Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, with a rich, layered history. Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spaniards all left monuments, and the result is a landscape of temples, baroque towns, markets and volcano.
It is big, varied and best explored with a clear plan. Choose a region, such as the west, the south-east or the area around Etna, and give it time.
How many days: 7
A week allows you to see one or two regions properly. A shorter trip works if you base yourself in Palermo or Catania.
Distances are long and public transport is slow in the interior. A car is useful for visiting small towns and ancient sites.
What to do in Sicily
- Explore Palermo
- A busy, bold city with markets, Arab-Norman churches, baroque palaces and street food. It rewards time and curiosity.
- Visit the Valley of the Temples
- A group of well-preserved Greek temples near Agrigento, set among almond and olive trees. Go early or late to avoid the heat.
- See Mount Etna
- Europe's most active volcano, with trails and cable-car routes. Guided tours are the safest way to see the crater areas.
- Walk through Syracuse and Ortigia
- A historic island centre with a cathedral built into a Greek temple, and a large archaeological park on the mainland.
- Visit Taormina
- A hilltop town with an ancient Greek theatre and a view of Etna. It is popular and busy in summer.
- See the baroque towns of the south-east
- Noto, Modica and Ragusa were rebuilt after a great earthquake in a flowing baroque style. They are World Heritage sites.
- Take a boat to the Aeolian Islands
- A volcanic archipelago off the north coast, with Stromboli's glowing crater. Ferries leave from Milazzo and other ports.
- Wander the Palermo markets
- Ballarò and Capo are lively street markets with food stalls, spices and fresh fish. Try a snack at a stall.
- Visit Cefalù
- A seaside town with a medieval cathedral and a sandy beach, a short trip from Palermo. A good half day.
- Visit the Mosaics at Piazza Armerina
- A Roman villa in the interior with some of the finest mosaic floors in the world, including the famous bikini girls. Allow time for the drive.
What to eat and drink
- Arancini
- Fried rice balls filled with meat, cheese or peas. A classic street food, eaten at any time of day.
- Pasta alla Norma
- Pasta with tomato, aubergine and salted ricotta, from Catania. A Sicilian staple.
- Cannoli and cassata
- Sweet ricotta pastries. Best eaten fresh from a good bakery.
- Granita and brioche
- Crushed ice flavoured with fruit, coffee or almonds, eaten with a soft brioche for breakfast. A local summer ritual.
- Fresh seafood
- Swordfish, sardines and tuna are common. Look for markets and harbour restaurants.
- Marsala and local wine
- The island produces many wines. Ask for a local red from the Etna slopes or a sweet wine from the west.
- Caponata
- A sweet and sour aubergine dish with capers and olives. Served as a starter or side.
Getting around
A hire car is the best way to see the island, but expect narrow roads and spirited local driving. Parking in cities is difficult.
Trains link the major coastal cities but are slow, and buses cover the inland towns. Check timetables carefully.
Ferries and hydrofoils link Sicily to the smaller islands and the mainland.
Good to know
- Summer is very hot, particularly inland. Spring and autumn are the best seasons.
- Petty theft occurs in cities, especially Palermo and Catania. Keep valuables secure.
- Many shops and restaurants close in the afternoon and on Sundays. Plan around it.
- Etna's activity changes. Check official updates and follow guidance before going up.
- The island is large, so do not try to see it all in a short trip.
- Sicily has several distinct landscapes, from the green north coast to the dry inland hills. Each region has its own food and traditions.
- Sicilian hospitality is generous, and meals are long. Allow plenty of time for lunch and dinner.