Sicily

With its sizzling hot beaches and the allure of three azure seas, summer has long been the most popular time of year to enjoy the paradise of Sicily. However, there is so much more to this beautiful Italian island than lounging on its golden sands or indulging in refreshing water activities.

Something of a mini-continent, the island of Sicily in Italy ticks most boxes. Adventurer, art lover, beach bum, ruin explorer: this rugged chunk of sun-spun land at the crossroads of the Tyrrhenian, Ionian and Mediterranean seas has enticed ancient and modern peoples with its charms since time immemorial. The result is one of Europe’s richest and most extraordinary histories, with an unmatched array of artistic and breathtaking natural treasures. The food and drink’s not bad either.

The 19th-century chestnut, “The journey is the destination,” truly captures the essence of traveling inSicily. This Italian island, surrounded by three seas, may be small in size, but it boasts varied landscapes that are larger than life. Whether by bus, boat, car, train, or bike, traveling through Sicily offers breathtaking coastlines, mountains, and volcanoes. Going slow is key; however, even then, you may struggle to fully appreciate the natural grandeur along the way.

Storybook beaches, hissing volcanoes, and granita in spades—Sicily offers what every kid dreams of. Mountains of adventures on this swashbuckling island in Italy ignite young imaginations and keep all ages busy for days. Sicily’s coastline alone stretches an extraordinary 1,500km (930 miles) around secret coves, pirate-esque sea caves, and stretches of powder-white sand, not to mention volcanic-black beaches. The sun-spangled salt pans and craggy headlands are awash with ancient ruins waiting to be explored.

The secret was out long before HBO chose to shoot the second season ofThe White Lotushere: an undisputed Mediterranean beauty since the time of the ancients, the Italian island of Sicily shamelessly seduces anyone who so much as dips one little toe in its turquoise, gin-clear waters.

Sicily is a coveted summer destination among Italians, but soaring airfares in peak season shouldn’t discourage you from enjoying the Italian island life. Luckily, with a bit of planning, it is possible to create a budget-friendly itinerary throughout the year.

As the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is a grand road trip destination that extends beyond its striking blue waters and rugged coastlines. Winding pastoral roads lead through hilly hinterlands near Palermo and ascend to the dark volcanic slopes of the mesmerizing Mount Etna. Bursting with historical treasures, Sicily offers a wealth of Greek and Roman ruins, alongside medieval and baroque towns that will charm you at every turn. In this article, we will explore some exceptional road trip itineraries across this enchanting island.

Sicily is an island of mythic proportions, famous for its natural beauty and rich history. With ancient archaeological sites and luxurious palazzos, it showcases a proud triangle shape with three stunning coastlines, two island chains, and is home to Europe’s most active volcano, the magnificentMount Etna.

When the summer sun shines down on Sicily, the beach is the perfect escape. An island nestled between three seas, Sicily is home to a range of beautiful beaches that offer clear, crystalline waters. Whether you prefer family-friendly beach towns or secluded swimming spots accessible only to adventurous hikers, Sicily has something for everyone.

Many of the best things to do in Sicily are not expensive, as prices are low even by Italian standards. Moreover, there is a multitude of great experiences that are completely free.

Clustered in the blue-green Mediterranean an hour’s boat ride north of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are one of Europe’s most visually stunning and historically intriguing archipelagos. Each of the seven volcanic islands has its own distinct character, allowing for an enticing variety of activities as you island-hop across the chain.