Sicily

Discover Sicily — Ancient Civilizations, Volcanic Beauty & Mediterranean Soul

Floating at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Sicily is Italy magnified — richer, bolder, and layered with thousands of years of history. Shaped by Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards, the island blends monumental ruins, baroque cities, volcanic landscapes, and sun-drenched coastlines. From Mount Etna’s power to Palermo’s street life and the quiet elegance of hill towns, Sicily is intense, generous, and unforgettable.

Main Towns

Palermo — Vibrant capital with Arab-Norman architecture, markets, and street food culture.

Catania — Energetic city at the foot of Mount Etna, built from volcanic stone.

Taormina — Cliffside beauty with ancient theater and sweeping sea views.

Syracuse (Siracusa) — Ancient Greek powerhouse with a stunning historic core on Ortigia.

Agrigento — Home to the Valley of the Temples, one of the world’s great archaeological sites.

Noto — Baroque masterpiece glowing in golden limestone.

Why You’ll Love It

Layered history spanning ancient to baroque eras

Dramatic landscapes — volcanoes, coastlines, and countryside

One of Italy’s most expressive food cultures

Warm hospitality and a deep sense of identity

Things To Do

Ancient History & Cities

Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

Walk Syracuse’s Greek Theater and Ortigia island

Discover Palermo’s Arab-Norman palaces and cathedrals

Visit Roman mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale

Nature & Outdoors

Hike or drive Mount Etna’s volcanic slopes

Swim along the Aeolian and Egadi Islands

Explore nature reserves, gorges, and quiet beaches

Coast & Island Life

Relax on sandy beaches near Cefalù and San Vito Lo Capo

Boat between islands and hidden coves

Sunset aperitivo overlooking the Ionian or Tyrrhenian Sea

Unique Sicilian Experiences

Market walks with street food tastings

Wine tastings on volcanic soil

Sunset views from ancient theaters and hill towns

Eat & Drink

Signature Flavors

A fusion of Mediterranean, Arab, and Italian traditions

Citrus, seafood, grains, nuts, and spices

Local Dishes

Arancini — golden fried rice balls

Pasta alla Norma — tomato, eggplant, ricotta salata

Couscous di pesce — western Sicilian specialty

Caponata — sweet-and-sour eggplant dish

Cannoli and cassata — iconic desserts

Wines To Sip

Etna Rosso & Etna Bianco — mineral volcanic wines

Nero d’Avola — bold and sun-driven red

Grillo — crisp coastal white

Marsala — historic fortified wine

Where To Taste

Street markets, seaside trattorie, historic cafés, countryside agriturismi, and Michelin-starred dining rooms

Where to Stay

Luxury & Boutique Hotel

Q92 Noto

Hotel Villa Carlotta

Masseria Susafa

Le Calette N^5

Charming Bases

Taormina for views and elegance
Ortigia (Syracuse) for history and walkability
Palermo for culture and energy
Countryside stays for slower rhythms

History & Culture of Sicily — Empires, Faith & Enduring Identity

Cultural Legacy

Greek temples, Roman villas, Arab gardens, Norman cathedrals

One of Europe’s most layered cultural histories

Traditions shaped by sea, conquest, and resilience

Sacred & Scenic Sites

Valley of the Temples (UNESCO)

Arab-Norman Palermo (UNESCO)

Baroque towns of Val di Noto (UNESCO)

Ancient theaters and coastal sanctuaries

Travel Info & Tips

Getting There

Palermo & Catania international airports

Ferries connect Sicily to mainland Italy and islands

Domestic flights connect Sicily to major Italian cities

Best Time To Visit

April–June & Sept–Oct — ideal weather, fewer crowds

July–August — hot, lively, beach-focused

Winter — mild, cultural, quieter

Getting Around

Car recommended for countryside and flexibility

Trains connect major cities but are slower inland

Ferries and boats for island travel

Practical Tips

Distances are larger than they appear — plan accordingly

Embrace late dining and slower pacing

Balance cities with coast or countryside for the full experience