Summary
Sicily is a beautiful island in Italy to visit, featuring a stunning mix of historic towns, beautiful beaches, and dramatic volcanic vistas. With so many extraordinary destinations, you’ll definitely be spoiled for choice regarding the best places in Sicily to visit.
With lively cities such as Palermo and Catania, as well as the stunning Scala di Turchi, Sicily offers something for everyone. It’s truly more than just one type of experience, which is what makes this island so appealing.
To maximize your time in Sicily, we will reveal the best places you should visit upon your arrival. By doing so, you can focus on truly exploring the island without the hassle of planning or searching for hotspots.
Enjoy your visit to Sicily!
1.) Noto
Renowned throughout Italy for its ornate Baroque architecture, Noto is a picturesque city worth discovering.
In fact, I would argue that Noto is one of the best spots to explore in southern Sicily.
When you arrive, don’t miss the chance to visit Palazzo Nicolaci, Noto Cathedral, and Palazzo Ducezio. This city is ideal for a day trip, allowing you to park and leisurely stroll through its streets.
Noto is one of the finest places in southern Sicily that you would regret missing during your stay.
After some exploration, take a moment to enjoy dining at one of the delightful restaurants in the area or indulge in wine tasting.
2.) Scala di Turchi
Situated not far from Porto Empedocle, Scala di Turchi is one of Sicily’s most famous coastal landmarks. This striking white and creamy cliff has formed over thousands of years from the shells of plankton.
Absolutely stunning, Scala di Turchi is a perfect spot to take photographs and appreciate nature’s beauty. Remember to respect the area by leaving it as you found it, collecting any trash, and not disturbing the delicate rock formations.
Bring plenty of water and snacks for your day at the beach, although there are some nearby local restaurants worth visiting, especially during sunset.
3.) Mount Etna
Mount Etna, the highest mountain in Sicily, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an unmissable location for any traveler. It boasts unique geological features and is a remarkable sight.
Set between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, this extraordinary volcano is constantly active, becoming a top attraction in Europe. A simple yet rewarding way to experience Mount Etna is to join a guided tour departing from Catania. These trips usually include a 4×4 or small bus ride, with a short and manageable hike to really take in the visual splendor. It’s an excellent option for families as well.
For adventurous souls looking to explore independently, it’s advisable to hire a guide for safety, as conditions can change rapidly around Mount Etna. Additionally, checking the weather and ensuring you have the right equipment is essential to enjoying an unforgettable visit.
4.) Aeolian Islands
The Aeolian Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making them an essential destination when exploring Sicily’s coastline.
Formed due to historical volcanic activity, these seven islands rest gracefully in the Tyrrhenian Sea, approximately 30 km from mainland Sicily. They are easily accessible, especially the largest island, Lipari.
Moreover, visitors can conveniently hop to nearby islands, such as Vulcano, Salina, and Stromboli, all of which offer inviting attractions.
To streamline your experience, consider joining a guided tour where you can explore Stromboli, Lipari, and Vulcano, with stops at picturesque volcanic beaches and charming towns. Tours are fantastic for enhancing your trip without the stress of planning transportation, as access to the islands is often limited to boats or hydrofoils from Messina, Palermo, or Milazzo. Only residents can access cars on these islands.
The islands feature stunning mud baths and volcanic landscapes in Vulcano, delectable family-run eateries, and gorgeous hiking trails in Salina. Don’t forget to witness Stromboli’s active volcano, best seen by night for an unforgettable visual show.
5.) Taormina
Taormina is highly recommended as a day trip or relaxing weekend destination on the eastern coast of Sicily, just an hour’s drive from Catania Airport.
While in Taormina, ensure that you explore Giardini Naxos, Mazzarò, Madonna della Rocca Church, Isola Bella, and the historical Taormina Greek Theatre, which is an absolute must-see.
Don’t forget to wander around the stunning bays and enjoy Isola Bella, located just off the coast of Taormina. It’s a breathtaking experience, even without sandy beaches!
6.) Valley of the Temples
The Valley of the Temples is exactly as it sounds! This area boasts a significant collection of magnificent temples, making it a prime location for history enthusiasts.
Located in Agrigento, this UNESCO World Heritage site displays some of the best examples of Greek architecture in all of Italy, having been built around the 6th and 5th centuries BC. The Valley includes seven to eight temples, making it ideal for a full day trip.
Once you arrive, ensure to visit the Temple of Concordia, the remains of the Atlas in the Olympeion field, the Temple of Hera Lacinia, and more. Check the option to pre-purchase tickets to minimize wait times at peak periods.
7.) Syracuse and Ortigia Island
Syracuse and Ortigia Island were once vital cities in ancient times and remain remarkably stunning today.
The area is filled with exquisite historic monuments, temples, and even a necropolis within the city itself. Ortigia Island is now linked to Sicily by a small bridge, allowing easy access from Catania to Ragusa and beyond.
Ortigia is particularly charming, filled with medieval lanes perfect for leisurely walks. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your exploration!
While in Ortigia, pay a visit to Castello Maniace, the beautiful Piazza del Duomo, and the enchanting Arethusa fountain during sunset.
8.) Palermo
Palermo is undoubtedly one of Sicily’s most famous cities and is ideal for a long weekend getaway. A three-day stay allows you to experience much of what the city has to offer without feeling rushed. Alternatively, you can get a good taste of Palermo with just a one-night stay.
Once you arrive in Palermo, you should immerse yourself in the vibrant streets that make this city one of Italy’s premier tourist destinations.
Ensure to visit the stunning Palermo Cathedral, the lively Ballarò Market, the historical Norman Palace, and the spectacular Massimo Theatre. Don’t overlook the Palermo Museum, renowned as one of the best in Italy, or the captivating Catacombe dei Cappuccini.
For food lovers, a deliciously curated food tour is the perfect way to indulge in Palermo’s culinary delights!
9.) Catania
Catania is another major city in Sicily and a great starting point for your travel adventures. The city is well-connected and charming by nature, making it a lovely destination.
