Alessandro Colao

Sicilia

Sicily is packed with ancient Greek ruins, active volcanoes, stunning Baroque towns, and incredible beaches. Hike Mount Etna, explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, and wander the historic streets of Ortigiaor Taormina. Don’t forget to relax on beautiful beaches like San Vito Lo Capo and enjoy iconic street food like arancini and cannoli. 

Here are the best things to see and do across the island:

Nature & Adventure

  • Climb Mount Etna: Europe’s largest and most active volcano. You can take a 4×4 or hiking tour to the summit craters from Catania or Taormina. 
  • Hike the Zingaro Reserve: This car-free nature reserve boasts spectacular walking trails and seven beautiful, protected cove beaches between San Vito Lo Capo and Scopello. 

History & Ruins

  • Valley of the Temples (Agrigento): One of the most important archaeological sites in the world, featuring massive, dramatic ancient Greek temples like the Temple of Concordia. 
  • Ancient Theatre of Taormina: A spectacular Greco-Roman theater that directly overlooks the Ionian coastline with Mount Etna in the backdrop. 
  • Villa Romana del Casale (Piazza Armerina): Famous for housing the largest and most well-preserved collection of Roman mosaics in the world. 

✨ Baroque Towns & Islands

  • The Val di Noto: Discover the region’s golden, UNESCO-listed Sicilian Baroque architecture. Wander through Noto, Modica, and Ragusa Ibla. 
  • Syracuse & Ortigia: The historical heart of Syracuse sits on the island of Ortigia, home to the Temple of Apollo, Greek ruins, and incredible seaside dining. 
  • Sail to the Egadi or Aeolian Islands: Take a day cruise or ferry from Trapani to Favignana to rent a bike and snorkel, or visit Stromboli to see volcanic eruptions at sunset. 

Coastal Escapes

  • Taormina & Isola Bella: Ride the cable car from Taormina down to the pebbly shores and crystal clear waters of Isola Bella beach.
  • Cefalù: A charming, picturesque coastal town where you can lounge on the sand, enjoy gelato on the promenade, and admire its towering Norman cathedral.
  • San Vito Lo Capo: Known for its Caribbean-style turquoise water and expansive white sand beaches.

Food & Culture

  • Palermo Street Food: Explore the lively, chaotic markets of Palermo (like Ballarò or Vucciria), and learn about anti-Mafia culture on a Palermo No Mafia walking tour.
  • Taste Trapani’s Salt Pans: Visit the Stagnone Nature Reserve in Trapani to see historic windmills and stunning pink salt pans at sunset.
  • Sicilian Sweets: Indulge in classic regional treats, including sweet cannoli, raw Modica chocolate, and fresh granita with brioche.