Best Things to See and Do in Sicily

This Mediterranean jewel in Italy invites you to slow down and savour the richness of life. Whether you are exploring the vibrant streets of Palermo, cycling through the baroque towns of the Noto Valley, or dining in the shadow of Mount Etna, Sicily promises an escape into the extraordinary. Our handpicked Sicily itineraries offer a gateway to the island's deep history and vibrant culture, tailored for those who seek to explore its wonders through active as well as slow-paced travel. Here are the best things to see and do in Sicily, Italy, to inspire your journey.

Ancient Theatre of Taormina (Photo Credit: saiko3p)

Explore Palermo's Arab-Norman Splendour

Palermo is a city of layers, a chaotic yet elegant tapestry woven by Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Normans. To walk its streets is to witness a unique architectural dialogue that has earned the city UNESCO World Heritage status.

Best way to experience it: Start your journey in Palermo at the Palazzo dei Normanni, home to the dazzling Palatine Chapel with its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics. Nearby, the Cathedral of Palermo showcases a stunning blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Arab-Norman architectural styles, reflecting the city’s rich history. To fully immerse yourself, take a private walking tour through the historic centre, exploring hidden cloisters and vibrant markets like Ballarò and Vucciria, where the scent of panelle and fresh seafood makes for an unforgettable street food experience.

Ascend Mount Etna: The Fire of the Mediterranean

Dominating the eastern skyline, Mount Etna is Europe's highest and most active volcano. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site of immense natural power and stark, beautiful contrasts. The fertile black soil surrounding the crater feeds lush vineyards, while the summit offers a moonscape of lava flows and smoking vents.

Hiking and Biking the Volcano: For the active traveller, Etna is a playground. You can hike the diverse trails that wind through ancient pine forests before opening up to the barren, dramatic landscapes near the summit craters. The crunch of volcanic scree under your boots is a reminder of the earth's raw energy. Alternatively, cycling enthusiasts can tackle the challenging ascents on road bikes or explore the off-road trails on mountain bikes. The terrain changes rapidly from verdant green to charcoal black, providing a visually stunning ride. Find your Mount Etna walking and biking holiday here.

Volcanic Wines and Gourmet Delights: After your exertion, reward yourself with the fruits of the volcano. The mineral-rich soil produces wines of exceptional character. Visit a prestigious winery on the northern slopes to taste Etna Rosso, a wine celebrated for its elegance and complexity. Enjoy a lunch of local specialities—pistachios from Bronte, wild mushrooms, and artisanal cheeses—paired perfectly with the vintage in your glass.

Cycle the Baroque Towns of the Noto Valley

In the south-east corner of Sicily lies the Val di Noto, a region rebuilt in glorious Baroque style after a devastating earthquake in 1693. Today, these towns—Noto, Modica, and Ragusa—are UNESCO-listed masterpieces of golden limestone that glow warmly in the late afternoon sun.

Best way to experience it: Cycling through the Noto Valley offers a unique way to explore its UNESCO-listed Baroque towns. The routes traverse landscapes of dry stone walls and olive groves, connecting architectural highlights like the Cathedral of San Nicolò in Noto and the intricate streets of Ragusa Ibla. A multi-day cycling itinerary allows for immersive experiences, including tasting Modica’s traditional Aztec-inspired chocolate. Discover more of our Sicily and Italy Bike Holidays.

Discover Catania: The Black City

Catania sits at the foot of Mount Etna, and the volcano's influence is evident in the city's very bones. Many of its baroque buildings are constructed from black lava stone, giving the architecture a distinctive, sombre elegance that contrasts beautifully with the blue Ionian Sea.

Best way to experience it: Embark on an urban walking tour that delves into the city's underground history. Beneath the baroque streets lie Roman amphitheatres and thermal baths, preserved by layers of lava. Afterwards, indulge in a classic Catanese breakfast of granita with brioche—a luxurious, icy treat typically flavoured with almond or lemon.

Kayak the Aeolian Islands

Off the north-eastern coast, the Aeolian Islands rise from the Tyrrhenian Sea like seven distinct personalities. These volcanic islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site known for their rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and slow-paced island life.

Best way to experience it: Sea kayaking offers a unique perspective of the Aeolian Islands. Paddlers can navigate around the smoking crater of Stromboli, known as the "Lighthouse of the Mediterranean" for its frequent small eruptions. The waters around Vulcano feature grottos, rock arches, and natural thermal springs. Guided expeditions are available, often island-hopping from Lipari to Salina. Salina is known for producing capers and Malvasia wine, and kayaking tours may include stops at secluded beaches for picnics featuring local foods like pane cunzato.

Cycle the West Coast: Marsala and Salt Pans

The western tip of Sicily offers a different landscape, defined by salt, wind, and wine. The road from Trapani to Marsala hugs the coast, passing through the Stagnone Nature Reserve.

Best way to experience it: The western coast of Sicily, from Trapani to Marsala, features the Stagnone Nature Reserve, where ancient salt pans create a landscape of shallow, reflective pools. This flat, coastal route is ideal for cycling, offering views of historic windmills and tile-covered piles of harvested salt, especially at sunset. The journey can conclude in Marsala, a city known for its fortified wine, with historic cellars like Florio or Pellegrino offering tastings.

Immerse Yourself in Sicilian Gastronomy

No journey to Sicily is complete without a deep dive into its culinary heritage. Sicilian cuisine is a testament to its conquerors, blending Italian pasta traditions with Arab spices, Spanish vegetables, and French techniques.

Cooking with Locals: Move beyond the restaurant table and into the kitchen. A private cooking class in a countryside baglio (farmhouse) offers an intimate look at Sicilian hospitality. Learn to roll fresh busiate pasta, prepare caponata with the perfect sweet-sour balance, and stuff cannoli with fresh ricotta. Dining in Sicily is an act of love. It is a gourmet experience that feeds the soul as much as the body.

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