Discover Sicily: A Journey through History, Nature and Flavours
What to see in Sicily ah, Sicily! A land of a thousand smells and tastes, where the sun shines for most of the year and the crystal clear sea embraces coasts rich in history and natural beauty. Sicily is an ideal destination to visit especially in the summertime, when the days are long and hot, and its inhabitants are ready to welcome you with their warm smiles and a cuisine you will never forget.
Sicily: A Land of Hidden Treasures
This region is full of small, hidden treasures: cities with timeless charm, historical monuments that tell the stories of ancient civilisations, picturesque islets and culinary traditions that delight the palate. No matter whether you are a nature lover, a history buff or a gourmet, Sicily has something special to offer every visitor.
We list a number of places you absolutely cannot miss if you come to Sicily!
Etna: The Majestic Mountain of Fire
Etna, at over 3,300 metres high, is the highest active volcano in Europe and one of the most iconic symbols of Sicily. This giant of nature dominates the east coast of the island and offers breathtaking spectacles with its frequent eruptions, which light up the night sky in red and orange. Mount Etna, known locally as 'Mongibello', is one of Sicily's most visited attractions and offers unforgettable adventures to anyone who decides to explore it.
Excursions to Mount Etna
One of the most evocative experiences to be had on Etna is to participate in a guided excursion. Local guides, expert connoisseurs of the area, will take you through the mountain's lunar landscapes, past extinct craters, lava caves and solidified lava flows. You can choose from different types of excursions, from the easiest and most accessible to everyone, to the most challenging for experienced hikers. During the ascent, you will have the opportunity to admire the unique flora and fauna that inhabit this area, as well as the breathtaking landscapes that stretch as far as the coast.
Etna Wines
Etna is not only a destination for nature and adventure lovers, but also for food and wine enthusiasts. The volcanic soil, rich in minerals, makes this area particularly fertile for vine cultivation. The wines produced on the slopes of Etna, in particular Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, are among the most appreciated in Italy and worldwide. After an excursion, there is nothing better than relaxing in one of the local wine cellars and tasting a glass of wine accompanied by typical local products.
Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples: A Dive into Ancient History
If you want to take a real plunge into the past and discover the magnificence of ancient Greece, you cannot miss a visit to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. This archaeological site, one of the most important in the Mediterranean, was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997. Walking among the remains of these majestic temples will make you feel as if you have stepped back in time, to a time when Agrigento was one of the most powerful and flourishing cities of Magna Graecia.
The Valley of the Temples
The Valley of the Temples covers a vast area and is home to some of the best-preserved Doric temples in the world. Prominent among them is the Temple of Concordia, an imposing building that has miraculously withstood the ravages of time and natural events. This temple, built in the 5th century B.C., is an outstanding example of classical Greek architecture and is one of the most recognisable symbols of Sicily.
Other noteworthy temples include the Temple of Juno, located on a hill offering spectacular views of the valley and the sea, and the Temple of Hercules, the oldest on the site, which still retains some of its original columns.
The Turkish Staircase
Not far from the Valley of the Temples, there is another natural wonder that is definitely worth a visit: the Scala dei Turchi. This white marl cliff, shaped by wind and water, rises majestically above the turquoise sea, creating a colour contrast of extraordinary beauty. The Scala dei Turchi is the ideal place to relax in the sun, take a refreshing dip or simply admire the breathtaking view.
The Marsala Salt Pans: A Dream Landscape
Marsala, known throughout the world for its sweet wine of the same name, is a city rich in history and charm. However, one of the area's most fascinating attractions is undoubtedly the salt-pan landscape. Here, the land is dotted with salt expanses and ancient windmills, creating an almost magical atmosphere, especially at sunset.
Saline Sunsets
The salt pans of Marsala are the perfect place to witness spectacular sunsets. As the sun sets over the horizon, the sky is tinged with shades ranging from pink to orange, reflecting in the calm waters of the salt pans and creating a breathtaking play of light and colour. It is an unforgettable experience, capturing the essence of Sicily's natural beauty.
The Stagnone Nature Reserve
Close to the salt pans is the Stagnone Nature Reserve, a protected area that is home to a variety of animal and plant species. This lagoon, the largest in Sicily, is an ideal place for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Here you can admire pink flamingos, herons and many other species of migratory birds. In addition, the shallow waters of the Stagnone are perfect for water sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Aeolian, Egadi and Pelagie Islands: A Natural Paradise
If you are looking for a wilder adventure and wish to completely immerse yourself in nature, then you absolutely must visit the archipelagos of Sicily. The Aeolian, Egadi and Pelagie Islands offer unspoilt landscapes, crystal-clear sea and a tranquillity that is hard to find elsewhere.
The Islands, located off the northern coast of Sicily, are a group of seven volcanic islands that represent one of the most fascinating destinations in the Mediterranean. Each island has its own unique character: Vulcano, with its hot springs and black beaches; Lipari, the largest and liveliest; Salina, famous for its capers and Malvasia production; Stromboli, with its perpetually active volcano; Panarea, the glamorous island frequented by VIPs; Filicudi and Alicudi, the wildest and most unspoilt.
The Aeolian Islands are the ideal place for lovers of trekking, scuba diving and the sea. Here, you can explore sea caves, snorkel in crystal-clear waters and climb to the top of a volcano to admire a breathtaking panorama.
The Egadi Islands
The Egadi Islands, located west of Sicily, are another natural jewel worth visiting. Favignana, the largest of the three islands, is famous for its turquoise waters and hidden coves. Levanzo, the smallest, offers a quiet and picturesque atmosphere with its small white houses overlooking the sea. Marettimo, the most distant and wildest, is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with its paths winding between mountains and cliffs.
The Pelagie Islands
The Pelagie Islands, consisting of Lampedusa, Linosa and tiny Lampione, lie in the heart of the Mediterranean between Sicily and Tunisia. Lampedusa, the largest, is famous for its Rabbit Beach, considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Its clear waters and white sand make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sea. Linosa, with its volcanic landscapes and waters rich in marine fauna, is an ideal destination for diving enthusiasts. Lampione, uninhabited, is a small rock that attracts divers from all over the world for the richness of its seabed.
Palermo: The Eternal Capital
Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a city that encompasses centuries of history, culture and traditions. Founded by the Phoenicians, Palermo has seen the succession of numerous dominations, each of which has left an indelible mark on its artistic and architectural heritage. Today, Palermo is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, where past and present intertwine in a mosaic of colours, flavours and sounds.
The Architectural Beauties of Palermo
A visit to Palermo can only begin in its historic centre, one of the largest in Europe. Here, every corner tells a story, every building is a piece of a puzzle that reconstructs the city's glorious past. Among the most emblematic monuments are the Massimo and Politeama theatres, two jewels of neoclassical architecture that host opera, ballet and concert performances.
The Palace of the Normans, with its Palatine Chapel, is another must-see. This palace, built by the Normans in the 12th century, is a masterpiece of art and architecture, where the Arab, Norman and Byzantine styles come together in perfect harmony. The Palatine Chapel, with its golden mosaics, is one of the most beautiful churches in the world.
Street Food in Palermo
But Palermo is not only history and architecture; it is also one of the capitals of street food. Here, street food is a veritable institution, and strolling through the Vucciria, Capo or Ballarò markets, you will be enveloped in mouth-watering aromas.
Specialities not to be missed include pane e panelle, chickpea flour fritters served in a crispy bun, and cazzilli, fried potato croquettes. Then there is the famous arancino, a rice ball stuffed with meat sauce, peas and cheese, breaded and fried. Don't forget to also try the Sicilian cannolo, a crispy wafer filled with sweet ricotta cheese, a dessert that represents the very essence of Sicilian pastry.
Taormina: The Jewel of Eastern Sicily
Taormina is one of the most important international tourist centres in Sicily. Known the world over for its natural landscape, marine beauty and historical monuments, Taormina is a must-see for anyone visiting Sicily.
The Ancient Theatre of Taormina
The symbol of Taormina is undoubtedly the Ancient Theatre, a Greco-Roman amphitheatre built in the 3rd century BC. This theatre, set in a breathtaking panoramic position, offers spectacular views of the sea and Mount Etna. During the summer, the theatre hosts numerous cultural events, including concerts, plays and the famous Taormina Film Fest. Attending a performance in this unique setting is an unforgettable experience.
Taormina Beaches
But Taormina is not only culture and history; it is also an ideal destination for those who love the sea. Its beaches, such as Isola Bella and Mazzarò, are among the most beautiful in Sicily. Here, you can relax in the sun, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters or explore the sea caves by kayak. Isola Bella, connected to the mainland by a thin tongue of sand, is a nature reserve with a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Syracuse: The Cradle of Greek Civilisation
Syracuse is another pearl of Sicily, a city with a history stretching back thousands of years and an archaeological heritage of inestimable value. Founded by the Greeks in 734 B.C., Syracuse was one of the most powerful cities in the Mediterranean and the birthplace of illustrious figures such as Archimedes.
Ortigia: The Heart of Syracuse
The beating heart of Syracuse is the island of Ortigia, a labyrinth of narrow streets and charming squares with a unique atmosphere. Highlights include the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily, and the Cathedral of Syracuse, an imposing church built on the ruins of a Greek temple. Don't miss the opportunity to stroll along Ortigia's seafront promenade, where you can admire the sunset over the sea and enjoy an aperitif in one of the many characteristic bars.
The Greek Theatre of Syracuse
Another unmissable monument is the Greek Theatre, one of the largest and best preserved in the ancient world. Built in the 5th century B.C., this theatre hosted performances of the tragedies of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides, and is still used today for performances during the summer season. Attending a performance in this atmospheric setting is an experience that will make you relive the greatness of Greek civilisation.
Val di Noto: The Triumph of Baroque
To delve into the wonders beyond the valley, you must visit the baroque towns of the Val di Noto. This UNESCO World Heritage area is a true triumph of Sicilian Baroque, with towns that are true architectural masterpieces.
Catania
Catania, at the foot of Mount Etna, is a lively and dynamic city, famous for its Baroque historical centre and cuisine. Among the most important monuments are the Duomo di Sant'Agata, the Fontana dell'Elefante and the Teatro Massimo Bellini. Strolling along Via Etnea, the city's main artery, will allow you to admire the beauty of the Baroque palaces and immerse yourself in Catania's vibrant atmosphere.
Noted
Noto is considered the capital of Sicilian Baroque, a city that enchants with its beauty and elegance. The historical centre of Noto is a succession of churches and palaces decorated with elaborate sculptures and stuccoes. The Cathedral of San Nicolò, with its majestic façade, is the symbol of the city and one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Sicily.
Caltagirone
Caltagirone is world-famous for its ceramic tradition, which dates back over a thousand years. The city is a riot of colour, with its houses and buildings decorated with majolica tiles with geometric and floral motifs. The staircase of Santa Maria del Monte, with its 142 steps covered in hand-painted ceramics, is one of Caltagirone's most striking sights.
Modica
Modica is another baroque gem of the Val di Noto, also known as the 'city of chocolate'. Here, the chocolate-making tradition is ancient and has been handed down from generation to generation. Modica chocolate, produced according to a method dating back to the Aztecs, is a unique product, characterised by its grainy texture and intense flavour. Strolling through the streets of Modica is like taking a dip into the past, past baroque churches and artisan workshops.
Ragusa
Ragusa is a city divided in two: Upper, modern and lively, and Ibla, the ancient heart of the city. Ibla is an authentic Baroque jewel, with its narrow streets, cosy squares and richly decorated churches. The Cathedral of San Giorgio, with its imposing façade and dome, is one of Sicily's Baroque masterpieces.
Scicli
Scicli is a small town that surprises with its beauty and charm. The historical centre, with its stone houses and Baroque churches, is a place where time seems to stand still. Scicli was also one of the main sets of the TV series 'Il Commissario Montalbano', and walking through its streets will make you feel like a character from an Andrea Camilleri novel.
Marzamemi
Finally, south of Noto is Marzamemi, an ancient fishing village that still retains its authentic charm. Marzamemi is an enchanting place, with its stone houses, harbour overlooking the sea and squares where time seems to pass more slowly. Here, you can enjoy the freshest seafood, such as red tuna and swordfish, in one of the restaurants overlooking the harbour.
Tindari: A Mystical and Suggestive Place
Tindari is a mystical place, situated on a promontory offering breathtaking views of the sea and the Aeolian Islands. This ancient site is famous for its sanctuary, dedicated to the Black Madonna, and its Greco-Roman theatre, which offers a spectacular view of the Tyrrhenian coast.
The Shrine of the Black Madonna
The sanctuary of Tindari is a popular place of pilgrimage, especially on 7 and 8 September, on the feast of the Black Madonna. The statue of the Madonna, carved in dark wood, is venerated by the faithful for the numerous miracles attributed to her intercession. The sanctuary, located in a panoramic position, offers an incredible view of the Aeolian Islands and the nature reserve of the small lakes of Marinello.
The Greek-Roman Theatre
The Greco-Roman theatre of Tindari is another jewel of this site. Built by the Greeks in the 4th century B.C. and later extended by the Romans, this theatre offers a unique natural setting with the sea in the background. During the summer, the theatre hosts plays and concerts, making the atmosphere even more atmospheric.
And you, which Sicilian wonder would you like to visit? Find out more about Sicily and the typical products of this extraordinary land by visiting Pistìwhere you can find delicacies such as pistachio pesto and other Sicilian products. In addition, explore other resources and information on places to visit in Sicily via external links such as Visit Sicily, the official portal for tourism in Sicily.
What to see in Sicily