Top 23 Must-Do Activities in Sicily, Italy for 2025

Southern Italy’s Gem: Sicily

Southern Italy is home to many wonderful destinations, but few are as captivating as Sicily. The beautiful island seemingly has it all, from high-end vacation resorts to historic Greek and Roman landmarks. That’s precisely what makes it an excellent vacation spot for pretty much anyone!

Whether your idea of a nice vacation includes relaxing on the beach for hours on end or endless adventures, you can enjoy yourself in Sicily. The island offers a bit of everything, and I want to tell you all about its best attractions and landmarks.

If you can’t stay in one place for too long, Sicily is a destination you will thoroughly enjoy. Get behind the wheel and drive from one coastal town to another, discovering old churches, castles, and hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints. It’s the perfect location for a memorable road trip, so buckle up as we explore all the best things to do in Sicily!

Best Things To Do In Sicily

Sicily’s rich history and picture-perfect landscapes leave no one indifferent. I’m certain you will easily find tours and attractions to fill your time on the island and love every second of it! With Baroque towns, Greco-Roman ruins, and delectable food, enjoying your vacation is a given. Consider my favorite Sicily tours and things to do, for an unforgettable trip.

1. Hop Over To The Aeolian Islands

Situated just off the northeastern coast of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are the perfect excuse to get a boat and set off on a fun day trip. The volcanic archipelago boasts a total of seven islands, the largest of which is Lipari.

The namesake town of this island is known for its historic hilltop castle at the center of an archaeological site. Come here to see ancient ruins, but also to enjoy incredible panoramic views.

If you’re more interested in natural landmarks than historic ruins, head to Vulcano Island. Follow a hiking path to the top of a volcano for surreal vistas of a crater and nearby islands. The southern coast of Vulcano features black sand beaches, while the western coast boasts grottos and caves. Overall, there’s plenty to do and see in the Aeolian Islands, and you could easily spend more than a day cruising from one waterfront village to the other if you had the time.

Practical Information: Tours of the Aeolian Islands usually depart from Milazzo.

2. Join a Godfather Tour of Sicily

There’s no denying the fact that Francis Ford Coppola’s adaptation of The Godfather novel is one of the most iconic films of the 20th century. The masterpiece featured several scenes shot in Sicily, and the locals have long decided to capitalize on this popularity.

Join a Godfather tour of the island and you can discover where some of the movie’s best scenes were filmed. Savoca and Forza D’Agrò are the two villages that were most heavily featured on the screen, and tours will take you to both.

You’ll get to visit the church where Michael Corleone and Apollonia get married, the iconic Bar Vitelli, and even Vito Corleone’s birthplace, the Andolini house. And if you see some oranges along the way, don’t worry; they’re actually pretty common on the island and not a bad omen.

Practical Information: Godfather tours of Sicily usually take around 4 hours.

3. Explore the Best Attractions in Catania

Catania is the second largest municipality on the island, right after Palermo. Situated at the foot of Mount Etna, this ancient port city offers historic buildings, palazzos, ruins, and much more. Hiking trails lead from the town to the top of the Etna volcano, making Catania one of the best destinations for travelers who don’t want to rent a car in Sicily, but still want to explore most of its iconic sights.

The 13th-century Castello Ursino with a royal archaeological collection is Catania’s best-known landmark. There’s also the 2nd-century Greek-Roman theatre, the spectacular Palazzo Biscari with frescoes and a stucco facade, and the wonderful botanical garden with a collection of palm trees and succulents.

I’ve barely even scratched the surface of notable attractions in Catania! If you’re in town only for a day, it’s best to arrange a guided tour of the historic sights, so you don’t miss anything important.

Practical Information: Catania is serviced by the Catania International Airport, the island’s busiest.

4. Visit Mount Etna

Hiking to the top of the largest active volcano in Europe sounds fun, right? Tours of Mount Etna take place every day, and it’s one of the most popular destinations on the island. A cable car can take you up the mountain, and it’s the best option for people who want to go on self-guided tours.

See the craters, get a drink at a bar at an altitude of 2,500 meters, and enjoy the enchanting views from the top of the continent’s largest volcano. It’s a bucket-list experience, one that could likely be the highlight of your entire trip to Sicily.

Consider booking a guided tour of Mount Etna if you’re not a confident hiker.

Practical Information: The cable car to Mount Etna costs 50-78€, depending on the final station.

5. Try The Best Sicilian Dishes

Sicily is an Italian island, so of course, the food is going to be one of the best things about the trip! Every night you’ll have the world’s hardest dilemma – do you eat pasta or pizza for dinner? And every day you can try something new for lunch, gorging on authentic Sicilian dishes and discovering your favorite.

I already know my favorite street food from Sicily is arancini. The deep-fried rice balls stuffed with cheese are one of the best things I’ve ever had in my life, and I’ve been trying to recreate them ever since. Sicilian cuisine is rich with seafood, which is evident in many of the island’s staple dishes.

Sarde a beccafico, Pasta con le sarde, and Involtini di pesce spade are all classic dishes with fish as the main ingredient. For dessert, you can eat as many cannolis as you like. The traditional recipe calls for a classic creamy cheese filling, but patisseries often offer more than one option for the filling, usually chocolate and pistachio.

Practical Information: Sicilian food tours are available in all major cities on the island. Palermo, Catania, and Taormina have the most options.

6. See The Sights In Palermo

Palermo is the capital of Sicily. It’s the biggest city on the island and a great destination for those who prefer a more urban vibe. Palermo is the center for culture and history on the north coast, making it one of the top destinations for a first-time trip to Sicily.

If you only have one day in the city, it’s best to do a classic guided walking tour of Palermo’s best attractions. See the Palermo Cathedral, stand at the Baroque Quattro Canti square, tour the magnificent Norman Castle, and admire the view from Torre di San Nicolò di Bari.

Stay in Palermo if you’re planning a longer trip to Sicily. The city offers a plethora of historic landmarks, excellent food, and a lively nightlife. It’s also got beautiful beaches and easy access to other nearby destinations, so there’s enough to keep you busy for at least five days.

Practical Information: Palermo is serviced by an airport and a ferry from Naples. The city is two and a half hours from Catania airport by car and bus.

7. Medieval Castles at Parco delle Madonie

Parco delle Madonie is a regional park most easily accessible from Palermo and Cefalu. Featuring historic castles and medieval villages, the park is perfect for exploring remnants of a different era in Sicily.

Additionally, it’s a top destination for hiking on the island, as there are several marked trails within the park grounds. Also, some of the tallest mountains on the island are situated within this park, making it a must-visit for all alpinists who can’t resist a good climb.

One of the top attractions at this park is a giant yellow bench, creating a unique photo opportunity accompanied by endless views of the island’s rolling hills.

Practical Information: Parco delle Madonie is accessible any time of day or night for free.

8. Day Trip to Noto

Noto is one of the lovely Baroque towns on the southeast coast of Sicily. It’s known for the Noto Cathedral, a grand 18th-century church with a neoclassical dome. The interior of the cathedral is not quite as impressive as you would expect, but it’s nonetheless worth going inside to see some interesting sculptures and frescoes.

Nicolaci Palace is one of the town’s most lavish residences. The palazzo, once belonging to a wealthy family, is now open for public tours. Period furnishings and stunning decorations adorn the palace interior, while the balconies offer splendid views of Noto’s famous flower carpet.

Practical Information: Noto is situated in southeast Sicily, approximately an hour’s drive from Catania.

9. Experience Saliturismo at Marsala

Marsala is the largest town on the west coast of Sicily, known for ancient ruins, fortified wine, and salt flats. It’s one of the most picturesque destinations in Sicily, especially the salt flats with the windmills in the background.

This is the most popular attraction in Marsala, and visitors can even experience what it’s like to be a saltworker for an hour. Additionally, Marsala boasts an archaeological park with Roman ruins, museums, castles, churches, and old city gates.

Isola di San Pantaleo is another excellent destination near Marsala. Accessible only by boat rides from private piers at the salt flats, the island features remnants of an old Phoenician settlement.

Practical Information: Marsala is roughly two hours from Palermo and Agrigento. Experiences at the Salt Resort cost 16-60€, and are available mostly from June to September. Guided tours of the salt flats are available year-round.

10. Spend a Day on The Beach

Sicily has many miles of sandy, pebble, and stone beaches. Allow for at least one day of pure relaxation lying on a lounge chair on the beach, enjoying the sound of the waves and the scent of salt in the air.

Licata Beach, on the island’s southern shore, is one of the best if you want to avoid crowds. It features soft sand and crystal clear water, but it’s nowhere near as touristy as some of the other beaches on the island.

San Vito Lo Capo Beach is another of the island’s best. Boasting white sand and turquoise waters, it’s an excellent destination for travelers who want to spend a day swimming and sunbathing.

Practical Information: Most beaches in Sicily are free to enter. However, in many places, you won’t be allowed to stay on the beach unless you rent loungers and umbrellas, which cost anywhere from 12-25€, depending on the location.

11. Discover Historic Ruins in Taormina

The hilltop town of Taormina is one of the best for ancient ruins in Sicily. Teatro Antico di Taormina is by far the most famous landmark in town; the Greco-Roman theater is teeming with history and offers an excellent view of Mount Etna.

Because the town sits atop a hill, the views are magnificent. You’ll enjoy endless vistas of Sicily’s mountains on one side and the sea on the other. However, due to its panoramic location, it can be a bit of a walk whenever you want to head down to the beach.

Taormina is home to some of the best resorts on the island, including the fabulous hotel featured in the second season of White Lotus – San Domenico Palace. Unahotels Capotaormina is another fabulous resort worth mentioning because it has a private sandy beach accessible via a lift carved into the rocks.

Practical Information: Taormina is situated on the east coast of Sicily, roughly an hour from Catania.

12. Tour Ancient Cave Dwellings

The south coast of Sicily boasts interesting natural landmarks, one of which is the Archaeological area of Cava d’Ispica. The cave dwellings carved into the mountain offer breathtaking views of the beautiful island landscapes.

Cava d’Ispica is tucked away far from the tourist centers of Sicily, so it’s a place you can only visit if you have a car. It’s worth the effort, as the archaeological park is quite large and also features a Water Mill Museum inside a cave, a necropolis, and a cave church with frescoes painted on the walls. This is one of the attractions off the beaten path in Sicily, ensuring you encounter fewer crowds.

Practical Information: Cava d’Ispica is open from 9 AM to 7 PM. Tickets are 5€.

14. Head to The Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples is an archaeological site in Agrigento, on the southern coast of Sicily. It’s one of the best destinations on the entire island if you want to discover remnants of ancient history and marvel at some magnificent Greek ruins.

Agrigento is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historic landmarks, making it one of the top cities on the island for historic tours. The town was founded in the 6th century BC as a Greek colony and became one of the most important cities in the Mediterranean world.

There are many temples in the valley, but the most famous is the Temple of Concordia. This ancient Greek temple is incredibly well-preserved and serves as a great example of Dorian architecture.

Practical Information: The temples can be visited from 8:30 AM to 7 PM. The entrance fee is 12€.

14. Antique Buildings of San Vito Lo Capo

San Vito Lo Capo is best known for its namesake beach, which boasts soft sand, crystal-clear sea, and epic mountain views. However, there’s much more to this beachfront town, and it could be a great place to stay in Sicily.

One of the most interesting landmarks in town is Santuario di San Vito Martire. Dating back to the Byzantine era, the building features a unique mixture of architectural styles. Its height and limited openings on the walls indicate a former military purpose, while the crypt and bell tower are typical of religious buildings.

Tonnara del Secco is another notable historic landmark, popular for its serene waterfront location.

Practical Information: San Vito Lo Capo is situated in the northwest of Sicily, roughly a two-hour drive from Palermo.

15. Anti-Mafia Tour

Sicily has a long and tumultuous history with the mafia. Cosa Nostra originated on the island, and although many people romanticize this because of The Godfather films, the late 19th and early 20th centuries were a tough time for the locals.

The Mafia Wars of the late 20th century led to the death of many innocent people. Since then, several anti-mafia tours have arisen, aiming to educate people about the darker side of life on the island, which isn’t explored in detail in pop culture.

The village of Corleone even has an Anti-Mafia Museum, which you should consider visiting if you genuinely want to know more about this topic. The guides will share many incredible stories about the mafia, helping you understand just how adverse the situation can be when criminals control everyday life.

Practical Information: The Anti-Mafia Museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM.

16. Walk to Isola Bella

Isola Bella is a small island accessible by a walk from Taormina. You must cross a sandy beach to reach the island, and if the tide is high, you’ll be walking through knee-deep water. The experience is wonderful, as this charming island offers beautiful panoramic views.

There’s even a small museum on the island, but don’t expect much from it. It features nice walking paths and a modest exhibit on the island’s natural history.

One thing to note is that Isola Bella doesn’t have good beaches for swimming. They’re mostly rocky, which can be uncomfortable to walk on. Thus, come here for stunning scenery and beautiful vistas, ideally for a leisurely afternoon walk.

Practical Information: Isola Bella is accessible only by walking paths from Taormina. The entrance fee to the island is 4€.

17. Cave Church at Mount Pellegrino

According to Goethe, Mount Pellegrino is the most beautiful promontory in the entire world. The hill overlooks the Bay of Palermo and is accessible by uphill hiking paths from Sicily’s capital. If you stay in Palermo for at least 2-3 days, you won’t regret making time for Mount Pellegrino.

Santuario di Santa Rosalia is another reason to trek up the hill. The 17th-century church is carved into the mountainside and is dedicated to the patron saint of Palermo. The church is an astonishing sight, and anyone can enter for free.

Mount Pellegrino features more walking and cycling paths, scenic viewpoints, and even a stunning castle. Addaura Cave is another famous landmark here, known for prehistoric drawings on the cave walls, though it’s currently closed to the public for safety reasons.

Practical Information: Mount Pellegrino is accessible 24/7 for free. The Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia is open from 9 AM to 6 PM.

18. Visit an Old Quarry in Syracuse

Syracuse is yet another destination in Sicily known for Greek and Roman ruins. The town boasts an ancient quarry in the Neapolis Archaeological Park, which is also home to a Greek theater and a Roman amphitheater.

The Tecnoparco Museo di Archimede is also at the archaeological park and is another venue to consider adding to your itinerary. If you’re a self-proclaimed nerd, you might enjoy the place since the open-air museum features models and illustrations demonstrating Archimedes’ concepts. Otherwise, the Syracuse beaches are a great option too.

Additionally, there’s another scientific museum on Ortigia Island featuring interactive models of various inventions. The Temple of Apollo is also situated on this island, another iconic historic landmark of Sicily.

Practical Information: Syracuse is located on the southeast coast of Sicily, roughly an hour’s drive from Catania.

19. Marvel at Messina’s Medieval Architecture

The port city of Messina serves as a gateway to Sicily, offering direct ferries to mainland Italy. Most travelers who visit Sicily by car will pass through this town, making it truly worthwhile to stop and explore the sights for a few hours. Even if you arrive by other means, Messina is an excellent place for excursions.

The town showcases a wonderful blend of Greek, Roman, and Medieval architecture. Tour the historic center to discover monumental churches, ancient fortresses, and the city’s many fountains.

Additionally, Messina is the third-largest city in Sicily by population, boasting great infrastructure. It’s home to excellent restaurants and shops, as well as friendly locals.

Practical Information: Messina is situated in northeastern Sicily, separated from the mainland by the Messina Strait. It’s roughly an hour’s drive from Catania, but two and a half hours from Palermo.

20. Roman Mosaics at Villa Romana Del Casale

Villa Romana del Casale is one of the landmarks that will make you want to rent a car in Sicily. Nestled in the central part of the island, halfway between Agrigento and Catania, the spectacular estate dates back to the 4th century AD.

This historic landmark is remarkably well-preserved, considering its age. Some mosaics and wall paintings are practically intact, primarily contributing to the palace’s UNESCO World Heritage status.

Don’t worry; you can visit this magnificent place even if you don’t have a car. Guided tours of Villa Romana del Casale are available from both Agrigento and Catania, often combining visits to other notable attractions in the area.

Practical Information: Villa Romana Del Casale is open for tours from 9 AM to 6 PM. The entrance fee is 12€.

21. Coastal Hikes at Zingaro Nature Reserve

Zingaro Nature Reserve is located in northwestern Sicily and it’s a top destination for day trips from Palermo. The waterfront nature park features dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and rewarding hiking trails.

Come here if you want to escape the crowded city streets and spend some time exploring the captivating Sicilian landscapes. The nature reserve even features a natural history museum in a cave, with a small but interesting exhibit on the local flora and fauna.

If you want to hike at Zingaro Nature Reserve, be sure to pack a swimsuit. Many trails lead to secluded bays and coves, providing access to crystal-clear and tranquil waters.

Practical Information: The Zingaro Nature Reserve is open from 7 AM to 7:30 PM in the summer. The admission fee is 5€.

22. See The Turkish Steps

For a long time, this was the most popular beach in Sicily. Unfortunately, it eventually closed to the public because of erosion and environmental concerns. Visitors can no longer spend time on the beach, but it’s still possible to glimpse this incredible natural landmark.

Viewpoints are available on the cliffs just above the beach. Multiple parking lots are located off the road here, and you don’t have to walk more than a couple of minutes to admire this scenic site. It’s a picturesque place and a great spot for some epic photos. It only takes 10-15 minutes to check this landmark off your itinerary, especially if you’re already driving around southern Sicily.

Practical Information: The Turkish Steps Beach is on the southern coast, close to Porto Empedocle, and is easily accessible on road trips.

23. Enjoy the Views From Hilltop Castello di Cefalù

Cefalù is a very popular destination on the northern coast of Sicily. The picturesque town is known for its traditional stone houses, historical landmarks, and long sandy beaches. It’s one of the most popular places for beach vacations in the north and has an abundance of hotels and resorts.

Even if you’re not seeking the ideal beach town, consider visiting Cefalù for a day. See the Norman Cathedral with its marvelous Byzantine mosaics and hike to the top of a hill, where the ruins of Castello di Cefalù await. Though it’s an exhausting hike, the captivating views from the top make it worthwhile.

Practical Information: Cefalù is approximately an hour from Palermo but two hours from Catania.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sicily best known for?

Sicily is best known for its ancient ruins, beautiful villages, and spectacular beaches. The popular holiday destination boasts an excellent blend of luxury resorts and historic landmarks, allowing everyone to enjoy the island.

How many days in Sicily is enough?

You need at least 5-7 days to tour Sicily’s most famous towns and attractions. A stay of 10-15 days will allow you to visit all the most popular landmarks on the island.

What is the nicest part of Sicily to visit?

Taormina is one of the prettiest towns in Sicily, with vast sandy beaches and excellent resorts. Palermo is also very popular, thanks to its many historical landmarks and vibrant nightlife.

Is Sicily worth visiting without a car?

Yes, Sicily is worth visiting, even if you don’t have a car. Staying in either Palermo or Catania allows you to easily explore the nearby abundant tourist attractions by arranging tours or utilizing public transport.

Tips And Information For Visiting Sicily

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Sicily is between April and June or in October. Any time of the year is suitable for visiting, as the island’s mild, Mediterranean climate means that you can enjoy the sunshine virtually year-round.

July, August, and September are the most popular months to visit the island. This is when crowds are the largest, and hotel prices reach their peak. Consequently, you might want to avoid this busy season. July and August are also hot months with temperatures in the high 30s °C, making exploring uncomfortable.

Getting There

Catania Fontanarossa Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Sicily, located on the eastern coast near Catania. It serves as a great starting point for your journey through Sicily. A taxi from the airport to Catania town typically costs 25-30€.

The Palermo Airport services the western coast of the island and is advantageous if you’re planning to spend most of your time there. Travel from the airport into town via public transport, taxi, or private transfer.

Getting Around

Renting a car is ideal if you want ultimate freedom in Sicily. Since the island has attractions on all four coasts, you can’t see everything without a car. Ideally, opt for a compact car like a Fiat 500 to navigate the narrow roads of Sicily efficiently.

However, even without a car, you can still explore much of the island by booking tours and using public transport. You’ll simply need to focus on specific regions, with northeast Sicily being highly recommended.

In terms of public transport, Sicily offers trains and buses, but it’s interesting to note that the buses are generally more reliable than the trains. In fact, it’s advisable for tourists to avoid the trains; delays are frequent, and you might find yourself stuck in a town for an unexpected overnight stay.

How Much Time Do You Need

You need at least 5-7 days for a thorough exploration of Sicily. Every additional day allows you to discover more of this stunning Italian island and its countless attractions.

Sicily is large with numerous interesting places to see. Cefalù, Taormina, Syracuse, Palermo, and Mount Etna are just a few examples. A day in each gives you a five-day itinerary, excluding any island-hopping or inland attractions.

On the other hand, if your visit to Sicily means spending most of your time relaxing at the resort and only venturing into town occasionally, then any trip length may work. However, to truly explore the island, you’ll regret booking anything shorter than a week.

Where To Stay In Sicily

Palermo is a good base if you’re looking for a larger city with easy access to other destinations on the northern shore. Catania, Taormina, and Syracuse are all excellent choices along the east coast, being close to Mount Etna National Park. Agrigento is ideal on the southwestern coast. Here are some of the best hotels in Sicily for varying budgets:

• Hotel Europa is an affordable option close to Palermo’s historic center.
• Hotel Villa Athena is situated in the heart of the Valley of the Temples, perfect for a luxury getaway.
• San Domenico Palace in Taormina was featured in the second season of White Lotus and offers comfortable rooms and stunning views.