Sicily

Italy
Ortygia featuring dining out, a coastal town and general coastal views
Discover this distinctive Italian island, an ancient land featuring abundant historical sites, world-famous archaeological ruins and active lava-spitting volcanos.

Sicily is the largest of Italy’s islands, which means there is plenty of room to have the adventure of a lifetime here. Hike through dramatic volcanic landscapes, dive into crystal-clear lagoons and wander around millennia-old ruins.

One of the most recognizable natural landmarks in Sicily is the UNESCO-listed Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Trek along miles of walkable trails leading to the top or head to Bove Valley, a depression in the landscape bordered by steep canyons. Strap on your skis in the winter, as the volcano transforms into a skiing destination.

Visit Gothic palaces, Baroque churches and one of the biggest and most spectacular opera houses in Palermo, Sicily’s largest city. Tan on the beach in Mondello, scuba dive in the ancient fishing village of Sferracavallo and take pictures from the cliffs of Madonie Regional Park.

For relaxation, soak in thermal baths in the town of Sciacca. This port town is also home to the steam-filled Stufe di San Calogero caves, which function as a kind of natural steam room. Should the Sicilian summer heat prove too much, head for Pertusa di Notaro, a grotto famous for the fresh, cold air that passes through its cracks.

Explore Sicily’s history in Syracuse, an ancient city packed with cultural treasures. Examine Greek monuments in the Park of Neapolis and the archaeological site of Pantalica Necropolis. Among the most famous of Sicily’s ancient sites is Agrigento, the setting for the Valley of the Temples, where an assortment of Greek ruins can be seen. Take a tour of the Noto Valley, home to eight late-Baroque cities that are representative of the flourishing of Baroque architecture and art in Europe.

Book your Sicily trip for July or August to experience the region’s summer festivals. Spring often offers lower prices, smaller crowds and beautiful wildflower blooms. Providing you aren’t planning on heading to the remote hinterlands, a comprehensive train and bus system can get you to most towns and villages on the island.

Sicily is a glorious island that blends natural beauty with cultural activities and offers ample opportunities for relaxation.

Popular cities in Sicily

Palermo showing a house and heritage architecture
Palermo
Known for Historical, Cathedrals and Culture
Explore Palermo: its monuments, history, culture, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Teatro Massimo
  • Ballaro Market
  • Palace of the Normans
Cathedral Square featuring a church or cathedral, religious elements and heritage architecture
Catania
Known for Historical, Cathedrals and Cafes
Peer inside a volcanic crater, take part in year-round outdoor pursuits and view hundreds of years of architecture at one of Sicily’s largest cities.

Reasons to visit

  • Piazza del Duomo
  • Catania Cathedral
  • Ursino Castle
Syracuse showing street scenes as well as an individual femail
Syracuse
Known for Historical, Sea and Archaeology and anthropology
Trip time! Discover the history, culture, and cafes in Syracuse.

Reasons to visit

  • Lungomare di Ortigia
  • Piazza del Duomo
  • Archaeological Park of Neapolis
Messina featuring street scenes as well as a large group of people
Taormina
Known for Beaches, Historical and Entertainment
Lounge on beaches, attend concerts in a Roman amphitheater and enjoy views of Europe’s biggest volcano in this popular getaway on Sicily’s eastern coast.

Reasons to visit

  • Taormina Cable Car
  • Greek Theatre
  • Corso Umberto
Agrigento which includes a city and landscape views
Agrigento
Known for Temples, Historical and Ruins
Come to Agrigento and enjoy its temples, ruins, and history.

Reasons to visit

  • Valley of the Temples
  • Via Atenea
  • Temple of Concordia
Lipari
Lipari
Known for Islands, Swimming and Ferries and boats
The largest of the Aeolian Islands offers culture, fantastic hiking and secluded bays.

Reasons to visit

  • Lipari Castle