What makes Sicily so special and why is the island so high on the bucket list of Italy lovers? Sicily is a destination where nature, history, gastronomy and culture come together. From the impressive volcano Etna to baroque cities, paradisiacal beaches and lively markets. The island feels at once rugged, authentic and warmly Italian. In this guide you will discover what makes Sicily so unique, how to get there and which cities you absolutely must visit. So you can easily plan an unforgettable trip to Italy’s largest island.
Located in the extreme south of Italy, Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean. Over the centuries, the island has been influenced by different cultures such as the Greeks, Romans, Arabs and Spaniards. This is reflected in its architecture, cuisine and traditions.
What makes Sicily so special is its enormous diversity. You will find impressive nature with mountains, vineyards and beaches, as well as historic cities full of baroque palaces and ancient temples. The island also has its own identity that feels different from mainland Italy.
The climate is typically Mediterranean. Summers are hot and sunny and winters are mild. The best travel time for Sicily is from April to June and from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and temperatures are perfect for exploring cities or taking a road trip.
Sicilian cuisine is a journey in itself. Think arancini, cannoli, fresh fish, pasta alla Norma and granita with brioche. The flavors are intense and often influenced by Arabic ingredients such as citrus, pistachio and almonds.
Sicily is easily accessible from the Netherlands and Belgium. Most travelers fly to one of the island’s two international airports.
The main airports are Catania and Palermo. From Amsterdam, Brussels and Düsseldorf there are regular direct flights to Catania. Palermo has slightly less direct connections, but is often easily accessible with a change of plane.
Once in Sicily, a rental car is the best way to discover the island. This is because Sicily is quite large and the most beautiful places are scattered throughout the island. With a car you can easily visit charming villages, natural areas and beaches.
Trains also run between larger cities such as Palermo, Catania and Messina. For a true Sicilian road trip, however, a car is the most flexible.
Palermo is Sicily's vibrant capital and a city full of character. The historic center is one of the largest in Europe and is known for its mix of Arab, Norman and Baroque architecture. Here you will walk past impressive churches, palaces and lively squares. Palermo Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Normanni are absolute highlights. But perhaps even more fun is strolling through local markets such as Ballarò and Vucciria, where you can taste the real Sicily with street food such as arancini and panelle.
Catania is located on the east coast of Sicily and at the foot of the impressive volcano Etna. The city is built with dark lava rock, which gives it a unique appearance. In the historic center, you will find beautiful Baroque buildings around Piazza del Duomo, where the famous elephant fountain is the city's symbol. Catania is also known for its lively atmosphere, busy markets and excellent restaurants. From the city you can easily take an excursion to Mount Etna.
Taormina is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful towns in Sicily. Located high on a hill, the town offers spectacular views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. The biggest attraction is the Teatro Greco, an ancient Greek theater known for its panoramic views. In the historic center, you stroll through atmospheric streets full of boutiques, restaurants and terraces. Not far from the city is Isola Bella, a small island connected to the beach and one of the most beautiful places on the Sicilian coast.
Syracuse is one of Sicily's most historic cities and played an important role in the ancient Greek world. The old center is located on the island of Ortigia, an atmospheric place with narrow streets, Baroque buildings and cozy squares. Here you will also find the impressive Cathedral of Syracuse, built on the remains of an ancient Greek temple. Just outside the center is the archaeological park with the famous Greek theater. Syracuse is a very fine city for history, culture and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Located in southeastern Sicily, Modica is one of the baroque cities of the Val di Noto. The city is built against a hill and consists of an upper town and a lower town, which makes for a special cityscape. The impressive Duomo di San Giorgio is the most famous monument and is located at the top of a long staircase. Modica is also known for its unique chocolate, which is made according to an ancient recipe dating back to the time of the Spanish.
Scicli is an attractive baroque town in southeastern Sicily and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set in a valley, the city is surrounded by hills with impressive Baroque palaces and churches. The historic center feels compact and charming, with beautiful squares and narrow streets. Scicli is also known as the filming location of the popular Italian series Commissario Montalbano. Its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it one of Sicily's most beautiful hidden gems.
Marzamemi is one of Sicily's most photogenic fishing villages. Located on the southeast coast, the village is known for the atmospheric Piazza Regina Margherita. Around this square you will find colorful houses, restaurants and small stores. Marzamemi was once an important center for tuna fishing and that past is still visible in the old tuna factory. Today, it is a popular place to enjoy the Sicilian atmosphere, good restaurants and beautiful sunsets by the sea.
Located in southeastern Sicily, Noto is often considered the most beautiful baroque city on the island. After a severe earthquake in the 17th century, the city was completely rebuilt in Sicilian Baroque style. As a result, Noto has a harmonious and elegant cityscape with wide streets and beautiful palaces. Noto's cathedral and the Palazzo Ducezio are among the most important sights. Especially during sunset, the city takes on a warm golden glow, making Noto one of Sicily's most photogenic spots.
Sciacca is a charming coastal town on the southwest coast of Sicily and is known for its colorful harbor and thermal baths. The town has a relaxed atmosphere and an authentic character not yet discovered by mass tourism. In the historic center you will find narrow streets, churches and viewpoints over the sea. The port is one of Sicily's most important fishing ports and a perfect place to taste fresh fish. Sciacca is also known for its traditional ceramics and lively carnival.
Pozzallo is a lively coastal town in southern Sicily and is known for its beautiful sandy beaches. The town has a relaxed atmosphere and is popular with locals and Italian vacationers alike. Along the promenade you will find cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh fish and Sicilian specialties. In the center stands the Torre Cabrera, a historic watchtower once used to protect the coast. Pozzallo is also the port where the ferry to Malta departs.
Located on the southern coast of Sicily, Agrigento is best known for the impressive Valley of the Temples. This archaeological area is among Italy's most important historical sites and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will find well-preserved Greek temples dating back to the fifth century BC. The Temple of Concordia is one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. In addition to this special history, Agrigento also has an attractive historic center with narrow streets, squares and views of the Sicilian countryside.
Located on the west coast of Sicily, Trapani has a charming historic center surrounded by the sea. The city is known for its ancient salt fields and beautiful coastline overlooking the Egadi Islands. In the center you can walk through narrow streets past baroque churches, small squares and cozy restaurants. From Trapani you can easily make trips to the medieval mountain village of Erice or take a boat to the Egadi Islands. Thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful location, Trapani is a great place to discover Sicily.
Located in western Sicily, Marsala is known worldwide for the fortified wine of the same name. The city has an elegant historic center with Baroque buildings, squares and churches. Nearby are vast vineyards and the famous salt fields with traditional windmills. A visit to one of the wineries in Marsala is a must for lovers of Sicilian wine. The nearby lagoon of Stagnone with the island of Mozia is also a wonderful place to explore.
Portopalo di Capo Passero is located on the southernmost tip of Sicily, where the Ionian Sea meets the Mediterranean. The small fishing village is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. Off the coast is the islet of Capo Passero with an old Spanish fortress. The atmosphere in Portopalo is quiet and authentic, with a small harbor and excellent seafood restaurants. It is an ideal place for travelers who want to discover the quiet and natural Sicily, without too much tourism.
With over 188 pages about the region of Tuscany, my travel guide is indispensable when visiting Tuscany.
The travel guide contains more than 150 insider tips for the most beautiful spots, hidden locations, local wineries and unforgettable routes through this iconic Italian region; from rolling cypress hills to charming towns and culinary highlights.
With handy interactive maps, practical itineraries and authentic recommendations from locals in one convenient PDF, you’ll always have your perfect Tuscan holiday at your fingertips.
Buon viaggo!
The Tuscany Travel Guide is a digital edition. After ordering you will receive both on your screen and in your e-mail a link to download the Travel Guide. You can then save it and enjoy all the tips in the Travel Guide on multiple devices (PC, laptop, smartphone or tablet).
We have gathered some practical tips for you so that you can fully enjoy your stay in Sicily:
Are you going to Sicily soon and have questions about the region? Or are you looking for fine places to stay or tasty restaurants? Let me know. I’m happy to give you the tips you need. Do you prefer if I actively think with you to plan your journey? That is also possible. I am happy to help you.
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