first long trip, and one to show our “defiance” to the whole situation.

Pietro got right into the planning while I made my research on things to do, and places to stay. He got the bike road ready, created maps, and prepared our Treasures of Northern Sicily Itinerary . I, on the other hand, was worried more about our luggage. You see, I’m quite fashion conscious (not a fashionista though) and I just love to have my favourite things with me, as well as extras in case of emergencies. This means that 75% of the contents in our combined motorcycle luggage belonged to well, me!

The best time to visit Northern sicily.

Being on the Mediteranean, the Sicilian weather is one of the best in Europe, with short winters (around 2-3 months). Meaning that you could practically visit Northern Sicily at any time of the year. Avoid the months of December and January though, as they are the wettest months.

Summers are hot – 29 °C- 33 °C degrees, so if you’re not crazy about hot summers, we suggest Spring and Autumn since the temperatures will be bearable towards the coast, but might get cooler towards the mountains. We went in July and it was ok for us (we’re Sicilian, remember?).

For more information about the climate, rainfall and sunshine read this post .

What to pack

If you’re travelling on a motorcycle as we did, take your summer riding gear and light, breathable clothes. But if you’re anything like me, take a light jacket if you’re visiting in autumn or spring. In winter, take enough warm clothing. Practical shoes and sunscreen are also a must.

The same applies if you’re traveling with a vehicle or a tour. Very importantly though, don’t forget your swimwear!

How much it costs

Sicily is a relatively cheap island to visit . Compared to mainland Italy, the cost of living is lower and so, more affordable.

It is made up of a few big cities and for the most part, smaller towns and villages. This means, there’s a lot of farming. More farming means lower prices of food products.

On average, a modest 3-star bread and breakfast will cost you between as low as 40 Euros to 120 euros a night, with breakfast included. 

Meals are super affordable like I mentioned earlier, and portions are huge so having just a main course is sufficient. An added bonus is the great wine. Make sure you request for “vino di casa” aka house wine as they’re usually less expensive, fresh, and not to mention, really good too. A good meal will cost between 20 and 40 euros depending on whether you’re having wine (and how much wine!) or seafood, which is usually a bit more expensive.

1. Castello di Milazzo (MilazzoCastle)

Milazzo is a city in Northern Sicily towards the east and extends into a peninsula with spectacular views of the Aeolian Islands.

The medieval Castle of Milazzo sits atop a promontory in the peninsula part of Milazzo. Its walls take on that imposing look that is characteristic of the Roman era.

Marvel at its grandiose gates. Get immersed in its rooms and walls. Check out the Benedictine monastery , and then climb up to the roof to enjoy the breathtaking views of Milazzo city below, the sea on both sides of the peninsula, and the Aeolian islands on the horizon.

The tickets cost 5 Euros from which you’ll get to visit the museum at the entrance with modern and pre-historic relics before continuing to other areas of the castle.

- How to get there

Depending on what direction in Northern Sicily you’re coming from it would take a few hours.

• From Messina , take the SS113 road which will cross inland, and then continue on the coast with lots of “wow” moments along the way. This takes about 48 minutes (38.1km).
• From Palermo, take the E90 and connect to the SS113 in San Filippo del Mela. This route will also take you through the coastal roads.
• Renting a motorcycle or car would also greatly heighten the experience as you can stop and find those Instagram-able moments at your own pace
• Other options would be to take the Itabus from both cities or go with an organized tour. 

Tindari, aka Tyndaris in ancient Greek, is a small town on the coast of Northern Sicily. We really loved how it made us feel like we were tucked away in a safe corner of the world where nothing bad happens. The most interesting things to see are;

• The Sanctuary of Tindari . One of the most unmissable monuments as you drive by, this church contains a very special relic known as “La Madonna Nera” aka the “Black Mary”. She’s also carrying a black baby Jesus in her arms. Legend has it that the statue arrived on the island from the sea and was taken to the highest hill where a church already existed. From then on, it carried on a holy significance and subsequently attracts pilgrims from around. Read this to find out more about the story.
• The Archaeological Park of Tindari . What better way to see an archaeological site than with a backdrop of the sea? That’s what you get in this part of Northern Sicily. You can walk around the ruins and see evidence of the history of Sicily as a whole. Mosaic floor tiles with the famous Sicilian symbols and others are very well preserved around the sight. The ruins show evidence of the paleolithic era, all the way to the bronze age.

From whatever direction, you need to connect to the SS289 to the park. There are also day trips from towns and cities around, including from Messina and Tindari.

We suggest you rent a motorcycle or car and head out at your own pace. If you want to see how we got there, here’s a look at our 

Imagine leaving the clear, blue beaches of Northern Sicily behind and riding up winding, narrow roads, with cattle grazing on the hills,  and the occasional herd of goats crossing the road and holding you up for miles. The road leading up to Nebrodi park is an adventure in itself.

The park is the largest of its kind in Sicily, spanning 856.87 km² . It has several hiking trails which you can access on its official site . Keep in mind that you can ride your motorcycle through the park until it gets narrower and more rugged (basically, off-road). Then it gets to a point where you will have to park and walk the rest of the way. 

The park is free but you might need a guide or a local to help you navigate to the best spots. The trails are moderate intensity so, most people can manage them. There are several activities to do like-

• bird watching
• taking perfect wildlife and nature photography
• swimming in its several lakes and waterfalls

The highligh t for us was hiking up one of its trails for about 3km, to find the Catafurco waterfalls , pictured above. An added bonus was that there were very few people there (all Italians too!). We were able to swim for a bit because the water was cold even in July. This is because it is nestled in a cave-like surrounding of rocks. 

Another interesting part of the trail is a niche set in a corner of the waterfalls with a statue of the Virgin Mary . Its position gives it the appearance of a stream of tears as water drips down slowly but continuously from the top of the rocks. Quite impressionable.

To get to the park, you need to find and connect to the SS289 road. We suggest renting a motorcycle or car to maximise the experience. However, you could also go with a tour from any of the cities nearby like Messina or Tindari.

To see how we got there, read our Treasures of Northern Sicily Itinerary

4. Eat fresh, local produce in Nebrodi Park

Northern Sicily, like the rest of Italy, has incredibly great food . However, what makes it even more special here is having the sea and the mountains, so that one can basically have the best of both worlds including when it comes to food.

We always hunt down local food wherever we go so we didn’t pack any lunch for the journey. Just before the entrance to the park, there is a car park with a wood kiosk that serves simple, basic meals. On our way back we stopped for lunch, and boy was it tasty! Simply grilled beef and nothing else.

There are very few restaurants around the park so this is practically the only option.

5. Lodge in an Agriturismo Establishment

If you want to get the most out of your stay in Northern Sicily , You have to stay in one of the establishments called “agriturismo” . Simply translates to “Agricultural Tourism”. They are often regarded as B&Bs but they are much more than that. 

We stayed at a place called “Villa Ginevra”, high up on the hills close to the Nebrodi park, and from there, we made day trips to Tindari, Milazzo and the Nebrodi park.

Given that it was just the beginning of the re-opening of Italy after Covid, we basically had the entire place to ourselves during our stay, which was heavenly! After long rides, we would arrive and head straight for the pool at any time of the day. We also had breakfast each morning outside with an amazing view of the coast including the Aeolian islands, and make as much noise as we wanted. Haha.

So there you have it. That’s how we propose to have a fantastic time in Northern Sicily.

Have you visited any of the places here? Is there one you’d like to see? Or are there other places in Northern Sicily you’ve been to which aren’t on the list? 

Let us know in the comments below.

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A couple with a zest for all things travel, a love for motorcycles, and a voracious appetite  for good food!

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Hi. We are Isabella and Pietro. Lovers of everything travel, culture, and adventure.

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Thia Place is amazing. Definitely on my bucket list. Thanks for this post

I’m going to my best friend is in Greece soon and will make sure to visit the Tyndaris. Thank you for sharing these places!

I loved Italy and want to go back. This is truly a wonderful article. Thank you so much for sharing. It makes me dream of more time there!

SOOOO super beautiful! Thanks so much for all your tips. Still have Sicily on my list, but it has definitely moved up the list now 😉

Great! I’m glad this has made you think of Sicily as worth your time. I’ll be posting more content on Sicily as there is quite a bit of untapped beauty waiting to be explored by the right kind of traveller.

What a detailed travel itinerary! Thanks for sharing. Looks like you had an awesome time in Sicily.

Indeed we did, Anatureescape. Sicily is a truly wonderful place to visit.

Sicily is so beautiful. I visited Palermo a few years back and loved it. I would love to go back and explore more of the area. Milazzo castle is definitely on my list of places I want to see!

Make Sure to Include The Nebrodi Nature Reserve to that list, JJ. You wouldn’t want to miss it.

How beautiful this all is, you have added some places to my must DO things in Sicily, thank you for a great article

You’re very welcome Jeanine! I’m sure you’ll love Sicily when you visit.

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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The 15 Best Places to Visit in Sicily – Destinations

The best things to do in sicily – destinations.

There are several beautiful places in the world where to go, and Sicily is absolutely one of them! This biggest island in Italy simply tells that it has so much to offer to travelers, being an ancient island that is very rich in archeology and nature.

Sicily is great in any season for it can be appealing all throughout the year, with the perfect complement of a gentle climate, wealthy history, good food, exciting day and night activities, and most especially the cozy ambiance.  

This list is the top places to visit in Sicily and the best cities to visit in Sicily. I spent two week going to all of the Sicily must see places and finding the best places in Sicily. These are my favorite places to visit in Sicily.

TLDR: Here are the top cities in Sicily, Italy

I will list the best places to visit Sicily starting with Palermo and then working clockwise around the island. This is how I took my road trip around Sicily

Palermo – the capital of Sicily

Cefalu – a beautiful beach town

Messina – closest to the main land

Taoromina – my favorite city with the ancient Theatre

Mt Edna – the famous Sicilian volcano

Catania – an often overlooked city but a great base to travel Sicily

Syracuse – a great place to explore the old city

Noto – a baroque city that is lovely to walk around

Ragusa – a UNESCO world heritage site town

Agrigento – Valley of the Temples is the number one Sicily attraction

Marsala – where you can visit salt lakes and marsala wine vineyards

Trapani – a great base to visit Erice and Favignana Island Sicily

All of these places make for a perfect 10 day Sicily road trip or if you have less time then check out this 5 Day Sicily Itinerary.

Here are the top 15 Best Places to Visit in Sicily – Destinations

Palermo – visit sicily’s capital.

Palermo is one of the top points of interest in Sicily!  A city of gallantry and splendor situated in the Southern Italy, now rising from a long-time bondage of its oppressors.  Here are some of the exciting reasons to be when in Palermo:

Experience the Palermo Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour :  24-Hour Ticket

There is more to see and experience when you get into an open-top, hop-on hop-off bus tour, enjoy 2 routes with 1 ticket, and grab some photos as you stop by Piazza Quattro Canti, Villa Malfitano, Palazzo Steri, and many more.

On the first route, jump off from the terminal outside the Politeama Theatre, passing through the Massimo Theatre towards Piazza Quattro Canti and the nearby Vucciria Market.  Then cruise all the way to the botanical gardens, riding along near Palazzo Steri. Just a few distance from the central station, the Royal Palace, the flea Market, and the Cathedral surround you.  Then go back to the terminal along the ancient via Roma.

To see the beautiful villas of Palermo, take the second route.  Still starting from the terminal outside Politeama Theatre, the stunning English Garden captures your attention as you continue towards Villa Malfitano and the wonderful Zisa Castle.  Enjoy the tour that passes near the Mercato del Capo and the Massimo Theatre, towards the port, and then comes back to the terminal in Politeama Square.

Taste and See What the Street Foods and Local Market in Palermo :  3-Hour Tour

Accompanied by a certified tour guide, take a relaxing 3-hour walk to try Palermo’s street foods, visit the local markets, and discover more about the well-heeled culture as you pass the historic monuments and architectural figures.

Do not miss your food guide’s tips to reach the heart of Palermo and  uncover the most desired foodie places like the Theatro Massimo, Quatro Canti, Fontana Pretoria, and two typical local street markets.  Never miss to taste the local street food specialties such as Frittini, Aranchine, Autista, and typical handmade dolce as you pause along the way.

Engage with the amazing and entertaining street vendors as you take on the place’s secret alleyways.  You’ll then see the working-class bar downtown to share a drink with the Palermitans as you mingle with them inside.  As you explore more, you may find the best spot to bring home a unique food passport souvenir.

There is also a similar tour in Palermo that takes two hours if you are looking for a shorter tour.

See more of Palermo on this Walking Tour of Palermo

Fill your eyes with the lovely views of Palermo’s iconic monuments like the brilliant Palermo Cathedral and Teatro Massimo opera house on a 4-hour guided tour especially designed for small groups as you run away from the long lines of large group tours.

Unleash the captivating history of the city of how it reached the modern day from the Phoenicians through the Roman Republic and the Byzantine Empire.

The winding streets of the Politeama sestiere (district) will lead you to see Europe’s one of the largest opera houses, the iconic buildings of Teatro Politeama and Teatro Massimo.  You can also check out the the Arab-Norman era and religious rites at sites such as the 12th-century Cappella Palatina (Palatine Chapel) in the Palazzo Reale.

Be mesmerized by the distinct architectural styles of the fabulous Palermo Cathedral facade, from the Gothic through the early Renaissance and Baroque.  Discover the hidden jewels of the historical center and learn the incredible stories of the past.

Cefalu – one of the best places to go in Sicily

Cefalu is a perfect beach getaway destination situated on the northern coast of Sicily, just few steps away from the historic central Palermo .  Driving from the winding Medieval streets bordered with bunch of stores and food hubs, you will reach the golden-coloured beach of Cefalu .  But there are more in Cefalu than you think!  Here are some:

Cefalù Half Day Tour from Palermo

Be excited in a 6-hour tour from Palermo and add to your art collection experience the city’s Greek origins, exploring the Norman cathedral of Monreale on the slopes of Sicily’s Monte Caputo , viewing the bests of the city, like the  Mandralisca Museum , Duomo , the renowned painting of Christ, the Christus Pantokrator , and then visiting the Medieval washhouse .

Spend Half Day Tasting Castelbuono’s Wine

Cefalu is not just abundant with beaches and arts but also with wines in the scenic town of Castelbuono in the Madonie Mountains , the loveliest of all the hilltop towns and villages there.  Take a moment to wander around the spectacular views of the town and involve in the legendary 14th-century Arab-Norman castle which was constructed during the Hohenstaufen rule of southern Italy, the home to the holy relic of Sant’ Anna .

There then you can make your way to taste some of the Abbazia Sant’Anastasia winery ’s preferred organic wines, served with the classic appetizers in the region.  Tour around the wine cellar and smell the aroma of handcrafted barriques (barrels) made of oaks.

Cozy Dinner in the Madonie Mountains

If you had a great day time touring around, move to one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Madonie National Park on a 5-hour evening trip to San Mauro Castelverde , renowned for its medieval churches and typical small squares.  A landscape of mountains and sea would surely fascinate your sight.

Experience an authentic Sicilian welcome and feast on flavorsome Sicilian food when you go to ‘ ’Trattoria La Posada ” in Karsa , a small hamlet of the village of San Mauro .

Satisfy your sense of taste as you try the dishes of organic foods produced in the surrounding farms as prepared by chef Rosa with her culinary secrets .  With some typical Sicilian music until late at night as you dine, surely you’ll have one of your best evenings.

Enjoy Cefalu and Unwind in the Beautiful Seaside

Most likely after enjoying the tour in the crowded and loud city, you’d love to sit and soothe your senses, relaxing in the wonderful seaside of Cefalu while waiting for the lovely sunset and at the same time for your ordered fresh fish, as well as for the lighting of the port which brightens the night.

Messina – best places Sicily visit

The capital of the Italian Metropolitan City of Messina, Messina is the third largest city on the island of Sicily, the 13th largest city in Italy, and is just a few kilometers from the Italian mainland, sitting on a curved harbor at the northernmost point of Sicily’s Ionian Coast.  This town is filled with attractions that vacationers love to discover.

24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour Ticket in Messina

There are two 2 sightseeing routes in the town of Messina that you can choose from.  The first one starts from the most important square in Messina, the Piazza Duomo , where you can  marvel at the animated clock of the cathedral and the bell tower, considered as the largest and the most complex mechanical and astronomical clock in the world.  A

rrive at the seafront and the famous promenade as the tour continues via Garibaldi before traveling back to the city by passing through the coast road.

There are several stops along the way that allow you to easily get to the Teatro Vittorio Emanuele , the gorgeous Villa Mazzini , and the Municipal Aquarium .  An encounter with the works of Caravaggio , Antonello Da Messina , and Girolamo Alibrandi that are proudly displayed in the Regional Museum completes your trip.

On the other hand, the second route brings you to the beautiful Sacrario di Cristo Re that was built on a small hill on the ruins of the Castle of Matagrifone .  There, you can enjoy a unique panorama of the strait.

Guided walking tour of Messina

On this 2.5-hour guided walking tour, you’ll explore the city of Messina to see some of the most beautiful and important spots in the city, though still partially hidden.  You will have the opportunity to take a closer look at the Teatro Vittorio Emanuele (theater) and the beautiful Villa Mazzini (home to an amazing and huge aquarium). 

You can then spot the Regional Museum and walk up to discover the Sacrario di Cristo Re , built on a small hill on the ruins of the Castle Matagrifone .  Take photos of the wonderful and incomparable views of the strait and the city as you wander around.

Messina:  3-Hour Segway PT Authorized Tour

On this fun and informative Segway tour led by a qualified guide, delve in to fascinating history and memorials of Messina.

Beginning the tour from Via Castellammare , few steps away from Via Garibaldi , next to the Catalani Church , you will arrive at the city’s commercial center known as the Piazza Cairoli , then reach the Piazza Pugliatti where you can see the Court of Justice and the university.

Continue the tour to get into Piazza Duomo to marvel at the fountain of Orion and the Cathedral with its bell tower, famous for its astronomical clock unveiled in 1933 when the reconstruction of the Christian temple was finished.  The beautiful baroque fountains in front the church S.S. Annunziata dei Catalani add up to the beautiful sight as you go there. 

Close to Via Lepanto , see the monument dedicated to Don Juan of Austria before moving to Piazza Antonello that is surrounded by neoclassical palaces.

Be mesmerized by the baroque palace Monte di Pietà along your way to the medieval church San Francesco d’Assisi .  Pass through the public gardens to arrive at the Piazza Unità d’Italia , where you will see the Palace of the Government and the fountain of Neptune by Montorsoli .

From here, you will ride back to Piazza Municipio , observing the statue of Ferdinand de Bourbon and the Teatro Vittorio Emanuele along the way.

The tour itinerary can be modified on-site as you discuss with your guide to include shopping at Viale San Martino and enjoying the panoramic view from Montalto Church or the North Coast Museum, for instance.

Taormina – one of the most beautiful places in Sicily

Despite being considered a small town on the east coast of Sicily and posted up on a hill about 250m above the sea level that lies next to Mount Etna , Taormina is undeniably gigantic in terms of being mostly visited by tourists.    About midway between Messina and Catania, it is a good base for day excursions in eastern Sicily.  Discover Taormina with these things to do there:

Visit the Ancient Theater of Taormina, the Palazzo Corvaja, and the Villa Comunale

Be fascinated with this ancient Greek-style theater built of bricks that is known as the second largest in Sicily.  Grab tickets to witness an opera or show held right on the ancient theater of Taormina while in town!

As it lies at the very back of Taormina, you can view the smoking Mt. Etna and the amazing Bay of Naxos down below. 

Just few meters away from the Teatro Greco, you can take a tour of the Palazzo Corvoja , an Arabic-style palace built in the 10 th century.  Be captivated as you roam by the inner court yard and see the astonishing window arch and door frames.

And take a 750-meter-ride again to the Villa Comunale, where you can spend no single euro while enjoying the garden filled with lovely flowers as you lay under the shades of the trees while being relaxed by the picturesque view of the sea and city below.

Discover Isola Bella and Blue Grotto

Known as The Pearl of the Ionian Sea, Isola Bella is one of the Borromean Islands of Lago Maggiore in north Italy.  Situated in the Borromean Gulf , this island is 400 metres from the lakeside town of Stresa , which is surrounded by sea grottos and has a small and rather rocky beach where the sunbathers love to go.  It is divided between the Palace, its Italianate garden, and a small fishing village.

Take a ferry ride or cable car to visit this island, probably a day trip in summer to catch the annual Stresa Festival that features relaxing jazz music.

You can also take an adventure to The Blue Grotto also known as the Grotta Azzurra.  From Isola Bella , grab a boat to reach this blue wonder sea cave on the coast of the island of Capri, Southern Italy , where you can also do scuba diving.  Attest how the sunlight makes a blue reflection that illuminates the cavern as it passes through an underwater cavity.

Mt. Etna – Sicily top attractions

Mt. Etna is the highest volcano in Europe and is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.  Located on the east coast of Sicily, it overlooks the whole region. And its historical eruptions besides its impressive size offer a lot of activities to experience by the visitors.  Here are some of them:

Full Day Tour to Mt. Etna From Taormina

Starting from the bus terminal in Taormina, Via Pirandello, an air-conditioned coach will bring you to the Alcantara Gorges (entry extra), which is an impressive natural sculpture.  Capture the remarkable gorges built due to solidified lava flow on the river when Mt. Etna erupted thousands of years ago.

Then, go higher to have a sumptuous lunch in one of the several cafes or restaurants before heading up via jeep to the authorized crater zones and be mesmerized by the subsequent activity of the summit craters.  And the tour ends as you are driven back to Taormina.

Morning Excursion in Etna From Catania

You will be picked up from your accommodation before driven by an air-conditioned Jeep or minivan to Mount Etna.  Your professional guide will educate you of the volcano’s history and even discuss with you if you have queries as you ascend to a height of about 2,000 meters.

You will learn the different characteristics of the volcano’s features:  its natural resources, its astounding landscapes, and its huge lava flows that have destroyed buildings and roads.

Then you will be taken a guided walk among the ancient craters and recent lava flows, surrounded by a surreal unique moonscape by an easy trek that is suitable for everyone, including families with young children and older members.  This happens when you’re at an altitude of 2,000 meters.

The second stop is visiting and exploring the lava flow cave after the trek and a short break as take by your car.  Wearing a helmet and bring a flashlight is a must as you learn everything from your guide.

And the third and final stop allows you to take in the panorama of the Valle del Bove at a viewpoint.  It is the most important valley on the east slope of the volcano.

Cable Car, Jeep and Hiking Expedition to the Summit

Reach the peak of the craters of Mt. Etna by a safe hike tour with an authorized guide.  From Sapienza Refuge in Nicolosi, you will be taken by the cable car way up 2,504 meters high. 

Next up, you’ll have a 4X4 Jeep ride up to 2,900 meters, and at this point, your hike begins.  An uphill hike for 1.5 hours will let you pass many craters and have some long pauses to take pictures and rest.  One of the most fulfilling experiences is being on the top of the world in this rocky, magnificent landscape with the giant sky above you. 

After reaching the summit, you’ll then go down for 2 hours to reach the cable car again that will take you to your departure point.

Off-Road ATV Tour of Mt Etna

An adventure you shouldn’t miss when in Mt. Etna is riding on an ATV to experience passing through some of the most dazzling sites in the region.

Start off from the Alcantara Gorges, go after mud trails heading Castiglione di Sicilia, well-known for its winemaking, and pause for a moment to marvel at the incredible views of the valley.

In the direction to Linguaglossa , where you can see the little volcano of Moio Alcantara , Etna’s farthest crater from the epicenter, continue on a bike trail.  The lava flows formed during numerous eruptions will attract your sight as you drive the way.  Stop and explore the Coruccio cave , and then climb to Piano Provenzana at an altitude of 1,850 meters.

Alcantara River Gorge – where to go in Sicily

The Alcantara River Gorge is situated on the north slopes of Mount Etna, a very special spot that is often missed by tourists though it is just a half an hour travel from Taormina by bus  or shorter even by car or taxi.

There are various of trails at the gorge where you can hike along the top of the gorge, namely, Gorge Trail , Alcantara Trail , Eleonor Trail and body Rafting.  You may encounter hard trails, so wearing safety gears like helmet and wetsuit water shoes or wading boots is a must, which are available for rental at the site.

If you are not into hiking, you can do the other activities instead.  Enjoy involving in the Sicilian Cooking Class or local food tasting, as well as the unique olive or citrus harvesting from the gardens and fields of the Alcantara Valley .

Catania – Best Town to stay in Sicily

To me, Catania is one of the best places to stay in Sicily. You can check out my post on the best places to stay in Sicily, Italy.

Sitting at the foot of Mt. Etna , Catania is an ancient port city situated on the eastern coast of Sicily.  Its rich history makes it a perfect destination for explorers and vacationers to do some of these things:

Walking Tour in Catania Like a Local

Traveling is not just about riding a bus or a plane nor enjoying the views and taking photos, but it is getting to know more about the people or the locals of the place you are visiting.

In this tour, you will not just do what tourists do, but also do what the locals do as you explore with a local host who will teach you to live as if you are a local from Catania.

Find an honest and loyal local who is very willing to impart to you their ideas and knowledge so you will learn about cultural differences and city events.  Even though they are not considered licensed guides because they only do tours occasionally, they provide realistic and intimate experience.

They can give you information that the tour books don’t give, including the best authentic places to eat, the easiest ways to get around, and the secret you must discover.

The main take away of the tour is being familiar with the place to comfortably roam around and being assured that your stay would be a great time to spend without worries.

Catania Street Food Tour

Starting from the Info Point site on via E. Merletta, 3 , begin your adventure through the flavors, aromas, and gastronomic traditions of Catania.  Be captivated by the stunning infrastructures like the Town Hall , the St. Agata’s Cathedral , the Obelisk of the elephant or “Liotru” (symbol of the city), and the Amenano fountain as you roam around the Piazza Duomo.

Walk through Catania’s main street, Etnea , which was named after the Etna volcano that is visible from the beginning to the end of the boulevard.  Walk your way through Piazza Università with its magnificent baroque buildings that was built after the destruction of the earthquake of 1693.  See Via dei Crociferi , a small jewel of baroque art and churches, often immortalized by the greatest Italian filmmakers.

While enjoying the tour, grab the chance to taste the bests of the local products.  In the central squares, have some refreshing drinks. 

Diving Tour at Gulf of Catania

Dive into the depths of the Gulf of Catania to experience an incredible underwater trip and be amazed by the gems below.

With the company of licensed marine biologists, explore the vibrant and unique flora and fauna, magnificent lava bottoms of the Gulf of Catania and the enchanting protected marine area “ Isole Ciclopi .” 

Seeing the underwater canyons, the volcanic faults and the Second World War shipwrecks, while swimming along the groupers, white breams, octopus, sponges, and gorgonians is one of the best adventures you could ever experience with no worries on your safety especially if your diving the first time because the finest of quality diving equipment are provided.

Boat Tour with Snorkeling for 4 Hours from Catania

The underwater volcanic region Isola dei Ciclopi is also a great place for a 4-hour snorkeling tour.  Sailing on a 7-meter boat, together with of a marine biologist and underwater environmental guide, uncover the 20-kilometer volcanic coast between the La Timpa Natural Reserve and the Marine Protected Area of Isola dei Ciclopi as you follow a path over the beautiful lavic seabed.

Collect an amazing lifetime memory as your eyes capture the breathtaking views underneath as you snorkel and encounter groupers, white breams, octopus, sea sponges, and much more.  Having this unique underwater adventure allows you to see basalt pillars, lava ropes, lava pillows, and colorful sea life and plants.

Syracuse and Ortigia Island – one of my favorite cities in Sicily

“Siracusa” in Italian is a fabulous town on the south-east corner of the island that is separated by Ortigia Island and the main town Siracusa , the two being connected by a short foot footbridge.  It is as well very wealthy with ancient gems evidenced by various architectural infrastructures that could be enjoyed by the following trips:

Walking Tour of Ancient Syracuse

A guided tour for 3 hours is good enough to explore the Greek history and wander around the capital of the Mediterranean to see the glorious Cathedral , the ancient Temple of Athena , the Greek Theater , and the Roman Amphitheater .  You can proceed to the Archeological Park and be delighted in viewing the Paradise Latomia and the Ear of Dionysos . The breathtaking views of The Ionian Sea from the Greek Theater is very relaxing time to look at.

Velo Bike Around and Experience Segway Ride in Syracuse

You can tour around the city up to the island of Ortigia in a Velo Bike after being fetched from your hotel.  Accompanied by your driver, you will be educated with the city’s amazing maze and rich historical backgrounds with an opportunity to capture photos to keep at each stop of the tour as you enjoy the extraordinary panoramic views. 

If you ought to explore more of the city to observe the impressive Greek ruins, you can ride a Segway and somewhat give breath to your feet as you take a walking tour.  If you took the booking, then meet in bus parking next to the port, entrance from Via Rodin bus.

Noto – what to see in Sicily

Known for its baroque architecture, Noto is a city in southeastern Sicily. This was my first stop in Sicily and one of my favorites. I loved how chill Noto is and I had some of the best food ever here. I highly recommend taking a tour around the city to learn about this history and architecture here.

Day tour to Noto from Catania

You can visit the historic town center to see the reconstructed 18th-century Noto Cathedral , the Palazzo Ducezio, which is now the town hall across the street, with the Hall of Mirrors embellished by gilding and stuccos and be welcomed by a 19th-century triumphal arch Porta Reale at the entrance gate of the town.  Just few steps away is the richly decorated balconies Palazzo Nicolaci.

Having enough time to do a full day tour, you can roam around and stroll the vicinity to visit the roman mosaics of the Tellaro Villa , the nature reserve of Vendicari , and the archaeological area of Noto Antica (ancient Noto).

San Vito Lo Capo – Sicily must see

Famous by its wonderful beaches, tourists love to spend their vacation in San Vito Lo Capo , a small town situated in a valley between the mountains of north-western Sicily.  And for more of this enthralling heaven-like place, here are few things to do here:

Full Day at the Beach of Zingaro Reserve and San Vito Lo Capo from Palermo

Travel for over an hour From Palermo to enjoy as you relax in the breathtaking white sand beaches, turquoise waters, as well as dramatic cliffs and caves of Vito Lo Capo.  Have traditional treats like cunzato bread, arancini, and panelle. Then continue your excursion around the charming town before your return to Palermo.

Check out my post on The Best Beaches in Sicily . You really do not want to miss these beautiful places to visit in Sicily.

Ragusa – visit Sicily

Another one of the most charming towns in Sicily is Ragusa , with a breathtaking view from the upper town over Ragusa Ibla on its own separate hilltop. 

One of the UNESCO-listed Baroque places and one of the main sites in filming the Sicilian detective drama Il Commissario Montalbano (Inspector Montalbano) , a series which has done wonders for publicising the beauty of this area.  Tourists love to go here, having the new airport at Comiso very accessible.

Baroque Tour with Wine & Gourmet Food

On a 3-hour tour in Ragusa, fill your sight with the beautiful landscapes, satisfy your taste buds with the delicious Sicilian wine, and savor the delightful Baroque mood.

Having the strong urge to visit the town physically is the only way to know more about it.  Wear your best footwear to go around, see, and appreciate the marvelous land as you capture it by heart.

The simple doorways and well decorated portals, gates and windows adorned with flowers, jutting balconies supported by grotesque masks, sumptuous decorations of churches, deformed simplicity of narrow steps, and small quiet alleyways are the bunch of what the city is rich of as shown in the old Italian films.

And as a wine-connoisseurs’ paradise, having the perfect blend of its soil composition, lots of sunshine days, and healthy biodiversity, Ragusa produces excellent red or white wine that serves the marvelous baroque atmosphere

Agrigento and the Valley of Temples – best places in Sicily

Agrigento is best known as the city of temples, situated on the southern coast of Sicily, just south of the “modern city” and nestled among olive trees on a ridge near the sea, where there are some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world. 

The Valley of the Temples is a marvelous anthology of seven temples from the 6th and 5th centuries BC.   Aside from Agriento’s pride for the ancient and enthralling ruins, it also proudly displays its Baroque architecture, sparkling beaches, spectacular islands and crystal-clear waters in several tours:

Tour of Agrigento and the Valley of Temples and Kolymbethra

Be in awe of the amazing Greek art models and Doric design at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Valley of the Temples as you learn about the saga of the temples on the sacred hill from your tour guide. 

Understand the characteristics of several temples namely, Temple of Hera, Temple of Concordia, Temple of Herakles, and Temple of Zeus.  To know more about the ancient Greek culture and the eccentrics that made Akragas the most beautiful city of mortals, visit the sanctuary of chthonic deities on the plains of the Olympic field.

Head to what is also referred to as the Garden of Eden, the vibrant Garden of Kolymbetra that is hailed by writers and poets from ancient times.  Entertain your senses with the sweet aromas and fascinating sights as you smell and see the bunch of different plants typical to Sicily.

Take a day trip from Catania to the Valley of the Temples and Turkish Steps

For almost whole day, go and see the Valley of the Temples, discover one of the most amazing beaches in Sicily, love being in an eight-people group tour.

From Catania, you will be picked-up from your hotel in a comfortable minivan at around 8:30 AM.  For about two and a half hours you will reach Agrigento to stop and take a closer view to the amazing Valley of the Temples as well as other richly protected Greek temples in the world.

After collecting photos and even knowledge as memento, you can then now travel few kilometers to take a relaxing time while enjoying the beautiful beaches in Sicily and try walking on Scala de Turchi or greatly known as Turkish steps, a gentle slope high above the sea on your feet.  And have lavish Sicilian snacks while in there.

From Taormina to Valley of The Temples & Piazza Armerina

A whole day tour by bus with a guide is a great time to enjoy your holiday.  From Taormina, travel for almost three hours to reach the first stop and spend almost the remaining hours to see the ancient Greek temples especially the Valley of the Temples. 

Erice – Sicily tourist attractions

Erice is a preserved medieval town, towering at 751 mt above sea level and offering the most stunning views. Situated on Sicily’s west coast, the historic town looks down over the harbor of Trapani , surrounded by defensive town walls.

Take a half day tour of Erice

Choose to discover more of Erice , a small town yet big enough to give you Sicily’s full image, in just half of the day.  This medieval city known as elimian’s town is a product of several conquerors including the Phoenicians, the Romans that built the Venus Castel , the Arabs, and the Normans.

Collect memories with its mountain San Giuliano , its unforgettable view between the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian Sea , its mystic castle of Venus , its narrow old street, its mother Church, its culture, its famous handmade carpets, and its flavorful “ ericini ” made of almond pastry.

Erice is undeniably beautiful that its pictures are still used by famous movie makes on TV and Cinema.  The sicilian breeze up to Erice is something great to enjoy with indeed.

Villa Romana del Casale – top sights in Sicily

According to facts, Villa Romana del Casale is a large and elaborate Roman Villa or palace located about 3km from Piazza Armerina , Sicily .  Originally intended for use as a hunting lodge in the middle of the 4th Century AD by a Roman patrician, now it is a home to some of the best-preserved examples of Roman mosaics.

Stair of the Turks (The Scala dei Turchi) – one of the most beautiful places in Sicily

Situated along the stretch of sea between Realmonte and Porto Empedocle (Agrigento), this white cliff is a huge rock made of a soft, limestone and a blinding white marl. 

When you ascend the staircase, you will have the feeling of being in Wonderland, on a huge white meringue. The sea, taking advantage of this sparkling white, will be showing off his blue.  A very intense blue, and while sitting on the steps admiring the sea, you will be surrounded by the most pleasant thoughts.

After an amazing tour to see the Temple Valley in Agrigento, be stunned with the magnificence of the iconic stairway constructed by nature that’s why it is as peculiar and spectacular as it is.

Favignana Island

The largest island of the Egadi , stretched for about 9 kilometers, resembling a butterfly in shape, and the nearest to Sicily’s coast, Favignana can surely be near enough to be reached by a ferry/hydrofoil from the port of Trapani or with private services in just half an hour.  It also has an airport that makes it more accessible tourist destination in Sicily.

Favignana and Levanzo Mini-Cruise

The Port of Trapani in Via Ammiraglio Staiti, Marinella wharf is the meeting place at around 9:30 AM before sailing half an hour or more on a boat to Favignana Island to enjoy exploration there for about two hours.

Then your coastal tour starts at around 12:30PM, heading north-east along the eastern side of the island reaching the famous Cala Rossa, Bue Marino , and Cala Azzurra .  You can stop and enjoy a swim if the weather conditions and tidal current allow you to.  Have a sumptuous lunch while enjoying the breathtaking views you continue sailing to Levanzo .

For more than two hours of cruising, you will arrive at Levanzo for to stop and explore for an hour.  Feed your senses with the enchanting view of the Mediterranean Village , the only inhabited zone on the island, from the port of Levanzo .  After that, your tour will go on to reach the famous Faraglioni , one of the most spectacular views of the island, cruising along the beautiful coastline.  At around 5:15PM you will depart back towards Trapani, arriving back in the port at 6:00 PM.  And you’ll take away an unforgettable day of coastal exploration.

Conclusion: The Best Things to do in Sicily – Sicilian Cities

I hope you have enjoyed this list of the best things to do in Sicily and the best places to visit in Sicily. There are so many great Sicilian cities you must visit.

Are you planning a trip to Sicily? Let me know in the comments if you have any questions and check out my other guides to Sicily.

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Nicole LaBarge is a travel expert who has been traveling internationally for over 25 years and she has visited over 115 countries all while working a 9-5. She has lived in England, Scotland, Japan and New Zealand. Check out her detailed destination guides and travel product guides.

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15 Most Beautiful Small Coastal Towns in Sicily

Colorful fishermen’s boats resting at the shores of an idyllic seaside, narrow alleyways between romantically crumbling waterfront houses, and friendly locals slowly going about their daily routines- visiting small coastal towns in Sicily will offer you a wonderful travel experience. Here I share a list of my top 15 charming seaside towns and fishing villages in Sicily, Italy .

Sicily’s coast is dotted with dozens of incredibly photogenic small beach towns and fishing harbors. Therefore, on my road trip to this unique Mediterranean island , I made sure to visit a handful of the most intriguing seaside towns in Sicily . 

If you are looking for the most beautiful small coastal towns in Sicily to add to your itinerary, you have landed at the right place. This guide will take you through the most scenic beach towns in Sicily, some of which are well-known while others are absolute hidden gems. I also share a location map and a few practical tips, including accommodation suggestions for each of them.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). This helps to keep my blog running and growing by creating more awesome free content for you.

How to visit these Sicily coastal towns and fishing villages

Some of the more popular Sicily coastal towns mentioned here can be accessed by public transport (bus or ferry- I left brief notes under each one) while for visiting hidden gems you will definitely need a car.

I have visited the majority of the seaside villages and towns listed here with a rental car during my 2-week Sicily Road trip . It gave me the freedom to move around easily and according to my own schedule. Therefore, if you are planning your Sicily trip, I highly recommend hiring a car and driving around to be entirely independent.

For my trip to Sicily and other places in Italy, I used the Discovercars search aggregator which provided me with the best car rental offers. Click here to browse their car hire offers with pick-up locations available in major towns of Sicily (Palermo, Catania, Trapani).

READ MORE: 21 Tips for driving in Sicily Stress-Free .

Look for the best rates for your rental car in Sicily at Discovercars.

15 the most beautiful seaside towns and small fishing villages in Sicily

Cefalù is possibly the most well-known and one of the most beautiful out of all the small seaside towns in Sicily. Set at the foothills of an imposing rock, caressed by the velvety waters of the Tyrrhenian sea, Cefalù (pronounced “shef-a-loo”) is an ancient fishing port. The postcard-perfect tiny beach set against the old town walls is what mesmerizes many visitors (including myself).

Once a sleepy fishing village, now Cefalù is a flourishing travel destination in Sicily, especially popular during the summer months. Although it is a little too touristy to my liking, Cefalù is still undeniably one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Sicily. If you are looking to add some spectacular photos to your albums, Cefalù is an unmissable coastal town in Sicily for doing just that.

My top tip is to visit Cefalù during the shoulder season (May or September) when you will be able to enjoy it with fewer crowds. Arrive late autumn through early spring, and chances are you will have Cefalù all to yourself.

• How to get there: located a 1-hour drive from Palermo, Cefalù is reachable by car, bus or train.
• Where to stay: Villa Margherita , more accommodation options here .

2. Castellammare del Golfo

Castellammare del Golfo is a fantastic less visited coastal town in the northwest of Sicily, mostly known among locals. Located just 40 minutes drive from Palermo, Castellammare is a perfect beach town for a relaxing vacation as well as a great base to visit Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve nearby. The town itself is pretty as well. Set at the foothills of the mountain, featuring a 9th-century castle of Arab origins and an old harbor dotted with fishing boats and small yachts, Castellamare offers several great beaches to lay your towel at.

Just a 10min drive away to the west, you can also find a few hidden coves that are quiet even during the peak season. As expected from a fishing town, there are plenty of fresh seafood restaurants to have a romantic dinner at. 

• How to get there: 40-minute drive from Palermo by car, or taking a public bus.
• Where to stay: Le Sette Meraviglie , more accommodation options here .

3. Scopello

Situated North West of Sicily in the province of Castellamare del Golfo, between Palermo and Trapani, Scopello is a delightful hamlet with a population of only around 80 people. Many consider Scopello Sicily’s most beautiful coastal town. Scopello town is perched atop a hill however the most photographed part is its Tonnara di Scopello. Set at very scenic shores of crystalline sea with craggy rocks sprouting out of the water, Tonnara di Scopello is an old tuna fishery, which today is a museum. A few of the surrounding establishments are turned into tourist accommodations where you can actually rent a place to stay.

Tonnara di Scopello became known internationally after it appeared in Hollywood’s Ocean 12. But there is a catch- the waterfront of Tonnara is no longer free for visitors. In fact, you will be asked to pay 10 EUR for the entrance, which is absolutely unreasonable when you have the whole Zingaro Nature Reserve just 2km away. Nonetheless, you can still admire and take some nice shots of the coastal part of Tonara di Scoppelo from the road above it. Also, make sure to visit the small historic center of Scopello town and its open-air church. 

• How to get there: 20 min by car or 30 min by bus from Castellammare del Golfo seaside town. You can check bus schedules here .
• Where to stay: Torre di Scopello , more accommodation options here .

Aspra is an authentic fishing town in Sicily dotted with dozens of colorful wooden boats, making it a photographer’s playground. Located only 20 minutes’ drive away from Palermo, this quiet port town is surprisingly not frequented by international visitors. Therefore, Aspra is as local as it gets.

We stopped in Aspra seaside town for a few shots of the colorful boats but ended up spending an hour chatting with friendly locals in our still basic Italian combined with hand language. I left the town with many beautiful shots and even more heart-warming memories of our cheeky interaction with the fishermen and a lady who was kind enough to offer us fresh coconut.

Tip: If you are visiting Aspra, buy some yummy nuts and dry fruits from the stall next to the colorful boats.

• How to get there: 20 min by car from Palermo. Local buses and trains from Palermo are also available.
• Where to stay: B&B Marina d’Aspra , more accommodation options here .

5. Santa Flavia (and Punta Sant’Elia)

Not sure how picturesque Santa Flavia has managed to stay undercover but I have a feeling it will soon become an up-and-coming destination in Sicily’s beach town scene. Currently frequented by locals, and especially popular for wedding photoshoots on sunny Sundays, Santa Flavia is one of the prettiest coastal towns in Sicily I have visited.

The jewel on the crown is Punta Sant’ Elia – a narrow inlet of crystal clear water enveloped by colorful Sicilian houses.

Santa Flavia coastal town is a true hidden gem on the west coast of Sicily on the way between Cefalù and Palermo. Although it was only a pit stop on our Sicily road trip, I would have loved to spend a couple of slow days sunbathing on the rocky shores of Sant’Elia’s beach. 

• How to get there: 25 min by car from Palermo. Local bus from Palermo.
• Where to stay: La Caletta , more accommodation options here .

6. San Vito Lo Capo

San Vito Lo Capo is a popular and vibrant beach town in Sicily featuring one of the finest coastlines you can find on the island. A long stretch of sandy shores is dotted with colorful umbrellas, tanned bodies, and an array of bars and restaurants. The beautiful mountainous landscape with a nature reserve nearby puts San Vito Lo Capo on one of the most beautiful small coastal towns in Sicily list. Note that the town itself is made up of 2-story vacation houses which don’t hold any particular historical value. However, it is the beautiful landscape and plenty of activities that makes San Vito Lo Capo a beloved summer destination.

• How to get there: 50 minutes drive from Castellammare del Golfo or Trapani. Public bus connection available from Trapani and Castellammare del Golfo, timetables for the latter you can check here .
• Where to stay: Atrium , more accommodation options here .

7. Favignana

Low key Favignana fishing town is set on the shores of the butterfly-shaped rugged island of the same name. Reachable within 30 minutes by hydrofoil from Trapani off the west coast of Sicily, Favignana seaside town in Sicily is one of the best places to visit for a slow-paced island vacation. With impossibly blue sea and secluded coves, Favignana island is beloved by sunseekers. The laid-back Favignana town has a small historical town where you will find many gelaterias, cafes, and restaurants, and also have the best tuna burger in Sicily. Rent a bicycle and peddle around the island – it is the best way to see Favignana and its beaches. 

• How to get there : 30 min by ferry from Trapani. Timetables and ferry tickets available here .
• With a guided tour: Favignana day cruises from Trapani.
• Where to stay: Cave Garden Rooms , more accommodation options here .

ALSO READ: Guide to visiting Favignana and Egadi islands in Sicily.

8. Levanzo and Marettimo

The other 2 island towns in the Egadi archipelago, Levanzo and Marettimo are characterized by Mediterranean white-washed waterfront houses contrasting with the incredibly blue sea at their doorsteps. These towns, although popular among locals, are quieter than their biggest sister Favignana. If you are seeking complete wilderness, Marettimo will offer exactly that.

Both coastal villages can be visited on a day trip from Trapani town in Sicily mainland, or from Favignana port town. They are also perfect for a longer stay far from civilization.

• How to get there: by ferry from Trapani or Favignana island. Ferry tickets and timetables for Levanzo here and for Marettimo here .
• Where to stay in Levanzo: Casa Vacanze Levanzo , more accommodation options here .
• Where to stay in Marettimo: La Casa del Viaggiatore , more accommodation options here .

9. Punta Bianca

Not exactly a fishing town, but more of a lonely abandoned house perched on a surreal white rock, Punta Bianca is a unique place to visit in Sicily . It will suit more adventurous travelers as it requires driving slightly offroad and a mini 10-minute hike down to the beach with an abandoned house. Nonetheless, the place is absolutely magnificent for photography.

Location: SouthSicily, near Agrigento. Follow the road leading to the landmark called Il Paradiso Punta Bianca (it is a vacation villa). You can park the car nearby if you are driving a sedan and then walk down the dirt road for about 500 meters to the abandoned house on the white rock beach.

• How to get there: 40 min by car from Agrigento.
• Where to stay: B&B Villa San Marco in Agrigento, more accommodation options here .

10. Mondello

Set at the foothills of a soaring 700-meters in height Montepellegrino mountain, Mondello beach town definitely has a distinct character. Dotted with colorful umbrellas 1.5 km stretch of fine sandy beach combined with an array of restaurants and bars, makes Mondello an ultimate beachgoers destination.

The turquoise waters of Mondello are reachable within 30 minutes drive or a public bus ride from Palermo. Due to easy access from the capital, Mondello beach gets extremely crowded on a hot summer day. Nonetheless, Mondello coastal town offers an ultimate fun-filled escape from dusty Palermo streets.

Mondello town is a hangout spot and a bonding place for Sicilian teens and youngsters. As you may have already guessed you are not likely to find peace and quiet here. However, if you are in the area, Mondello is a perfect place to see the active and buzzing side of local Sicily.

• How to get there: 30 minutes by car or bus 806 from Palermo takes 30-50min depending on traffic.
• Where to stay: Casa Lig h ea Mondello , more accommodation options here .

11. Ortygia (Ortigia)

An architectural gem, the beating heart of Syracuse- 1km long and 500-meter wide pedestrian-only Ortygia island is considered one of the most beautiful small coastal towns in Sicily. Ortigia (Ortygia) holds a wealth of over 3000 years of history and a remarkable Greek heritage which entitled the town to be included in UNESCO heritage lists. Surrounded by a crystalline sea and characterized by elegant piazzas, breathtaking churches, a labyrinth of alleyways, lively outdoor markets, and romantic lungomare , Ortygia is bound to captivate your heart.  

Definitely a popular and well-known seaside town in Sicily, but due to its cultural and historical value , Ortygia is a must when visiting the east side of the island. This beach town in Sicily is also a good base to explore other baroque towns in the area- Noto and Ragusa.

• How to get there: 1-hour drive from Catania in East of Sicily. By bus from Catania to Syracuse.
• Visit with a tour: on a day trip from Catania.
• Where to stay: Il Duomo , more accommodation options here .

12. Sciacca

Sciacca (pronounced “Shack-a”) is a functional historic fishing harbor also known for its thermal springs, beautiful ceramics, and Castello Incantato (Enchanted Castle). Located on the southern coast of Sicily, between two Greek archeological sites Selinunte and Agrigento, Sciacca is by far not a polished tourist destination but more of a place to see Sicilians at work, mainly fishermen.

Although the modern part of the town is unattractive, the port with ages old colorful buildings is very characteristic. The daily catch of the day can be tasted at one of the tempting waterfront restaurants. The small historic center of Sciacca with a number of beautiful 16th-century churches is worth a stroll. Also, the town’s main square Piazza Scandaliato is where you can go for a passeggiata (a leisurely evening walk).

Sciacca can serve as a convenient overnight base when traveling along the southern coast. With far fewer tourists, it is yet another wonderful fishing town offering to see more of local Sicily.

• Getting there:   1hr by car from Agrigento or 1.5 hrs from Trapani.
• Where to stay in Sciacca: La Finestra sul Cortile , more accommodation options here .

13. Marzamemi

The enchanting miniature seaside town Marzamemi is located in the province of Syracuse, southeast coast of Sicily. Marzamemi is beloved for the Mediterranean feel that best unfolds at Piazza Regina Margherita- a central town square. Dating back to the 10-11th centuries of Arab times, Piazza is surrounded by characteristic stone-block ancient buildings hosting charming tavernas overgrown by green hanging gardens. Meanwhile, the blue and white tables and chairs fill up the entire space of the square, with decorative Sicilian vases and ripe oranges dropping out of the wooden barrels. This signature picture of Marzamemi quickly spread across Instagram making the tiny fishing hamlet one of the most popular yet unique places to visit in Sicily.

• How to get there: 50 minutes drive from Syracuse, or 30 min by car from Noto.
• Where to stay: Casa vacanze “Le Gebbie” , more accommodation options here .

Situated on the Tyrrhenian coast, within the province of Trapani and just steps away from laud beach town San Vito Lo Capo, Macari is a humble and simple seaside town in West Sicily. The visitor to this quiet tiny town will enjoy exceptional views of the gulf bearing its name. Macari was one of the little highlights on our Sicily road trip where we stopped for a quick swim at its gorgeous beach washed by crystal clear waters. If you are in the area, next door you will also find Monte Cofano Nature Reserve which in its own right is spectacular and worth to be explored.

• How to get there: 10 minutes by car from San Vito Lo Capo, 45 minutes drive from Trapani. Local bus from Trapani or San Vito Lo Capo.
• Where to stay: Gocce di Mare , more accommodation options here .

15. Grotta Mangiapane

Grotta Mangiapane- Sicily’s lost-in-time cave village is one of the most surreal places on the island. Located 18 kilometers up north from Trapani on the grounds of Monte Cofano Natural Reserve, Grotta Mangiapane dates back to Palaeolithic times. The tiny hamlet is literally set inside the cave steps away from Baia di Cornino beach. It was a functional village until the 1950s, and today it is an open-air museum that accepts visitors free of charge. However, donations of your choice will be highly appreciated.

Inside the cave village of Mangiapane, you can see the living spaces (bedrooms, kitchen, storage rooms) as they used to be back in the day. Grotta Mangiapane is one of the most impressive small coastal villages in Sicily and I highly encourage you to go visit it.

• How to get there: 30 minutes drive from Trapani and 30 minutes from Sanvito Lo Capo.
• Where to stay: Casa Simago , more accommodation options here .

The Most Beautiful Beach Towns in Sicily Map

I hope you find some intriguing small coastal towns in Sicily to add to your own itinerary. If you think I should add some other beautiful seaside town in Sicily to this list, please feel free to comment below.

More Sicily and Italy travel guides and resources

Sicily travel guides.

• Useful Tips for Renting a Car in Sicily and Driving Stress-Free
• Renting a car in Catania, Sicily
• Renting a car in Palermo: what you need to know
• Epic Road Trip for 2-weeks in Sicily itinerary
• Essential Sicily Travel Tips .
• 21 spectacular places to visit in Sicily 
• How to visit Favignana island, Sicily
• Guide to hiking Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve
• Visit Gangi mountain town in Sicily
• The most beautiful small coastal towns and fishing villages in Sicily.
• The most charming mountain towns in Sicily .
• Which is better: Amalfi Coast or Sicily?

General Italy travel guides

• Browse all my  blog posts about Italy   HERE .
• Looking for romantic road trip ideas in Italy? Check my list of  15 Best Road Trips in Italy.
• The ultimate guide to renting a car in Italy
• Tips for driving in Italy for the first time
• Thinking of renting a car in Rome? Read my guide to  How to rent a car in Rome .
• Explore Calabria- the least visited region in Italy.
• Visit Sicily- the biggest island in Italy.

Italy travel resources

Here are links to essential travel resources and services I always use when organizing my trips.

• HIRE A CAR : Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• CHEAP FLIGHTS: find the cheapest and the best flight combinations with Skyscanner .
• ACCOMMODATION: find your perfect stay on Booking.com .
• VISA: apply for a Schengen visa easily at iVisa . Use OneWayFly to reserve dummy flight tickets/hotels if required for your visa application.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider. For the cheapest travel insurance on the market check SafetyWing .
• eSIM CARD: Stay connected before you land. Airlo offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe for reasonable rates.
• GUIDED TOURS:  Find the best day tours in Italy on  GetYourGuide , outdoor tours and activities with Manawa .
• PRIVATE TRANSFER: Book a private transfer to any location in Italy with GetTransfer .
• FLIGHT GOT CANCELLED OR DELAYED? You may receive compensation of up to 600 EUR. Consult and get support from AirHelp or Skycop .

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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30 Best Places to visit in Sicily – Ultimate Bucket List

Looking for the perfect destination for your next Italian adventure? Look no further than the stunning island of Sicily, where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create a truly unforgettable experience. From ancient ruins to picturesque seaside towns , Sicily has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best places to visit in Sicily , from the iconic Mount Etna to the charming coastal town of Taormina. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to soak up the Mediterranean sun, Sicily has it all.

Best places to visit in Sicily

1) Aeolian Islands

Get ready to add the Aeolian Islands to your Sicily bucket list! These stunning islands, located in the Tyrrhenian Sea just north of Sicily, are an Italian gem that are sure to take your breath away. Though they were once a hidden gem, the Aeolian Islands are becoming more popular – especially during the busy summer months of July and August. With their varied landscapes, diverse wildlife, and fascinating active volcanoes , it’s no wonder these seven islands and their uninhabited islets were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000

Cefalù is a hidden gem that boasts stunning sunsets, unpretentious charm, and the perfect ingredients for an Italian seaside holiday. With sandy beaches, a picturesque historic town on a rocky headland, and a fine Norman cathedral, this destination offers a blend of high culture, Sicilian food, and sunshine that is hard to resist.

Unlike many of Italy’s modern beach resorts, Cefalù has a rich history, with reminders of past influences from Norman and Byzantine to Arab, Spanish, and Italian. Today, tourism is a thriving industry in this coastal town, with the modern area sprawling out from the historic center.

Palermo – Italy’s Capital of Culture for 2018 – is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and art. With a rich and varied past that attracted invaders from all over the world – from the Carthaginians to the Spanish Bourbons – the city’s cultural sights are a fascinating blend of influences from different cultures.

Unlike the popular tourist destinations of Rome, Venice, and Florence, Palermo remains a hidden gem , meaning you can explore its beauty without battling the crowds. So, if you’re looking for an authentic Italian experience that will challenge your language skills, Palermo is the perfect place to visit.

4) Monreale

Nestled just outside Palermo, the historic hill-town of Monreale is a hidden gem that should be on every traveler’s itinerary. Though most famous for its stunning Norman cathedral , which boasts some of the finest mosaics on the island, Monreale also offers incredible views, charming eateries, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it the perfect day trip from the bustling city center.

Built in the twelfth century as a Benedictine monastery, the cathedral and cloisters at Monreale are often considered the greatest Norman buildings on the island, rivaling even the grand cathedral in nearby Palermo. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Monreale is a must-visit destination that won’t disappoint.

Floating almost 60km north of Palermo in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ustica is a tiny island that packs a big punch. As part of the Aeolian volcanic chain, the island is actually the tip of a submerged volcano, and its rugged black, volcanic-rock terrain is punctuated by vibrant pink-and-red hibiscus flowers and prickly green cacti. But it’s not just the island’s natural beauty that draws visitors – Ustica’s surrounding waters are part of the protected Island of Ustica Marine Area, home to an incredible array of marine life.

With half of the Mediterranean’s marine species calling this area home, Ustica offers a unique opportunity to explore an underwater wonderland of fish and coral. While the island is popular with locals in July and August, consider visiting in June or September to enjoy the beautiful coastline and grottoes without the crowds.

6) Zingaro Nature Reserve

Get ready to be blown away by the rugged and spectacular coastline just west of Palermo, where the sea has created a stunning landscape of coves, sea stacks, and grottoes in hard limestone cliffs. This breathtaking stretch of coastline is home to Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve, a park created in 1981 that stretches for 7km along the coast from Scopello to San Vito Lo Capo.

With its beautiful surroundings and secluded beaches, Lo Zingaro is a popular destination for walkers and bathers seeking respite from the crowded beaches of summer. The best beaches at the Zingaro Nature Reserve are Cala Tonnarella dell’Uzzo , Cala Capreria , Cala Berretta , Cala del Varo , and Cala Marinella .

7) Scopello

Nestled on the edge of the stunning Zingaro Nature Reserve lies Scopello – a charming village that’s steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. Built around a 16th-century “baglio” on the site of a former Moorish hamlet, the village’s heart is now a bustling courtyard filled with ceramics shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.

But that’s not all – just a short distance from the village lies the old tuna fishery, La Tonnara di Scopello , where dramatic rocks and crystal-clear waters offer the perfect spot for swimming and scuba-diving. Once used for tuna fishing, the tonnara now houses a fascinating seafaring museum that offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Scopello is a must-visit destination that won’t disappoint.

8) San Vito Lo Capo

Once a peaceful fishing village, San Vito lo Capo is now a popular tourist resort in Sicily. The white beach is over three kilometers long, with warm and clear emerald green waters that make it look like a Caribbean paradise.

Small hotels, restaurants, and shops have been added, but the area is still well-maintained. The beach remains fabulous and well-equipped, able to accommodate a large number of visitors.

Perched atop the legendary mountain of Eryx, Erice stands as a mesmerizing walled medieval town that watches over the port of Trapani from a breathtaking height of 750m above sea level.

Its incredible charm is only heightened by the unpredictable weather, which can transform a sunny afternoon into a foggy evening in mere minutes. With stunning views and an enchanting atmosphere, Erice is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beauty of western Sicily.

10) Segesta

Segesta is a small but impressive archaeological site featuring a stunningly preserved Doric-style temple . On Mount Barbaro, visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city, including a medieval castle, church, and an ancient theater that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. With its rich history and beautiful setting, Segesta is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the ancient world.

11) Favignana (Egadi Islands)

The beaches of Favignana, just off the western coast of Sicily, boast unbelievably blue water that’s almost unreal in its saturation. This tiny, dusty island is part of the Egadi Islands and is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. During the busiest time, even finding a place to park a bicycle can be a challenge, and securing towel space on the beach requires a little creativity. But it’s precisely this idyllic, laid-back atmosphere that makes Favignana such a dreamy destination in the Mediterranean.

12) Marsala Salterns

The Saline della Laguna, located on the coast connecting Trapani to Marsala in western Sicily, is a unique area in front of the island of Mothia, on the famous “salt route”. Visitors can explore the Mill of Infersa and museum, experience activities at “Ettore and Infersa” Saltpans, visit Isola Lunga (Long Island), or enjoy a stay in one of the rooms overlooking the saltpan. This area offers a range of opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of this unique region.

13) Mazara del Vallo

Mazara del Vallo, located near Trapani, is a town that encapsulates the character and history of Sicily . Its beautiful old town, the old Casbah, proudly showcases the legacy of Islamic philosophers, writers, judges, and merchants who once walked its streets. The Casbah is characterized by typical Arab-style houses and a network of small tunnels.

The neighborhood is also home to a large Tunisian community, which helps to preserve the overall style of the area, including decorative elements such as tiles on the facades of houses. Mazara del Vallo is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the multicultural history of Sicily.

14) Selinunte Archaeological Park

Selinunte is a renowned archaeological site located on the secluded west coast of Sicily, between Mazara del Vallo and Sciacca. The Archaeological Park of Selinunte is an exceptional representation of Greek civilization in Sicily, with striking white temple ruins that contrast beautifully with the sky and sea.

Covering an expansive area of 250 acres, the park is the largest in Europe and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world. Selinunte is undoubtedly one of the most captivating and well-known archaeological sites in Sicily, and a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the Mediterranean.

15) Scala dei Turchi

Located near Realmonte, 15km west of Agrigento, this blindingly white rock outcropping is one of the most stunning sights in the area. Shaped like a giant staircase, it juts into the sea and is a popular spot for sunseekers who come to sunbathe on the smooth rock and swim in the indigo sea.

To avoid the crowds, take a walk a few hundred meters north along the white rocky shelf and descend to the long sandy beach below. This beach was named after the Arab pirates who used to hide out here during stormy weather, known locally as Turchi, or ‘Turks’. With its stunning natural beauty and fascinating history, this area is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring western Sicily.

16) Valley of The Temples

The rediscovery of Akragas began in the late eighteenth century, with the arrival of the first European travelers to Sicily. They were amazed to uncover an unexpected and immense artistic and archaeological heritage. The most impressive group of monuments of Magna Greece is located in an almost enchanted valley, full of blooming almond trees.

The unique charm of this site lies in the blend of its cultural environment and natural landscape. The Valley of the Temples is undoubtedly the most significant testament to the ancient, classical culture of Sicily, featuring temples dedicated to gods and goddesses, as well as areas for necropolises and sanctuaries outside the walls. The Valley of the Temples is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the rich history and culture of Sicily.

17) Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a charming and historic town situated in the heart of Sicily. While it is best known for the breathtaking classical mosaics at the Villa Romana del Casale, it’s also a great place to explore, with beautiful old buildings and winding streets to discover. The town is built on hills and was developed in two parts, first by the Saracens in the 10th century and then expanded in the 15th and 17th centuries.

Visitors can admire many stunning buildings, including the 18th-century Duomo, which stands majestically on top of a hill, the elegant town hall, and grand old palazzi like the Palazzo Trigona. For those who enjoy strolling through small streets and discovering hidden gems, the 13th-century area around the Via Monte near the Duomo is a must-visit.

The historical town of Modica is located in the southeastern part of Sicily, about 20 km away from Ragusa. The town’s elegant buildings and streets, richly decorated with baroque motifs, have made it a popular tourist destination. Modica’s inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage site list in 2002 has further boosted its tourism industry.

Modica is situated at the foot of a rocky ridge where two rivers once flowed, but are now underground. In the past, the town was an important center of southern Sicily and the head of the homonymous county. Today, Modica is made up of two urban areas: the Upper and Lower Modica, each with its own unique attractions.

A visit to Modica would not be complete without sampling its famous chocolate, which can be found in numerous shops throughout the town. Mo dica chocolate is known for its unique texture and flavor, which is achieved through an ancient Aztec recipe that does not involve the addition of milk. A culinary visit to one of these shops is a must for any visitor to Modica.

19) Ragusa & Ragusa-Ibla

Ragusa is a stunningly picturesque town in southeastern Sicily, known for its breathtaking views from the upper town over Ragusa Ibla, located on a separate hilltop. As one of the UNESCO-listed Baroque towns in the region, Ragusa has gained further recognition as a principal filming location for the Sicilian detective drama, Il Commissario Montalbano.

Noto is a stunning architectural gem, a baroque beauty so striking it could easily be mistaken for a movie set. Located less than 40km southwest of Syracuse, the town boasts one of the most beautiful historic centers in all of Sicily. The highlight of Noto is Corso Vittorio Emanuele, an elegant walkway lined with breathtaking baroque palaces and churches.

The street is a sight to behold at any time of day, but is particularly enchanting in the early evening when the red-gold buildings seem to radiate with a soft inner light. Noto is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sicily, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy.

21) Portopalo di Capo Passero, Capo Passero Island and Correnti Island

Portopalo di Capo Passero is a picturesque town located in the Province of Syracuse, and is the southernmost town on Sicily’s main island, below the parallel of Tunis. The town is characterized by little white houses and maritime traditions, with a charming harbor, enchanting landscapes, and long beaches with sand dunes and towering cliffs. Portopalo di Capo Passero is famous for its fishing and agriculture, and is the area of production for the famous tomatoes of Pachino.

The islands of Capo Passero and Correnti also belong to the territory, and are rich in precious treasures and charming lighthouses. It is a magical border zone that is well worth exploring, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.

22) Marzamemi

Marzamemi is a picturesque seaside village in southeast Sicily, located just a few kilometers from Italy’s southernmost point. The village has a rich history, dating back to the 10th century when the original tonnara (tuna processing plant) was built by the Arabs.

The old center of the village, organized around Piazza Regina Margherita , features charming buildings, including the Church of San Francesco di Paola, the tonnara, the prince’s aristocratic palazzo, and a row of fishermen’s houses. Marzamemi is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sicily’s beautiful coastline.

23) Vendicari Nature Reserve

The Vendicari Nature Reserve is a spectacular nature spot in the southeast corner of Sicily, known for its 8km of lagoons, sandy beaches, and rocky coastlines. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy walking, bird-watching, and swimming. The Reserve is a significant destination for migrating birds, including flamingos, herons, and terns, on their way to or from Africa. The high salt levels in the area also make it an ideal habitat for sweetly-scented herbs, dwarf palms, and juniper bushes.

The Reserve has three entrances from the main Noto-Pachino road, allowing visitors to take different directions through the park and explore various beaches and rocky coves. The park is home to several buildings, including the Torre Sveva, a 15th-century tower built by Peter of Aragon, a tonnara (tuna fishery), and a cluster of fishermen’s houses. Don’t miss Calamosche Beach , the best beach at Vendicari!

24) Oriented Nature Reserve Cavagrande

The Oriented Nature Reserve Cavagrande, located in the region of Avola, Siracusa, and Noto, is of great importance in terms of geography, anthropology, archaeology, hydrology, and speleology. The Reserve covers an area of 2,700 hectares and is home to the river Cassibile, or Kacyparis in ancient Greek, which has created a series of deep canyons stretching over 10 kilometers through the reserve over the course of millennia. Cavagrande is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the natural beauty and historical significance of Sicily.

25) Syracuse

Syracuse is a noble and elegant city located on the southeastern coast of Sicily, renowned for its charm, history, and natural landscape. The city is divided into the urban part and Ortigia, a beautiful island that is increasingly popular with tourists. In 2005, Syracuse and the nearby necropolis of Pantalica were designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Ortigia is the historical heart of Syracuse and covers an area of one square kilometer, showcasing architectural beauties from different historical periods, including prehistoric settlements, ancient Greek, Byzantine, and Norman remains. Today, Ortigia is undergoing a brilliant reconstruction of its old charm and remains a popular destination for tourists who are entranced by the rare beauty of Syracuse.

One of the highlights of Syracuse is Piazza Duomo, an ancient sacred area that has seen the construction of grandiose buildings from the past, such as the great archaic Ionic temple, the only one known from Western Greece, and the Temple of Athena in Doric style. Today, the square is considered by many to be the most beautiful in Sicily, with its fine buildings overlooking the Town Hall, Palace Beneventiano, Abbey of Saint Lucia, Bishop’s Palace, and Palazzo Borgia, all of which have been restored to their former glory.

26) Catania

Catania may appear noisy, chaotic, and scruffy at first glance, but it has a strong magnetic pull that draws visitors in. This city is Sicily at its most youthful, with a vibrant energy, cool and gritty bars, and an earthy spirit that contrasts sharply with Palermo’s aristocratic airs. Catania’s historic core is a UNESCO-listed wonder, where sweeping baroque piazzas are towered over by black-and-white palazzi.

Visitors can scan the skyline from a dizzying dome one minute and admire contemporary art in an 18th-century convent the next. Beneath it all are the ancient ruins of a town that has celebrated over 2700 birthdays. Food is another local forte in Catania, with the iconic pasta alla Norma and the extraordinary La Pescheria market being highlights.

27) Aci Trezza / Aci Castello

Aci Trezza and Aci Castello are two sought-after seaside towns in eastern Sicily, known for their unique charm and clear waters lapping onto ridges of lava stone. The Norman castle gives the town of Aci Castello its name.

In the summer, the towns are bustling with tourists, including many people from nearby Catania who go there on holiday. The evenings are always lively, with numerous restaurants and bars specializing in delicious seafood dishes. Aci Castello and Aci Trezza are two perfect destination for anyone exploring the beautiful coastline of Sicily, looking for fun and relaxation.

28) Mount Etna Volcano

Mt Etna dominates the landscape of eastern Sicily as Italy’s highest mountain south of the Alps and the largest active volcano in Europe, standing at 3329m . The volcano is in a constant state of activity, with eruptions occurring frequently, most spectacularly from the four summit craters, but more often and dangerously from fissures and old craters on the mountain’s flanks. This activity is closely monitored by 120 seismic activity stations and satellites, and occasionally, the volcano is closed to visitors.

Since 1987, Mt Etna and its slopes have been part of Parco dell’Etna, a national park encompassing 590 sq km and 21 towns. The park’s varied landscape ranges from the severe, snow-capped mountaintop to barren black lava deserts, beech woods, and lush vineyards that produce the area’s highly-rated DOC wine. Mt Etna and the surrounding national park are a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the natural beauty and geological wonders of Sicily.

29) Taormina

Taormina is a charming small town situated on a slope high above the Ionian Sea on the eastern coast of Sicily, and is one of Italy’s most historic holiday resorts . For over a century, Taormina has been a popular and fashionable destination, and the town’s hotels and restaurants are well-equipped to welcome foreign tourists.

While there are some fairly expensive and luxurious options available, visitors can still enjoy the principal attractions of Taormina without spending a fortune. The town’s stunning views, picturesque scenery, and unique atmosphere are accessible to all who visit, regardless of their budget.

30) Alcantara Gorges

The Alcantara Gorges are a stunning natural wonder located on the eastern coast of Sicily. The gorges were formed by the cooling of lava flows from Mount Etna, which solidified into hexagonal columns and were then shaped and polished over time by the Alcantara River.

Visitors can explore the gorges on foot, wading through the crystal-clear waters of the river as it flows between towering cliffs of basalt. The steep walls of the gorges rise up to 50 meters high, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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• Top 15 Places to visit in Sicily

Sicily is the biggest Italian Island, so the options on what to visit can be nearly endless. It is an ancient land which boasts a number of curious archaeological sites , popular beaches, several archipelagos and islets . Furthermore Sicily offers an all-year-round appeal thanks to a perfect blend of mild climate, history, good cuisine, vibrant nightlife and, first of all, a warm atmosphere. Here is a good source of travel ideas if you are planning a holiday in Sicily .  

1) Taormina

Even if it is a small town on the east coast of Sicily, Taormina is one of the most visited touristic resorts in all of Italy . Perched up on a hill about 250 m above the sea, Taormina is about midway between Messina and Catania, a good base for day excursions in eastern Sicily.  Taormina’s history dates back to the 4th century and its beauty is mainly done by the presence of important monuments and historical beauties as the Greek Theatre, stage of many concerts and cultural activities. Among the best things to visit in and around Taormina, a special mention must be dedicated to Giardini Naxos, Isola Bella and Mazzarò .

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2) Syracuse and Ortigia Island

Siracusa ” in Italian language, is a stunning town on the south-east corner of the island. It can be split into two different areas: Ortigia island, which is linked to the mainland by a short footbridge, and Siracusa main town. It was the most important Greek city for a long period and you can enjoy is ancient past while visiting its archaeological area which loads of monuments, including temples, a theatre, an amphitheater and a necropolis. Ortigia , also known as Città Vecchia (Old City), is a pleasant place for strolling, and much of the island's charm lies in wandering down narrow medieval lanes.

3) Lampedusa and Rabbit Beach - Pelagie Islands

Located in the Mediterranean Sea between Malta and Tunisia, Lampedusa is the largest of the Pelagie Islands , an island group that includes Linosa and Lampione islets. Located on the southern part of Lampedusa island, in a natural park, you can find the Spiaggia dei Conigli that in 2013, was voted the world's best beach by travel site TripAdvisor. It is characterized by fine white sand, crystal-clear waters and a shallow seabed . In front of the beach there is the homonymous island, which unfortunately cannot be visited: its access is monitored 24/7 in order to protect the turtles that lay their eggs on the beach.

4) Val di Noto

Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica , Noto, Palazzolo, Ragusa and Scicli are the eight towns in south-eastern Sicily that make up the fascinating Val di Noto . Since 2002 it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site because it represents a “considerable collective undertaking, successfully carried out at a high level of architectural and artistic achievement”. Generally listed as one of the 'must-see' tourist attractions of this part of Sicily, Val di Noto is characterized by little, but absolutely gorgeous towns, with historic centres composed almost entirely of crumbling Baroque palaces, churches and houses.

5) Aeolian Islands

Formed by volcanic activity, the Aeolian Islands are seven small inhabited islands sourrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea in the north of Sicily: Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Filicudi, Alicudi, Panarea and Basiluzzo. The largest and most touristic island is Lipari but travellers are also attracted to the opportunity to hike up to the craters of Vulcano and Stromboli, the still active volcanoes of the archipelago. Furthermore, after the sunset, you can fully enjoy the starry sky, thanks to the municipality’s decision to avoid putting road lights. The Aeolian Islands are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites .

6) Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples

Best known as the city of temples, Agrigento is placed on the southern coast of Sicily. Located just south of the “modern city” and nestled among olive trees on a ridge near the sea, there are some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world. The Valley of the Temples is a magnificent collection of seven temples from the 6th and 5th centuries BC. Agrigento boasts not only ancient and fascinating ruins, but also Baroque architecture, as well as sparkling beaches, marvelous islands and crystal-clear waters.

Loved by tourists and locals, this beautiful corner is the ideal location for a seaside holiday in Sicily . Cefalù is a sea destination in the Province of Palermo , located on the northern coast of Sicily. Just a few steps away from the historic centre and from its winding Mediaeval streets flanked with all manner of shops and restaurants, you reach the golden-coloured beach of Cefalù .

8) Mount Etna

On the eastern coast of Sicily, a short journey from the Strait of Messina, lies the UNESCO World Heritage site Mt. Etna : the Sicily's greatest natural attraction and also its highest mountain. Furthermore, it is one of the world's most active volcanoes, and the most active one in Europe. The height of its summit changes with each eruption, and although over the centuries a few lava flows have reached the coast, it is one of Sicily's main tourist attractions , with thousands of visitors every year. Mt. Etna offers skiing holidays in the winter months and breathtaking hikes in the woods during the summer.

9) Palermo: Mondello and the open air markets

Palermo is the Sicily's capital and besides its marvelous artistic treasures from different eras make this territory special and unique, Palermo boasts also a beautiful seafront. Mondello is Palermo’s city beach, usually crowded, but still worth a visit: the beach lies between the scenic Monte Gallo and Monte Pellegrino; its sand is soft and pale-coloured, the water crystal clear. Once in Palermo, do make sure also to visit its open air markets: Vucciria, Ballarò, and Borgo Vecchio.

10) San Vito Lo Capo and Zingaro Natural Reserve

Known as “the Sicilian Caribbean”, the beautiful beach of San Vito Lo Capo lies on a bay between spectacular mountains that appear to be sinking into the sea. It is popular with local climbers. This great beach is an homage to the Mediterranean: white sand, stunning crystal clear waters and an amazing view of the surrounding Zingaro Natural Reserve . Shaped by nature over the centuries, Zingaro reserve was Sicily’s first protected area, created in 1981. It is a real paradise of nature for the great variety of natural environments that characterized its 1,600 hectares.

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11) Egadi Islands

You’ll be amazed by the beauty of the Archipelago with crystalline waters, composed of three islands and two islets, it belongs to the province of Trapani . Favignana is the largest and better equipped island, also there are Marettimo with white low houses and blue doors, and then Levanzo, which has only 200 residents, therefore represents an ideal destination for those who want to spend a peaceful and relaxing time off. Part of the Archipelago are also the islet of Formica and the rock of Maraone.  

12) Nebrodi Park

The Nebrodi are part of the Sicilian Apennines ; the landscape is characterized by asymmetrical mountainous reliefs and a very rich vegetation. The Park is divided into four areas: integral reserve area, general reserve area, protection zone and control zone. The Park hosts a rich fauna with small mammals, reptiles and many species of nesting birds. Points of interest within the Park are: Rocche del Crasto, Cascata del Catafurco, Cascata di Mistretta, Monte Soro, Biviere di Cesarò, Lake Maullazzo, Monte San Fratello, Bosco di Mangalaviti, Serra del Re.  

13) Selinunte

It is an ancient Greek city situated on the south-western coast of Sicily, which is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Sicily and the largest in Europe. Many buildings were damaged by the earthquakes, that occurred during the Middle Ages, but the remaining ruins stand out with their white colors against the blue sky and blue sea just opposite the site. You can mainly find the sculptures, from the excavations of Selinunte, in the National Archaeological Museum of Palermo .  

14) Pantelleria Island

It is situated 110 km from Sicily and 70 from Tunisia. The island looks almost like a lunar landscape: it is of volcanic origin, so its territory is dark in color with some areas covered in green but alternated by barren black hills and lava flows. There are also caves along the coast and their inside is populated by natural pools with water at different temperatures, as if you were immersed in a sauna. Don’t miss the Lago di Venere, a basin of calderic origin, which is worth a look!  

15) Catania

Situated at the foot of the impressive Mount Etna and overlooking the sea, you will see Catania . The city was founded by the Greeks in 729 BC and has a rich history in terms of cultural heritage. Almost entirely rebuilt in the 18th century, after that the earthquake destroyed it in 1693, today looks beautiful in its Sicilian Baroque style. Places of interest include the Odeon, situated in the historic center, next to the Roman theater, the amphitheater, the Ursino castle, the elephant fountain.

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What to see and do on Sicily’s north coast

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Sicily’s northern coastline features fabulous sandy beaches for holidaymakers who just want to chill in the sun but ancient ruins, mountainous interiors and UNESCO world heritage sites ensure that there is also plenty to keep you occupied.

UNESCO world heritage treasures

If you choose to holiday near Palermo or Cefalù, you will be in prime position for visiting the most recent addition to Sicily’s collection of UNESCO world heritage sites. The seven civil and religious buildings in Palermo, and the cathedrals in Cefalù and Monreale, together make up the ‘Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale’ UNESCO site, awarded its UNESCO status in recognition of Sicily’s multi-cultural history.

Ancient ruins in Sicily

The Greek temple of Segesta in the west and the archaeological site of Tindari in the east are the most significant ancient sites in the north of the island. The latter features Roman buildings and baths, a fourth century BC theatre and the statue of the Black Madonna.  At a mid-point along the coast, remains of the Tempio della Vittoria, which dates to the fifth century BC, are still visible at Himera, where, in 480 BC, the allied forces of Agrigento and Syracuse defeated the Carthaginians.

Mountainous interior

Head just a short distance inland to a world of mountains, valleys and hideaway villages. The Nebrodi, Peloritani and the Madonie (national park) are Sicily’s three highest mountain ranges and all easily accessible if you are staying in a villa on Sicily’s north coast. There are ample hiking opportunities in all three regions and in the Madonie, villages such as Polizzi Generosa, Castelbuono and Petralia Soprana provide a wonderful glimpse into a more authentic way of life.

Aeolian Islands

Just a hop over the water by ferry or hydrofoil, the astonishingly beautiful Aeolian Islands are a melting pot of smouldering volcanoes and simmering mud baths, set amidst crystal clear water. Salina is the greenest of the seven islands while Stromboli (volcano’s island) attracts visitors who are keen to hike its volcano – or, at the very least, catch a glimpse of its daily eruptions. Holiday on the Aeolian Islands for the ultimate relaxing retreat or, if you are staying in a villa near Messina or Milazzo, ask us about chartering a boat and tailor making your own personal itinerary around the islands.

The beaches of northern Sicily

If nothing but a long, powder-soft expanse of sand will do, then head for the beaches at Cefalù or Mondello, a crescent-shaped bay close to Palermo featuring pale, soft sand and lido-style facilities. At Capo d’Orlando, in the east, the beach stretches for several kilometres from the fishing village of San Gregorio. Several of the beaches around Messina, such as Castel di Tusa, the beaches of Gioiosa Marea and the spit of sand in the Laghetti di Marinello nature reserve, are also extremely popular.

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Nine enchanting places to visit in Sicily, Italy

Jo Williams

• Enchanting places to visit in Sicily

Sicily is best known for its stunning beaches, but come out of season and you will discover a whole new side to the largest island in the Mediterranean. With rolling vineyards, sprawling olive and almond groves, and plenty of national parks, there are many stunning places to see in Sicily.

Sicily has its own spin on the Italian language, culture and traditional food distinguishing it from the mainland. Even those that are familiar with ‘the boot’, will feel completely lost on arrival in the ‘ball’ of Italy. But it does share some things with its neighbour. Like irresistible cuisine, mesmerising sites left by a fascinating and rich history, imposing landscapes full of mountains and volcanoes, and of course a swathe of stunning beaches.

On the north of the island you can expect to find hill towns topped by castles, in the centre are vast uninhabited mountain ranges, and on the south coast lies the agricultural heart of the island alongside the penetrating blues of the Mediterranean Sea.

Arriving in Sicily

If you’re flying in from other parts of Europe, you're most likely to start your trip in either Palermo, the capital, or Catania - also known as the ‘Black City’. Sitting right at the foot of the Etna Volcano, much of Catania is built from dark lava rock, the black buildings giving it its less-than-appealing nickname.

Scooters whizz around in a frenetic maze of colour and noise through the bustling markets and streets, ignoring the constant threat of the next big eruption. From here, you can continue south to Syracuse or north to Taormina.

If you are travelling by car or train from the mainland you will likely arrive by ferry a little further north in Messina, a kind of wild-west port town with an ancient history and interesting sights like the Messina Cathedral and Bell Tower, and the Norman-built Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani.

From here, head south to Taormina or west to Cefalù to start your tour around Sicily.

1. Taormina: take in the views and live la dolce vita

Taormina’s exclusive reputation started in the 1920s when DH Lawrence lived here. It’s a place steeped in history and abuzz with celebrity name-dropping, helped by its convenient location (roughly an hour's drive from Catania airport) and stunning views of Mount Etna.

Beautiful artisanal shops can be found down almost every side street, stacked up with ceramics, fine leather and artwork. Don’t miss a traditional granita from Bam Bar, a show at the Greco-Roman theatre, and a hike to Chiesa Madonna della Rocca for wide-angle views of the cliffside town.

Stay in nearby Giardini Naxos, Mazzarò, or Letojanni to save on accommodation costs - from Mazzarò you can also take a swim out to Isola Bella for secret coves and crystal clear water.

For fans of the Godfather, Taormina is a great base for sightseeing. You can do an organised Godfather tour or see the sights by yourself. Close by, Savoca was the setting for the wedding walk, taking place between the Chisea di San Nicolo and Bar Vitelli along the scenic Via San Michele.

Get there early to have a look inside Bar Vitelli, avoid the crowds and have the place all to yourself. Other Godfather locations include the Cattedrale di S. Maria Annunziata e Assunta in nearby Forza d'Agrò and the notorious Mafia town of Corleone near Palermo.

Accommodation recommendation: A'Coffa , a sustainable B&B in the centre of town.

2. Mount Etna: hike around the mountain

One of Sicily's main tourist attractions is also one of its best things to do. Sitting between the African tectonic and the Eurasian tectonic plates, Mount Etna is Europe’s most active volcano.

It’s a huge part of the landscape that you can’t really miss while driving around Eastern Sicily. But a drive up its switchback slopes reveals long-stretching views over Syracuse and the azure sea.

On foot, you can explore deep-red volcanic craters, hop on the cable car, or take a tour of a vertiginous vineyard - producing the famous Etna Rosso wine that the region is so well known for.

Hike around the viewing station or take a guided tour of Etna to get up-close to the steaming heart of Etna’s summit. In winter (if there’s enough snow), ski Etna’s active slopes from the hillside resorts of Piano Provenzana and Nicolosi.

Etna is one of Sicily’s most popular tourist destinations - and for good reason. Avoid the crowds with this off-the-beaten path tour of Mount Etna with a naturalist guide. Skip the tourist trails as you learn about Etna’s history from a  local, visit a lava cave, and see the southeastern crater - Etna's most active area.

Accommodation recommendation: Locanda Milia is a beautiful hotel tucked in the forest in Etna National Park.

3. Syracuse: see the sights

The ancient island of Ortygia (Ortigia) in Syracuse has captured the imaginations of travellers for centuries. During the 8th century BC, Syracuse was arguably the most important city in the ancient Western world, bigger than Athens and allied with Sparta and Corinth.

Also the birthplace of Archimedes, it was described by Cicero as "the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all”. So a visit to Syracuse is undoubtedly a must while in Sicily.

Ancient Greeks landed here and founded a settlement that you can still visit today. The Parco Archeologico della Neapolis is one of Italy’s greatest archaeological sites with highlights like the Ear of Dionysius, Teatro Greco, and the Roman Amphitheater.

Once you’ve had your fill of historical sights head to Ortigia Island to fill up on local specialities. The 3 Ortigia Street Market offers fresh produce every morning, find Caseificio Borderi amongst the stalls for freshly made mortadella, parma, and mozzarella ciabatta - one sandwich is usually big enough for two people!

Other popular spots to visit include Castello Maniace, the grand Piazza del Duomo and the Arethusa Spring at sunset. The uniquely decorated A Putia serves up antipasti, pasta, and homely Sicilian mains that are almost too good to be true.

For stocking up on souvenirs, independent shops like TAMI's make sure you won’t leave town without a trinket or two.

Hotel recommendation : La Residenza del Reginale in Ortigia's historical centre.

4. Noto: Try the local produce

Visit the Baroque towns of Val di Noto, and stroll through the historic centres of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites; Noto, Ragusa, and Modica. The whole region is ripe with hills of mandorla (almond), lemon, orange, pistachio and olive groves, and vineyards. In nearby Avola, known for its beaches, one of Sicily's finest wines Nero D’Avola is produced.

In Noto itself, you can enjoy all of the freshest local produce in restaurants like Ristorante COM'é and Caffè Sicilia. A Sicilian favourite, Arancini, comes with a variety of fillings while Da Umberto Pizzeria serves up traditional Sicilian pizza with fresh ingredients like burrata cheese, pistachio pesto, and grilled aubergine.

For seafood, head to the nearby fishing town of Marzamemi past the nature reserve and archaeological site Tonnara di Vendicari. Sunsets are especially atmospheric with a plate of fried seafood at one of the harbourside trattorias - just make sure to steer clear of the swordfish .

In between meals, head inside Noto Cathedral and Palazzo Ducezio to marvel at the Baroque architecture - these cities were rebuilt in this Spanish style after an earthquake in 1693 left an almost blank canvas in Southeastern Sicily.

You can still visit the original at Noto Antica, a kind of open-air museum that locals still drive through and some still inhabit.

A 5 km hike in Noto Antica takes you through the highlights of the ruins including the Royal Castle and Carmine Church, before leading down a steep ravine into the stunning Cava Carosello nature reserve (take plenty of water and snacks as there are no facilities).

You can do a day trip to Noto from Syracuse or stay overnight to enjoy the town with fewer tourists.

Accommodation recommendation: Marla's Boutique Rooms , a comfortable B&B near the cathedral.

5. Ragusa: climb to the top of the old town

Ragusa is split into two parts; the old town (Ragusa Ibla) and the much newer part (Ragusa Superiore). Both have their reasons to visit but the old town claims some of the best photo opportunities.

You can visit Ragusa (along with Noto) on a day trip from Syracuse , or go by yourself to have more time to wander through the fairytale town.

Take the main street to the magnificent Duomo di San Giorgio, and continue up winding alleys to Palazzo Floridia for staggering views over the surrounding hills.

At the other end of town, Giardino Ibleo also offers sweeping views of the mountainous region and the rural valley below. This hilltop town is all about the views, grab a pizzolo and a cannolo (a singular cannoli stuffed full of ricotta cream) with your espresso at Caffetteria Donnafugata while you watch the world go by.

Accommodation recommendation: T errazza Dei Sogni , a sustainable B&B with a roof terrace in the historic centre.

6. Modica: sample the sweet treats

Not far from Ragusa, Modica is best known for one sweet treat in particular. Spain's three-century rule in Sicily left its mark on the architecture and the culture (four hour siesta anyone?), but it also brought with it a South American import that has been made the same way here ever since.

The Aztec art of chocolate making took over the town like a sugar-crazed gold rush, leaving behind cacao shops on every corner.

One of the oldest is Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, founded in 1880, today you can visit the shop and watch how it’s done. Order an assaggio to sample a few of the many different flavours of the delightfully grainy and ever-so-slightly crumbly chocolate of Sicily.

For sightseeing, walk up the beautiful flower-strewn staircase to the Cathedral of Saint George, just next door is Bar del Duomo - one of the best places to stop for a quick cafe and granita break.

Stick to the main streets of Corso Umbeto and Via Marchesa Tedeschi for a spot of shopping, and spy local landmark Castello dei Conti from below.

For traditional Sicilian food, “cooked with only the best local ingredients” the owners assured us, Osteria Ricotta & Co is one of the best places to eat in Modica - the homemade pasta with pork sauce is particularly memorable!

Accommodation recommendation: Itria Modica for beautiful views in the centre of town

7. Valley of the Temples: get lost in history

Located on Sicily's southern coast, Agrigento is well worth the two-hour drive from Catania or Palermo. Here you can visit the ruins of the ancient city of Akragas, both within Agrigento and at the Valle dei Templi (Valley of the Temples) archaeological site .

Uncover the ruins of a gymnasium, necropoli, and eight Doric temples, said to be some of the greatest and best-preserved examples of Hellenic architecture outside of Greece .

Highlights of a visit include the oldest structure the Temple of Heracles (Hercules), the best-preserved Temple of Concordia and the bronze statue of Icarus, and the Temple of the Dioscuri (Castor and Pollux) - its four remaining columns have become the symbol of the city of Agrigento.

Another spot not to miss in the area is the cascading white rocks of Scala di Turchi, or Stairs of the Turks, an insight into Sicily's geological history just 20 minutes away by car along the south coast. Other important archaeological sites in Western Sicily include the rural Temple of Segesta and the trade settlement of Selinunte.

Stay near Agrigento for at least a night to make the most of a full day visiting the temples.

Hotel recommendation: B&B Templi e Arte is a friendly family-run hotel just minutes from the archaeological park - the homemade breakfast is particularly good.

8. Palermo: delve into the past

The rough-and-ready streets of Palermo, the island's capital, are a real introduction to Sicilian food, while the Catacombe dei Cappuccini is a fantastic, if a little eerie, place to learn a bit about the island's religious history.

There are hints everywhere of the city's layered past. Romans, Byzantines and Normans have all contributed to making Palermo one of the most conquered cities in the world .

The island's stronghold in the Mediterranean Sea has made Sicily quite appealing to many invaders throughout its history, luckily for us nowadays it seems to be mainly tourists who are visiting.

Hotel recommendations: Atmosfere Puniche , a beautifully decorated B&B or Sui Tetti di Balarm Boutique Rooms in a historic building. Both are situated in the historic centre.

9. Cefalù: explore the picture-perfect town

Right at the centre of Sicily's northern coast, Cefalù is a beachside town with plenty of character. The small fishing town is full of locally owned restaurants and bars to get an aperitif.

Explore by foot to make the most of the small shops and cafes crisscrossing the old town's mediaeval streets. Must-dos include a visit to the Norman Cathedral and a climb to the castle-topped La Rocca di Cefalù - the imposing cliff face that looms over the town.

From this tourist hotspot, you can take a boat trip to the Aeolian archipelago. Explore Salina’s vineyards, hop off at Panarea and Lipari, then witness the active volcanoes of Stromboli and Vulcano.

Another popular day trip from here is Castelbuono, a quintessential Sicilian town just 50 minutes inland by road. You can also visit both Castelbuono and Cefalu on a day trip from Palermo , although it's worth spending a few days relaxing in the town.

Hotel recommendation: Emma’s House , a fully equipped modern apartment in a quiet side street of the new town. With secure private parking and a supermarket next door, it’s much more convenient than staying in the ZTL-restricted old town - plus it’s just a 10-minute walk away via the beach.

Planning a trip to Sicily but short on time? You can see many of these places on a small-group Sicily highlights tour .

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Author - Jo Williams

Jo Williams is a freelance writer with 10 years' experience working in travel and tourism. A Brit who got fed up with the 9 to 5 corporate life, she sold everything to become a full-time wanderer.

Jo has travelled to over 70 countries and worked throughout Europe for a major tour operator. She hopes to inspire you to work less and travel more.

Last Updated 21 January 2024