Sicily – Italy

Sicily, Italy is the largest of the Italian islands, separated from the Continent by the Strait of Messina. Surrounded by the Ionian, the Tyrrhenian, and the Mediterranean Sea, this distinctive island has an endless list of things to do. It is one of the pearls of Southern Italy. To experience the best sides of Sicily, write down this next list of beautiful places, and you will definitely have an unforgettable journey.

Nature seems to have given all its wonders to this land, as the verdant mountains and hills stand out. But the sea is a wonder on its own, with its incredible crystal-clear waters and the beauty of its seabeds.

Here, the Mediterranean Sea offers unique and intense sceneries and scents of clean nature. Besides, there are some islands scattered around the coasts of Sicily: the Aeolians, Egadi, and the Pelagie Islands, Pantelleria and Ustica.

Things to do

Palermo

This is the capital of Sicily, therefore it has many historical places and monuments worth visiting. First, the Capuchin Catacombs are the perfect display of all traditions the people of Palermo had back in the 17th century. The 8,000 mummified bodies this frightening place exhibits will make your hairs stand on end.

Another must while visiting Palermo is heading to the Palazzo Abatellis, which holds the Regional Gallery of modern art. Walk around amazing sculptures on the ground floor, and then admire the paintings displayed on the first floor.

A few kilometers away is the Mondello Beach, one of the most beautiful on the island. With clear sand filled with pine and palm trees, this beach is perfect for a relaxing jog. Finally, Palermo is also famous for its delicious street food, so don’t hesitate and go on a street food tour!

Syracuse

The city of Syracuse is located on an ancient Greek settlement. Besides, Syracuse has one of the most important historical heritage of the island: the Greek Theatre. This theatre was formerly used for plays and assemblies; today, it houses the yearly Series of Classical Performances. This event, organized by the National Institute of Ancient Drama, offers a beautiful form of art; surely a wonderful experience. Just under the theatre, you will find the Ear of Dionysius, a spectacular cave that amplifies all sounds.

Trapani

The beautifully curved Trapani is located southwest of Sicily. Take a short boat ride and reach Mozia Island, where the Museo Whitaker waits for you. Here, you can find the Young Mozia, a marble statue carved in the mid-fifth century BC. The Museum also displays a series of artifacts found right on the island’s grounds.

To get closer to nature, take the time to visit the salt marshes, a man-made wonder. While you’re here, different migratory birds live quietly on the many windmills around the area.

Catania

It is the second-largest city in Sicily, just after Palermo. To the north, the famous Etna volcano stands out. Catania has unparalleled monuments from the Greek and Roman times, making it a UNESCO Historical Heritage of Humanity.

However, the favorite attraction among many tourists is the Fish Market. Dive into the local culture, as vendors talk aloud to be heard among the crowd, selling fish, meat, and fruits.

Taormina

Now, you stand in Taormina, with incredible sea views in front of Etna volcano. Taormina has its own Ancient Greek Theatre, and if you visit when the air is clear, the views can extend to the coasts of Calabria, around 40 km away. Just like in Syracuse’s Theatre, music performances are often held at the Teatro di Taormina.

Once you visit Taormina, you can’t miss the Giardino Pubblico (Public Garden of Taormina). You can go around the park and up staircases to the different levels. Here and there you will come across the Victorian Follies, Eastern-inspired constructions hidden among verdant plants.

Agrigento

Another UNESCO-certified treasure of humanity is the archaeological site of Agrigento, one of the most important cities of Magna Grecia. The Valley of the Temples is surrounded by olive, almond, and citrus trees, and vineyards that extend to the sea. With its elegant and imposing monuments, overall its main attractions, it awakens an ancient atmosphere. As you stand among these temples, you’re thrown 2500 years to the past, when the Akagras was a center of power and culture.

How to get there

You can reach Palermo by taking a direct train from Rome (11 hours) or Napoles (9 hours). However, some people choose to stop at other destinations in Sicily before heading to Palermo.