sicily tourist attractions

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sicily

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 1, 2023

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

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

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

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

The Cathedral of Monreale

The valley of temples in agrigento, church mosaics in palermo, eastern temples at selinunte, explore mount etna by rail or cable car, villa romana del casale in enna, parco archeologico della neapolis, syracuse, taormina's townscape and greek theater, aeolian islands, go to the beach, antonino salinas regional archeological museum, ragusa and modica, cefalù cathedral, sicily (palermo) - climate chart.

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

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

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

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

Address: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, Monreale

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

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

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

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

Address: Valle dei Templi, Agrigento, Sicily

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

• Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Agrigento

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Contrada Casale 1, Piazza Armerina, Enna

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Enna

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Syracuse

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ragusa

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

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

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

Address: Piazza del Duomo, Cefalù

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

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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

More on Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Taormina

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

• 10. Selinunte Temples 

11. The temple of Segesta

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

You’re planning to visit Sicily?

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

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

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

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

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

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

In Palermo , you shouldn’t miss:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Going on the volcano is an unforgettable experience!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ortigia Island must-sees attractions:

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

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

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

Another great place to visit in Sicily!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Adresse de la Scala dei Turchi: Strada Provinciale 68

10. Selinunte Temples  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be careful though:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boats connect Trapani to the islands several times a day.

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

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

Things to see in Favignana :

• Cala Azzura
• Cala Rotonda
• Lido Burrone

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Each islands has its own charm and atmosphere :

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

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

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

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

Here are some of my favorite beaches and coves:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sicily travel Guides

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

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

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

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.

Related Stories

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

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

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

Discussion 63 comments.

Hi Vincent!

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

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

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

Thanks so much!

Hi Allyson!

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

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

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

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

Hey Vincent!

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

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

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

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

Hey Allyson,

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

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

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

After, you decide!

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

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

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

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

Hello Johnny,

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

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

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

Enjoy your trip to Sicily!

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

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

Hello Nicole,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good afternoon Vincent,

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

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

Many thanks, Kristine

Hello Kristine,

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

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

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

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

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

Cheers Kristine😊

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

Hi again Vincent,

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

Thanks again,

Hi Kristine,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

P.S. we will be traveling in February 😊

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hello Elizabeth,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Etna 5 hours wine tasting tour

Hello Vincent,

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

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

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

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

Thank you so very much for any ideas you have.

Hello Kisa,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t hesitate if you have any other questions.

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

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

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

Thanks in advance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks, Dan

Your itinerary seems to be perfect!

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

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

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

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

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

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

– Day 1: arrive in Palermo – Night in Palermo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hello Jane,

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

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

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

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

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

Hello Mariyana,

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

Hi Vincent,

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

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

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

Hello Kate,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy your trip,

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

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

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

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

Next up, I have a couple of questions:

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks in advance!

Andreas Windels

Hello Andrea,

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

Regarding your questions about your itinerary:

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

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

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

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

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

Hey Vincent, thanks for your previous reply!

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

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

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

Kind regards!

Hello Andreas,

You are welcome!

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

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

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

Have a nice day,

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

Hello Gerry,

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy your stay in Sicily!

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

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

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

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

Kind regards, Manisha

Hello Manisha,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a nice trip!

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

Hello Anna,

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

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

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

I read your blog and found it very interesting.

Much appreciated.

Neil Katz (Toronto, Ontario CANADA)

Hello Neil,

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

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

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

Enjoy your trip in Sicily!

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

Hi Ulrikke,

That sounds like a nice trip!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hello Daria,

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy your family trip to Sicily!

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

You’re welcome!

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

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

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

Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Middle East
• North America
• Cheap car rentals: my best advice
• Back to Homepage

22 Best Places to Visit in Sicily

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Sicily, you’ve got a fantastic trip ahead of you. Sicily is like nowhere else on Earth. Sure, it’s Italy, but like if you cranked the volume up — wild and passionate, bursting with music and laughter and lava.

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily has so much to offer, whether you’re looking for some of the finest beaches in Italy or some of the best preserved Greek ruins in Europe.

So. You know you want to visit Sicily. But where should you go? That’s where I come in.

I’ve spent many trips traveling in Sicily and many years advising travelers. I’m even a Sicilian American who visited my great-grandfather’s home village in Sicily. In this post, you’ll find out some of the best destinations in Sicily to add to your itinerary.

And be sure to check out my other Sicily posts — including my guide to Sicilian food , the joys and challenges of visiting Sicily , guide to visiting Sicily in winter , posts on my favorite places like the Aeolian Islands and Palermo , and more. You can see all my Sicily posts here.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Sicily

How many places should you visit in Sicily? Honestly, it depends on how much time you have. But no matter how much time you have, I recommend visiting lots of different kinds of destinations.

What does that mean? Mix in a city (Palermo or Catania or Siracusa, perhaps), a natural wonder (Mount Etna, Aeolian Islands, Pantelleria), a seaside/beach destination if visiting during the warmer months (San Vito Lo Capo, Cefalu, Aci Trezza), some ruins (Segesta, Agrigento, Siracusa), and a stunning smaller city (Ragusa, Taormina, Modica).

My biggest tip is to rent a car for your trip to Sicily. This is the best way to get around Sicily. With a car, you can head out for the morning and visit several different places before returning home for the night. You’ll be able to see so much more than you would by public transportation. (Be sure to read my guide to driving in Italy before your trip.)

Okay, let’s take a look at the best places to visit in Sicily!

Submitted by Jenifer of The Evolista

Taormina is a beautiful town and one of the best places to visit on the east coast of Sicily. Situated on a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea, it sits peacefully, at a safe distance from Mt Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. 

Start your visit with a walk through town on Corso Umberto. Browse cute shops and restaurants tucked into small alleys. Make sure to try the regional food specialties like arancini, which are stuffed rice balls that are deep-fried. Another must try is the granita from Bam Bar. A food and wine walking tour is a great way to sample the Sicilian food specialties.

A must-visit is the ancient Greek Theater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which dates back to the third century BCE and is still used today for concerts and an international film festival. You will also find many historic churches and palaces, including the Palazzo Corvaja and the Church of San Giuseppe.

While the views in Taormina are truly breathtaking, the beaches are also beautiful. You can walk down to the beach or take the Funivia cable car, an attraction all on its own. The most popular beach is Isola Bella, a small gem of an island that you can get to by walking over a sandbar, flanked on both sides by crystal clear, turquoise water. 

Where to stay in Taormina: For one of the best hotels in Taormina , book a stay at the San Domenico Palace , where Season 2 of The White Lotus was filmed. This is arguably the best luxury hotel in Sicily, and the pool area is top notch with those to-die-for views.

Welcome to the sizzling capital of Sicily — and one of the liveliest, most vibrant cities in all of Italy. Palermo , the island’s largest city, sits on the northwestern corner of Sicily and has served as the melting pot of the Mediterranean for thousands of years.

Palermo is defined by its unique blend of architecture with Arab-Norman inspiration, thanks to its far-flung cultural influences. These monuments, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are sprinkled all over the city. Don’t miss the Piazza Duomo and the golden Palatine Chapel in particular.

Palermo’s streets are also home to some of the best Sicilian food you’ll ever find — including dishes you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Don’t miss pan panelle , a roll filled with fried chickpea fritters and sometimes potato croquettes, or sfincione , handheld pizza. If you’re adventurous, pani câ meusa is a spleen sandwich (!), a local favorite street food.

Take yourself on a food tour in Palermo — Streaty’s Sicilian food and wine tour was easily the highlight of my own visit — or a trip to Mondello Beach, a 25-minute bus ride from the city center.

Palermo makes an excellent base for further exploration in Sicily. You can easily do day trips from here to Cefalù, San Vito Lo Capo, Monreale, Erice, Segesta, and more.

Where to Stay in Palermo: The best area to stay in Palermo is the chic Politeama neighborhood, with lots of good restaurants and easy access to the rest of the city. Hotel Politeama is a nice mid-range hotel with gorgeous views.

Siracusa is one of the absolute gems of Sicily, and in my opinion is a must-visit. Located an hour’s drive south of Catania, Siracusa (also known as Syracuse) is home to ancient ruins and one of Sicily’s most picturesque old towns.

For many Sicilians, Siracusa is synonymous with Ortigia — an island that is home to the old town. Ortigia is mostly car-free and looks the same way it has for centuries, with a lively harbor and a beautiful cathedral. If you’re basing in Siracusa for any time of your trip, Ortigia Island is the place to be.

But the ruins are another major draw of Siracusa, located in the north of the city. Here at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Néapolis Archaeological Park, you can visit a Roman amphitheater as well as a Greek theater, as well as the altar of Hieron II and the Ear of Dionysus. Be sure to bring sun protection, as this is a big open space.

Siracusa makes a great place to base while exploring southeastern Sicily, including the Val di Noto and its towns of Noto, Ragusa, and Modica.

Where to Stay in Siracusa: You should stay in Ortigia while in Siracusa, and Hotel Henry’s House is one of the nicest places to stay in this beautiful part of town. The decor is elegant Sicilian, and you can’t beat the location!

Recommended by Tamar of World by Weekend

Mount Etna in Sicily  is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers. With its smoking top and long history of eruptions, a trip to Mount Etna is an unforgettable experience to have in Sicily. 

The highlight of visiting Mount Etna is taking a guided tour along the volcano’s summit. To reach the summit, begin at Refugio Sapienza. From there you can hike or take the cable car up 2,800 meters to the Mountain Hut. If you don’t wish to continue on foot, from the Mountain Hut you can take a jeep (or snowcat if you’re visiting in winter) up another 1,000 meters.

After the 2,900-meter mark visitors must be accompanied by a guide. On the guided tour you’ll hike along the rim of the volcano while your guide lectures on the history and geology. From the summit you’ll enjoy stunning views of the valley, the Mediterranean, and, on a clear day, mainland Italy.

Where to stay near Mount Etna: The nearest accommodation to Mount Etna is  Rifugio Sapienza , but there is little to see or do in the vicinity. Instead, stay in nearby Taormina. This charming seaside town has beautiful beaches, high-end shopping, and delicious restaurants. Stay at  B&B Terraza Sul Mare , a family-run hotel with an attentive owner, delicious breakfasts, and stunning views of the sea.

Submitted by Zoe from Together In Transit

If looking for a charming little location on Sicily’s northern coast, find yourself  inspired by Cefalu . Only one hour from Palermo, it’s the ideal quieter Sicilian destination.

While exploring the quaint old town of Cefalù, take a stroll through the alleyways and cobblestoned side streets for those sweet Italian vibes. There are many restaurants to choose from, with a personal dinner suggestion to reserve a table at  B.I.F. Braceria Italiana Fuorimondo . The old town area is also the place you can find the main cathedral and cloister, which is absolutely stunning. Enjoy your time here before strolling to the scenic viewpoint at the end of the pier.

A visit to Cefalù would not be complete without a visit to the castle. With just a short hike up from the town, the Castello di Cefalù is 270 meters above sea level. The view from the very top is beautiful on a clear day, where you can spot lots of locals enjoying the water below. Water activities and tours in Cefalu are popular, such as boat trips, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Fun fact: the beach scenes from The White Lotus were actually filmed in Cefalù, not Taormina where the hotel is set.

Where to stay in Cefalù : Cefalù has many hotels and cute rentals to choose from. A personal highlight is to stay at the holiday home that you can find called A Window On The Sea . It is not located in the old town, however just a short five-minute drive from Cefalù. It has a private beach for a restful afternoon and direct views of the castle.

Aeolian Islands

My personal favorite summer getaway in Sicily is the Aeolian Islands — an archipelago of volcanic islands off the northeast coast of Sicily in the Tyrrhenian Sea. These islands are summer personified, with glorious beaches, volcanoes, vineyard, striking mountains, and beautiful views in every direction.

There are seven islands in the archipelago: Lipari, with the most shops and restaurants; Vulcano, with a smoldering crater and fantastic views; Salina, the best overall island with lots of great towns and food; Panarea, a getaway for the rich and famous; Stromboli, home to a wild active volcano and sparkling black sand beaches; and Alicudi and Filicudi, very quiet and remote islands.

If you have a week in the Aeolians, I recommend spending a few nights in Stromboli and the rest of your time based in Salina. You can take plenty of boat trips to the other islands, either by public ferries or on organized trips. Each island has something special to offer.

If you have a good level of fitness, climbing Stromboli’s volcano is a must. You’ve never seen lava up close like this before! Not a hiker? Have dinner at Osservatorio Restaurant, halfway up the volcano with a view of the explosions as you enjoy your pizza.

Where to Stay in the Aeolian Islands: No matter how long you stay in the Aeolians, I highly recommend staying at Hotel Ravesi on the island of Salina. This gorgeous little boutique hotel is right on the cusp between mid-range and luxury and has a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking Panarea and Stromboli. The staff are lovely, they have electric motorbikes for rent, and their aperitivo is creative and delicious.

Submitted by Coni from  Experiencing the Globe

Overlooking Trapani and the Egadi Islands, the medieval hilltop town of Erice is an unmissable destination in Western Sicily.

Its location was the logical place to defend the harbor, so Erice has been inhabited for millennia. What all its peoples have had in common is the town’s dedication to a female divinity: Astarte for the Phoenicians, Aphrodite for the Greeks, and Venus for the Romans. Early in the morning, the hilltop is often covered by a magical fog that the locals associate with the mysteries of the goddess, and one of the main attractions in town is the Castello di Venere — the Temple of Venus.

The city is shaped like a triangle, surrounded by defensive town walls, which makes it easy to get lost in its alleyways without ever feeling truly lost. The Italians refer to it as “The City of a Hundred Churches” — and although it ‘only’ has 60 of them, you’re guaranteed to stumble into one, no matter which way you go.

Another feature that makes Erice special is that it houses the prestigious Foundation and Centre for Scientific Culture Ettore Maiorana. A statement was signed here during the Cold War by thousands of scientists and high-level politicians (including Mikhail Gorbachev and Ronald Reagan) to secure a way of moving forward without the use of nuclear power. Today the town hosts varied scientific conferences.

After seeing all the sights, enjoy the relaxed Sicilian rhythm from any of the lovely  pasticcerie , or pastry shops. Don’t miss the classical almond biscuits ( dolci ericini ), the custard filled pastries ( genovesi ericine ), nor the beautifully decorated marzipan ( frutta martorana ).

Getting to Erice is easy. If you have your own wheels, you can drive the winding road up. If you’re in for dramatic panoramic views down the valley, take the ten-minute cable car ( funivia ) from Trapani. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike up (or down) the hill –it’s a gorgeous trek of about 10 km/6 miles with almost 800 m/2600 ft of elevation difference.

Where to stay in Erice: You can easily visit Erice as a day trip from Trapani or Palermo, but it’s a popular tour, so it’s worth staying over to enjoy the early mornings and evenings without any crowds. A very special accommodation is Il Carmine , a former monastery linked to the Carmelite order of monks.

Submitted by Veronika of Travel Geekery

Noto belongs to one of Sicily’s prime examples of Baroque architecture, forming part of the UNESCO-inscribed Val di Noto region. The town was built from scratch in the 18th century after a devastating earthquake in 1693. The former Noto, now referred to as Noto Antica and located just a few kilometers away, was not rebuilt. 

Everywhere you look in Noto, you’ll be stunned by limestone structures and palaces, with an exceptionally high number of churches, especially along the Corso Vittorio Emanuele. And then there’s the Noto Cathedral — Noto’s top sight and an imposing structure on the central Piazza del Municipio.

For a truly remarkable experience, if you have a sweet tooth, head to Café Sicilia. The family-run café serves the best granita in town and has become world-famous thanks to a Netflix special. The almond granita is to die for, and there’s a lot behind the scenes, too — the family helped to bring almond growing back to Sicily. You can also have all other kinds of sweets here, including delicious cannoli. 

Noto, of course, played a pivotal role on Season 2 of The White Lotus .

Where to stay in Noto: While Noto can be easily visited on a  day trip from Catania , you should spend a night or two if you want to experience it without tourists. Noto is relatively small, so you’ll have everything within walking distance no matter where you stay. For the most comfort, opt to stay near the Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Filinona B&B is a great choice.

Submitted by Soumya of Stories by Soumya

One of the best places to visit in Sicily, the small town of Agrigento is home to some of Italy’s most fascinating landmarks and ancient archeological sites.

Agrigento’s history dates to the 6 th  century BCE when Greeks ruled the land, after which came the Romans and then the Turks. Visiting Agrigento is like peeling several layers of history and discovering the imprints of many civilizations that have thrived in this historic region.

Of the many wonderful  things to do in Agrigento , visiting the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples is a highlight. Agrigento’s Valley of Temples is a sprawling complex of well-preserved Greek temples that was once the ancient city of Akragas. The temples of Concordia, Heracles, and Dioscuri are imposing structures that tell numerous stories about the powerful Greek Empire.

Right next to the temples is an impressive archeological museum that displays the history of Sicily in 5000+ artifacts. The ancient garden of Kolymbetra, full of citrus trees and almond groves, is not very far away either.

Agrigento’s Old Town is chock full of medieval villas and Gothic churches. A short drive will take you to the Stair of the Turks (Scala dei Turchi), a set of beautiful white cliffs by the sea where you can take a dip in the sea or enjoy a boat tour.

Where to stay in Agrigento: The best place to stay in Agrigento is the majestic Hotel Villa Athena , an 18 th -century mansion that’s located right next to the Valley of Temples and provides stunning views of the Greek ruins. 

Pantelleria

Submitted by Imee Magbag from  Guide To Day Trips

Pantelleria is a beautiful island located between Sicily and Tunisia. Pantelleria is of volcanic origin and has a rugged landscape with several volcanic peaks. Due to its volcanic nature, Pantelleria is known for its unique geothermal features, including hot springs and fumaroles.

The island attracts tourists looking for a peaceful and picturesque destination, with its rocky coastline, crystal-clear waters, and unique volcanic landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, enjoy thermal baths, indulge in local cuisine, and experience the laid-back charm of this off-the-beaten-path Mediterranean island.

There are so many things to do while you are in Pantelleria; you can explore the ancient ruins of Sesi by booking an Archaeological Tour; this is an important archaeological site featuring well-preserved prehistoric stone structures, including Byzantine tombs. 

Another famous attraction and a must-see destination is Pantelleria, the Specchio di Venere, a small lake within a volcanic crater. The water here is to believed to have therapeutic properties, making it a sought-after destination for relaxation. 

Where to stay in Pantelleria: If you are looking for a place to stay in Pantelleria, experience an overnight stay in  Dam musi I Jardina , a traditional stone house; this unique and distinctive dwelling offers beautiful accommodations, with a Mediterranean garden perfect for relaxation. 

Submitted by Jackie Rezk of Jou Jou Travels

Sciacca is a charming town located on the southwestern coast of Sicily. This lesser-known town is a must-visit, especially if you love picturesque and colorful places.

One of the most special things about Sciacca is its thermal baths, which date back to ancient times. The healing waters of the Terme di Sciacca are said to alleviate various ailments. And of course, a visit wouldn’t be right without going to the beach (you can try Lido Sovareto or San Giorgio) and admiring the crystal clear waters.

Sciacca also boasts great food and being located in Sicily, you can imagine why! So be sure to try local dishes such as “couscous di pesce” (fish couscous). This flavorful dish consists of steamed semolina grains served with a variety of fish, shellfish, and aromatic vegetables, all cooked in a fragrant tomato-based broth. The couscous reflects the historical Arab influence in Sicilian cuisine and can be tried at La Bottega Fusion Cuisine.

Where to stay in Sciacca: For accommodation, staying near the marina is highly recommended due to its proximity to the beach and the town center. One specific hotel that stands out is the Domus Maris Relais Boutique Hotel . Situated steps away from the Mediterranean Sea, this hotel offers a great location and comfortable rooms.

Submitted by Steve of The Trip Goes On

Augusta is a small town nestled on the east coast of Sicily between Catania and Syracuse. It was one of the earliest Ancient Greek colonies on Sicily and later became a Roman settlement. 

The town stretches across a small peninsula that culminates in a 2-km long island with a medieval fortress called Castle Svevo overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Med. 

Augusta is also one of Italy’s major commercial ports with weekly  ferries to Malta . I actually missed my ferry and ended up spending four days here waiting for the next one, and it was one of those strange twists of fate that I’m so glad that I did. 

Each year there are a number of festivals held in the town including the  Sagra dei Sapori Medievali , a medieval festival held in September where you can try dishes dating back to the dark ages. 

The streets and squares are lined with cafes and restaurants serving traditional Sicilian dishes, and naturally, the seafood here is some of the best in Italy (I highly recommend the  Locanda Scorfano Rosso  seafood restaurant). 

Where to stay in Augusta: There are some excellent B&Bs on the island. B&B Blu Mare is a nice guesthouse right next to the castle.

A lot of Sicily travelers see Milazzo for one thing alone: the ferries to the Aeolian Islands. But this seaside city is a lot more than that, and I was surprised at just how much I enjoyed Milazzo!

Milazzo is a narrow peninsula set on the sea, the geographic center rising steeply up from the coast. In this part of town, you can enjoy Castello di Milazzo, a ruined castle with spectacular views (and even a tuna production museum on site!). Beautiful villas spring up throughout this neighborhood.

The Tono neighborhood is home to a curved beach surrounding a neon blue bay. Here you can enjoy a number of beach clubs and seaside dining. Alternatively, head to Capo di Milazzo, the tip of the peninsula, to see the Piscina di Venere — Venus’s pool, a beautiful place for a swim.

Just one thing — if you spend time in Milazzo, get yourself beyond the immediate port area. Like most port cities in Italy, this part of town pales in comparison to what you get when you head further away.

Where to stay in Milazzo: Ngonia Bay Boutique Hotel is one of my favorite hotels in Italy, and absolutely worth a special splurge for a few days. The grounds are beautiful — they reminded me of Southern California — with a pool in the ground and a second pool on the rooftop. The restaurant serves some of the best food I’ve had in Sicily (if there is a pasta with red Mazara shrimp, burrata, and pistachio pesto, GET IT).

Submitted by Annabel of Smudged Postcard

Known as the “Belvedere of Sicily”, the hilltop town of Enna has commanding views across central Italy. Enna is surrounded by farmland – a rich green landscape in springtime that gives way to golden fields as the heat of summer arrives.

The best place in Enna to admire the views is from the well-preserved 13th-century fortress Castello di Lombardia. It’s free to enter and is usually fairly quiet so visitors can take in the impressive panorama in relative tranquility.

Elsewhere in Enna, highlights include the Gothic-Baroque cathedral with its impressive staircase. Easter is the best time of year to visit the city when atmospheric parades take place leading to the cathedral.

Enna is remote and hard to reach by public transport. It’s 150 km from Palermo and 90 km from Catania, so hiring a car is recommended — there are plenty of interesting places to explore in the surrounding area too.

Where to stay in Enna: Although there are places to stay in Enna, there is nowhere interesting of note. However, just outside the town are some excellent agriturismo properties that enable visitors to get a true taste (literally) of rural Sicily. Baglio Pollicarini is a good option — it has an excellent restaurant, characterful accommodations, and a swimming pool. There are rooms sleeping up to four guests, which is ideal if you are visiting  Sicily with kids .

Submitted by Izzy of The Gap Decaders

No trip to Sicily would be complete without the incredibly well-preserved ancient Greek Temple and Roman amphitheater at Segesta .

One of Italy’s best-known landmarks, Segesta is set on a rural hill southwest of Palermo, with commanding views across the landscape. Surrounded by rolling hills which are covered by wildflowers in spring, Segesta is hauntingly beautiful.

Influential and important throughout ancient history, the original Elymian city of Segesta reached the peak of its wealth and power in the 5th century BCE, and was operated one of the largest mints on Sicily. During this period, Segesta also hosted an enormous market that attracted traders from all over Europe and was considered an endpoint of the historic Silk Road.

Towards the end of Segesta’s reign, around 417 BCE, the Doric temple that still stands today was constructed (although never finished) at the foot of Mount Barbaro and represents the ancient city at the end of its power as Sicily was being drawn into international conflicts between the Greek powers of Athens, Sparta, and Carthage. 

Between Palermo and Trapani, Segesta is easy to get to by car, or with a guided tour from Palermo, around an hour away. There’s no reason to stay in accommodation close to Segesta; feel free to stay in Palermo, Trapani, or anywhere else in northwest Sicily.

Submitted by Iphi from Travel Choreography

Far off the white marble cliffs of the Scala dei Turchi and Southern Sicily, there is a tiny stretch of arid land called Lampedusa. The island has a unique feel to it — exotic yet approachable, beautiful but untamed. Most of all, it feels like it’s in a world apart, and that’s because it is. Located between Malta, Tunisia, and Sicily, it turns out Lampedusa is also one of the best places to visit in Sicily.

One of the best things to do on Lampedusa is visit Rabbit Beach, also known as Spiaggia dei Conigli. This beach was named the best in the world in 2013 because of its warm, crystal-clear waters filled with tiny fish. You can reach it by boat or take a 10-minute walk from the main road. Don’t forget to bring water and a few snacks as there are no services available on the beach.

Like every Mediterranean paradise of its kind, the island thrives on tourism and fishing and is just waiting for you to join the party. With short direct flights from every big city in Italy, it is, fortunately, not too hard to reach.

Where to stay in Lampedusa: Staying in the main town of Lampedusa is the best option for most people. You can wander around the charming streets and try the local cuisine, where fish dishes dominate the menus. If you find a perfect Airbnb elsewhere, it’s not a problem. Given the island’s small size, you’ll discover that everything is just a short scooter ride away.

If you’re looking for total escapism, you might want to stay at Hotel i Dammusi . It’s surrounded by nature, and you’ll love the pleasant smell of wild cacti flowers and waking up to the sound of waves nearby. It’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Submitted by Greta of Greta’s Travels

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Sicily, you have to add Ragusa to your bucket list. Located in the southeast of Sicily in the Val di Noto, this hilltop town is characterized by its Baroque architecture and countryside views.

Ragusa Ibla, the historical town center, is home to the Duomo di San Giorgio. This Baroque church dates back to the 1700s and is home to grand paintings and colorful stained glass windows. Surrounding the Duomo di San Giorgio, you find picturesque cobbled streets, which meander through the historical town center and make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Ragusa, as is most of Sicily, is one of the most popular destinations to visit in  Italy in summer . It gets pretty hot in the Sicilian countryside, but Ragusa Ibla is only a 30-minute drive to Marina di Ragusa. That way you can combine discovering one of the most interesting Baroque cities in Sicily with spending some time lounging by the sea.

Where to stay in Ragusa: When choosing where to stay in Ragusa, make sure to pick somewhere inside Ragusa Ibla. That way you will be within walking distance of all the main attractions, and you’ll be able to enjoy the magical atmosphere of these cute streets after dark, when most of the tourists leave.

Sure, there are lots of places that international travelers like to go in Sicily — but where do the locals go? They go to fun beach getaways that are easily accessible to the big cities, but

One of those places is Aci Trezza — a seaside town in Eastern Sicily, just outside Catania near Aci Castello, home to a picturesque coastline with clear, bright blue water. Here you’ll find the Faraglioni dei Ciclopi — the “stacks” or boulders of Cyclops, who flung them into the sea.

There’s not a lot to do in Aci Trezza — but that’s its appeal. Have a granita by the sea, take a boat trip around the islands, bask in the sunshine. While there aren’t any traditional sandy beaches here, people either stretch out on the rocky coastline, or book a chair at one of the beach clubs on stilts above the water. It’s the perfect place to take a break from your hectic trip.

If you’re an early riser — or even if you’re not — it’s worth getting up for sunrise here. There’s nothing like seeing the colors change over the faraglioni.

Where to stay in Aci Trezza: The Grand Hotel Faraglioni is one of the nicest properties in town, with a perfect seafront location overlooking the coastline.

Submitted by Ossama of Awesome Traveler

Sicily is well known as one of the  best European islands  to visit. One of the best places to visit in Sicily is the town of Modica, one of the UNESCO-listed Baroque cities of the Val di Noto.

Modica is home to mesmerizing Baroque buildings with rich carvings and exotic balconies, including the Cathedral of San Pietro. The enormous stairway leading to the Cathedral is stunning, lined with the status of the 12 apostles. Once you enterthe church, you are great with staggering Statue of the Madonna of Trapani.

Be sure to spend time walking down Corso Umberto, Modica’s Main Street, which is home to more architectural marvels like the Palace of Modica, the church of Saint Peter, Garibaldi Theater, and Grimaldi Palace.

Modica is also known for its signature chocolate, which you can find in shops all over the city. Modica’s chocolate is processed at a low temperature, which gives it a grainy (and delicious!) texture. Modica is also home to a Chocolate Museum where you can sample all different kinds of this local delicacy. It also makes a nice souvenir to bring home from Sicily.

Where to stay in Modica: The Modica Boutique Hotel is a mid-range property close to many attractions, and features panoramic views of Modica, all the way to the distant sea.

Scala dei Turchi

Submitted by Adriana of Wanderlicious

Scala dei Turchi is one of the most unique places in Europe and my favorite place to watch the sunset go down. The sunsets at Scala dei Turchi are just as beautiful as they look in the pictures. 

Scala dei Turchi, known as the Turkish Stairs in English, is a strikingly white cliff with natural inbuilt steps that resemble a staircase. It’s become a popular tourist destination because of the beautifully blue cerulean waters that are perfect for diving into during the day, and watching the sunset with its hundreds of pastel colors.

It is referred to as Scala dei Turchi due to the location’s tumultuous history. The Ottoman Empire used this point as a lookout during their raids by pirates and warriors. But those days of turmoil are long gone, and now you’ll find tourists bathing in the plentiful coves and shallow pools to relax in.

Make sure you bring a picnic, wine, drinks, or something to sustain yourself as there aren’t always vendors down at the bottom where the beach is. It’s also worth exploring the nearby towns of Agrigento and Porto Empedocle. A gelato tastes even sweeter with this view!

Where to stay in Scala dei Turchi: I can recommend the Scala dei Turchi Resort , a lovely 4-star hotel with a pool and loungers to relax on after a long day of exploring the local area.  

San Vito Lo Capo

Submitted by Jolene Ejmont of Wanderlust Storytellers

In northwest Sicily you’ll find one of the island’s most beloved beach towns: a little place called San Vito Lo Capo. 

San Vito Lo Capo is well known for its sheltered beach and clear waters making it a great spot for swimming and spending a relaxing day at the seaside. Mount Monaco makes a stunning background straight out of a screensaver. Although it’s well-known for its beach, it has many other great things to do and places to see. 

San Vito Lo Capo feels more North African than many other parts of Sicily, and that extends to the cuisine. The town puts on one of Sicily’s best food festivals each September — Cous Cous Fest! Cous Cous Fest celebrates all things couscous, which originated in North Africa before making it to Sicily.

Another great cultural experience is a visit to the San Vito Sanctuary in the middle of the town. Originally built as a fort and then later transformed into a church, it is now a small museum. 

If you fancy a day trip or excursion, a  boat trip  is the perfect tour to book. Here you will cruise along the coastline visiting secluded coves and beaches, where you can go swimming or snorkeling.

For the more adventurous or active travelers, there is a rock cliff with more than 1000 climbing routes that rock climbers love. For an activity less daring you can hike along the coastline to Piana of Egitarso or Zingaro Nature Reserve and take in the gorgeous panoramic views along the way.

Where to stay in San Vito Lo Capo: While many travelers visit from nearby  Trapani , an overnight stay in San Vito Lo Capo is well worth it.  Hote l Biancolilla  is situated in what is considered the best area of San Vito Lo Capo and is in the heart of everything.

Submitted by Džangir of Dr Jam Travels

Monreale is a small town in Sicily that makes for a great day trip from Palermo, as it is just a short drive or bus ride from the city center. This town is famous for the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nuova, commonly known as Monreale Cathedral, located on Piazza Vittorio Emanuele.

Built by William II in 1174 in a unique combination of Arab-Islamic, Byzantine, and Romanesque-Norman architecture, the cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The interior is covered in almost 70,000 square feet of mosaics, mainly biblical stories with the main figure of the Cristo Pantocratore (Christ Almighty).

Monreale is located in a hill above Palermo, with stunning views all the way down to the sea. This area is called the Conca d’Oro — the Gold Basin — and makes a great spot for photos. Once in town, you will wander around its narrow cobbled streets surrounded by beautiful old buildings and pastry shops.

Monreale is a 35-minute bus ride from Palermo, and buses leave every 30 minutes — it’s so easy, you don’t have to book a pricey trip to Monreale. You can also drive to Monreale if you have a car, though be prepared for Italian driving !

Where to stay in Monreale: While most travelers will prefer staying in Palermo with its extensive accommodation options, you can also stay over in Monreale for a quieter, more local atmosphere. You can find accommodation in great medieval renovated houses like Opera Boutique Rooms .

More on Sicily:

• The Joys and Challenges of Traveling in Sicily
• Where to Go in Eastern Sicily
• What to Eat in Sicily: 30 Iconic Sicilian Food Dishes
• 23 Fun Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily
• Complete Guide to the Aeolian Islands, Sicily
• Aci Trezza: A Laid-Back Coastal Town in Sicily
• Visiting Sicily in the Winter: Worth it or not?

Cool Places in Southern Italy:

• Tropea, Italy: A Spectacularly Situated Beach Town
• The Stunning Trulli of Alberobello, Italy
• 16 Fun Things To Do In Sorrento
• 16 Fab Things to do in Lecce, Italy
• 17 Fun Things to do in Bari, Italy
• 15 Best Things to do in Monopoli, Italy
• 17 Fun Things to do in Matera, Italy

Cool Places in Northern Italy:

• Three Weeks in Northern Italy: An Itinerary
• Parma, Italy: A Colorful, Artsy, Delicious Town
• Where to Stay in Rome: Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation
• Three Days in the Dolomites: A South Tyrol Getaway
• Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy
• The Immaculate, Bursting Mosaics of Ravenna, Italy
• 25 Best Food Experiences in Emilia-Romagna, Italy
• 23 Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy

Planning a Trip to Italy:

• What NOT to Do in Italy
• Solo Female Travel in Italy: Is it Safe?
• Ultimate Guide to Driving in Italy
• How to Stay at an Agriturismo in Italy
• 30 Stunning Mediterranean Islands To Visit In Your Lifetime
• 30 Italian Cities To Visit Once In Your Lifetime

Have you been to Sicily? What’s your favorite place to visit? Share away!

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Los Angeles

The 9 best places to visit in Sicily

Ready to see what all the hype is about? Here’s our essential guide to this incredible island

Every inch of Sicily offers a fascinating history lesson (trust us, it’s easier to list the towns without UNESCO status here). Shaped by the many civilisations that have called it home – most notably the Greeks, Arabs, Normans and Spanish – Sicily has a distinct cultural identity that sets it apart from mainland Italy.

From its ancient temples and nature reserves to postcard-perfect beaches and volcanoes, Sicilians are fiercely proud of their land. Combine all that with the food, strikingly different from Italy ’s most famous dishes and worth the trip alone, and you’ll quickly see why Sicily has become one of the hottest holiday spots around over the last few years. Come see (and taste) for yourself – the whole of Sicily awaits. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏖️ The best beaches in Sicily 🏝️ The best Italian islands in Italy 🏡 Italy’s most underrated cities 🇮🇹 The   best  places to visit in Italy

Clemmy Manzo is a Sicilian travel writer. At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best places to visit in Sicily

1.  palermo.

Dotted with palm trees and palazzi, Sicily’s chaotic but charismatic capital bears the stamp of the island’s mixed heritage everywhere you look. Palermo’s star attractions – the glittering Palatine Chapel and Monreale Cathedral – show off its Byzantine, Norman and Arab roots. The city’s Arab legacy lives on in its excellent cuisine, too – try sweet ricotta-filled cannoli at I Segreti del Chi ostro , inside the cloisters of Santa Catarina Church. Then cool off at bar-lined Mondello beach, but not before sampling Sicilian street food staples like panelle (chickpea fritters) and arancini (rice balls) at Palermo’s boisterous open-air markets.

2.  Taormina

Forgive the plethora of souvenir shops: there’s a reason everyone’s heard of Taormina. The town’s Greek and Roman roots are etched into its iconic amphitheatre, dramatically perched above the Ionian Sea. This ancient stage still hosts performances, with Mount Etna smoking in the background. Boutique hotels and top restaurants attract a stylish crowd to its medieval streets and elegant piazzas (no wonder Taormina was the setting for HBO’s White Lotus ). But it’s not all lounging: hike up to the quirky Madonna della Rocca church set in the rocks or climb down to Isola Bella nature reserve (you can also get a cable car). 

3.  Syracuse & Ortigia

Once the largest city in the ancient world, Syracuse certainly packs a historical punch. Start at Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, home to an impressive ancient Greek theatre and Roman amphitheatre. Then cross the bridge to Ortigia, the atmospheric heart of Syracuse, where Norman architecture vies for attention with honey-hued Baroque buildings – but Piazza del Duomo steals the limelight . As if Ortigia’s good looks weren’t enough, it’s also a foodie haven. Tuck into seafood pasta at a waterfront restaurant after a morning dip at one of its beaches.

4.  Noto

After the devastating 1693 earthquake, Noto rose from the rubble, reborn in Baroque splendour. Today, this UNESCO-protected town is a masterpiece of ornate palazzi, churches, and limestone facades bathed in warm golden light at sunset. Stroll down the pedestrianised thoroughfare of Corso Vittorio Emanuele, and stop for a gelato or lemon granita (a seriously refreshing crushed ice drink) at the famous Caffè Sicilia . Don’t miss a guided tour of Palazzo Nicolaci – its lavish interiors hint at the opulent lifestyle of Sicilian nobility in the 18th century.

5.  Cefalù

Cefalù is camera-ready from every angle, but the view from the top of La Rocca (a 268-metre high cliff) is the real show-stopper. After a hike past ancient ruins, you’re treated to panoramic views of the UNESCO-listed town and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Below, pastel-coloured houses fringe the sandy beach, and medieval cobblestone streets lead you to Piazza del Duomo – a perfect people-watching spot, though you may only have eyes for the striking Norman Cathedral. Inside, mosaics and Arab-Norman design offer yet another glimpse into Sicily’s layered heritage. 

📍 Discover more of the best beaches in Sicily

6.  Etna

Back in 1669, Europe’s tallest active volcano buried the nearby city of Catania. But these days, local guides closely monitor Etna’s volcanic activity, making sure it’s safe for hiking, biking and even skiing. You can also take in the dramatic scenery the laid-back way, via cable car ride and a 4x4 bus. Good news for oenophiles: near-constant volcanic activity makes for great wine. Try local Etna Rosso and Etna Bianco, mostly made from Nerello Mascalese grapes grown on the volcano’s craggy slopes. 

7.  Agrigento

Sicily is a classicist’s dream – and nowhere more so than Agrigento. Overlooking the Med, the Valley of the Temples is a magnificent archaeological site that brings the ancient world to life: see it at its most magical lit up at night. Highlights include Hera’s Temple and Temple of Concordia, standing tall since the 5th century BC – one of the best-preserved Doric temples in the world. Back in the medieval town centre, local life converges around shop-lined Via Atenea. A string of nearby beaches and nature reserves add to Agrigento’s appeal. 

8.  Egadi islands

An easy ferry ride from Marsala or Trapani, all three Egadi Islands are worth a visit, but Favignana’s the favourite. Once famed for tuna fishing, the island now draws (mostly Italian) visitors seduced by its laid-back, rugged charm. Pootle around the island by vespa or bike, stopping at rocky coves and beaches: Cala Azzurra and Cala Rossa are renowned for vibrant blue waters that rival the Caribbean. The town piazza buzzes with life at aperitivo hour, or head west to catch the sunset at Cibo, Chiacchiere e Vino , which serves wine and produce from their vineyards and farm.

9.  Erice

This medieval hilltop town has a fairytale charm that makes the winding drive up worthwhile. Admire the sweeping views from the Castello di Venere, a Norman castle built on the site of an ancient temple to Aphrodite. The 14th-century Gothic-style Chiesa Madre is a standout among Erice’s beautiful churches, but just as worthy of your time are the town’s pastry shops, dotted along the cobblestone streets. Don’t leave without stocking up on lemony custard-stuffed genovesi from Pasticceria Maria Grammatico ,   a local delicacy.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Sicily   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Federico Scotto | Getty Images

15 Best Things To Do in Sicily

Updated Apr. 27, 2022

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

• All Things To Do

Aeolian Islands Aeolian Islands

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

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

Mount Etna Mount Etna

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

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

Greek Theatre of Taormina Greek Theatre of Taormina

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

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

Popular Tours

Palermo Original Street Food Walking Tour by Streaty

(1660 reviews)

from $ 78.33

Cooking Class with Seaview & Taormina's Market with Chef Mimmo

(432 reviews)

from $ 107.85

Private tour of Etna and Winery Visit with Food and Wine Tasting from Taormina

(149 reviews)

from $ 376.89

Selinunte Archaeological Park Selinunte Archaeological Park

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

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

Monreale Cathedral Monreale Cathedral free

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

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

Villa Romana del Casale Villa Romana del Casale

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

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

Valley of the Temples Valley of the Temples

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

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

Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel

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

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

Taormina and Castelmola Tour from Messina

(344 reviews)

from $ 102.17

Agrigento; Valley of the Temples, Scala dei Turchi from Palermo, Private Tour

(48 reviews)

from $ 374.62

Boat tour Giardini Naxos Taormina Isola Bella Blue Grotto

(374 reviews)

from $ 39.73

Teatro Massimo Teatro Massimo

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

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

Mondello Beach Mondello Beach

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

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

Zingaro Reserve Zingaro Reserve

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

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

Palermo Cathedral Palermo Cathedral

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

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

Castello Maniace Castello Maniace

Read More »

Tour Etna & Wine Tasting

(146 reviews)

from $ 164.61

Palermo : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide

(66 reviews)

from $ 51.09

Messina Private Tour Savoca(Godfather) Taormina and Castelmola

(24 reviews)

from $ 187.31

Catacombe dei Cappuccini Catacombe dei Cappuccini

Spiaggia di San Vito lo Capo Spiaggia di San Vito lo Capo

Explore More of Sicily

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

16 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

Christina Maggitas|Rachael Hood|Catriona Kendall September 13, 2024

The 26 Best Beach Resorts in the World

Marisa Méndez|Erin Vasta|Rachael Hood|Catriona Kendall September 5, 2024

30 Fun Fall Weekend Getaways for 2024

Holly Johnson August 29, 2024

The 19 Best Fall Family Vacations for 2024

Amanda Norcross August 27, 2024

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

23 Best Things to Do In Sicily, Italy in 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Updated On: March 1, 2024

Southern Italy is home to many wonderful destinations, but few are as captivating as Sicily. The beautiful island seemingly has it all, from high-end vacation resorts to historic Greek and Roman landmarks. That’s precisely what makes it an excellent vacation spot for pretty much anyone! 

Whether your idea of a nice vacation includes relaxing on the beach for hours on end or endless adventures, you can enjoy yourself in Sicily. The island offers a bit of everything, and I want to tell you all about its best attractions and landmarks. 

If you can’t stay in one place for too long, Sicily is a destination you will thoroughly enjoy. Get behind the wheel and drive from one coastal town to another, discovering old churches, castles, and hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints. It’s the perfect location for a memorable road trip, so buckle up as we get into all the best things to do in Sicily!   

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Sicily

Sicily’s rich history and picture-perfect landscapes leave no one indifferent. I’m certain you will easily find tours and attractions to fill your time on the island and love every second of it! With Baroque towns, Greco-Roman ruins, and delectable food, enjoying your vacation is a given. Consider my favorite Sicily tours and things to do, for an unforgettable trip. 

Best of Sicily Quick Guide

• Must See : Palermo , Taormina, Catania , Valley of the Temples , Syracuse, Mount Etna, Cefalu 
• Where To Stay : Hotel Europa , Hotel Villa Athena , San Domenico Palace
• Fun To Do: Mount Pellegrino, Godfather tours , Parco delle Madonia, Food tours
• Day Trips: Aeolian Islands , Noto, Marsala Salt Flats, San Vito Lo Capo
• Must Try Foods: Arancini, Cannoli, Pasta alla Norma, Pesce Spada, Caponata

1. Hop Over To The Aeolian Islands

Situated just off the northeastern coast of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are the perfect excuse to get a boat and set off on a fun day trip. The volcanic archipelago boasts a total of seven islands, the largest of which is Lipari. 

The namesake town of this island is known for its historic hilltop castle at the center of an archeological site. Come here to see ancient ruins, but also to enjoy incredible panoramic views. 

If you’re more interested in natural landmarks than historic ruins, head to Vulcano Island. Follow a hiking path to the top of a volcano for surreal vistas of a crater and nearby islands. The southern coast of Vulcano features black sand beaches, while the western coast boasts grottos and caves. Overall, there’s plenty to do and see in the Aeolian Islands, and you could easily spend more than a day cruising from one waterfront village to the other if you had the time. 

Practical Information: Tours of the Aeolian Islands usually depart from Milazzo. 

2.Join a Godfather Tour of Sicily 

There’s no denying the fact that Francis Ford Coppola’s adaption of The Godfather novel is one of the most iconic films of the 20th century. The masterpiece featured several scenes shot in Sicily, and the locals have long decided to capitalize on this popularity. 

Join a Godfather tour of the island and you can discover where some of the movie’s best scenes were filmed. Savoca and Forza D’Agrò are the two villages that were most heavily featured on the screen, and tours will take you to both. 

You’ll get to visit the church where Michael Corleone and Apollonia get married, the iconic Bar Vitelli, and even Vito Corleone’s birthplace, the Andolini house. And if you see some oranges along the way, don’t worry; they’re actually pretty common on the island and not a bad omen. 

Practical Information: Godfather tours of Sicily usually take around 4 hours. 

3. Explore the Best Attractions in Catania 

Catania is the second largest municipality on the island, right after Palermo. Situated at the foot of Mount Etna, this ancient port city offers historic buildings, palazzos, ruins, and much more. Hiking trails lead from the town to the top of the Etna volcano, making Catania one of the best destinations for travelers who don’t want to rent a car in Sicily, but still want to explore most of its iconic sights. 

The 13th-century Castello Ursino with a royal archeological collection is Catania’s best-known landmark. There’s also the 2nd-century Greek-Roman theatre, the spectacular Palazzo Biscari with frescoes and a stucco facade, and the wonderful botanical garden with a collection of palm trees and succulents. 

I’ve barely even scratched the surface of notable attractions in Catania! If you’re in town only for a day, it’s best to arrange a guided tour of the historic sights , so you don’t miss anything important. And if you’re staying there for a while, take your time touring the town, tasting street food, and trying to make time for a museum or two.

Practical Information: Catania is the second-largest city in Sicily, serviced by the Catania International Airport, the island’s busiest. 

4. Visit Mount Etna 

Hiking to the top of the largest active volcano in Europe sounds fun, right? Tours of Mount Etna take place every day, and it’s one of the most popular destinations on the island. A cable car can take you up the mountain, and it’s the best option for people who want to go on self-guided tours. 

See the craters, get a drink at a bar at an altitude of 2,500 meters, and enjoy the enchanting views from the top of the continent’s largest volcano. It’s a bucket-list experience, one that could likely be the highlight of your entire trip to Sicily. 

Consider booking a guided tour of Mount Etna if you’re not a confident hiker. 

Practical Information: The cable car to Mount Etna costs 50-78€, depending on the final station. 

5. Try The Best Sicilian Dishes

Sicily is an Italian island, so of course the food is going to be one of the best things about the trip! Every night you’ll have the world’s hardest dilemma – do you eat pasta or pizza for dinner? And every day you can try something new for lunch, gorging on authentic Sicilian dishes and trying to find your favorite one. 

I already know my favorite street food from Sicily and it’s arancini. The deep-fried rice balls stuffed with cheese are one of the best things I’ve ever had in my life, and I’ve been trying to recreate them ever since. If anyone knows a really good recipe for authentic Sicilian arancini, please share it! 

Sicilian cuisine is heavy with seafood, which is evident in many of the island’s staple dishes.

Sarde a beccafico, Pasta con le sarde, and Involtini di pesce spade are all classic dishes with fish as the main ingredient. For dessert, you can eat as many cannolis as you like. The traditional recipe calls for a classic creamy cheese filling, but patisseries often have more than one option for the filling, usually chocolate and pistachio. 

Practical Information: Sicilian food tours are available in all major cities on the island. Palermo, Catania, and Taormina have the most options.  

6. See The Sights In Palermo

Palermo is the capital of Sicily. It’s the biggest city on the island and a great destination for those who prefer a more urban vibe. Palermo is the center for culture and history on the north coast, and it’s absolutely one of the top destinations for a first-time trip to Sicily. 

If you only have one day in the city, it’s best to do a classic guided walking tour of Palermo’s best attractions . See the Palermo Cathedral, stand at the Baroque Quattro Canti square, tour the magnificent Norman Castle, and admire the view from Torre di San Nicolò di Bari. 

Stay in Palermo if you’re planning a longer trip to Sicily. The city offers a plethora of historic landmarks, excellent food, and a pretty good nightlife. It’s also got beautiful beaches and easy access to other nearby destinations, so there’s enough to do here that you could stay busy for at least five days. 

Practical Information: Palermo is serviced by an airport and a ferry from Naples. The city is two and a half hours from Catania airport by car and bus. 

7. Medieval Castles at Parco delle Madonie

Parco delle Madonie is a regional park most easily accessible from Palermo and Cefalu. Featuring historic castles and medieval villages, the park is excellent for exploring remnants of a different era in Sicily. 

It’s also a top destination for hiking on the island, as there are several marked trails within the park grounds. Also, some of the tallest mountains on the island are situated within this park, making it a must-visit for all alpinists who can’t resist a good climb. 

One of the top attractions at this park is a giant yellow bench that would make the Hulk appear tiny. It’s a great destination for some excellent photos, but also for endless views of the island’s rolling hills. 

Practical Information: Parco delle Madonie is accessible any time of day or night for free. 

8. Day Trip to Noto 

Noto is one of the lovely Baroque towns on the southeast coast of Sicily. It’s known for the Noto Cathedral, a grand 18th-century church with a neoclassical dome. The interior of the cathedral is not quite as impressive as you would expect, but it’s nonetheless worth going inside to see some interesting sculptures and frescos. 

Nicolaci Palace is one of the town’s most lavish residences. The palazzo once belonged to a wealthy family, and nowadays it’s open for public tours. Period furnishings and stunning decorations adorn the palace interior, while the palace balconies offer a splendid view of Noto’s famous flower carpet.

Practical Information: Noto is situated in southeast Sicily, approximately an hour’s drive from Catania.     

9. Experience Saliturismo at Marsala

Marsala is the largest town on the west coast of Sicily, known for ancient ruins, fortified wine, and salt flats. It’s one of the most picturesque destinations in Sicily, especially the salt flats with the windmills in the background. 

This is the most popular attraction in Marsala and visitors can even experience what it’s like to be a saltworker for an hour. But it’s not the only reason to come to this city. Marsala also boasts an archaeological park with Roman ruins and museums, castles, churches, and old city gates. 

Isola di San Pantaleo is another excellent destination to visit close to Marsala. Accessible only by boat rides from private piers at the salt flats, the island features remnants of an old Phoenician settlement.  

Practical Information: Marsala is roughly two hours from Palermo and Agrigento. Experiences at the Salt Resort cost 16-60€, and are available mostly from June to September. Only guided tours of the salt flats are available year-round. 

10. Spend a Day on The Beach 

Sicily has many miles of sandy, pebble, and stone beaches. Allow for at least one day of pure hedonism lying on a lounge chair on the beach, enjoying the sound of the waves and the scent of salt in the air. 

Licata Beach, on the island’s southern shore, is one of the best if you want to avoid crowds. It features soft sand and crystal clear water, but it’s nowhere near as touristy as some of the other beaches on the island. 

San Vito Lo Capo Beach is another one of the island’s best. Boasting white sand and turquoise waters, it’s an excellent destination for travelers who want to spend a day swimming and sunbathing. 

Practical Information: Most beaches in Sicily are free to enter. However, in many places, you won’t be allowed to stay on the beach unless you rent loungers and umbrellas, which cost anywhere from 12-25€, depending on the location. 

11. Discover Historic Ruins in Taormina

The hilltop town of Taormina is one of the best for ancient ruins in Sicily. Teatro Antico di Taormina is by far the most famous landmark in town; the Greco-Roman theater is teeming with history, and it offers an excellent view of Mount Etna. 

Because the town sits atop a hill, the views are out of this world. You’ll enjoy endless vistas of Sicily’s mountains on one side and the sea on the other. However, the panoramic location also means that it’s quite a bit of a walk whenever you want to go down to the beach. 

Taormina is home to some of the best resorts on the island, including the fabulous hotel featured in the second season of White Lotus – San Domenico Palace. Unahotels Capotaormina is another fabulous resort worth mentioning because it has a private sandy beach that you can reach via a lift carved into the rocks. 

Practical Information: Taormina is situated on the east coast of Sicily, roughly an hour from Catania. 

12. Tour Ancient Cave Dwellings

The south coast of Sicily boasts quite a few interesting natural landmarks, one of which is the Archaeological area of Cava d’Ispica. The cave dwellings are carved into the mountain and offer epic views of the beautiful island landscapes. 

Cava d’Ispica is tucked away far from the tourist centers of Sicily, so it’s a place you’ll be able to visit only if you have a car. It’s worth the hassle though because the archeological park is quite big and also features a Water Mill Museum inside a cave, a necropolis, and a cave church with frescos painted on the walls. This is one of the attractions off the beaten path in Sicily, so you can expect fewer people around. 

Practical Information: Cava d’Ispica is open from 9 AM to 7 PM. Tickets are 5€. 

14. Head to The Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples is an archeological site in Agrigento, on the southern coast of Sicily. It’s one of the best destinations on the entire island if you want to discover remnants of ancient history and see some marvelous Greek ruins. 

Agrigento is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its historic landmarks, so it’s definitely one of the best cities on the island for historic tours. The town was founded in the 6th century BC as a Greek colony and became one of the most important cities in the Mediterranean world. 

There are many temples in the valley but by far the most famous one is the Temple of Concordia. The ancient Greek temple is incredibly well preserved and serves as a great example of Dorian architecture. 

Practical Information: The temples can be visited from 8:30 AM to 7 PM. The entrance fee is 12€. 

14. Antique Buildings of San Vito Lo Capo 

San Vito Lo Capo is best known for its namesake beach, which boasts soft sand, crystal-clear sea, and epic mountain views. But there’s much more to this beachfront town, and I wouldn’t rule it out entirely as a place to stay in Sicily. 

One of the most interesting landmarks in town is Santuario di San Vito Martire. Dating back to the Byzantine era, the building features a bizarre mixture of architectural elements. Its height and limited openings on the walls indicate a former military purpose, but the crypt and bell tower are typical of religious buildings. 

Tonnara del Secco is another interesting historic landmark, most popular for its serene waterfront location. 

Practical Information: San Vito Lo Capo is situated in the northwest of Sicily, roughly a two-hour drive from Palermo. 

15. Anti-Mafia Tour

Sicily has a long and tumultuous history with the mafia. Cosa Nostra originated on the island, and although many people romanticize this because of The Godfather films, the late 19th and early 20th centuries were a tough time for the locals.

The Mafia Wars of the late 20th century caused the death of many innocent people. Since then, several anti-mafia tours and organizations have popped up in Sicily, which aim to educate people about the darker side of life on the island, which isn’t explored in detail in pop culture. 

The village of Corleone even has an Anti-Mafia Museum, which you should consider visiting if you genuinely want to know more about the topic. The guides will tell you many insane stories about the mafia, and it will help you understand just how bad the situation can get when the criminals are in control of everyday life.

Practical Information:   The Antimafia Museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. 

16. Walk to Isola Bella

Isola Bella is a small island accessible by a walk from Taormina. You must cross a sandy beach to reach the island, and if the tide is high, you’ll be walking through knee-deep water. The experience is absolutely wonderful though, as this charming little island offers beautiful panoramic views all around. 

There’s even a small museum on the island, but don’t expect much from it. It features some nice walking paths and a very modest exhibit on the island’s natural history. 

One thing to note is that Isola Bella doesn’t have good beaches for swimming. They’re mostly rocks that don’t feel very comfortable to walk on, so keep that in mind. Come here for stunning surroundings and beautiful panoramic vistas, ideally on an afternoon walk. 

Practical Information: Isola Bella is accessible only by walking paths from Taormina. The entrance fee to the island is 4€. 

17. Cave Church at Mount Pellegrino 

According to Geothe, Mount Pellegrino is the most beautiful promontory in the entire world. The hill overlooks the Bay of Palermo and is accessible by uphill hiking paths from Sicily’s capital. If you stay in Palermo for at least 2-3 days, you won’t regret making time for Mount Pellegrino. 

Santuario di Santa Rosalia is another reason to make it up the hill. The 17th-century church is carved into the side of the mountain, and it is dedicated to the patron saint of Palermo. The church is an astonishing sight, and anyone can go inside for free. 

Mount Pellegrino features even more walking and cycling paths, scenic viewpoints, and even a stunning castle. Addaura Cave is another famous landmark here, but one that’s unfortunately no longer accessible to the general public. It’s known for prehistoric drawings on the cave walls and remains closed to visitors for safety reasons. 

Practical Information: Mount Pellegrino is accessible 24/7 for free. The Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia is open from 9 AM to 6 PM. 

18. Visit an Old Quarry in Syracuse

Syracuse is yet another destination in Sicily known for Greek and Roman ruins. The town boasts an ancient quarry in the Neapolis Archaeological Park, which is also home to a Greek theater and a Roman amphitheater. 

The Tecnoparco Museo di Archimede is also at the archaeological park, and it’s another place to consider adding to your itinerary. Well, if you’re a self-proclaimed nerd you might enjoy the place since the open-air museum features models and illustrations that demonstrate how Archimedes’ concepts work. Otherwise, maybe you should stick to the Syracuse beaches. 

There’s another scientific museum in town, and it’s situated on Ortigia Island. The Archimede & Leonardo da Vinci Museum features interactive models of various scientific inventions the two legends came up with. The Temple of Apollo is also on this island, and it’s another iconic historic landmark of Sicily. 

Practical Information: Syracuse is on the southeast coast of Sicily, roughly an hour’s drive from Catania. 

19. Marvel at Messina’s Medieval Architecture

The port city of Messina serves as a gateway to Sicily, offering direct ferries to mainland Italy from the island. Most people who travel to Sicily in a car will pass through this town, and it’s absolutely worth it to stop here and explore the sights for a few hours. Even if you’ve arrived on the island by other means, Messina is a place worth visiting on excursions. 

The town boasts a wonderful blend of Greek, Roman, and Medieval architecture. Tour the historic center to discover monumental churches, ancient fortresses, and the city’s many fountains. 

Additionally, Messina is the third-largest city in Sicily by population, so it’s got great infrastructure. It’s home to many excellent restaurants and shops, as well as friendly locals. 

Practical Information: Messina is a port city in northeastern Sicily, separated from the mainland by the Messina Strait. It’s roughly an hour’s drive from Catania, but two and a half hours from Palermo. 

20. Roman Mosaics at Villa Romana Del Casale

Villa Romana del Casale is one of the landmarks that will make you want to get a rental car in Sicily. Nestled in the central area of the island, halfway between Agrigento and Catania, the spectacular estate dates back to the 4th century AD. 

This historic landmark is surprisingly well-preserved considering how old it is. Some of the mosaics and wall paintings are practically intact and are the main reason why the palace holds UNESCO World Heritage status. 

Don’t worry, you can visit this magnificent place even if you don’t have a car. Guided tours of Villa Romana del Casale are available from both Agrigento and Catania, often combining the visit to this landmark with tours of other notable attractions in the area. 

Practical Information: Villa Romana Del Casale is open for tours from 9 AM to 6 PM. The entrance fee is 12€.

21. Coastal Hikes at Zingaro Nature Reserve

Zingaro Nature Reserve is situated in northwestern Sicily and it’s one of the best destinations for day trips from Palermo. The waterfront nature park features dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and rewarding hiking trails. 

Come here if you want to escape the crowds of city streets and spend some time exploring the captivating Sicilian landscapes. The nature reserve even features a natural history museum in a cave, with a small but interesting exhibit on the local flora and fauna. 

If you want to go on hikes at Zingaro Nature Reserve, be sure to pack a swimsuit. Many trails lead to secluded bays and coves, where you can enjoy a crystal clear and tranquil sea. 

Practical Information: The Zingaro Nature Reserve is open from 7 AM to 7:30 PM in the summer season. The admission fee is 5€. 

22. See The Turkish Steps

For a long time, this was the most popular beach in Sicily. Unfortunately, it eventually closed to the public because of erosion and lack of environmental protection. Visitors can no longer spend time on the beach, but it is still possible to get a glimpse of this incredible natural landmark. 

Viewpoints are available on the cliffs just above the beach. There are multiple parking lots off the side of the road here, and you don’t have to walk for more than a couple of minutes to be able to admire this scenic site. It’s a picturesque place and a great spot to pose for some epic photos from Sicily. And it only takes 10-15 minutes to check this landmark off your itinerary, especially if you’re already driving around southern Sicily. 

Practical Information: The Turkish Steps Beach is on the island’s southern coast, close to Porto Empedocle. It is most easily accessible on road trips.  

23. Enjoy the Views From Hilltop Castello di Cefalù 

Cefalù is a very popular destination on the northern coast of Sicily. The picturesque town is known for its traditional stone houses, historical landmarks, and long sandy beaches. It’s one of the most popular places for beach vacations in the north, and it’s got an abundance of hotels and resorts to prove it. 

Even if you’re not looking for the perfect beach town in Sicily, consider traveling to Cefalu if only for a day. See the Norman Cathedral of Cefalù with its marvelous Byzantine mosaics and hike to the top of a hill, where the ruins of Castello di Cefalù await. It’s an exhausting hike, but the captivating views from the top make it all worthwhile. 

Practical Information: Cefalù is approximately an hour from Palermo but two hours from Catania. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is sicily best known for.

Sicily is best known for its ancient ruins, beautiful villages, and spectacular beaches. The popular holiday destination boasts an excellent blend of luxury resorts and historic landmarks, allowing anyone to enjoy the island.  

How many days in Sicily is enough?

You need at least 5-7 days to tour Sicily’s most famous towns and attractions. A stay of 10-15 days allows you to visit all the most popular landmarks on the island.  

What is the nicest part of Sicily to visit?

Taormina is one of the prettiest towns in Sicily, with vast sandy beaches and excellent resorts. Palermo is also very popular, thanks to its many historical landmarks and excellent nightlife.  

Is Sicily worth visiting without a car?

Yes, Sicily is worth visiting even if you don’t have a car. Stay in either Palermo or Catania, and you can easily explore the nearby tourist attractions (which are abundant) by arranging tours or using public transport. 

Tips And Information For Visiting Sicily

Best Time To Visit 

The best time to visit Sicily is between April and June, or in October. Any time of the year is a good time to visit Sicily; the island’s mild, Mediterranean climate means that you can wear lightweight clothes and enjoy the sunshine virtually year-round. 

July, August, and September are the most popular months for visits to the island. This is when the crowds are the biggest and the hotel prices are at their highest, so you might want to skip this busy season. July and August are also very hot on the island with temperatures that are in the high 30s C° throughout the day, which means you can’t get out and explore as much while staying comfortable. 

Getting There

Catania Fontanarossa Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Sicily. It’s on the eastern coast very close to Catania, and a great starting point for your journey through Sicily. A taxi from the airport into Catania town should cost 25-30€.

The Palermo Airport services the western coast of the island, and it’s better to fly there if you’re planning to spend most of your time in this part of Sicily. Travel from the airport into town by public transport, taxi, or private transfer.  

Getting Around

Renting a car is best if you want ultimate freedom in Sicily. The island is big with attractions on all four coasts, and you simply can’t see everything without a car. Ideally, you’d rent a cute little Fiat 500 to fit in with the locals. It’s not a joke – having a small car will help you navigate the narrow roads of Sicily more easily. 

Is there a point in coming to the island if you don’t have a car? Yes, absolutely! Even if you’re not in a position to drive around the island, you can still explore much of it by booking tours and riding public transport. It’s just that you’ll need to focus on one specific region, and I highly recommend you choose the northeast. 

In terms of public transport on the island, Sicily has trains and buses. However, it’s interesting that the buses are much more reliable than the trains. In fact, it’s best for tourists to avoid the trains like the plague; the delays are very common, and when those happen you could get stuck in a town and might have to spend the night there. 

How Much Time Do You Need

You need at least 5-7 days for a thorough exploration of Sicily. Every additional day you can spare will allow you to see more of this stunning Italian island and its countless attractions.  

Sicily is quite big and has loads of interesting places to see. Cefalu, Taormina, Syracuse, Palermo, and Mount Etna are just a few, and if you were to spend only a day in each of them, boom – there’s your five-day itinerary. That doesn’t account for any island-hopping or even the inland attractions. 

On the other hand, if your idea of a visit to Sicily includes spending most of your time relaxing at the resort and maybe venturing out into the town for a night or two, then a trip of any length can work. But if you really want to get out and explore, you’ll regret booking anything shorter than a week. 

Where To Stay In Sicily 

Palermo is a good place to stay if you want to be in a bigger city with easy access to other destinations on the northern shore of Sicily. Catania, Taormina, and Syracuse are all great if you want to stay on the east coast and be close to Mount Etna National Park. Agrigento is one of the best destinations on the southwestern coast of the island. Here are some of the best hotels in Sicily for all budgets: 

• Hotel Europa is an affordable place to stay in Palermo, close to the city’s historic center. 
• Hotel Villa Athena boasts a location smack dab in the middle of the Valley of the Temples, and it’s perfect for a luxury getaway.
• San Domenico Palace in Taormina is THE hotel from White Lotus season 2 with comfortable rooms and epic views from the hotel restaurant and terrace.  

Plan Your Next Trip To Italy With These Resources

• 10 Of the Best Things to Do In Palermo, Sicily
• Where to Stay in Naples, Italy: Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors
• The Best Guide to Hiking Mount Etna
• Italian Food: 27 Italian Dishes to Try in Italy or at Home
• The Very Best Things to do in Italy

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

One Day in Milan Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide for First-Timers

Where to Stay in Florence: Your Area And Neighbourhood Guide (2024)

Where to Stay in Rome: Our Favourite Places And Neighbourhoods (2024)

About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Sicily

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on April 3, 2024

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

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

Map of Sicily

10. Monreale [SEE MAP]

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

9. Erice [SEE MAP]

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

8. Doric Temple of Segesta [SEE MAP]

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

7. Villa Romana del Casale [SEE MAP]

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

6. Syracuse [SEE MAP]

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

5. Palermo [SEE MAP]

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

4. Aeolian Islands [SEE MAP]

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

3. Taormina [SEE MAP]

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

2. Mount Etna [SEE MAP]

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

1. Valley of the Temples [SEE MAP]

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

Share this post:

15 Best Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily

16 Best Things to do in Taormina, Italy

How to Spend 10 days in Sicily: DIY Itinerary

Where to Stay in Sicily: 9 Top Destinations

11 Best Places to Visit in Sardinia

20 Most Beautiful Regions of Italy

17 Best Cities to Visit in Italy

14 Best Things to do in Bari, Italy

17 Best Things to do in Ravenna, Italy

14 Best Places to Visit in Southern Italy

Reader interactions.

November 6, 2017 at 8:41 am

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

May 17, 2017 at 6:23 am

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Things to Do in Sicily
• Things to Do in Palermo
• Best Beaches
• Things to Do Near Mt. Etna
• Guide to Valley of the Temples
• Food to Try
• Best Wineries
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

The Top 15 Things to Do in Sicily

Sicily is not only Italy's largest island, it's also the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Its history spans thousands of years, and its terrain is vast and varied, ranging from snowy peaks to balmy, tropical beaches. Sicily's cities are also diverse and richly cultured—think seaside outposts, remote towns, and teeming historic centers lined with Baroque monuments. And there are Greek and Roman ruins everywhere; they sit beside busy downtowns, glorious beaches, and on remote hilltops.

To see all there is to see in Sicily would take weeks or months, so we've listed below the top 15 things to do on the island. If you don't fit them all in on your first trip, there's always next time!

Go Back in Time at the Valley of the Temples

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

Rome may have its ancient ruins, but few archaeological sites in the Eternal City are as old as the Greek ruins in the Valley of the Temples. Dating to the 6th century BCE, this UNESCO World Heritage Site covers more than 2,300 acres. Of its seven Doric-style temples—each in varying conditions—the Temple Concordia is the best preserved. In addition to its outstanding examples of Greek monumental architecture, the Valley of the Temples affords sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. It's set just outside the city of Agrigento , also built on ancient foundations.

Marvel at Mosaics at the Villa Romana del Casale

It's not clear who the owner was—maybe Roman emperor Maximian, who ruled from 286 to 305?—but whoever built the opulent Villa Romana del Casale was an extremely high-rank individual with good taste and lots of money. The UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases one of the finest, most extensive examples of Roman mosaic art, its floors decorated with nearly 40,000 square feet of beautifully detailed mosaics. As a result of a 12th-century landslide that covered the villa, they remain in excellent condition to this day. It's located about a 90-minute drive from Catania.

Take a Hike on Mount Etna

Apexphotos/GettyImages 

When Mount Etna isn't spewing lava (most recently, the volcano spectacularly erupted in February 2021), visitors can hike along several different trails of varying levels of altitude, length, and difficulty. Itineraries may take you to the edge calderas, through lava caves, or past the rows of grapevines and other crops that flourish in Etna's fertile volcanic terrain. The Parco dell'Etna has two visitor centers and an observatory, and can arrange guided tours of the park.

Sip Sicilian Wine

The volcanic terrain around Etna and on the Aeolian Islands, as well as fertile areas across the rest of Sicily, produce some highly coveted wines. Wine aficionados should definitely plan some winery visits for tours and tastings, and maybe even an overnight stay. The Etna wine-growing region is an obvious choice, but there are also noteworthy wines being produced in the west (including around Marsala), and in the Monreal and Alcamo regions near Palermo. Read more in our guide to wine tasting in Sicily .

Eat Street Food in Palermo

Ancient, fascinating, beautiful, and teeming with life, Palermo is a must-see stop in Sicily. It's also one of the best places in all of Italy to eat street food, which was part of the culture here long before it became trendy. The city's open-air markets are fine places to try arancini (fried rice balls), cannoli, pizza, and panino con le panelle (sandwiches made with fried chick-pea patties). More adventurous eaters can try pane con la milza, sandwiches stuffed with stewed spleen, as well as an array of other offal-based dishes.

Sample City and Sea at Taormina

North of Catania, on the eastern coast of Sicily, Taormina offers a little bit of everything: Greek and Roman ruins, a romantic medieval historic center, and gorgeous beaches not far from town. It's a stop on many tours of Sicily, and a good place to base yourself for exploring the northern side of Mount Etna. Enjoy lofty views from the ancient Greek theatre, wander the narrow street of the centro, and take the cable car down to Mazzarò beach.

Island Hop in the Aeolians

"Otherworldy" doesn't begin to describe the Aeolian islands, a group of seven volcanic islands off the northeastern tip of Sicily. Black-sand beaches, spewing volcanos (on Stromboli and the Vulcano islands), dazzlingly blue seas filled with marine life, bubbling thermal mud, Greek and Roman ruins, and tiny towns—some without cars—make the Aeolians one of the most unique places in the Mediterranean. Ferries leave from the Sicilian port of Milazzo and connect all the islands, though less frequently in the off-season.

Go Greek in Syracuse and Baroque on Ortigia Island

On an island full of Greek ruins, the city of Syracuse (Siracusa in Italian) may have the most. Its vast archaeological park features the remains of a Greek city—one that rivaled Athens in size and importance—including the largest Greek theatre in Sicily. A hop over to the connected island of Ortigia takes you closer to the modern age—but just barely. Ortigia Island serves as the historic center of Syracuse, and offers an enchanting ambiance of Baroque architecture, narrow cobbled streets lined with shops and eateries, and a gorgeous seafront.

Take a Tour of Trapani

Like so many of Sicily's coastal cities, Trapani offers a divine mix of ancient and more recent history. The Sicilian city rose to riches in antiquity when, along with nearby Marsala, it became a center for the salt trade. Visit Baroque cathedrals, close-by beaches, and the salt pans and windmills between Trapani and Marsala. Trapani is also a fine base for exploring the coast and interior of western Sicily.

Bask in the Sicilian Baroque

When a massive earthquake leveled the towns of the Val di Noto (Noto Valley) in 1693, they were built back in the prevailing ornate style known as Sicilian Baroque—considered a hybrid of Italian and Spanish Baroque. Noto, Ragusa, Modica, and Catania are among the Val di Noto cities that form a combined UNESCO World Heritage site for their outstanding representations of Sicilian Baroque art and architecture; plan a visit to wander the streets and admire it up close.

Pause in Pretty Cefalù

Tripsavvy / Michela Sieman

Regarded as one of the prettiest villages in Sicily—and that's saying a lot!—Cefalù sits on the northern coast about 40 miles east of Palermo. It's dominated by the Promontory of Hercules, a huge rock formation on which sit the ruins of the Greek Temple of Diana, plus evidence of a settlement dating to the 9th-century BCE. The town below has Greek, Byzantine, Norman, and Arab roots, giving it a fascinating mix of architectural styles and monuments. A pretty harbor and plenty of nearby beaches complete the scene here.

Head to the Market in Catania

There's plenty to see in Catania, Sicily's second-largest city. Part of the Val di Noto UNESCO area, Catania is rife with Sicilian Baroque architecture, including the Duomo (main cathedral). But without a doubt, the Catania Fish Market, "La Pescheria" in Italian, is one of the most colorful, authentic experiences in the city. Wander through and you'll find not just a dizzying area of fresh fish and sea life, you'll also hear the chaotic sounds of vendors hawking their goods, haggling customers, and scavenging seagulls. The market also sells produce and tasty street food. It's open Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Watch the Sunset from the Scala dei Turchi

If you make it down to Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples, don't miss a nearby natural landmark, the Scala dei Turchi (the Turkish Steps). These sea cliffs, composed of layers of sediment that have taken on a step-like formation, are an incredible sight and a popular spot for watching the sunset. Two sandy beaches lie on either side of the steps.

Go Wild in the Zingaro Nature Reserve

Atlantide Phototravel/Getty Images

For intrepid nature lovers, the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, or Zingaro Nature Reserve, is one of the most rewarding experiences in Sicily. The reserve, established in 1981, can only be visited on foot. While you'll find a few houses and picnic shelters here, you'll otherwise traipse through undisturbed natural areas to reach small, perfect beaches, many of which are accessed via steep staircases.

Soak Up the Sun at San Vito Lo Capo Beach

nadisj/GettyImages

If the Zingaro Nature Reserve requires a little too much roughing it or you have little kids in tow, head instead to San Vito Lo Capo. Located at the tip of the promontory, the small, touristy town fronts a perfect half-moon-shaped beach that's lapped by shallow turquoise water. This is one of the best beaches in Sicily , so don't expect to have it to yourself if you visit in high season.

Related Articles

More related articles.

• Places and cities
• Attractions
• Map of museums and parks
• LIVING SICILY
• Itineraries
• Travel proposals
• How to reach Sicily
• Tourist information

ATTRACTIONS

Sicilia, an open-air proscenium.

Every journey begins with a wish. And your every wish comes true in Sicily.

Would you like to stroll through the grandeur and majesty of the Valley of the Temples ? Would you like to be speechless in front of the Palatine Chapel , described as ” the most beautiful religious jewel created by human imagination”? Would you like to be dazzled by the white and majestic beauty of the Scala dei Turchi ?

Dream and reality, myth and history, come together in a unique dimension. Culture, art, and nature create something incomparable. Yesterday and tomorrow fade into an endless present. Thunderous applause echoes centuries later in the ancient theatre of Syracuse . The mosaics of Villa del Casale tell about the glorious past of imperial Rome. The megaliths of Argimusco whisper in the wind about the origins of time. Observing them, here and now, will be a transcendental experience.

Discover Sicily’s little sisters, the enchanting smaller islands, all different from each other. Each one has its characteristic and charm, older or more ‘glittering’. After visiting Cefalù , Noto , Taormina , your heart will beat with a new and unexpected rhythm: it will be impossible to leave these places and forget them.

Luckily, Sicily will always be ready to welcome you. For every new wish, for a new journey and your desire for wonder, this island will always lead you to the right place.

HIGH LIGHTS

Archaeological Sicily Art in Sicily

A superb doric temple dated back to the fifth century […]

Ancient Theatre of Catania

Everything's waiting to be discovered in Catania, a place that is at once exciting and contradictory, with its bold baroque [...]

Places of Culture

Former Florio Tuna Fishery of Favignana and Formica

The Former Florio Tuna Fishery of Favignana and Formica The Former Florio Tuna Fishery of Favignana and Formica is an [...]

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM, SPORT AND ENTERTAINMENT – SICILY

Via Notarbartolo, 9 – 90141 – Palermo

Tourist Informations

This website is not for profit, anyone who sees a possible infringement of copyright can report it and we will promptly remove the specific content.

VISIT SICILY

ACCESSIBILITY

• Toggle High Contrast
• Toggle Font size

© 2022 Regione Siciliana – All rights reserved

VAT number: 02711070827 – Tax Code: 80012000826 – Privacy

DATA PROCESSING

Privacy preview.

Welcome to Wish Sicily travel Blog

The best one week Sicily itinerary

• Wish Sicily
• History & culture , Sicily holidays

What to see in 7 days in Sicily

First-timer to Sicily and keen to pack in the sights? You wouldn’t be alone in wondering just how much of Sicily you can see in one week.  But with a total size of just under 10,000m², Sicily may be slightly bigger than you think, so getting round the whole island in a week is no mean feat. To be honest, it might also mean you miss out on some of the best bits. It is possible to ‘do’ Sicily in a week if you’re planning on focusing just on Palermo and either Taormina or Catania, without seeing much in between. However, with 200km separating Palermo and Catania, that doesn’t allow much downtime, and once you venture inland, the roads may be less than perfect.

The truth is that each of Sicily’s coastlines are special in their own right, and there’s as much to see inland as on the coast. We think the perfect 7 or 10 day itinerary is one that really allows time to explore a region in depth: certainly, visit the main sights but leave time to stop by a few out-of-the-way villages and soak up the atmosphere in the local piazza. Our advice? Think hard about whizzing from one sight to another and instead, delve deep into one region at a time. That way, you’ll just have to return for a second trip!

Itinerary 1: the Val di Noto and Syracuse

Basing yourself in south east Sicily allows you to take day trips to most of the baroque towns of the Val di Noto. Scicli, Ragusa Ibla and Modica are all relatively close to one another which means, theoretically, you can squeeze two of them into one day, but our advice is to visit each one on different days, say on days 2, 4 and 6 of your trip, and really savour all there is to see.

Two more cities you should definitely add to your south east itinerary are Noto and Syracuse. If you’re staying close to the coast, possibly around Marina di Modica or Santa Maria del Focallo, it will still only take 40 minutes or so to reach lovely Noto, and a little longer – around an hour – to get to Syracuse, thanks to a fast coastal road.

And lastly, save a bit of time for the beach – the beaches on this stretch of coastline are stunning. Best of all are the white sands and translucent waters around Portopalo di Capo Passero on the far south east tip of the island.

Where to stay: Villa Alti is the perfect place to return to at the end of a busy day of sightseeing. Soak up the sun by the pool or sneak up to the roof terrace and slip into the hot tub with a view.

Itinerary 2: Palermo, Cefalù and the Madonie mountains

Home to several of the island’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Palermo and Cefalù in north west Sicily understandably attract a large proportion of visitors to the island. In Sicily’s capital of Palermo , attractions veer between Norman palaces and churches, bustling markets and some memorable street food and you could easily spend 2 days of your holiday here.  Cefalù has its own share of UNESCO highlights and, with a more laidback feel to Palermo, is a lovely place to combine some leisurely exploring with a relaxing lunch at a seafront restaurant.

Be sure to also include day trips to the UNESCO heritage site of Monreale, just a short distance from Palermo, in addition to the enchanting Greek Temple of Segesta. Lastly, take a day to head away from the coast to visit some of the medieval hilltop towns in the Madonie mountains.

Where to stay: Choose from a selection of beachfront villas such as Ad Astra in the coastal town of Finale di Pollina which is connected by rail to Cefalù and Palermo.

Itinerary 3: Sicily’s east coast

Enjoy an authentic slice of Sicily and base yourself in one of the smaller villages along the coast. Check into Casa dei Sogni and experience real life in Sicily. Just a hop from Catania airport, the villa is close to a charming fishing village, Pozzillo, and is really well placed for exploring the east coast.

Allow several days to explore the cluster of nearby towns and cities, including Acireale, Taormina and Catania. Catania, with its UNESCO-listed historic centre, striking palazzi and bustling fish market, is well worth a visit. From Pozzillo, set off to explore several smaller villages inland, such as Castiglione di Sicilia, set amidst the rugged landscape above the Alcantara River and dominated by its imposing castle. Lastly, dedicate one day of your trip to an adventure on Mount Etna or a wine-tasting experience in one of the local wineries.

Itinerary 4: Sicily’s south coast

Home to wonderful vineyards, ancient temples, historic sites and extraordinary natural beauty, Sicily’s south coast certainly merits at least a week all to itself. Stay in the coastal town of Sciacca and you’ll be in prime position for visits to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and, to the west, the Greek temple of Selinunte. If you’re interested in Sicilian food and wine, head to the Menfi vineyards for some superb wine experiences or just slightly inland to Castelvetrano to learn about the region’s most famous export – Castelvetrano, or Nocellara del Belice, olives – and taste its delicious black bread, made with ancient, dark-coloured ‘tumminia’ wheat.

At nearby Eraclea Minoa, archaeological remnants of the ancient Greek city remain but the area is as popular for its stunning seascape and natural setting as its ancient history.

Other highlights of the area include the Instagram-worthy Scala dei Turchi, a dazzling staircase-shaped toothpaste white rock face, and the fishing town of Mazara del Vallo in the south west, which provides a fascinating insight into the Arab influence in western Sicily.

Where to stay: Dedalo is a beautifully designed seafront villa on the outskirts of Sciacca, with vast picture windows and direct access to the beach.

Itinerary 5: the west coast of Sicily

Despite Cefalù and Taormina attracting a large percentage of Sicily’s visitors, the island’s west coast has more than its fair share of great beaches and interesting sights. You can learn about the island’s role in the powerful trading network between Carthage and Venice in the coastal towns of Trapani and Marsala, a town that was founded by the Phoenicians and later conquered by the Arabs. Nearby, the charming hilltop town of Erice (take the cable car from Trapani) offers extraordinary views and a maze of medieval cobbled streets that are just made for wandering. For archaeology fans, the ruins on the island site of Mozia, between Trapani and Marsala, offers a glimpse of the role of the Carthaginians in Sicily’s ancient history.

Some of the best beaches in this corner of Sicily are the tiny sandy bays that fringe the Zingaro Nature Reserve, and the huge sweep of sand at San Vito Lo Capo. For an enjoyable offshore day trip, hop on a ferry to the Egadi Islands, where the closest of the three islands, Favignana, offers spectacular coves and crystal clear water.

Where to stay: the super stylish Case Fil offers affordable luxury amongst the olive groves and vineyards near Trapani. Outside, there’s an 18m pool and a fabulous outdoor kitchen and dining space with a woodburning oven

2025 holiday in sicily , sicily itinerary

8 things to know before going to Sicily

Mar 1, 2024 • 5 min read

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

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

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

Here’s what you need to know before visiting.

1. Fly in and out of two different airports

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

2. Public transport in Sicily is not for the weak

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

3. Plan to move around

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

4. Understand the real history of the mafia

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. You can drink the tap water

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

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

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

Explore related stories

Sep 23, 2024 • 5 min read

Our map is now sprinkled with new pins.

Sep 11, 2024 • 7 min read

Sep 3, 2024 • 6 min read

Aug 20, 2024 • 7 min read

Aug 16, 2024 • 9 min read

Aug 13, 2024 • 9 min read

Aug 9, 2024 • 4 min read

Jun 13, 2024 • 8 min read

May 24, 2024 • 4 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read

25 Best Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily (Italy)

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

If you need help finding the best things to do in Palermo , the capital of Sicily, Italy, I’m here to share some must-see places.

We started our  10-day Sicily itinerary in Palermo and, although you can see the main  attractions in Palermo  in one day, we spent one night here. The city is a popular stop for Mediterranean cruises, as  one day in Palermo  gives you plenty of time to see the highlights.

So, our guide will tell you all the fun places to go in Palermo, Sicily,  as well as the surrounding areas in case you have more time.

At the end of the article, I’m sharing the best neighborhoods to stay in Palermo, where to eat, and a map of the city’s tourist attractions.

Regardless of how much time you spend in the city, this   free tour   is perfect for first-time visitors. We enjoyed this two-hour guided tour, as it introduced us to some of the main points of interest in Palermo. If you’re short on time, also consider this  hop-on hop-off bus tour to make the most of it.

Now, let’s check out the best things to do in Palermo, Italy , one of the top  places to visit in Sicily .

1. See Norman Palace, a great activity to do in Palermo

The Norman Palace, also known as the Royal Palace, is a  must-see in Palermo , as it’s one of the most important buildings in the city. It currently serves as the seat of the Sicilian Parliament.

The palace’s façade features a combination of architectural styles, making it one of the  best places in Palermo  to visit. The right side of the façade has an Arab-Norman-Byzantine style, which reflects the palace’s 12th-century origins. The left side was constructed a few centuries later in the Baroque style, which was popular back then.

Be sure to go inside because the interior is even more impressive. You’ll see the Palatine Chapel, which many consider a city gem. What makes this chapel so unique is that Byzantine, Islamic, and Latin architects worked on it, and yet, all the decorative elements come together beautifully. One of the most magnificent parts of the chapel is the mosaics, many of which cover the ceiling.

While you can visit the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel on your own, this guided tour  will show you the palace and several historical monuments. It’s one of the best  Palermo activities  for art lovers.

2. Palermo Cathedral, a lovely place to visit in Palermo, Sicily

Palermo Cathedral  was built at the end of the 12th century at the request of the Archbishop of Palermo. His goal was to replace the Christian basilica in the city, which previously replaced a Muslim mosque. Ideally, the new cathedral would rival the Cathedral of Monreale, and if you ask me, it definitely does.

Today, the cathedral is one of  Palermo’s main attractions , despite its constant architectural makeovers. Over the centuries, the church’s structure and appearance have changed, and you can still see evidence of these renovations if you look closely.

For example, you can find parts of the original Norman structure, as well as Gothic vestiges, Neoclassical elements, and even Arabic-style ornamentation. Somehow, all these visual motifs come together to create an incredible building, so if you only have  one day in Palermo , check it out.

If you go inside, you can also visit the “Treasure of the Cathedral,” a collection of royal and religious objects like sacred ornaments, chalices, vestments, and Constance of Aragon’s gold tiara. It’s one of the most interesting  things to do in Palermo, Italy , especially if you’re into history.

3. Catch a show at Massimo Theater, an exciting thing to do in Palermo

The  Massimo Theater , or Teatro Massimo, is the largest opera house in Italy and among the largest in Europe. You’ll find it in Piazza Verdi, Palermo’s city center.

This magnificent neoclassical theater was the work of Giovan Battista Filippo Basile, although his son, Ernesto Basile, finished the project after his father’s death. Step inside and enter an elegant atmosphere of lounges, galleries, and the main theater.

Visiting this opera house was one of the  coolest things to do in Palermo  during our trip. We learned that several nearby buildings were demolished to make way for the theater. Among those buildings was the Church of the Stigmata, its convent, and the Church of San Giuliano. Ever since then, there has been an urban legend about one of the nuns from the destroyed convent wandering the halls of the theater.

However, don’t let a ghost story stop you from visiting the opera house. Tickets to the Massimo Theater are quite expensive, so a good alternative might be a guided tour. This is one of the top  places to visit in Palermo , so check the theater’s  official website  for more info about these daily tours.

4. La Vucciria & other ancient open-air markets in Palermo

There are several  markets in Palermo  that are worth visiting. One of the most popular  sights to see in Palermo  is  La Vucciria market, where you can find all kinds of southern Italian products, most notably, anchovies.

This historic market is one of the best  places to go in Palermo , as it’s spread out along different streets and plazas. For example, it passes through via Roma, la Cala, il Cassaro, via Cassari, piazza del Garraffello, via Argenteria Nuova, piazza Caracciolo and via Maccheronai. I suggest starting at Via Roma and making your way through the wonders of this market.

4. La Vucciria & other ancient open-air markets, a must-see in Palermo, Sicily

Besides La Vucciria, the open-air market of Il Capo  is another must-visit in Palermo. Here, you can browse through stalls of clothes, fabrics, kitchen utensils, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and much more. Il Capo market is on Via Cappuccinelle, close to the Teatro Massimo, but I’m sure you’ll hear the shouts of the vendors before you see them!

I also recommend stopping by the Ballarò market, which stretches along Via Ballarò almost to the central station. It’s one of the oldest food markets in Palermo, so you can’t miss it. That said, whichever market you go to, it’ll be a fun,  free thing to do in Palermo  while immersing yourself in the local culture.

5. Capuchin Catacombs, a unique place to go in Palermo, Sicily

Visiting the  Capuchin Catacombs  is one of the most  unusual things to do in Palermo , but it’s also cool, as long as you aren’t squeamish.

These catacombs sit under the convent of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin, which served as a cemetery in the 16th century. The friars were surprised after discovering, by accident, how well the bodies were preserved and many people began requesting they be buried in the catacombs.

Now, there are around 8,000 corpses here, and they’re laid out according to age, sex, and profession. Some of them hang from the walls of the underground corridors, while others rest in or on caskets. This is certainly one of the more bizarre  attractions in Palermo , but I thought it was more curious than unpleasant.

If you dare to see what’s going on in the Capuchin Catacombs, I suggest this  sightseeing tour . It also includes a visit to the 12th-century cathedral of Monreale, another great Palermo site to visit .

6. Piazza Pretoria, one of the top places to go in Palermo

Piazza Pretoria  is another beautiful place to see in  Palermo, Sicily . The plaza is best known for its Fontana Pretoria, a monumental fountain built in the 16th century by Francesco Camilliano.

Originally, the fountain was going to adorn the private garden of a Florence mansion, but it was eventually brought to Palermo. The large fountain includes 16 marble statues of nude mythological creatures, such as nymphs, mermaids, satyrs, and the twelve Olympians. The fountain later became a symbol of government corruption, giving the plaza the nickname  Piazza della Vergogna  (Square of Shame). That said, a  tour of Palermo wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Pretoria Fountain.

Other iconic buildings surround the square, including the Palazzo Pretorio, which dates to the 14th century and now houses Town Hall; the Church of Santa Caterina; and two stately palaces, the Palazzo Bonocore and the Palazzo Bordonaro.

Piazza Pretoria’s charming beauty and historical significance make it a great place to spend  a day in Palermo , so I suggest checking it out.

7. Cathedral of Monreale, something you must see in Palermo

The  Cathedral of Monreale  is one of the most famous cathedrals in Italy and a  UNESCO  Heritage Site, so visiting it is one of the  best things to do in Palermo, Sicily . If you’re going to be in the city for more than one day, I highly recommend seeing this amazing church.

It dates to the 12th century and was founded just a few years before the Cathedral of Palermo. During its construction, Norman and Arabic art were prevalent in this area, resulting in a beautiful cathedral with historical significance. However, what really makes this church famous is the display of Biblical mosaics inside.

As I mentioned before, there has always been a rivalry between the Cathedral of Palermo and the Cathedral of Monreale. You can do a  tour of Palermo  and decide for yourself, but as for me, I can’t say which is more beautiful, as they’re both so impressive!

That said, be aware that the Cathedral of Monreale is on the outskirts of the city. If you don’t have a car, you can find a tour that visits this area of Palermo. I recommend  this tour , which includes a visit to the Capuchin Catacombs. However, if you prefer less-scary  Palermo activities ,  this tour  combines the Cathedral of Monreale with the Cefalù Cathedral.

8. Quattro Canti, the best thing to visit around Palermo

Quattro Canti  is one of the most iconic  places to visit in Palermo . This square, also known as Piazza Vigliena, sits at the intersection of two main streets, Via Maqueda, and Il Cassaro.

This is a symbolic plaza, as well as a lovely  attraction in Palermo . Despite its octagonal layout, the square has four corners, each adorned with a fountain and three statues. The statues at each fountain represent a season of the year, one of the four kings of Spain in Palermo, and one of the four patron saints of the city.

8. Quattro Canti (Piazza Vigliena), the best thing to visit around Palermo

For example, the northern corner’s statues represent autumn, King Philip IV, and Saint Oliva di Palermo. The eastern corner’s statues represent winter, King Philip III, and Saint Agatha of Sicily.

As for the fountains, they also hold special significance, as they preserve the memory of the ancient rivers that once flowed through the city. The two most important ones were the Kemonia and Papireto rivers. Today, the fountains and the entire square is an area of bustling activity and is a must-see in Palermo.

9. Martorana & Church of San Cataldo, the best churches in Palermo

La Martorana , also known as the Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, is one of the most beautiful  places to visit in Palermo, Italy . It’s in Piazza Bellini and its mix of architectural styles makes it one of the most popular buildings in the city.

The left side of the building is the original Arab-Norman structure, but the Baroque-style architecture was added later to the right side. The combination creates a lovely artistic and historical display, which is why visiting it is one of the best things to do in Palermo . If you go inside, you’ll find some spectacular Byzantine and Arab mosaics.

Right next to La Martorana is the  Chiesa di San Cataldo , which stands out for its three pink domes over the central nave. Although it was built as a place of worship back in the 12th century, the church has had various uses throughout history and wasn’t re-consecrated until the 20th century.

Both La Martorana and the Church of San Cataldo are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so they’re both essential  sites to visit in Palermo .

10. Enjoy the street food of Palermo

Palermo is the European capital of  street food , so if you aren’t sure  what to do in Palermo , you can find plenty of places to grab a bite to eat.

Near the markets I mentioned earlier, Vucciria, il Capo, and Ballarò, you’ll find various street food carts. The city of Palermo  has a strong street food culture, so it’s almost required that you try some of the typical dishes here.

My favorite is the  arancini , which is a ball of rice coated with bread crumbs and then deep-fried, and filled with cheese or meat. And of course, I love cannoli , the pastry dough stuffed with ricotta! I also recommend  panelle  (chickpea fritters) and  crocché  (potato croquettes). Not only are these foods delicious, but they’re also very inexpensive, so you can try them all.

10. Enjoy the street food of Palermo, an amazing thing to do in Palermo in one day

Beyond  Palermo’s downtown  food stalls, I recommend trying some proper local dishes, such as  pasta con le sarde  (pasta with sardines). However, if sardines aren’t your thing, you can try  pasta alla Norma , which has tomato, fried eggplant, grated ricotta, and basil.

You can also try  involtini alla palermitana , Palermo-style rolls with spicy salami, raisins, and pine nuts. Or  falsomagro , stuffed pork chops with ham and cheese.

It’s not a visit to Italy unless you enjoy all the food, so I recommend this  food tour  all about Palermo’s gastronomy.

11. Regional Archaeological Museum Antonio Salinas, another place to visit in Palermo

The  Regional Archaeological Museum Antonio Salinas  has one of the most important collections of ancient art in Italy, so it’s one of the main  attractions in Palermo .

The museum has three collections, the Collection of the University Museum, which is the oldest; the Antonio Salinas Collection, which is the largest with more than 6,600 pieces; and the Pietro Bonci Casuccini Collection, which is considered the most important collection of Etruscan art outside of Tuscany.

The most valuable objects in the museum come from Pompeii and Torre del Greco, although the collection of Sicilian historical and cultural objects is also interesting. The museum also has ancient sarcophagi, Phoenician and Roman objects that were retrieved from the sea, a reproduction of the Temple of Selinunte, and the famous Palermo Stone.

As you can see, this museum is an awesome place to visit, and I recommend adding it to your  Palermo itinerary . Or you can keep it in mind if you find yourself in the city on a rainy day.

12. Church of St. John of the Hermits, a stunning place to go in Palermo

Along with the Capuchin Catacombs, the Church of St. John of the Hermits is one of the most internationally known tourist places in  Palermo, Sicily .

The church is in the Albergheria neighborhood and is famous for its five red domes, which stand out against the simple facade. The cloister of the church is quite impressive, with a well and a courtyard of trees and shrubs. It was built after the church was established, although the two areas work nicely together.

If you visit this  attraction in Palermo , be sure to check out the cloister. From there, you can get a beautiful view of the red domes, as well as the bell tower next to it. There are also some columns in the courtyard that have vegetable motifs on them.

Parts of the church may be in ruins now, but the building still holds great historical value, and it’s even a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s an interesting  place to visit in Palermo .

13. Mondello Beach, one of the best beaches in Palermo, Sicily

Mondello Beach  is just 8 miles from the city center, right at the foot of Mount Pellegrino. It’s a gorgeous beach with white sands and crystal-clear waters, not to mention beautiful views. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, seeing Mondello is one of the  top things to do in Palermo, Italy .

Locals and tourists alike go to this beach for its pristine waters and relaxing atmosphere. During the day, you’ll find sunbathers and families enjoying the sunny shores. By night, the terraces on Mondello Pier host patrons for seaside dinner and drinks.

Mondello was once a small fishing town, but it has grown into a more sophisticated vacation destination. One of the best things to do here is to hang out in a villa or terrace along the waterfront promenade. It’s a great way to end a fun beach day.

This village isn’t too far from Palermo, but you’ll have to take public transportation if you don’t have a car. The 806 bus leaves from the city center and stops at Mondello. It might be better to take the bus, as parking spots are hard to find at this beach, especially in the summer.

If you only have one day in the city, you can skip this beach, but if you have time and you’re wondering  what to do near Palermo , Mondello is a stunning Sicilian beach you won’t regret visiting!

14. Zisa Castle, the best attraction in Palermo, Sicily

Zisa Castle  is tucked away in the western part of the city, but it’s a  must-see in Palermo . It’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site and dates to the 12th century. The castle was built by Arabian craftsmen for King William I and later became a summer palace for the Norman kings.

In Arabic, the palace is referred to as the “Earthly Paradise,” and once you see it, you’ll understand the splendor of this place. Built in the middle of a manmade lake, the castle is surrounded by a lush garden. The facade reflects its Moorish origins, and  Zisa  literally translates to “splendid” in Arabic.

Along with the lovely exterior, Zisa Castle also has an Islamic art exhibit in several of its rooms and is open to the public. You should also stop by the ‘Fountain Room’ the main foyer area with wall and ceiling frescos.

If you only have  one day in Palermo , I suggest hopping on the  Palermo sightseeing bus , which has 14 stops, including Zisa.

15. Church of Saint Mary of Gesu, something you must visit in Palermo

The  Church of Saint Mary of Gesu , also known as Casa Professa, is one of the most important Baroque  sights to see in Palermo . In fact, it’s a prominent church in all of Sicily.

The Jesuits built this church in the late 1500s after arriving in the Jewish quarter of the city. While the original plan was to construct a rather simple church, the building became more ornate in the early 1600s and was consecrated in 1636.

This church is one of the most impressive places to visit in Palermo . The layout reflects the shape of a Latin cross, and the interior is filled with frescoes, marble bas-reliefs, and decorative Biblical motifs. The central nave is nearly 230 feet tall, giving the structure a grandiose feeling. Be sure to take your time while you’re here to look all around, as well as to the ceiling, as there is artwork everywhere.

Interestingly, the church’s exterior looks austere and unassuming, so it contrasts quite a bit with the elaborate interior. That said, the church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning  attractions in Palermo , so don’t miss it!

16. Mount Pellegrino, the best place to see the sunset in Palermo, Italy

Visiting  Mount Pellegrino  is one of the best  things to do near Palermo , especially if you’re with a special someone. The German writer Goethe said this mountain was the most beautiful promontory in the world, and I must agree.

Mount Pellegrino has an altitude of about 2,000 feet, and it overlooks the Bay of Palermo and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Watching the sunlight glimmer on the crystalline waters is so relaxing and can be a romantic thing to do in Palermo.

Near the mountain’s summit, you’ll find the Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia , who is the patron saint of Palermo and a popular place where Sicilians go to pray for healing.

You’ll also find the  Mount Pellegrino Nature Reserve  here, although it’s split between Mount Pellegrino and Favorita Park. This is one of the best  places to go in Palermo  to see the sunset, as well as to get some exercise. You can go up the hill on foot or opt for a bus or car ride.

If you decide to walk, there are two paths. The Rosalie Itinerarium route is paved, while the Gola del Porco route is older and goes into Favorita Park. You could also drive along the scenic mountain road or take the 812 bus to the Sanctuary.

Regardless of how you get there, Mount Pellegrino makes for a fun half-day trip in Palermo , so consider visiting if you have the time.

17. Villa Giulia & the Palermo Botanical Garden

Villa Giulia is the oldest public park in the city and a wonderful place to visit in Palermo. Also known as Villa Flor, it’s home to some of the most beautiful botanical gardens   in all of Sicily.

If you’re looking for fun  outdoor activity in Sicily  while escaping the heat, check out the  Palermo Botanical Garden . The area doubles as a research and education institute and houses hundreds of tropical and semi-tropical plants from all over the world. The garden spans 30 acres, including an aquatic plant display, several greenhouses, and an herbarium.

17. Villa Giulia & the Palermo Botanical Garden, a breathtaking place to go in Palermo

Also in Villa Giulia is the  Foro Italico , a large oceanfront lawn where you can walk, jog, relax, or have a picnic. It’s a great place to rest before making your way to the nearby  Church of Santa Maria Dello Spasimo . The cathedral remains unfinished after the Turkish invasions in 1535 but now serves as a venue for musical and cultural performances.

All these  Palermo attractions  are quite close to each other, so I recommend checking them out if you’re looking for something to do for a few hours.

18. See the Church of Saint Catherine, one of the best free things to do in Palermo

The  Church of Saint Catherine  and its monastery are two  must-see places in Palermo , conveniently located in the historic city center. The church sits between Pretoria Square and Bellini Square, and you’ll recognize it by its blue dome.

The cathedral’s two facades face either plaza, although the entrance is in Bellini Square. One of the first things you’ll notice about this building is its magnificent artwork and craftsmanship. It’s a combination of Sicilian Baroque, Rococo, and Renaissance styles.

Several prominent architects and artists worked on the church back in the mid-1500s, including Antonello Gagini, Giacomo Amato, and Giovanni Battista Ragusa. Oil paintings and frescoes adorn the building, and it’s a beautiful  place to visit in Palermo .

Walking through this church is like stepping into a massive treasure chest. You’ll see altars of amethyst and lapis lazuli, precious stucco statues, and floor-to-ceiling adornments. Some of the most famous works here include the frescoes  Triumph of Saint Catherine  in the vault and  The Soul in Glory Rises to Heaven  in the chancel.

19. Climb atop the dome at Church of Santissimo Salvatore

Climbing to the dome of the Church of Santissimo Salvatore  is one of the best  things to do in Palermo at night . From there, you can look over the city and see all the twinkling lights.

The Church of San Salvador is in Bellini Square, so it has the perfect central location. It was built in the 12th century when Norman architecture was at its prime. However, it wasn’t until just a few years ago that it received UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

19. Climb atop the dome at Church of Santissimo Salvatore, the best thing to do in Palermo at night

The three red domes atop the church make it a familiar landmark for anyone  visiting Palermo, Italy . It’s a smaller church, and while it seems quite simple, the interior boasts some impressive stonework. You’ll also find Byzantine-style mosaics and frescoes inside, along with more modern altars.

Seeing this monumental structure at night is a lovely sight, especially with the Fontana Pretoria in the background. Plus, this church is close to Quattro Canti and La Martorana, and on the way to the Norman Palace.

20. Visit the Old Harbor of La Cala, a great thing to do in Palermo with kids

Visiting  La Cala , the oldest port in the city, is a good way to end your  tour of Palermo . This arch-shaped harbor was once an inlet for the Kemonia and Papireto rivers, but now it’s a popular tourist spot along the water.

Today, anyone can take a stroll along the waterfront pier, but back in the day, the port was protected by an Arab fortress.  Castello a Mare  had various uses throughout history, including as a prison and a private residence.

Recent urban development projects have contributed to La Cala’s expansion, so now it offers more  stuff to do in Palermo . For example, next to the pier is the  Piazza Marina , where you’ll find the  Garibaldi Garden . The garden is famous for having the largest Australian banyan tree in Europe, and it’s a pleasant area to walk through.

While you’re there, check out the historic Kalsa neighborhood and some of the nearby  Palermo attractions  like Galletti Palace of San Cataldo, Notarbartolo Palace, and Chiaramonte-Steri Palace.

21 Walk through Palazzo Abatellis, something exciting to do in Palermo

The  Abatellis Palace  is an intriguing building in Palermo’s Kalsa neighborhood. Constructed in the 1400s, it’s a prime example of Gothic-Catalan architecture and served as the home of Francesco Abatellis, port master of the Kingdom of Sicily. He had no heirs, so after his death, the palace became a convent.

The building was destroyed during World War II but was later restored and used to store medieval art. Today, this  Palermo attraction  houses the Sicilian Gallery of Art.

Over the years, the museum has amassed a noteworthy collection of art, religious works in particular. Here, you can find  Virgin Annunciate , the famous Renaissance painting by Antonello da Messina, as well as  The Triumph of Death  fresco that was formerly in the Palazzo Sclafani.

If you’re interested in learning more about medieval art, or you’re wondering  what to do in Palermo when it rains , this art gallery and palace is a good option.

22. Cefalú, one of the top places to go near Palermo, Sicily

If you are not going to rent a car in Sicily, there are still plenty of cool  tours from Palermo  you can take. I recommend  this excursion  to  Cefalù , a beautiful fishing village overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and one of the  best places to visit in Sicily .

In addition to Cefalù, this tour includes a visit to the impressive Cathedral of Monreale, one of the nicest places to visit near Palermo . Once in Cefalù, you’ll see the  Mandralisca Museum , which contains archaeological artifacts, ancient coins, antiques, and the works of Antonello da Messina.

The tour continues with a visit to the  Osterio Magno , a fortified palace built in the 13th century, as well as the 16th-century  Lavatorio Medievale , an old washing room that was restored in the 1990s. Finally, you’ll see the Norman-style  Cefalù Cathedral , a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1131. It’s known for its Byzantine mosaics, most notably the bust of Christ Pantokrator.

Not only does Cefalù make for a great Palermo day trip, but you’ll get incredible panoramic views of the sea.

23. Visit Segesta, Erice, & Trapani, one of the best day trips from Palermo

Combining a visit to  Segesta, Erice, and Trapani  is another awesome  day trip from Palermo that you can take if you don’t want to drive around the island.

I recommend this  full-day excursion  that hits all three villages. You’ll start with  Segesta , where you can explore some prominent Greek archaeological sites, including a well-preserved Doric temple that’s believed to date to around 420 BC.

The tour continues to the  Trapani salt flats , which line the coast. Trapani is home to several Baroque monuments, such as the Church of Saint Augustine, Ligny Tower, and the Triton Fountain.

Finally, you’ll stop by the town of  Erice , which has medieval origins and boasts impressive hillside views. There are also historical sites like two ancient castles and the remains of Elymian and Phoenician walls.

If you’re looking for things to do in Palermo  and its surroundings, this is a great tour. Plus, transportation is included, so you can relax and enjoy the sights.

24. Taormina & Mount Etna, one of the best tours in Palermo, Sicily

Fortunately, you don’t have to rent a car or drive to see the main tourist  sites in Palermo . There are lots of daily tours that depart from this city and go to all the popular  tourist attractions in Sicily .

Of the  top things to see in Palermo , I would say that  Taormina and Mount Etna  are two of the most important. You can see them both in one day with  this excursion.

First, you’ll visit  Mount Etna , the tallest active volcano in Europe. At over 10,800 feet high, it’s a prized place among hikers who come to Sicily. That said, this tour only ascends about 8,200 feet, but you’ll still get to see the Silvestri Craters and get amazing views.

The second half of the tour takes you to the city of  Taormina , which sits on a cliff overlooking the Isola Bella Nature Reserve and the Ionian Sea. While you’re here, you’ll visit the ancient Greek theater, several Baroque churches, and enjoy the seaside view of the bay’s aquamarine waters.

25. Agrigento & the Valley of the Temples, another great tour from Palermo

My last recommended  place to visit near Palermo  is  Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples . If you arrive in Palermo and you don’t want to drive, don’t worry because this  full-day tour  will take you to all the best sites.

The Sicilian city of Agrigento is famous for the Valley of the Temples, an extensive archaeological site. Here, you’ll find several Greek temples, most of which are in decent preserved condition.

The Temple of Concordia is the best-preserved temple there and was built in the 5th century. The Temple of Castor and Pollux is a modern-day symbol of Agrigento, while the Temple of Asclepius was an ancient pilgrimage site for those seeking cures from illnesses.

The tour includes another  must-see place near Palermo , the  Archaeological Museum of Agrigento . Here, you can look through over 5,600 artifacts, including restored archaeological remains, coins, and inscriptions. Look for the interesting Atlantean statue out front that serves as a decorative column.

Without a doubt, visiting Agrigento is one of the top things to do around Palermo if you want to see some historical monuments and don’t feel like driving.

Where to stay in Palermo, Italy

During our  visit to Palermo , we stayed in  this apartment  in the  Capo neighborhood . The apartment was beautiful and well-priced, but I think next time, we’ll stay somewhere closer to the city center.

If you’re looking for a  hotel in the downtown district of Palermo , I suggest staying in the  Vucciria neighborhood . These are the best options:

• Mamamia Hostel & Guesthouse
• Eurostars Centrale Palace Hotel
• B&B Hotels – Hotel Palermo Quattro Canti

The  Kalsa neighborhood  is also a good option if you are looking for  places to stay in Palermo  near the port or bus station. These are the best options:

• B&B Palazzo Corvino
• Hotel Palazzo Sitano

However, if you want a room with a view in Palermo,  this accommodation in the Albergheria neighborhood  is the best option.

Any of these four Palermo neighborhoods will be an excellent option, as they’re close to the city’s main points of interest.

If any of the accommodations I mentioned are no longer available, you can look for other options  here . Also, you can often find good deals on Airbnb. If you don’t have an account yet, you can get a $50 Airbnb coupon code here.

earn $50 Cash Reward at Airbnb

Where to eat in Palermo, Sicily

When we were in Palermo, we took advantage of some of the best local dishes and authentic Italian cuisine.

One of the  best places to eat in Palermo  is the  Vucciria market , where you can enjoy all kinds of street food. Besides, you can sight-see while you eat, so it’s a  must-do in Palermo .

Where to eat in Palermo

However, if you’re wondering  where to go in Palermo  to enjoy a pizza, I highly recommend  Pizza Ferrari . From the outside, it looks like a typical neighborhood pizzeria, but it has some of the best pizza in Sicily. To complete your meal, grab a Peroni, the most popular Italian beer. You can check Pizza Ferrari’s hours, location, and menu on their  Facebook page .

How to get to Palermo from the airport

Parking in  downtown Palermo  is quite an adventure, so I recommend taking public transportation to get to the city center, even if you plan to rent a car in Sicily.

If you’re not sure  how to get to the center of Palermo from the airport , the best way is with the  29 bus . It departs from the airport and stops at Piazza Giulio, where you’ll find the central bus station.

Alternatively, you could take the Trenitalia train from the airport, which is just as fast as the bus. You could also take a taxi, but it’ll be much more expensive.

In short, I think it’s better to go downtown by bus or train and then return to the airport later to pick up your rental car. Believe it or not, you’ll save lots of time because you won’t spend hours trying to find a parking spot in Palermo’s city center.

Map of Palermo, Sicily (Italy)

Now that you know the  top things to do in Palermo, Italy , here is a tourist  map of Palermo . Download it and keep it handy as you plan your itinerary and your route around Palermo.

That’s everything I have for your  visit to Palermo, Sicily ! Now you know  what to visit in Palermo  and the nearby areas. As you can see, you can visit  Palermo’s main attractions  in one or two days, and it’s an ideal starting point for your route through Sicily. If you have any questions, feel free to leave me a comment, and I’ll help as much as I can. I wish you safe travels and lots of fun!

Ascen Aynat

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Follow our adventures and trips on instagram

Photography Tours

Iceland Photo Tour

Lofoten Islands Photo Tour

Death Valley & Alabama Hills Photo Tour

Monument Valley Photo Tour

Arches & Canyonlands Photo Tour

La Palma Photo Tour

Dolomites Photo Tour

Swiss & French Alps Photo Tour

Atacama & Uyuni Photo Tour

Patagonia Photo Tour

Photography resources

Online Photography Courses

2024 Milky Way Calendars

Photography Basics

Best Camera Settings

Milky Way Photography

Northern Lights Photography

Best Time to See the Milky Way

Travel Guides

NYC Travel Guide

Las Vegas Travel Guide

Grand Canyon Travel Guide

Antelope Canyon Travel Guide

Tenerife Travel Guide

Lanzarote Travel Guide

Fuerteventura Travel Guide

Iceland Travel Guide

Tromso Travel Guide

Bali Travel Guide

About Capture the Atlas

© 2024 CAPTURE THE ATLAS | Photography · Travel · Adventure | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

TERMS OF USE & COPYRIGHT   |   PRIVACY POLICY

Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Messina (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Messina (Italy)

When travelling to the Island of Sicily, most people will first dock at the port of Messina. This city is located on the north eastern side of Sicily and lies in close proximity to the mainland of Italy. As the third largest city in Sicily, Messina has a population on 237,000 and its main sources of economy are cruise tourism, its large shipping ports and agricultural produce.

This part of Sicily has seen forms of human settlement since ancient Greek times and throughout history, it has served as an important port and gateway to the Mediterranean sea and Italy. In 1783, records show that an immense earthquake devastated a large portion of the city and it took an age to rebuild. Today Messina is still a thriving port and hugely important for the economy of Sicily and Italy. Combining a favourable year round climate together with a host of historical buildings, this is a fantastic first place to explore on your Sicilian adventure.

Lets explore the best things to do in Messina :

1. Messina Cathedral

As the main Catholic church in Messina, the Duomo has stood since 1551 and was originally constructed by a renowned architect from Florence who was actually a protégé of Michelangelo.

During WWII, the cathedral was hugely damaged, and the version you see today is a reconstruction that stays true to its original design and materials.

Standing in the centre of the Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral is truly impressive and exhibits a style that was typical of the time period.

Inside, the walls are lined with a series of stone statues depicting various religious figures whilst the main altar has a beautiful piece of artwork depicting Christ.

Even the beams in the ceiling are decorated and contain a series of patterns and coloured tiles.

2. Piazza del Duomo

This beautiful square is undoubtedly one of the main attractions in Messina – located in close proximity to the port and where the cruise ships dock, it is usually one of the first areas tourists head for.

Contained within the square is the Fontana di Orione which is an ornate water fountain with many detailed sculptures.

Furthermore, there is also the Duomo and the imposing Bell Tower – Both of which are fantastic buildings in their own right.

Finally, there is also a selection of shops, restaurants and cafes in close proximity to the square, and also several shaded areas with benches and trees to sit and people watch.

3. Messina Bell Tower

Completing the trio of attractions in this area of Messina, the Bell Tower stands proudly next to the re-mastered Duomo and is just as impressive.

This huge tower has four separate tiers and the top section is a clock tower with a pointed roof.

Whilst the actual structure is amazing to behold, the clock mechanism is truly something else.

This mechanism stands as one of the most important examples of its kind in the world – At noon, you can witness the mechanism in action and see the various golden figures moving.

It is possible to step inside the tower and watch the intricate mechanism in action – It is truly fantastic to see the various weights, gears and counterweights work together to move the objects.

4. Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani

Although this church is only small in size, it is a fine example of Norman architecture, and one of the few remaining buildings from the era that still stands in Messina.

Located to the south east of the Piazza del Duomo, this church is an absolute must see.

The exterior of the church is an amalgamation of various designs and features some fantastic artwork and stone pillars/arches.

It is clear to see the Normal influence through the hexagonal patterns and the shape of the dome.

Inside, the church is refined and simple, featuring a myriad of patterned brickwork and simple decoration.

5. Messina Regional Museum

Located further up from the Piazza del Duomo in the northern part of Messina, the Regional Museum provides a fascinating outlook at the history of the area.

Split into three separate sections, the museum has a archaeological section, a sculpture collection and a painting gallery.

These collections are extensive and contain a host of interesting and significant pieces such as Gagini’s sculpture of St.

Antonius, and The Raising of Lazarus from the dead by the renowned Caravaggio.

If you are interested in Italian and Renaissance art then this museum will provide ample amounts of fun.

6. Camposanto

Although many people may find this a strange attraction, the Camposanto is a beautiful complex and provides the perfect resting place for the citizens of Messina.

This monumental cemetery features a series of Neoclassical and Art Nouveau structures and sculptures and is more like a public park rather than a graveyard.

A series of flower beds and fountains are found in the central section, whilst a large colonnade sits on top of the main hill.

The Camposanto is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Italy and it is easy to see why.

7. Torre Faro

If you are looking for a trip out whilst based in Messina, Torre Faro is a lovely coastal village situated on the easternmost promontory of land that sticks out towers the Italian mainland.

Approximately 30 minutes by car, Torre Faro is easily accessible and provides a number of attractions and opportunity for relaxation.

A stretch of white sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, and the streets are lined with charming cafes and souvenir shops.

Furthermore there is a host of water sports and activities and boating to take part in if you are looking for a little adventure.

Finally, a must see is the gigantic metal lighthouse that sits at the edge of the beach – This immense structure is literally impossible to miss and stands at 225m high.

8. Zona Falcata

At the edge of the main port in Messina is the Zona Falcata; this area is a hive of activity and is where most of the commercial shipping trade takes place.

As you walk over the main trading railway and into the industrial zone, you will see the everyday workings of a busy Mediterranean port.

Large cargo ships, tankers and cruise ships are continually entering and leaving the port, and goods are continually being moved from place to place.

If you continue down the Via S Ranieri, you will eventually reach the edge of the port and the ornate lighthouse that stands here.

From this position you are granted with panoramic views of Messina and you will clearly see the Bell tower and the Duomo.

9. Temple Christ the King

If you are looking for panoramic views of Messina, then the Temple Christ the King is the perfect place to visit.

Located high up on the Viale Principe Umberto, this monument offers fantastic views across to the Mediterranean sea and the whole of Messina.

Created in 1937, the actual monument features a beautiful hexagonal design and has a large ornate dome that can be seen for miles.

With an amalgamation of designs, the church features several distinct time periods and combines elements of Corinthian design together with Baroque fixtures.

From the front of the church, you can see across to the port and even to the mainland of Italy on a clear day.

10. Lago di Ganzirri

Located to the west of Torre Faro, the Lake of Ganzirri is a great natural sight and provides a wonderful walking opportunity.

This saltwater lake is actually fed from rainwater, groundwater and several small streams that run into it.

An abundance of fish live in the water and it is a regular sight to see fisherman trawling the lake in their small boats, and even to see fish jumping through the water.

Surrounding the lake is a deluge of cafes and restaurants and local stores where you can grab a bite to eat.

Consider walking to the lake from Torre Faro and enjoying a pleasant stroll around its perimeter.

11. Chiesa del Carmine

As one of the most important churches in Messina, the Chiesa del Carmine is not like any other structure and has a truly unorthodox design.

Originally created in earlier years, the version that stands today actually replaces the original that was majorly destroyed during the devastating earthquake that shook Messina in 1908. The structure that stands today has a Baroque style with a large central basilica and a wonderful light grey/blue colouration.

Inside the church there are several different ornately decorated chapels and the dome features a beautiful coloured fresco.

12. Fontana di Nettuno

It is hard to miss this large ornate fountain as it takes pride of place near the main public boating harbour on the edge of the Via Garibaldi that runs parallel to the sea.

Constructed and designed by Giovanni Montorsoli, the fountain is dedicated to the sea god Neptune and he is depicted in the centre holding his legendary trident.

Surrounding Neptune are several other characters from legend and mythical beasts.

The design is beautiful and the fountain is a true marvel.

13. San Marco d’Alunzio

Nestled away on the top of a hill, the commune of San Marco d’Alunzio is a charming village that has lost none of its charm and character.

From Messina, a fantastic drive along the coast for approximately 1 and a half hours will bring you to the commune.

Climb up the paths to reach the top of the hill and walk through the narrow streets of this wonderful place.

Here you will be rewarded with sublime views of the surrounding countryside together with the beautiful architecture of the commune and the friendly people that live here.

14. Milazzo

Another fine destination to visit as a day trip from Messina, Milazzo is located to the north west of the city and takes approximately 40 minutes to travel there by car.

This part of Sicily has been occupied since the Neolithic age and the town of Milazo is the third largest in the commune of Messina.

One of the main sights is the wonderful Castle of Milazzo which dates back to the 9th century and sits on the summit of a hill that overlooks the town.

Created during the Normen conquest of Sicily, the castle held an important strategic position and much of its walls, turrets and gateways still remain in great condition.

15. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III

In a similar style to the famous gallery in Milan, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III in Messina features a fantastic design and a large central promenade covered with a glass roof.

The exterior of this building features a wonderful front facade with several columns and ornate arches and the name of the gallery is inscribed in bold letters on the top pediment.

Inside, the Neoclassical architecture is still striking and several grand arches frame the entrances, whilst the glass ceiling opens up to the sky.

The only drawback to this gallery is the lack of shops, but it is still a fantastic feat of engineering nonetheless.

15 Best Things to Do in Messina (Italy):

• Messina Cathedral
• Piazza del Duomo
• Messina Bell Tower
• Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani
• Messina Regional Museum
• Zona Falcata
• Temple Christ the King
• Lago di Ganzirri
• Chiesa del Carmine
• Fontana di Nettuno
• San Marco d’Alunzio
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III