From the moment I arrived in Sicily, I was welcomed with open arms by the locals, who proudly maintain authentic Italian traditions. I quickly fell for the island’s gorgeous beaches, dramatic cliffs and postcard-worthy fishing villages dotting the coastline. Beyond the dazzling scenery, Sicily stole my heart through its incredible cuisine – fresh seafood, bright vegetables and delectable pastries I still crave today. But what truly made my experience unforgettable was the Sicilian people, whose joy, hospitality and invitation to embrace la dolce vita will stay with me forever.
Things to do in Sicily
Explore Ancient Greek Ruins
Sicily has some of the best preserved ancient Greek temples outside Greece itself. The Valley of the Temples near Agrigento and the archeological sites in Syracuse allow you to step back in time thousands of years.
Hike Mount Etna
This active volcano dominates the east coast of Sicily. Hiking Mount Etna is an adventure, allowing you to walk across old lava flows and see steam vents up close. The views from the top over Sicily are stunning. For a stress-free and memorable experience, book this private guide which includes visiting a few volcanic craters, an Etna winery for lunch, and a tasting of both red and white Sicilian wines.
Eat fresh seafood
Sicily is an island, so seafood is incredibly fresh and delicious here. Be sure to try pasta with sardines, swordfish or other catches of the day. The island’s unique cuisine mixes Italian and Arabic influences.
Wander medieval mountain towns
Hilltop towns like Taormina and Cefalu have winding medieval streets, historic churches and castles and sweeping views over the sea. They showcase the complex layered history of Sicily.
Shop at local markets
Outdoor food markets like Ballarò Market in Palermo overflow with colorful fruits, vegetables, cheeses and street food. They are the perfect place to soak in the sights, sounds and smells of daily Sicilian life.
Take a cooking class
Sicilian cuisine has unique flavors influenced by the island’s diverse cultural history. Taking a cooking class is a fun way to learn traditional recipes and techniques using local ingredients. I recommend this class with Chef Massimo in the beautiful Taormina where you’ll learn to make traditional Sicilian dishes.
Explore Palermo’s palaces and churches
Palermo has ornate palaces, cathedrals, and churches in styles ranging from Byzantine to Baroque. Seeing sites like the Palatine Chapel and Monreale Cathedral provides a look into Sicily’s past as a cultural crossroads.
Relax on undiscovered beaches
While some of Sicily’s beaches are popular tourist destinations, you can find hidden coves and quiet stretches of sand away from the crowds if you know where to look. Ask locals for their secret favorite spots.
See a performance at the Teatro Massimo
This elegant opera house in Palermo is known for its perfect acoustics. Attending a concert or opera is a chance to experience the soaring music in a beautiful historic venue.
Take a day trip to the Aeolian Islands
The volcanic Aeolian Islands off Sicily’s north coast have stunning scenery, quaint villages, and relaxing thermal spas. Taking a boat trip out to Lipari or Salina makes for a rejuvenating getaway. I recommend this private boat tour that cruises around both Lipari and Vulcano, allowing you to visit two in just one day.
Day Trips
Taormina (1 hour from Catania)
This picturesque hilltop town has stunning views over the coast and Mount Etna. Wander narrow medieval streets, see ancient Greek theater ruins and enjoy the charming shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the public gardens for more beautiful vistas.
Cefalù (1 hour from Palermo)
This coastal medieval fishing village has one of Sicily’s most magnificent Norman cathedrals. Climb up La Rocca, the craggy headland overlooking town for breathtaking sea views. Relax afterwards on the golden sand beach tucked between the cliffs.
Scala dei Turchi (2.5 hours from Palermo)
The iconic white limestone rock formations along the coast near Realmonte are stunning. Admire the dramatic cliffs and crystal blue waters, and enjoy the unspoiled beaches and nature trails surrounding the area.
Places to eat & drink in Sicily
Osteria Ballarò – This Palermo institution serves pasta with sardines, eggplant caponata and other Sicilian home cooking. Try the mixed antipasto plate.
Marino Ristopenbar – Mondello trattoria excellent for seafood pasta like spaghetti with sea urchin.
I Banchi – Artisanal chocolate shop in Modica. Try the spicy, grainy cioccolato di Modica.
Bar Gelati Divini – Innovative gelato flavors like jasmine, ricotta and fig in Palermo. Opt for pistachio or cassata.
Antico Caffe Spinnato – Historic Palermo cafe famous for granita ice treats made from local fruits and nuts.
Pasticceria Cappello – This Palermo bakery crafts mini cannoli and other traditional pastries. Pick up a sweet tray of mixed samples.
Caffe Sicilia – Historic Modica cafe with creamy gelato in flavors like cinnamon and chocolate made daily.
Where to Stay
Sicily offers an array of exceptional accommodations that blend historic charm with modern luxury. From properties with views of ancient ruins to elegant palaces in baroque towns, you’ll find distinctive places that enhance your Sicilian experience. Here are some standout options:
- Villa Athena Resort – Unparalleled views of the Valley of the Temples, allowing guests to wake up to ancient Greek ruins from their windows. Many rooms and suites offer direct views of the ancient Greek temples, especially the Temple of Concordia.
- Taormina Hotel Villa Ducale – Panoramic vistas of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea from terraced gardens and intimate rooms in picturesque Taormina. The hotel is situated on a hillside in Taormina, providing these sweeping vistas.
- Monaci delle Terre Nere – Rural retreat on Mount Etna’s slopes combining sustainability with style in a renovated historic estate surrounded by organic vineyards offering a rural retreat experience.
- Seven Rooms Villadorata – Baroque elegance in a meticulously restored aristocratic palace in the historical center of Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Baroque town. The hotel is known for its baroque elegance, meticulous restoration, and luxurious, authentic atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tips for a Unique Sicilian Experience
Connect with locals by attending village festivals (sagre) that celebrate seasonal harvests or patron saints—these events offer authentic food, music, and traditions rarely found in guidebooks. Consider timing your visit with smaller celebrations like the almond blossom festival in Agrigento (February) or the salt harvest in Trapani (August). Explore Sicily’s Arab-Norman heritage by taking a cooking class that highlights these multicultural influences—learn to make cassata or distinctive pasta dishes like pasta con le sarde. Rise early to experience local markets before tourists arrive, and practice basic Italian phrases to enhance interactions with vendors and artisans. Finally, consider traveling in shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) when the climate remains pleasant but crowds thin, allowing for more spontaneous discoveries and meaningful connections with this captivating island.
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