The island where ancient temples rise from golden fields, seaside villages glow in the afternoon sun, and volcanoes smolder on the horizon. From hidden coves to hilltop towns frozen in time, exploring Sicily is a lifelong love affair. Here are the most beautiful places in Sicily you won’t want to miss.
A few years ago I fell head over heels for a Sicilian. He had been living in Brussels for many years and thanks to the wonderous invention of dating apps we met, fell in love, and have happily galavanted across Sicily together ever since. Whenever we head back to visit his family, I try and squeeze in a visit to someplace new.
This little island in Southern Italy has a neverending array of places to explore! It will take me a lifetime to see all of them. In the meantime I want to share 20 starlets you cannot miss. My top three most beautiful places in Sicily, to date, are Chiesa del Gesù di Casa Professa in Palermo, Favignana Island and the Valley of Temples in Agrigento.
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20 Prettiest Places in Sicily to Visit
1. Chiesa del Gesù di Casa Professa (Palermo)
MORE READING | A local’s guide to Palermo || 20 Boutique hotels in Palermo you will want to stay
One of the many advantages of having a Palermitan partner is the yearly trips to the capital. No matter how busy we are visiting family, I always try and sneak in a visit to Chiesa del Gesù di Casa Professa. Tucked away in the historic heart of Palermo, Casa Professa is a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque architecture and my absolute favorite church in Palermo.
Originally built in the late 16th century, this Jesuit church might trick you into thinking it is rather humble when glancing at its austere exterior. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Step inside, and you’re met with a riot of color and texture—intricate geometric patterns, swirling columns, and sculptures that seem almost weightless despite their grandeur. The ceiling frescoes, painted by Pietro Novelli, depict heavenly scenes in a play of light and shadow, creating a sense of divine movement.
Located in the Albergheria district, just a short walk from Ballarò Market, this church is one of the nicest places in Sicily for architecture lovers. In recent years it has become extraordinarily busy in part due to social media. I usually aim to go right before lunchtime (12.30 PM) as this is when the large tour groups have come and gone.
Address: Piazza Casa Professa, Palermo, Sicily; Opening Hours: 9 AM–12:30 PM, 4 PM–6 PM (Closed Sundays)
DO NOT MISS | If there is one thing Palermo does really well it is street food! You really want to book a streetfood tour when exploring the city! Most tours take you through the various local markets and pick up their favorite street food on the spot.
2. Mondello (Palermo)
MORE READING | Day trips from Palermo under two hours from the city
Just 10 kilometers from Palermo’s historic center, Mondello Beach is the city’s go-to escape. Think a quintessential Mediterranean postcard including turquoise waters, soft white sand, and pastel-hued Art Nouveau villas. It’s an easy half-day trip from the capital: spend the morning getting lost in the chaos of Palermo, then hop on a bus when the midday heat kicks in.
Unlike many of Sicily’s beautiful places, where pebbly shores and dramatic cliffs reign supreme, Mondello is all about powdery sand and shallow, rock-free waters. Personally, it is one of my favorite spots for leisurely wading. While much of the beach is populated by private lido (for €15 you can snag a lounger and umbrella for the day), in accordance with Italian law the first 5 meters of the beach are free to use.
Mondello feels worlds apart from Palermo’s intensity, a slice of European seaside nostalgia where time slows down. Before heading back to the city, grab a golden-hour aperitivo at Charleston, where Negronis come with a view. And whatever you do, don’t leave without sinking your teeth into an Arancina Bomba—a next-level, oversized take on Sicily’s most beloved street food.
3. Stagnone Nature Reserve (Salt Flats near Marsala)
Marsala’s salt flats are one of the island’s most surreal landscapes—a mosaic of shimmering pools, ancient windmills, and salt mounds that have shaped the region’s history for centuries. This area is part of the Stagnone Nature Reserve located in Western Sicily. They have been producing sea salt since Phoenician times.
I love coming here around Golden Hour as it offers one of the best sunset spots in the entire island. To enter the salt flats, you’ll need to take a guided tour (check the official website). In full transparency, we never took a tour because it is always invariably very busy. Instead, we tend to grab an aperitivo at La Terrazza sulle Saline or Lupa Beach and settle in to watch the sunset.
Marsala is also Sicily’s kitesurfing hub, thanks to its shallow lagoon and steady winds. In the last few years, many new kitesurfing schools have popped up. While I do not partake in kitesurfing (curse that terrible motion sickness), local friends tell me it is the perfect spot for budding kitesurfers! Check out kitesurfing classes online before heading out.
GOOD TO KNOW | If you come in late June to July the salt flats are slightly rose-tinted. None of this deep saturated pink you see on social media, but more of a pink hue.
VALUE FOR MONEY | One of the most booked tours of the Stagnone includes a boat ride to the various islands in the reserve and a visit to the salt flats themselves and a wine & food tasting!
4. Borgo Parrini
Not long ago, Borgo Parrini, a tiny neighborhood in Partinico, was on the brink of abandonment. Wedged between starlets Palermo and Scopello, it did not even make it as a byline in most guidebooks to the island. Young locals were leaving en masse to find work elsewhere and the neighborhood was quite literally falling apart.
That was until residents took matters into their own hands, restoring the village with a bold artistic vision. Inspired by Catalan Modernism, they transformed the streets into a kaleidoscope of color, with mosaics, curved facades, and nature-inspired details which had me thinking of Gaudí’s Park Güell within seconds of visiting.
It was my mother-in-law who had seen an ad in the newspaper for “colorful buildings near Palermo” who drew my eye to this bolthole. Ever curious, I hopped in the car and drove 45 minutes from Palermo to explore. A leisurely stroll revealed quirky murals clustered around one central square.
There’s little else to explore, but Borgo Parrini makes a perfect pitstop on the way to Scopello or Erice. If you have time, add it to your itinerary as a bit of an escape from the other overly popular places in Sicily. And if you want to be really adventurous try the unusual yet delicious lemon pizza at Pizzeria La Borgattella.
5. Caccamo Castle
The island runs on its own timeline, oftentimes one that is decades behind the rest of the continent. Tucked into the rugged hills of northern Sicily, Caccamo epitomizes this standstill. Despite being home to the largest and best-preserved Arab-Norman castle on the island, it has remained blissfully off the tourist radar; the remote location and glaring lack of public transportation have seen to that.
This time it was my father-in-law who ushered me out to door to visit Castello di Caccamo (or Caccamo Castle). The village is a quiet affair, easily overlooked where it not for the castle perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop. Caccamo Castle back to the 12th century and was originally built by the Normans as a strategic fortress.
Over the centuries, it passed through the hands of powerful noble families, each leaving their mark. For €6, you can explore its vast halls, admire original furniture, medieval armor, and weaponry, and take in panoramic views over the Rosamarina Lake from its ramparts. While it may not be as polished as other museums you see in Sicily (lack of English panels) it is well worth a visit.
After the castle, stroll through the historic center of Caccamo. Visit the 17th-century Caccamo Cathedral in Piazza Duomo, then unwind in one of the many local trattoria lining the Piazza. Free parking is available at Piazza dei Caduti.
Address: Corso Umberto I, 90012 Caccamo PA, Italy; Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.
6. Noto
Among the prettiest places in Sicily, Noto is the undisputed queen of Baroque. Rebuilt in the early 18th century after a devastating earthquake, the town is a masterpiece of honey-hued stone and ornate facades. The allure of Sicilian Baroque has not gone unnoticed to the public and Noto is admittedly overrun by tourists in high season. If you happen to visit Sicily in July and August, try and get here before 09.00 AM or after 06.00 PM.
Enter through the regal Arco di Trionfo, a grand gateway to Corso Vittorio Emanuele, where sunlit piazzas, lively cafés, and imposing churches set the scene. Whatever you do, make a pitstop at 1893 Caffè Sicilia for an almond granita, a delicacy made with Noto’s prized almonds. It is the best place
Wander past fading grandeur at Palazzo Ducezio and Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata, then step inside the Cathedral di Noto, a symbol of resilience.
As the sun dips, join the evening passeggiata on Piazza Municipio. This is the place to see and be seen, where Noto’s golden facades glow and time slows to a Sicilian rhythm. Grab a seat on the sprawling stairs of the Cathedral and listen to local artists crooning songs deep into the night.
TIME SAVER | If you are short on time, consider booking a tour that combines Oritiga and Noto in one full day. Tours include a pickup from either the Catania area or the Sircusa area which saves you from renting a car!
7. Ortigia
MORE READING | 15 Day trips from Catania under 2 hours from the city
The small baroque island of Ortigia, also known as the the historic heart of Siracusa, is pure perfection. Compact yet endlessly enchanting, it offers a carefree escape where even the most directionally challenged traveler (myself included) can wander without worry. No matter where you turn, the sea is always just around the corner.
We spent a month working from home in Ortigia and I can say without a doubt it is one of my favorite places on the island. If time is of the essence, start by exploring the Cathedral of Siracusa. A stunning baroque masterpiece, standing atop an ancient Greek temple. Stroll through the Jewish Quarter, which holds some of the cutest winding alleyways and little piazzettas.
A taste for local life can be found at the Mercato di Ortigia, where local farmers and fishermen gather together to sell their wares daily. You might have heard about “The Best Sandwich in Sicily”, a YouTube video that went viral a few years back. Pop into Caseificio Borderi in Oritigia to judge for yourself!
Look up as you wander—Ortigia’s balconies are a gallery in themselves, adorned with intricate carvings of faces, animals, and floral motifs. As the sun sets, head to the Neapolis Archaeological Park or the island’s port with a cold drink—both some of my favorite spots in Sicily. Best places for golden-hour magic too if that is your cup of tea!
ALTERNATIVE WAY OF EXPLORING: The island of Ortigia has plenty of cool sea caves that can only be explored by guided boat tour. Visit the caves and have a refreshing swim!
8. Amphitheatre of Taormina
MORE READING | 20 Boutique Hotels in Taormina
The hilltop village of Taormina is one of the most visited places in Sicily. At its heart lies the Teatro Greco, a spectacular horseshoe-shaped amphitheater dating back to the 3rd century BC. Once a stage for Greek and Roman performances, it now frames Mount Etna and the glittering Ionian Sea in a postcard-perfect panorama.
If your visit happens in summer, make sure to check out the official website of Taormina for tickets to a play or concert held in the amphitheater. The plays usually run between June and September.
Taormina is more than just the Teatro Greco. The little village is cute as a button and perched right atop some of the best beaches on the island. Taormina’s charm unfolds along Corso Umberto, the lively main street stretching from Porta Catania to Porta Messina. Stroll past artisan boutiques, sunlit piazzette, and elegant palazzi before tackling the uphill trek to Santuario della Madonna della Rocca, a tiny rock-hewn chapel with spectacular views.
As the day winds down, head to Piazza IX Aprile. This scenic square, with its black-and-white tiled pavement and sweeping terraces, is the ultimate sunset spot—where Taormina’s golden-hour glow meets the endless Sicilian sky.
SUMMER TIP: A great alternative to escape the blistering heat for a few hours is to partake in one of the many local cooking classes on offer.
9. Marzamemi
READ MORE | 13 Villages in Sicily worth exploring
One of the most beautiful villages in Sicily, Marzamemi is a coastal gem with a deep-rooted fishing heritage. Once a thriving tuna-fishing hub, the village was built around its 16th-century tonnara, where fishermen worked for centuries during the seasonal tuna harvest. Nowadays the bolthole is relegated to a picturesque stop for tourists and sun worshippers.
The tonnara has been transformed into a bustling square filled with family-run trattorias, boutiques, and wine bars. Piazza Regina Margherita lies at the heart of the village and is the perfect spot to sip espresso while soaking in the colorful facades and relaxed atmosphere.
Food lovers should try the Pomodoro di Pachino, the region’s prized sun-ripened tomatoes, best paired with freshly caught seafood and a glass of Nero d’Avola.
Beachgoers can take a dip in the turquoise waters of Spinazza Beach or San Lorenzo Beach. While summer sees a lot of footfall, winter unveils a quieter side, with fishermen keeping Marzamemi’s fishing traditions alive. Personally I love coming here to Marzamemi after a day at the beach in May or June when the first trickle of tourists find their way to the town but it is not overrun, just yet.
10. Mount Etna
MORE READING | 10 Day trips from Taormina in under 2 hours from the city
A visit to Sicily is incomplete without venturing up Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Towering at 3,357 meters, Etna has shaped the island’s landscape and culture for millennia. Its eruptions have enriched the surrounding soil, making the region one of Italy’s most fertile and allowing for the cultivation of vulcanic wines, an important export product for the island.
The climb starts at Rifugio Sapienza (1,900 meters), where you’ll find a visitor center, parking, and various guided tour options. From here, you have several ways to ascend. The easiest is the Funivia dell’Etna cable car (€35 return), which takes you up to 2,500 meters in 10 minutes.
At 2,500 meters, you can either hike 40 minutes to Torre del Filosofo (2,900 meters) or take a 4×4 jeep (€65 return). Beyond this point, reaching the summit requires a mandatory guided tour. No matter your route, expect surreal landscapes, steaming craters, and breathtaking views stretching across Sicily.
TOUR OPTIONS IF YOU DRIVE TO ETNA YOURSELF
- Summit & Crater Guided Hike (does not include ticket price for cable car)
- Mount Etna Summit Hike including cable car & jeep ride (all tickets included + option to rent gear)
- Etna tour in 4×4 includes the jeep and a local guide
TOUR OPTIONS FROM CATANIA
- Half day tour Mount Etna with local products tasting
- Sunset tour of Etna Park (Silvestri Craters not the summit)
11. Segesta Archaeological Park
Located an hour from Palermo lies the lesser known temple of Segesta. Once a powerful Elymian city, it stood in defiance of its Greek neighbors, thriving as a major trade hub in the 5th century BC. Today, its grand ruins sit quietly in the hills, surrounded by nothing but rolling countryside. It is a much lesser known place in Sicily, but well worth a small detour!
The Doric Temple of Segesta looks like a Greek masterpiece, but it was actually built by the Elymians, a mysterious ancient people of western Sicily. Though inspired by Greek architecture, the temple was never completed—most notably, it lacks a roof. Some believe this was intentional, while others argue that construction stopped when war drained the city’s resources.
Tickets (€6) are sold at the entrance, but bring cash as card payments aren’t always accepted. Parking is included.
TIP | Whenever we are driving on the highway next to Segesta after dark, I always make a small detour. The temple is beautifully illuminated at night!
Address: Contrada Barbaro, 91013 Calatafimi Segesta TP, Italy; Opening Hours: These vary according to the time of year. Opens daily at 09.00 AM and closes between 05.00 PM and 07.30 PM. Check online before heading out.
12. Riserva dello Zingaro
Just a short drive from the famous Scopello beach you will find an even more impressive spot to lay down your towel. The Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily, although it will make you work to get there so make sure to pack a pair of hiking shoes together with your beach towel.
I do not take the wording “beautiful beach in Sicily” lightly. True, the island has more than it’s fair share of beaches but these little crystal clear coves here are located on a protected stretch of coastline dotted along rugged trails. Sounds pretty surreal, right?
Entry to the reserve costs €5 per person (cash only), payable at the small parking lot at one of the two entrances. The first beach is just a 15-minute walk in, making it the most popular, but those willing to hike further will find quieter, more secluded spots along the coast. Trust me, it is well worth the walk!
For hikers, the main trail runs the length of the reserve, connecting the northern and southern entrances. The round-trip hike takes about 4 hours (14 km total), with no shuttle between entrances—so plan to return the same way. Bring plenty of water, use the designated fountains, and always pack out your trash.
BE RESPECTFUL | Drones are strictly prohibited as they disturb wildlife. Respect the local ecosystem and let the birds enjoy their paradise undisturbed!
13. Tonnara di Scopelo
With just 80 residents, Scopello is one of the smallest yet most charming villages in Sicily. At its heart lies a historic baglio (farmstead), now home to cozy restaurants, artisanal shops, and a bakery-gelateria serving up Sicilian treats. Despite its size, Scopello attracts visitors eager to experience its timeless atmosphere and spectacular coastal scenery.
A short drive along the winding roads of Castellammare del Golfo leads to the Tonnara di Scopello, a 13th-century tuna fishery that once played a vital role in Sicily’s maritime economy. Today, the beautifully preserved site functions as a museum and boutique B&B, offering a glimpse into the island’s fishing heritage.
Set in a sheltered bay, the Tonnara is surrounded by faraglioni (dramatic sea stacks) and watched over by two medieval towers. Parking is available near the entrance, but spaces fill quickly in summer. If time allows, explore the nearby Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro for unspoiled beaches and scenic hikes.
14. Panarea Island
Among the most beautiful spots in Sicily is the Aeolian Island of Panarea. With its whitewashed villas, lush gardens, and a harbor dotted with private yachts, it has long been a retreat for the Italian elite—Stefano Gabbana and even the former King of Belgium own homes here.
The first time I visited, I never ever wanted to leave. Stepping off the ferry into the lively port of San Pietro we were immediately met by fishermen selling the day’s catch and sun-kissed visitors sipping espresso in shaded cafés. True to it’s elite status, hotels on the island tend to be on the pricy end.
To explore the island’s stunning coastline we rent a gozzo (small boat) from the piers around San Pietro. Our days were spent floating between hidden coves, swimming in impossibly clear waters, and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
As night falls, Panarea comes alive. For dinner with a view, book a table at Hotel Raya’s rooftop bar. On summer Saturdays, it transforms into Europe’s most exclusive open-air nightclub, drawing revelers from across Sicily.
GETTING THERE | To get to Panarea take a ferry from Milazzo (Messina) or Palermo or take a tour from Taormina to both Panarea and Stromboli Island.
15. Vulcano Island
Rising from the Aeolian archipelago, just 25 kilometers north of Sicily, Vulcano is an island like no other. Located a short ferry ride from Panarea, it’s famed for its otherworldly landscapes, sulfuric fumaroles, and therapeutic mud baths—a place where nature still feels wild and untamed.
The island owes its name to the Roman god of fire, and stepping onto its shores, it’s easy to see why. At its heart lies Gran Cratere, an active volcanic crater that last erupted in 1890. A hike to the summit (around 1.5 hours) offers breathtaking views of the entire archipelago, with plumes of steam rising from the crater’s edge.
After the climb, unwind in Laghetto di Fanghi, the island’s famous natural mud baths, known for their skin-healing properties. Or take a dip at Spiaggia delle Sabbie Nere, a striking black-sand beach. With its raw beauty, Vulcano is one of the most beautiful places in Sicily.
GOOD TO KNOW | Sicilians flock to Vulcano during the summer en masse which means hotels book out many months in advance. We tried booking 1 month in advance and ended up paying nearly €200 a night for a 3-star accommodation.
16. Favignana Island
Favignana is part of the Egadi islands, a clustering of three islets floating off Sicily’s western coast. Neighboring Marettimo and Levanzo are the other two musketeers in this archipelago. Higher prices and limited accommodations translate into less tourism on the islets compared to the Aeolian islands.
Less does not equal none. Favigana is a popular day trip for Sicilians, who hop on a ferry from either Marsala or Trapani. We opted for the latter on sunny June, catching the direct bus from Palermo to Trapani before hopping on the ferry. Faviganan is without a doubt my all time favorite place in Sicily, and I am anything but a fervent beachgoer.
Life moves at an island pace here—slow, sun-drenched, and in tune with the rhythms of the sea. What I love is that everyone explores the island by bike. Bike rentals can be found dotted around the Porto di Favignana! The island can be traversed in one hour by e-bike, so there is absolutely no need for a car or a scooter for that matter.
Take a dip in the turquoise waters of Cala Rossa or snorkel in the hidden coves of Cala Azzurra. For history lovers, the Tonnara di Favignana, once a major tuna fishery, offers a fascinating look into the rise and fall of the famous Florio family.
Typical local dishes are busiati pasta with tuna bottarga or for fellow vegetarians the pane cunzato, a rustic sandwich topped with olive oil, anchovies, and cheese
PRACTICAL | Book a direct bus from Palermo via Omio. Ferries need to be booked online and in advance.
SHORT ON TIME: Book a small-group cruise from Trapani to explore Favignana and Levanzo.
17. Valley of Temples (Agrigento)
The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is one of Sicily’s most breathtaking archaeological sites, home to some of the best-preserved Ancient Greek temples outside Greece. Founded in 580 BC, the city of Akragas (modern-day Agrigento) was once a powerful Greek colony, and its grand temples reflected its wealth and influence.
We started our visit by parking in the designated lot across from the ticket booth (€3 for a morning, cash payment required upon exit). Entry tickets cost €10 (payable by cash or card) at the entrance. To learn about the site’s history we ended up downloading the official app (QR code available at the entrance) and renting an audioguide (€5). Alternative you can look into hiring a local guide (€20) for more detailed insights.
The main highlights include the Temple of Concordia, one of the world’s best-preserved Greek temples, the imposing Temple of Juno, and the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, once the largest Doric temple ever built.
GOOD TO KNOW | I made the mistake of visiting in August and quite literally nearly fried my brain. The valley is an absolute oven, temperatures regularly soar above 40°C (104°F) by midday.
18. Scala dei Turchi (Turkish Steps)
Perched along Sicily’s southern coast, near Realmonte in the Agrigento province, Scala dei Turchi (Stairs of the Turks) is one of the most striking natural wonders in Italy. This dazzling white limestone cliff, sculpted by wind and waves over centuries, forms a series of smooth, stair-like terraces that seem to cascade into the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea.
Once open to the public, the site has been off-limits since 2019 to protect its delicate surface. That however does not mean it is not worth visiting. For a great view head to the the surrounding sandy beaches (Lido Rossello Beach or Punta Grande Beach), alternatively, head to the scenic Belvedere Scala dei Turchi. In 2022, vandals defaced the cliffs with red paint, but thankfully the local authorities came together and were able to clean the damage.
My favorite time to visit is around sunset. Many of the day trippers and sun worshipers have left by then and the limestone turns various shades of pink and gold.
GOOD TO KNOW | If visiting by car, plan ahead—parking is limited. Various pop-up car parks are dotted around the main entrance and cost a few euros (cash only). Arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy one of Sicily’s most beautiful places.
19. Erice
Perched atop Mount Erice at 751 meters, the medieval village of Erice is one of the most quaint villages in Sicily. Overlooking the Trapani coastline, this ancient walled town is a maze of cobblestone streets, stone houses, and hidden courtyards that transport visitors back in time.
Begin your visit with a walk through the Spanish Quarter, making your way up to the Castello di Venere. This Norman-era fortress, built on the ruins of a Temple of Venus, offers probably the best views on the entire island. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Egadi Islands and the Trapani salt flats glistening under the sun.
No trip to Erice is complete without trying a Genovesi pastry filled with pistachio or custard cream. Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, run by one of Sicily’s most famous pastry chefs is the perfect spot to try one. After indulging, browse the ceramic shops, where artisans sell beautifully hand-painted pottery, perfect for a Sicilian souvenir.
PRACTICAL | The medieval town of Erice is a car-free zone. I usually end up parking my car at Porta Trapani. Alternatively, you can also park your car at the Cable Car Parking in Trapani and take the cable car up to Erice. (cost €9.50 round trip and takes around 10 minutes)
20. Alcantara Gorge
The only place on this list that I have not personally been! I have this pinned for the last 5 years but somehow have just never found the time to make it out. If you do happen to be reading this article and make it out, please do reach out and let me know how it was!
Carved over thousands of years, the Alcantara Gorge is a truly epic place in Sicily! Located near Taormina, this dramatic canyon was formed by ancient lava flows from Mount Etna, which cooled rapidly upon meeting the icy waters of the Alcantara River.
To visit, drive to the Gole Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park, where you’ll find parking, ticket booths, and visitor facilities. Entrance fees vary depending on access—lifts and guided tours are available, or you can take the public stairway for a cheaper option.
In summer, visitors can wade through the icy river, hike the scenic trails, or try body rafting for an adrenaline rush. Arrive early to avoid crowds and bring water shoes, as the rocky riverbed can be slippery. I have been told by locals that the water here is absolutely freezing, even in the Summer!
Opening Hours Geological Park depends on the time of the year so make sure to check before heading in.
VALUE FOR MONEY: Combine a tour to both Mount Etna and the Alcantara Gorge, hiking the volcano in the morning and the gorge in the afternoon!
Map of Beautiful Places in Sicily
Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where all the most beautiful places in Sicily are located.
Responsible & Sustainable Travel in Sicily
SUPPORT THE ADDIOPIZZIO COMMITTEE: Helps local businesses denounce the protection fee asked by the local Mafia. Set up in 2004 in Palermo, this grassroots movement has now expanded to encompass the entire island. Find a local business to support via their navigation tool (in Italian).
BE MINDFUL OF YOUR WATER USE: The island is relatively arid and the scarcity of water is further exasperated by the booming cruise ship industry and the water-intensive almond cultivation. Keep your showers short and opt to cool off in the sea (versus a pool) on your trip.
DRESS APPROPRIATELY: When entering a church or religious site make sure to cover your legs and shoulders as is customary. Some places (Monreale Cathedral) will offer visitors a shawl to cover up.
SOUVENIR SHOPPING: Don’t buy coral or pumice as souvenirs, as gathering or extracting these items is damaging to the environment. If you wish to buy a piece of ceramic head to Caltagirone or Santo Stefano di Camastra for Sicilian-made ceramics.
Practical Tips for Visiting Sicily
Where to stay in Sicily
That depends on a number of factors including your itinerary, where you land, and your interest. To make things easy I wrote a detailed guide to shed some light. This local guide of where to stay in Sicily was written together with my partner who poured in all his local knowledge for you.
How to get around Sicily
If you are looking to travel around Sicily there is no other option than renting a car. While the region is investing heavily in public transport, for now getting to many places is simply not feasible without your own wheels. I have to admit, driving in Sicily was a bit of a culture shock for me. It is a far cry from what I am used to in Belgium. Before you go, you might want to read up on my tips and tricks for surviving your first road trip in Sicily.
How many days to spend in Sicily
Contrary to popular belief, Sicily is a big island. Most of the tourist attractions are located around the coast, getting from Trapani (East) to Catania (West) will take roughly 4 hours in the car. Heading from Palermo (North) to Marzamemi (South) will take about 5 hours of winding roads.
If you are counting on seeing both the East Coast of Sicily as well as the West Coast of Sicily and add in perhaps one day on a surrounding islet, you will need to count on at least 10 on the island.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING SICILY
ACCOMMODATIONS: Where to stay in Sicily for a relaxing holiday
FOOD: Streetfood in Palermo
FOOD Traditional Sicilian recipes you need to try in Sicily
FOOD: Local’s guide to Sicilian food
PALERMO: One to three day Palermo itinerary
GETTING AROUND: Practical guide for driving in Sicily
Nicest Places in Sicily: Pin it
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