sicily tourism mountains

Sicilian Mountains: all you need to know

If you are planning your trip to Sicily and you are a mountain lover, then you are exactly where you need to be! We have created for you a brief guide concerning Sicilian Mountains so that you do not miss out on any place and excursion!

Mount Etna is among the highest peaks and most active volcanic complex in all Europe. Its frequent eruptions over history have sometimes deeply modified the surrounding landscape, to such a level that several times over the course of history its eruptions have also affected the inhabitants of the areas around the volcano itself. On June 21 st , 2013 Mount Etna has become part of the UNESCO world heritage. The complex includes over 300 inactive volcanic cones! There are several ways to visit Mount Etna: quad, jeep, hiking, mountain-biking or with the funicular railway.

Hyblaean Mountains

It is a mountainous plateau located in the south-eastern part of Sicily in an area delimited by the cities of Ragusa, Syracuse and Catania. Mount Lauro, on the border between the municipalities of Ragusa and Syracuse, it is the highest peak (around 987mt above sea level). The plateau is affected by the course of several rivers and torrents that have deeply carved its appearance sometimes with the shape of the meanders.  The Hyblaean clefts are generally considered canyons because of their similarities with the North American canyons. However, they are locally considered the Hyblaean “caves” among which the most popular is Cavagrande del Cassibile, defined as the “most beautiful canyon of the entire Hyblaean plateau”. These mountains have preserved the millenniums old traces of its ancient populations, here you may find necropolis, catacombs and rock churches.

We advise you to check out this jeep tour in the Cavagrande park:

Madonie Mountains

The Madonie are a mountainous complex located in the North-Western part of Sicily nearby Palermo. Pizzo Carbonara is the tallest mountain in this complex (1979mt above sea level) and it is the second tallest peak in Sicily right after Mount Etna (3340mt above sea level). The activities you may find in this area are many, for example a quad tour from Cefalù to Castelbuono passing across the Madonie.

There is even a trek on the path of the giant hollies, a trail that leaves everyone astounded! You can plunge in the untouched nature and admire these rare plants in all of their greatness.

Nebrodi Mountains

This is a mountainous complex in the Northern part of Sicily, close to Messina. They face the North overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Their Southern limit is Mount Etna and the Alcantara and Simeto rivers separates them.

You should not miss the trek on the Agrimusco Rocks, some gigantic megaliths whose forms have been partly shaped by the prehistorical inhabitants of the area and partly by the weather erosion. The view breathtaking view, going from the Aeolian islands to the Agrimusco plateau to Mount Etna, only adds an incredible value to this location.

The view on the Agrimusco rocks cannot be missed, its megaliths are often referred to as the Sicilian Stonehenge thanks to the presence of these rocks with the most curious shapes.

Peloritani Mountains

this complex is found in the North-Eastern part of Sicily, in between the Nebrodi Mountains and Mount Etna. The highest peak is Montagna Grande (1347mt above sea level), between Motta Camastra and Antillo. Our advice for you is to take part in a 3h quad tour starting in the Alcantara Canyon.

Sicani Mountains

Mount Cammarata (1578mt above sea level) is a mountain in the municipality of Agrigento. It is the tallest mountain of the Sicani complex. From its peak, in the clearest days, you can see at East Mount Etna and at North the Madonie complex with Mount Saint Calogero and a glimpse of the Tyrrhenian sea.

Discover all the quad tours among Sicilian Mountains!

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The Top 20 Peaks in Sicily

Plan. Save. Navigate. Your best adventures await.

Start today with a free komoot account.

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Hiking Highlight

Nice hike from the mountain station to the upper craters from the year 2003. You can also start for 33,00 € with the bus - the way is easy - … read more

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It's worth starting early in the morning. I left at 8.00h: The light is great and the climb is partly still in the shade! Brilliant!

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Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

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From here you have a great view of the surrounding area.

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A whole network of beautiful hiking trails leads around and to the Monti Sartorius, ashes cone of a flank eruption of Etna 150 years ago. Great view down to the … read more

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From the volcanic cone of Monte Fossa, the well-trained hiker enjoys a 360-degree panorma, fascinating ...

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Monte Veneretta is a beautiful place where you can go hiking without going far from nearby Taormina, a unique place surrounded by wonderful Mediterranean vegetation.

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Good, beautiful trail with many sheep and goats - only the last 100 vertical meters you have to climb - but even before there are great views

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On this section of the trail you have a fantastic view of the coast and the surrounding area, as well as of the village of Erice itself - simply a pleasure and nothing can beat it.

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Rise above west flank easily

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Old and imposing centuries-old holm oak, very famous and loved by the locals. Easily reachable in a few minutes from several well-marked trails.

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Sicily's most beautiful national parks and reserves

Nov 25, 2021 • 5 min read

Sunbathers relaxing on a beach at Zingaro Natural Reserve © Getty Images

Sicily's most inspiring natural beauty spots are protected by numerous parks and reserves that dot the island. Walking trails abound in the parks and you can visit isolated beaches, pristine forests and active volcanoes.

Plus you can spot all manner of local wildlife and visit traditional villages where life is little-changed in decades. Here are eight of our favorite parks for exploring the natural world in Sicily .

Parco Naturale Regionale delle Madonie

Best for traditional villages.

The 400 sq km (154 sq mi) Madonie regional park is an outdoor paradise that’s well suited to slow, culturally rich travel. The Madonie Mountains are crowned by Pizzo Carbonara, which is the highest mountain in Sicily after Mt Etna.

Spring here sees spectacular spreads of wildflowers carpeting the mountain slopes; autumn brings wild mushrooms and richly colored foliage; winter draws snow sports enthusiasts and summer offers an escape from the coastal crowds.

This is not just a nature reserve but an area where people live and work, so you can combine hiking with visits to historic hilltop towns. Castelbuono , the charming capital of the Madonie is set amid ancient manna ash and chestnut forests. A 15th-century castle dominates the town’s skyline.

Parco Nazionale Isola di Pantelleria

Best for isolation.

One of Sicily’s national parks is halfway to Tunisia. A volcanic outcrop, Pantelleria is Sicily’s largest offshore island. It’s characterized by jagged lava rock formations, steaming fumaroles and mudbaths. The island’s unique agricultural traditions, featuring dwarf grapevines and olive trees laid out on terraces between dry stone walls, earned it Unesco World Heritage status in 2014. There are no true beaches, but Pantelleria’s gorgeous, secluded coves are perfect for snorkeling, diving and boat excursions.

The park protects over 80% of the island, including the unique dammusi – lava rock houses with thick, whitewashed walls and shallow cupolas. Exotic and remote, Pantelleria has long been an escape for top celebrities. It can be reached by ferry and plane.

Parco dell’Etna

Best for volcanic drama.

Dominating the landscape of eastern Sicily, Mt Etna is a massive brooding presence. At 3357m (11,013ft) it is Italy’s highest mountain south of the Alps and the largest active volcano in Europe. It’s in an almost constant state of activity and eruptions occur frequently, most spectacularly from the four summit craters, but more often, and more dangerously, from the fissures and old craters on the mountain’s flanks.

The volcano and its slopes comprise the Parco dell’Etna. Encompassing 580 sq km (224 sq mi) and some 21 towns, the park’s varied landscape ranges from the severe, snowcapped mountain top to lunar deserts of barren black lava, beech woods and lush vineyards.

Good bases for exploring Mt Etna include the gritty, medieval port city of Catania and the center of Sicily’s posh summertime society, Taormina .

Parco Regionale dei Nebrodi

Best for solitude.

Encompassing the Nebrodi Mountains of northeastern Sicily, the Parco Regionale dei Nebrodi constitutes the single largest forested area in Sicily. It’s dotted with remote and traditional villages that host few visitors.

This lovely, off-the-beaten-track park encompasses an undulating landscape of beech, oak, elm, ash, cork, maple and yew trees that shelter the remnants of Sicily’s wildlife: porcupines, San Fratello horses and wildcats, as well as a healthy population of birds including golden eagles, herons and peregrine falcons. The high pastures are home to farms growing mushrooms and hazelnuts.

With your own vehicle, you can explore the timeless villages and access trailheads that plunge into the forest. Located on the park’s western border, Mistretta is a charming hilltop time capsule where the streets have hardly changed in 300 years.

Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro

Best for nature lovers.

The tranquil Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro is the star attraction on the Golfo di Castellammare, drawing nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts. It’s a hiker’s paradise and a haven for wildlife, including some 40 bird species. Wild carob and bright-yellow euphorbia dust the hillsides, along with 700 other species of Mediterranean plants, while hidden coves provide tranquil swimming and snorkeling spots.

From the main coastal path, well-signposted gravel tracks cut through aromatic scrub and broom, almond trees and meadows to picturesque coves with pretty beaches. Only accessible by boat or on foot, top choices include Cala Capreria, with bright turquoise water and ample rocks to laze on, near the park’s southern Scopello entrance; and family-friendly Cala della Disa. Snorkelers favor Cala Marinella for its piercing emerald-green waters, accessed from rocks (there is no beach as such).

The park can be easily reached in under an hour from Palermo .

Riserva Naturale Saline di Trapani e Paceco

Best for bird-watching.

Administered by the World Wildlife Fund, this vital bird sanctuary protects 10 sq km of saline (salt pans), divided into two zones, extending from Trapani’s southern outskirts to the hamlet of Saline Grande.

With a couple of weeks’ advance notice, WWF guides can sometimes offer free two-hour tours of the reserve, focusing on migratory waterfowl in spring and fall. In summer, they’ll take you to see the salt harvest.

Besides this reserve near Trapani , the salt pans are also protected by the Riserva Naturale di Stagnone to the south near Marsala. The latter includes San Pantaleo island, home to the noted Phoenician archaeological site of Mozia .

Parco Minerario Floristella Grottacalda

Best for history.

The historic remains of sulfur mining that was active in Central Sicily until the mid-20th century are now hidden amidst this pleasantly verdant and forested park . A poignant reminder of the industry’s harsh realities is the black-and-white photography in the park’s compelling museum, showing child miners forced to work in very dangerous conditions. It’s a stark reminder of how poverty has shaped Sicily’s history.

The park is about 15km (9.3 mi) north of Piazza Armerina, an unmissable medieval labyrinth and a good base for the region.

Riserva Naturale Torre Salsa

Best for walking.

With your own wheels, you’ll find some stunning beaches and beauty spots west of Agrigento. This includes Riserva Naturale Torre Salsa , a beautiful 7.6 sq km (2.9 sq miles) nature park administered by the World Wildlife Fund.

The site offers plenty of scope for walkers, with well-marked trails and sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and coast. The long, deserted Torre Salsa beach is especially beautiful and the rough access road keeps the people count low. (Nearby Siculiana Marina has its own great sandy beach.) The beach is reached from the reserve’s northern entrance, which in turn is under 45 minutes from Agrigento . The city makes a fine base for exploring the rest of the region as well, including the world-renowned Valley of Temples .

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25 Best Things to Do in Sicily, Italy

Home | Travel | Europe | Italy | Sicily | 25 Best Things to Do in Sicily, Italy

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If you want to know what  things to do in Sicily , Italy, you’re in for a treat. There are so many beautiful  places to visit in Sicily  from dreamy beaches to active volcanoes and historic cities. And of course, its food is out of this world!

Sicily has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation. It’s also a special place for us, as the first trip we took together was to this lovely island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. We did a 10-day Sicily road trip and, while I may be biased, there’s no denying Sicily’s charm. There are plenty of  tourist attractions in Sicily  worth visiting, and we’re planning to return in the future so we can see even more.

Before I share my tips and recommendations, I want to mention that the best way to get around the island is by renting a car. This way, you’ll have more flexibility to see the different sites at your own pace. However, I should warn you that Sicilians aren’t known for their pristine driving skills. So, be sure to check out our  rental car hacks , and don’t skip the insurance.

Find Cheap Rental Cars in Sicily

With that said, let’s dive into the 25 best things to do in Sicily . Get ready to discover the most gorgeous places on this island!

1. Visit Palermo, the best thing to do in Sicily

Palermo  is one of the  best places to visit in Sicily , especially for its history. As with many capital cities, Palermo doesn’t have the best reputation in terms of cleanliness and security, but it’s still one of the most popular sites on the island.

The port city sees hundreds of cruise ships each year, although it’s quite easy to  find cheap flights to Palermo too. For this reason, lots of visitors start their Sicily itineraries here.

Among the most popular  places to visit in Palermo , the  Palace of the Normans  is a top choice. Also known as the Royal Palace, this building is home to the Sicilian Parliament. You’ll also find the  Palatine Chapel  inside, a must-see in Sicily.

Visiting the beautiful  Cathedral of Palermo  and the  Teatro Massimo , the largest opera house in Italy, is another great  thing to do in Sicily ‘s capital city. Afterward, head to the  Vucciria market  for some delicious food. If you don’t mind creepy stuff, check out the Catacombs of the Capuchins and make friends with the corpses.

This free tour is perfect if you’re not sure what to do in Sicily since it takes you to the coolest attractions in the city center. Also, if you have a couple of free days, I suggest visiting Mondello Beach  and the  Cathedral of Monreale , a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site.

You can find more tips about Sicily’s capital in our 25 top things to do in Palermo  guide.

2. Taormina, one of the best places to visit in Sicily

Taormina  is a beautiful medieval city, making it a great historical  attraction in Sicily . There are lots of ancient ruins to explore here, and different areas reflect the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine empires. The European aristocracy admired these old remains so much that Taormina became a luxury destination in the 19th century. To this day, you can find many 5-star hotels along these classic streets.

The  Taormina Theater  is a  beautiful place in Sicily . This Greek Theater is, like the rest of Taormina, over a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Etna.

Another interesting thing to do in Sicily is to take the cable car to  Isola Bella  at the foot of Taormina. I wouldn’t go to Taormina for the beaches, but during the funicular ride, you’ll get spectacular views of the island’s more luxurious tourist attractions.

What makes Taormina a great  place to visit in Sicily  is the cultural heritage. There are many  things to do in Taormina   along  Corso Umberto Street , such as the  Duomo di Taormina , a 13th-century cathedral dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Bari. I also suggest stopping by the  Piazza IX Aprile , the main square with nice views. But where you’ll get the best views in Taormina is in  Madonna della Rocca Sanctuary , so be sure to add it to your list.

3. Climb Mount Etna, the best hike in Sicily

Mount Etna  is the highest active volcano in Europe at 10,990 feet. If you like hiking, a trek up this volcano is one of the  coolest things to do in Sicily .

Unfortunately, during our trip in 2016, the volcano was quite active and dangerous, so we couldn’t get as close to it as we would’ve liked. As soon as we’re back on the island, we’re going to visit this famous  Sicilian landmark  again!

As a top  place of interest in Sicily , Mount Etna is very popular. The most-visited area around the volcano is the  Silvestri Craters  region, which is located below the top of Mount Etna. You can visit this area on your own, but you need  a certified tour guide  to take you to the top.

Most tours start from the Sapienza Refuge just next to the Silvestri Craters. Then, you will take a cable car and 4×4 Jeep to the hiking trail, about 9,500 feet up. From there, it’s about a 2-hour walk and, if you complete it, you’ll be rewarded with the most stunning views of the island.

4. Catania, something you can’t miss in Sicily, Italy

With so much to see and do here,  Catania  is one of the  main attractions in Sicily  you don’t want to miss. Besides, the city has an international airport, so many travelers end up starting their journey here.

Catania’s proximity to Mount Etna has exposed it to several severe eruptions and earthquakes throughout history. Even so, it’s one of the most scenic  places to visit in Sicily , so I recommend checking it out.

Most of Catania’s tourist attractions are in the historic city center, and it’s possible to see them all in one day. If you’re short on time, this  guided walking tour  will ensure you see all the main sites.

Something you can’t miss in Catania is the  Cathedral of Santa Ágata , which many consider the crown jewel of Italian Baroque architecture. I also recommend visiting the  Ursino Castle , where you’ll find the  Communal Museum . This museum is a  must-do in Sicily  if you love art and history. The collection includes over 8,000 archaeological pieces such as sculptures, columns, coins, paintings, sarcophagi, and more.

Another gorgeous site in Catania is the iconic  Elephant Fountain  and  Caltagirone , where you can climb the  Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte . This 142-step ceramic staircase was built in 1608, and each step features a unique composition.

Finally, visit La Pescheria, an old fish market where locals sell fresh fish and some ready-to-eat treats.

5. Syracuse, something you must see in Sicily

Syracuse  is another essential  place to visit in Sicily . Not only is it beautiful, but the streets are like a time capsule of Greek history. Syracuse is an important part of the island’s past, so I recommend adding it to your itinerary.

As a prime  Sicily tourist attraction , Syracuse offers plenty of cool sites and excursions. One of the best places to visit is the island of  Ortygia , where you can see ancient Greek ruins. The island is less than a mile long, but parking is a pain, so I recommend walking across the pedestrian bridge, the Ponte Santa Lucia.

In Ortygia, you can visit the  Cathedral of Syracuse , which sits on an old Greek temple. The  Arethusa Fountain  is another popular attraction, as are the ruins of the  Temple of Apollo , the oldest temple in Sicily.

You can also explore the outskirts of Syracuse, where you’ll find  Neapolis Archaeological Park . The area is so rich in ancient ruins that there’s a  guided walking tour  through the park. I recommend taking this tour to learn more about the old Greek amphitheaters and other archaeological relics from the Roman Empire and the Hellenistic period.

For more information on  what to do in Sicily  on this part of the island, read our  things to do in Syracuse guide.

6. Cefalù, the most beautiful lookout in Sicily, Italy

If you’re wondering  where to go in Sicily  for the best views, look no further than  Cefalù . I would even say that this area is one of the most beautiful places in all of Italy.

Cefalù is nestled on the Sicilian coast between the Tyrrhenian Sea and La Rocca, a mountainous 885-foot rock from which you’ll get fantastic views. The village is less than 45 miles from Palermo, so it’s a popular tourist destination. The downside to this is that the prices in Cefalù are noticeably higher than anywhere on the island.

That said, visiting this area is a  cool thing to do in Sicily , and you’ll find plenty of interesting sights. For example, the  Cathedral of Cefalù  is one of the most important Norman monuments in Sicily. Built in 1131, the basilica is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes an amazing mosaic of Christ Pantokrator.

Cefalù’s sparkling beaches make it a  must-visit in Sicily . However, if you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend the Giudecca Reef or this  boat ride  along the coast.

Other   places to visit in Cefalù  include the  Madralisca Museum , where you can see the work of Italian painter Antonello da Messina; and the  Fiume Cefalino  medieval lavatory, which dates to the Middle Ages.

7. Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples, a unique activity to do in Sicily

Agrigento  is a famous place to visit in Sicily, thanks to its impressive ruins. This is your chance to see one of the best archaeological sites on the island, including the ancient city of  Agrigento  and the  Valley of the Temples .

The city sits on a hill on the southern Sicilian coast. During the Greek and Roman times, the city was in its prime. However, it fell into disarray with the arrival of the Byzantines and Christians in Sicily.

Most people would agree that seeing the Valley of the Temples is one of the  best things to do in Sicily . Besides being an important historical landmark and  UNESCO  World Heritage Site, the ruins are a remarkable archaeological feat.

Where else can you feast your eyes on ancient temples dedicated to Hera, Hercules, Hephaestus, Concordia, Asclepius, Castor, Pollux, and Zeus? Plus, all but the Temple of Hephaestus are in good condition, so it’s like being transported to another world.

Given the historical significance of these temples and how well they’ve been preserved, I consider them a top visit to do in Sicily. If you don’t have much time, this  electric scooter tour  is just 2 hours and takes you around most of the ruins. That said, if you can’t get enough ancient Greek and Roman relics, check out the  Agrigento Regional Archaeological Museum .

8. Scala dei Turchi, one of the best beaches in Sicily

While you’re in Agrigento, you’ll be close to another  Sicily tourist attraction , the  Scala dei Turchi . Also known as the Stair of the Turks, this rocky cliff in southern Italy overlooks the Realmonte coast. The name is a reference to its former use as a port of call for Saracen and Arab pirates.

Not only does Scala dei Turchi have a colorful past, but it’s also a stunning geological wonder. The cliff’s distinct shape is the result of tens of thousands of years of impact from wind and water. Plus, the turquoise waters on Realmonte provide an interesting contrast to the white limestone of the rock.

On either side of the cliff, you will find a white, sandy beach. Many locals admit that the beaches at Scala dei Turchi are among the best beaches in Sicily . It’s no surprise that these marvelous cliffs have been featured in famous books and movies and that they’ve joined the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Scala dei Turchi is among the top  things to see in Sicily . Just be sure to protect yourself from the sun, as there isn’t any shade here.

9. Visit Stromboli and the Aeolian Islands, an extraordinary thing to do in Sicily

No, I’m not talking about the delicious Italian dish!  Stromboli  is an Aeolian island famous for an impressive  Sicilian landmark :  Mount Stromboli . This stratovolcano is one of three active volcanoes in Italy, with a summit of over 3,000 feet.

If you want to climb Mount Stromboli, I recommend  this excursion , which takes you to the  Sciara del Fuoco , a 13,000-year-old horseshoe-shaped crater where you can see flowing lava. The tour leaves a couple of hours before sunset, so you get stunning views of the fiery Mediterranean landscape.

In the town of Stromboli, you’ll feel a sense of calm since the streets are free of cars. That said, you might see a  Piaggio Ape , a strange three-wheeled Vespa. If you have time, check out the black sand beach of  Grotta di Eolo , which has a magnificent cave.

Without a doubt, the  Aeolian Islands  are a  top thing to see in Sicily .  Lipari  is the largest of the islands and is known for the  Lipari Castle  and some beautiful coastal coves.  Panarea  is smaller but boasts underwater eruptions you won’t want to miss.

Vulcano  has several popular fumaroles, steam jets, and therapeutic sulfur mud.  Salina  has one of the highest peaks on the archipelago, as well as the fern forest of  Fossa delle Felci.

Finally,  Alicudi and Filicudi  to the west are full of dormant volcanic craters. So, if you aren’t sure  what to visit in Sicily, Italy , start with the Aeolian Islands.

10. See the Segesta Temple, the best thing to do in Sicily, Italy

If you’re curious about  where to go in Sicily ‘s northern region, I highly recommend  Segesta . This beautiful rural area is a major settlement of the indigenous Elymians in Sicily. It is also home to the  Segesta Temple , an ancient symbol of Athenian architecture.

The temple is just 50 miles from the capital, and the surrounding rocky landscape makes it a picturesque journey. What’s interesting about the temple is that it’s unfinished and doesn’t even have a roof. Still, the 36 completed columns remain in good condition, and the temple has several Doric features, such as a molded doorway and a frieze with triglyphs and metopes, or carved patterns.

It’s not the most impressive temple in Sicily, but if you’re going to be in the capital for only a couple of days, it’s worth seeing. I suggest  this excursion  of Segesta, which includes a visit to Erice and the Trapani salt flats. It’s a great  activity to do in Sicily  if you don’t have much time.

Visiting the  Greek Theater  in Segesta is another cool  thing to do in Sicily, Italy . Unlike other Greek theaters in the region, this one faces the north, so you get lovely views of the foothills and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a pleasant sight that you should take advantage of while you’re in the area.

11. Trapani, an incredible place to visit in Sicily

A visit to  Trapani  is another  fun thing to do in Sicily . This popular city is one of the best places to enjoy a stroll through town. Trapani is a charming, quiet city with a historic district free of vehicles.

Here, you’ll find gorgeous Baroque buildings such as the  Cathedral of San Lorenzo . I recommend walking along  Via Garibaldi  and  Via Vittorio Emanuele  to experience the true essence of this town. Trapani is known as ‘the city of 100 churches,’ many of which you’ll see on the two streets I mentioned.

If you ask any Italian  what to see in Sicily , they’ll point you towards the Trapani salt flats. Visiting this area is a must-do, and if you can go at sunset, that’s even better. They create a crystalline landscape that you won’t find anywhere else.

Other unique sites in Trapani include the  Palazzo Senatorio , a palace for the Senate; and the  Dark Tower , which has one of the oldest astronomical clocks in Europe. If you come here in July, you can partake in the Straugusto Gastronomic Festival and taste delicious local and international dishes.

Also, Trapani’s strong seafaring tradition means that several ferries depart from the port each day. From here, you can reach some of the  best   attractions in Sicily , such as the Aegadian Islands.

12. Aegadian Islands, the best Sicilian islands you can visit

The  Aegadian Islands  are a group of small islands to the west of Trapani. Thanks to their amazing beaches, they’ve become a popular summer  tourist attraction in Sicily .

The archipelago consists of Favignana, Marettimo, Levanzo, and other smaller islets that mark the boundary between the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian Seas. Each island has something unique to offer, and exploring these lands is an exciting  thing to do in western Sicily .

I suggest starting with  Favignana’s  old town, a pedestrian-friendly coastal area. One of the best things to do in Sicily , is to explore the Lido Burrone, Cala Rossa, and Cala Azzurra coves, on Favignana. As the largest of the Aegadian Islands, Favignana boasts the most idyllic beaches in Sicily.

12. Aegadian Islands, one of the best Sicilian islands you can visit

Marettimo  is smaller, with a town of 300 inhabitants. This island offers a beautiful natural landscape and the  Castle of Punta Troia , a Saracen fortification that’s now in ruins. In addition to being a great snorkeling destination, Marettimo is home to several sea caves like Camello, Ficaredda, and Tuono.

Levanzo  is even smaller than Marettimo, but it’s the most beautiful of the islands. Surrounded by clear blue waters, Levanzo has gorgeous beaches and a 912-foot hill,  Pizzo Monaco , from which you can get stunning views. The island is also famous for the  Genovesa Cave , which has prehistoric cave paintings dating back about 10,000 years.

To get to the Aegadian islands I recommend booking this tour .

13. Temples of Selinunte, one of the can’t-miss attractions in Sicily

Selinunte  is in Trapani province, about an hour from some of  Sicily’s main attractions , yet many tourists overlook it.

Even so, this ancient Greek city is well worth visiting and has some impressive temples of its own. The temples have suffered quite a bit of deterioration, so it’s not entirely clear which deity each temple honors. Still, if you love history and ancient ruins, Selinunte is a top  place to go in Sicily .

To better distinguish the temples, historians have named each one after a letter.  Temple E , which is suspected to be Hera’s temple, is in the best condition.  Temple F  is the oldest and is believed to honor Athena or Dionysus.  Temple G  is the largest of all and was probably that of Zeus. Lastly,  Temples A and O  are known as the Twin Temples. They were the last to be built but are the most deteriorated. They may belong to Castor and Pollux, or Apollo, or maybe Poseidon.

The entire archaeological site is divided into five areas: the Eastern Temples, the Acropolis, the Ancient City, the Sanctuary of Malophoros, and the Necropolis. You could spend all day exploring this area, and with the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop, it’s one of the best things to see in Sicily .

14. Erice, an unforgettable place to go in Sicily, Italy

Erice  is another beautiful  place to visit in Sicily ‘s Trapani province. This medieval town sits atop Mount Erice, over 2,460 feet above sea level. From here, you can get incredible views of the Trapani salt flats and the Egadi Islands.

Besides this spectacular lookout, you can also find medieval monuments and rich ancient Greek history here. For example, the  Castello di Venere  is one of the top historical  points of interest in Sicily . This Norman fortress was built on top of an old Roman temple and dates to the 12th century.

Another can’t-miss attraction in Erice is a pair of castles:  Torretta Pepoli  and the  Castle of Venus . The former is a unique stone residence reflecting the Saracen period, while the latter was constructed on top of the ancient Temple of Venus. Both structures are located on a cliff, so you’ll get beautiful views of the sea.

A visit to Erice is  something to do in Sicily  if you’re already in Trapani. It won’t take long to see everything, but the sights are among the most impressive in the region.

15. The Baroque Tour to Ragusa, Noto, and Modica, the best thing to do in Sicily

If you don’t know  what to do in Sicily , one of my top recommendations for you is to visit the baroque cities of  Ragusa, Noto,  and  Modica , which share a rich cultural and artistic history.

Back in 1693, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake destroyed nearly every building in southeast Sicily. During the rebuilding phase, architects turned to the style of the day, creating what is known as Sicilian Baroque. As a result, these three cities display some of the most elaborate architecture in Sicily.

Noto  is known as the Jewel of the Sicilian Baroque or the Garden of Stone, thanks to its massive cathedrals and palaces. Modica  also has a few baroque churches, but is most known for the  Antica Dolceria Bonajuto , the oldest Sicilian chocolate factory.

Finally, Ragusa is divided into Ragusa Ibla, the one built over the ruins after the earthquake, and Ragusa Superiore, that was built over a close hill for a new start.

Noto, Modica, and Ragusa are  beautiful places to visit in Sicily . We were lucky enough to have a local friend guide us around, although  this tour  is a great alternative.

If you plan to visit the baroque cities of Sicily, check our Ragusa, Noto and Modica itinerary.

16. The Alcantara Gorge, one of the best places to go in Sicily, Italy

Seeing the  Alcantara Gorge , is one of the best  things to do in Sicily . Located just 30 minutes from Taormina’s city center, the gorges have a mystical air about them.

Geologists believe that this natural phenomenon occurred after a Mount Etna eruption thousands of years ago. Subsequently, erosion along the Alcantara River created a basaltic canyon over 1,300 feet long and 16 feet wide.

If there is a natural wonder you should  visit in Sicily , it’s these jagged gorges. The black rock walls and craggy, prismatic texture is something you have to see to believe. Plus, when the light hits the canyon just right, the gorges look like a scene out of a fairytale. This setting is a photographer’s paradise, too!

Not only that, but you can access the canyon and wade in the river. Cooling down in the Alcantara Gorge is one of the most unique activities to do in Sicily  on a hot summer day. It’s certainly something you’ll want to brag to your friends about! The  Botanic and Geological Park of the Alcantara Gorges  is open year-round and has several walking paths that lead to the canyon.

17. Marsala, one of the most spectacular places to go in Sicily

Wine tasting  is one of the best things to do in Sicily but there is no better place than Marsala to do so . This western Sicilian city is famous for its great wine, so what are you waiting for?

You’ll find local wineries scattered throughout Marsala, and tastings typically range from 20€-30€ ($24-$35). What makes Marsala wine special is that it’s usually mixed with brandy and makes a great dessert wine, although there are drier varieties, too.

If you’re a teetotaler or just not into wine, Marsala offers a beautiful historic center. Here, you can visit charming shops, lovely cathedrals like the  Church of the Addolarata , and the quaint little houses that are characteristic of the city.

Some other interesting  things to do in western Sicily  include visiting the  Lilibeo Regional Archaeological Museum of Marsala  and watching the sunset over the  Saline Della Laguna  salt flats.

18. Savoca, the best thing to visit around Sicily

If you’re a fan of  The Godfather  movie, then Savoca is one of the  best cities to visit in Sicily . The village of Savoca was the main setting for the film, although it has plenty of hidden gems you might not know about.

As I mentioned in our  guide to Savoca , the town is an intriguing maze of narrow streets, and it’s best to discover its charm on your own. That said, here I’ll tell you  what to see in Sicily ‘s Savoca region if you’re short on time.

First, you must visit the  Vitelli Bar  at  Piazza Fossia , which is famous for  The Godfather  saga. Today, the bar is also a mini-museum, full of film memorabilia that you can check out while you enjoy a beverage or snack.

Not far from the bar is the  Church of San Nicolo , which was also featured in  The Godfather  movies. The Church of Santa Maria in Cielo Assunta  is also worth visiting.

The cathedral is in Savoca’s historic  Pentefur  section and overlooks the entire city. The  Pentefur Castle  is nearby, although it has remained empty since it being riddled by earthquakes in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Another Savoca  activity to do in Sicily, Italy , is visiting the  Historical Ethno-Anthropological Museum .

19. Zíngaro Nature Reserve, another hike to do in Sicily

Visiting the  Zíngaro Nature Reserve  is one of the top  things to do in northern Sicily . As the first place to be declared a nature reserve in Sicily, Zíngaro is a lovely area of lush vegetation, wild animals, and archaeological relics.

Nestled between Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo, Zíngaro Nature Reserve is a refuge of greenery and fresh mountain air. This area has everything a nature lover could want since there is also a beach along the  Gulf of Castellammare .

Spending a few hours here is also a fun  thing to do in Sicily with kids . You’ll all be able to spend time together in the great outdoors and maybe learn a bit about the area’s archaeological past.

There are several trails you can take, and while they’re all enjoyable, I recommend the 4.3-mile path along the coastal coves. Just be mindful of the heat, as it can get quite hot along this unshaded path. I think it’s worth it though, as you’ll discover several  Sicily sights  along your route. Among these are the seven stunning beaches of Zíngaro:  Cala Capreria, Cala Varo, Cala Disa, Cala Berretta, Cala Marinella, Cala dell’Uzzo , and  Cala Tonnarella .

20. Enna, the best place to see the sunset in Sicily

There is a mythical atmosphere in  Enna and visiting this city is a  romantic thing to do in Sicily . It’s the highest city in Sicily, at 3,280 feet above sea level. If you visit on a clear day, you’ll get incredible views of the island and Mount Etna.

Even if the weather isn’t great during your visit, you won’t have any trouble figuring out  what to do in Enna, Sicily . I suggest visiting  Lombardy Castle , an impressive military fortress built in the 1st century and restructured by several kings throughout history. The archaeological sites of  Murgantia  and  Lake Pergusa  are also noteworthy, with the latter being the location of the Persephone myth.

Perhaps the  best thing to do in Sicily ‘s highest city is to see the  Cathedral of Enna  on Via Roma. While the church was built in the 14th century, a fire ravaged it in 1446. The original apse still stands, and even though the rest has been restored, the cathedral is a significant architectural monument in Sicily.

If you have time, stop by the Alessi Museum, where you can see part of the Cathedral’s treasure, including jewels, “Crown of the Virgin,” Byzantine iconography, ornaments, and ancient coins.

21. Visit Aci Trezza and Aci Castello, the best thing to do in Sicily for couples

The most enjoyable  thing to do in Sicily, Italy , is to visit  Aci Trezza  and  Aci Castello . These two coastal towns are a relaxing paradise after a sightseeing excursion around Sicily and they are not far from Catania.

First, the   best thing to do in Aci Trezza  is to take a seaside stroll to see the  Faraglioni . Also known as The Island of the Cyclops, these three sea stacks jut out of the water and are only accessible via boat. They are said to be the giant stones the cyclops Polyphemus threw at Odysseus in  The Odyssey .

Aci Castello is another  must-see in Sicily  that’s equally as impressive. Your first stop should be the  Norman Castle , which was completed in 1081. Besides these ancient ruins, the highlight of Aci Castello is its black sand beach. The color comes from the tiny volcanic stones along the shoreline, which contrast spectacularly against the crystalline waters.

While I don’t think you’ll ever run out of  things to do in Sicily , I recommend making time for Aci Trezza and Aci Castello. They’re conveniently close to each other, and we managed to visit both before boarding the plane home from Catania.

22. Explore Villa Romana del Casale, one of the best things to do in Sicily, Italy

The  Villa Romana del Casale  is one of the most  famous places to visit in Sicily . Located in Piazza Armerina near Enna, this  UNESCO  World Heritage Site has the largest collection of Roman mosaics on earth.

The palace dates to the 4th century and belonged to a powerful Roman family. The ancient mosaics cover nearly 38,000ft², not only on the walls, but also on the floors and ceilings. A series of landslides preserved the work for centuries, so it’s one  main attraction in Sicily  that’s in great condition.

The villa’s entrance is flanked by three arches and leads to a courtyard and central fountain. The southern rooms include the  Diaeta of Orpheus , a small room covered with depictions of Orpheus, as well as a peristyle garden.

The main basilica features marble floors and columns made of pink Egyptian granite. There is also a great hall with a mosaic of Hercules going through the 12 labors.

Afterwards, pay a visit to the center of Piazza Armerina, where you’ll get striking views from 2,365 feet above sea level. Even on its own, this town is a gorgeous example of Baroque architecture. However, if you’re short on time and now sure  what to see in Sicily ‘s Enna province, I recommend the villa.

23. Necropolis of Pantalica, another interesting attraction in Sicily, Italy

The  Necropolis of Pantalica  is another popular  tourist attraction in Sicily  thanks to its great historical significance. Located in Syracuse in the southeastern part of the island, the Necropolis has about 4,000 tombs from the 13th to the 7th centuries BC. The area covers nearly 510 acres and is a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site.

Obviously, this is one of the most historical  points of interest in Sicily , but it’s also a beautiful natural place. The tombs are scattered across a limestone hill surrounded by the Calcinara and Ánapo rivers. While you’re exploring the area, you may come across all kinds of unique flora and fauna.

It’s practically impossible to see all the sites at the Necropolis in a single day, but several trails run through it, and they pass by the main highlights. The most impressive tombs are those of the  Necropolis of Filiporto , which has about 1,000 graves that were excavated around the 4th century BC. They’re the most recently discovered tombs, so they’re the best preserved.

You should also check out the  North Necropolis , the largest area which also has viewing platforms overlooking the Calcinara River. The  Anaktoron  is another intriguing section of prehistoric houses. Finally, the Grotta Pipistrelli is a natural bat cave that seems quite fitting for a Necropolis.

Many would say that this excursion is a creepy  thing to do in Sicily , but it’s also super unique.

24. Cava Grande de Cassibile Nature Reserve, the calmest place to go in Sicily

The  Cava Grande del Cassibile Nature Reserve  is one of the most incredible  things to do in Sicily, Italy . This gorgeous nature reserve is closer to Ávola, about 30 minutes south of Syracuse and just 15 minutes from Noto.

It encompasses over 6,670 acres within the  Iblei Mountains . It’s a protected park, so you can enjoy lush vegetation, impressive geological formations, and a wide variety of wildlife. Spend some time walking through canyons and to waterfalls and serene pools. This is where you’ll find some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Sicily .

You can also get a good hike in while you’re here. If you visit during the summer, you can cool down in the refreshing crystal-clear waters after hiking around. Along the edges of the canyon, keep an eye out for the Paleolithic caves. Some of them date to the 10th century BC.

Even though this is a spectacular place to go, many visitors overlook it. We wouldn’t have known about it if it weren’t for our Sicilian friend, who insisted we check it out. He was right, so we’re including it in our list of top things to do in Sicily .

25. Walk around Morgantina, the best activity to do in Sicily

The final  must-see in Sicily  that I recommend is  Morgantina , also known as Murgantia or Morgantium. It is an ancient Greek city located to the east of the island that often goes unnoticed despite its historical value.

Back in those days, the city served as a connection point between the north coast, the south, and the east. Moreover, archaeological ruins at Morgantina date as far back as the 4th century BC, such as a Greek theater dedicated to Dionysus. The theater had a 2,000-person capacity, not bad for ancient times!

Today, Morgantina is one of the  best cities to visit in Sicily , especially if you love ancient history. As you walk around the town, you’ll see the Agora sanctuary, the public square, Roman gymnasium, and the  ekklesiasteron , an assembly meeting place. The  bouleuterion  Senate house is a good example of Hellenic craftsmanship.

As you observe the commercial area, you’ll notice the remnants of different stores. Also, some of the homes still have recognizable mosaics and other ornamental elements. Morgantina is, without a doubt, a peculiar place, and visiting this city is an excellent  thing to do in east Sicily .

Now you know the 25  places to visit in Sicily  that I recommend. I’m including a map of  what to see in Sicily  to help you find all the cities, monuments, and points of interest. This way, you can plan your Sicily activities and create the perfect itinerary.

There are so many awesome things to do in Sicily , so no matter where you go, you’ll find something amazing. If you have any questions about where to go in Sicily , leave me a comment, and I’ll get back to you.

I wish you safe and happy travels!

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These beautiful mountain towns are sicily’s best-kept secret.

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The medieval town of Gangi in the Madonie Mountains has incredible views of Mount Etna.

Amendment : Given the global health crisis, we may not be able to travel for the next several months but that doesn’t mean we can’t daydream about our future trips. This piece is in no way advising you to visit Sicily right now but rather is meant to serve as inspiration when planning your next trip to Italy when travel restrictions have been lifted. Italy has been one of the hardest hit countries by the coronavirus and small businesses in rural towns will need tourism more than ever to get back on their feet when it becomes safe to visit them.

Halfway between the metropolitan poles of Palermo and Catania lies a forgotten territory that captures all the beauty, tradition and soul of Sicily’s “entroterra”, or vast rocky interior. The Parco delle Madonie, a mountainous natural reserve that spans 35,000 hectares, is brimming with wildlife and home to some of Sicily's highest hilltop towns that sit suspended between land and sky. These medieval borghi are set high up above verdant valleys and provide nearly mystical views of Mount Etna, which towers above the clouds at the edge of the horizon.

Many of these small towns are part of the I Borghi Più Belli d’Italia , The Most Beautiful Villages In Italy, a network aimed to safeguard culture and tradition while promoting tourism to areas that lay off-the-beaten-path. Here are a few of the most beautiful villages you shouldn’t miss.

The small town of Gangi was among the first to sell its abandoned homes for the symbolic price of €1 ... [+] to spur an economic revival in the region.

Perched high above a valley with sweeping views of Mount Etna in the distance, Gangi is a picturesque hilltop town that looks towards the future. Voted the most beautiful village in Italy in 2014, it was among the first to sell its abandoned homes for the symbolic price of €1 in an effort to spur a social, cultural and economic revival in the town. The scheme has generated interest from around the world and is being replicated in small villages across Italy to bring life back to areas that face depopulation and risk losing their traditions.

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Gangi’s medieval centro storico is home to under 2,000 people and here, time seems to stand still. Its tiny stone alleyways are dotted with cheerful flowerpots, delis and butchers – and noteworthy art lies hidden within its many churches. Don’t miss admiring the town’s masterpiece, an arresting 17 th century painting of the “Giudizio Universale” by local painter Giuseppe Salerno tucked within the Church of San Cataldo, and more contemporary works by Sicilian painter Gianbecchina inside Gangi’s small archeological museum.

For the best of Sicilian hospitality, look no further than Villa Raino , a 19 th country home owned by the delightful Conte family and bursting with heart. Aldo and his wife Nina are gracious hosts who serve excellent home cooked meals, like baked eggplant rolls stuffed with spaghetti and ravioli with ricotta and pumpkin, and will help you arrange the best experiences in the area.

Petralia Soprana

One of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Petralia Soprana is home to dozens of churches ... [+] including the picturesque Santa Maria di Loreto.

Ranked the most beautiful village in Italy in 2018, Petralia Soprana is home to an incredible concentration of churches and a must-see for art lovers visiting the Madonie Mountains. On one end of town lies the 18 th century Santa Maria di Loreto church, a replica of the Basilica della Santa Casa, a famous pilgrimage site in the town of Loreto in Le Marche, while the town’s central Piazza Duomo serves as the main gathering point for local celebrations and events. The square is marked by an elegant portico and is the site of the annual Il Ballo della Cordella , the Sicilian version of a maypole dance, each summer.

The artistic soul of Petralia Soprana extends beyond its architecture and paintings to creative works of art made with unexpected materials. Near the town lies a 6 million-year-old salt mine – one of the largest in Europe – which houses the Contemporary Art Museum SottoSale within it. Here, contemporary sculptures are carved out of salt 400 meters below the ground. The Madonie Mountains also boast important culinary traditions and local cheesemaker Pardor produces the best in the region. In addition to producing mouthwatering provola, scamorza and ricotta cheeses, they collaborate with cheese artists who make edible works of art by adeptly shaping fresh cheese into animals including deer, doves and horses.

Geraci Siculo

Walk around the ruins of Geraci Siculo's ancient castle to enjoy 360° views of the countryside

Best-known for being the font of Sicily’s purest drinking water, Geraci Siculo is equally impressive for its traditional folklore and ancient archeological sites. Originally a Greek settlement, Geraci’s name probably derives from the Greek “Jerax” meaning vulture, as these birds inhabited the town. Over time it was conquered by the Romans, Saracens, Arabs and Normans until the noble Ventimiglia family arrived in the 13 th century and built a castle in the town. You can walk around the ruins today to enjoy 360° views of the countryside. For a taste of local cuisine, stop by Yerax – Il Bel Mangiare , a contemporary trattoria that reinterprets Sicily’s rustic flavors, and enjoy a refreshing sip of the town’s famous water flowing out from the ornate fountain down by the Bar Al Bevaio.

Cefalù is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Arab-Norman architecture together with Palermo and ... [+] Monreale.

The popular beach resort of Cefalù is located at the foothills of the Parco delle Madonie Mountains and is one of the most alluring cities in Sicily. One of the founding towns of the Borghi Più Belli d’Italia, Cefalù is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Arab-Norman architecture, together with Palermo and Monreale. In the center of town, the Norman-style cathedral towers over the main piazza of Cefalù and houses remarkable Byzantine mosaics within it.

The town’s main draw is its long sandy beach and crystalline water: it was the arrival of Club Med in the 1960s that first put Cefalù on the map and it has remained a favorite summer destination for international travelers over the decades. It’s worth hiking up to the Rocca di Cefalù for a panoramic view of the town and taking a stroll along the lungomare (waterfront) where you can admire the whitewashed houses set above the lapping sea. For aperitivo, head over to the Le Petit Tonneau , a charming little wine bar built into the side of the mountain. The enoteca has a small balcony out back with three little tables that look out onto the water and is one of the most beautiful places to enjoy the sunset in all of Sicily.

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Coastal and Mountain Hikes, Greek and Roman Ruins

Hiking in sicily.

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Sicily is an inspiring island with a 3,000-year-old blend of Mediterranean cultures evident in epic Roman temples and in cathedrals with Norman-Arab mosaics. Even the beguiling cuisine is laced with Greek, Spanish, and Arab influences! We hike cliff trails above the sea, into a wild canyon filled with Neolithic tombs, on a secret path to a medieval citadel, and even on the slopes of fiery Mt. Etna. Incredible World Heritage Sites abound, including the marvelous Villa Romana del Casale and the stunning Greek and Roman ruins at Siracusa. Sicily’s cuisine (think catch-of-the-day fish and indulgent desserts) counts high among the delights, as do our expert Trip Leaders who call this captivating island home.

Arrive: Palermo, Italy

Depart: Catania, Italy

• Hike spectacular seaside trails, explore medieval Erice, discover seaside Cefalú
• Visit Siracusa's Ortigia Island, with its Greek, Roman, and Baroque heritage
• Hike in the Pantàlica Gorge, view the stunning mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale
• Explore Taormina, hike on snow-capped Mt. Etna
• Enjoy Sicily's fresh-caught seafood, tapestry of cuisines, and indulgent desserts

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

At time of reservation: $600 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in small inns and hotels
• All meals included except 1 lunch and 4 dinners as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• A glass of wine or beer with dinner
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Hotel Elimo

Erice, Italy

Days 1-2 (2 nights)

La Plumeria Hotel

Cefalú, Italy

Days 3-4 (2 nights)

Agriturismo Il Drago

Aidone, Italy

Days 5-6 (2 nights)

Grand Hotel Ortigia

Siracusa, Italy

Days 7-8 (2 nights)

Alternate Accomodation: Henry’s House Hotel

Ashbee Hotel

Taormina, Italy

Days 9-10 (2 nights)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Teresa Baldi

William Chicarelli

Lisa Halderman

Sebastiano Leone

Gabriele Mastrilli

Vicky Sotriffer

Francesco Corbino

Mariangela Lovicu

What the Trip is Like

• 800-1,000 feet gain/loss
• Day 9 – 7 miles, 5 hours, 1,300 feet gain, and 4,500 feet loss

Client Testimonials

"It was magical—the beauty of Sicily and hiking through the countryside."

Oakdale, NY

"Terrific itinerary. Nice mix of history, sights, and hiking. Great towns, woonderful restaurants, and great hotels, each getting better and better as the trip went on. Wonderful!"

Highland Park, IL

"This was a wonderful trip. The places visited were terrific, and the leaders, in particular, made everything worthwhile by their knowledge of the place, their flexibility, and their great sense of humor."

Santa Clara, CA

"This was a fantastic trip for both of us. We loved the blend of experiences that could only be possible on a WT trip, such as sit-down meals, picnics, a walk followed by a superb lunch at a winery, tour and dinner with a baron in Siracuse, wading in the sea, touring ancient sites. Each trip we have been on with Wilderness Travel has exceeded our expectations. This trip stands out even more so."

Bob and Shirley B.

"We really enjoyed Sicily—the scenery, food, hikes, and guides were top notch."

Kalispell, MT

"The guides were constantly aware of and offered extra cultural and nature opportunities. The hotels were charming and representative of the towns we visited. Food was excellent, represented the local specialities, and menus varied with lots of opportunities for individual choices and close attention paid to client special needs. The picnics were fantastic!"

Lafayette, CA

"I am recommending this trip to friends for next October—I'll tell them to reserve early because I am sure word of mouth will result in an early sell-out. I can't think of a thing that would improve this trip. I will never forget climbing (and descending) Mt. Etna!"

San Francisco, CA

"An excellent trip. We were not expecting such wonderful food and hospitality—a wonderful bonus!"

Santa Rosa, CA

"The trip was an amazing introduction to the island and its culture, introducing us to a range of environments, cultural events, archaeological sites and historically significant areas throughout Sicily. The food was consistently wonderful and we sampled many lovely Sicilian wines."

Seattle, WA

"This was one of the best organized trips we’ve done. The leaders were very good and the group meshed well. We felt like we saw a tremendous amount of Sicily in our visit and came away with a solid understanding of the island and the multiple cultures."

Oakland, CA

"Everything was well orchestrated, controlled, and managed, the hotels were very good to excellent, and the meals were extremely good."

New York, NY

"We had a wonderful time. I felt I had been able to see and experience the ‘real’ Sicily."

Manchester, MO

"Probably the best trip I've been on! Sicily was a wonderful surprise."

Atlanta, GA

"We really felt we saw Sicily and learned a lot about its very rich history. The local guides were excellent, the restaurants were wonderful, and Sebastiano and Francesco obviously cared deeply that we had a fun and memorable trip."

"Terrific throughout. Our guides were the absolute best. Bravissimi!"

Edy and Michael D.

Portland, OR

"I selected this trip to learn and experience the Sicilian culture and food. My expectations were exceeded! Excellent trip leaders and fellow travelers."

"I loved the trip, and the balance of city/cultural activities with outdoor/hiking activities was exactly what I expected."

Kingstone, ON

"All lodging, food, and drink were excellent and perfectly selected for each location. I feel like I personally sampled many aspects of the complex history and rich culture of Sicily."

"Best trip ever! I loved the small group size with two trip leaders—it allowed for great flexibility."

Larchmont, NY

"We enjoyed every minute!"

Brevard, NC

"A wonderful way to experience Sicily—everything from ancient Greek and Roman sites, medieval churches, and natural phenomena such as Mt. Etna to tasty fresh fish and pasta dishes accompanied by excellent Sicilian wines."

Albuquerque, NM

"This trip provided a wonderful sampler of Sicily and Sicilian life, past and present. Throughout our trip, the food was exceptional—the best in all of Italy!"

Sunnyvale, CA

"Well designed and well run. I especially loved the hikes, and the enthusiasm of the guides was very contagious."

Baltimore, MD

"Ones world expands through travel in many ways, but I think the best medium of that expansion is new friends. Group travel opens that door so that luck can take a hand. Like your trip leaders, the group of clients you attract is exceptional in our experience. We have made some of our best friends while traveling on WT trips. and we continue to travel with them often. Thank-you is in order."

Hillsborough, CA

"Fantastic trip. Good itinerary, wonderful guides, generous with extras such as espressos at every stop."

"The beauty, archaeological history, food, and wines of Sicily were so much more than I envisioned. We were blessed with glorious views, wildflowers, picnics, dinners, historical sites of wonder. The fellow participants were almost as wonderful as the stellar guides. I loved this tour!"

La Mesa, CA

"I had high hopes for Sicily, though unsure how it would compare to previous Italian trips. It exceeded all expectations by far. One of my most favorite trips."

Chicago, IL

"What a gorgeous country, what amazing wildflowers, what fresh and varied food and wine! National parks and museums, archaeological sites and historic sites, a Greek play in a Greek amphitheater, back roads and seaside boulevards, beach towns and Roman villas, luncheons on country estates, elegant picnics at the trail’s end, dinners in romantic settings...lovely trip! We had a great overview of Sicily with lots of opportunities to see into the past and the present, the natural world and the cultural treasures, the farms and the cities. Our leaders gave us insights and introductions to people with whom we would never otherwise have made contact. They spoiled us with good food and lovely hotels, and guarded our safety and experiences to make sure we never had to worry about ANYTHING on the trip."

Great Falls, VA

"This was an incredible introduction to Sicily. We covered so much of the island, the hikes were all so different, it was a perfect blend of hiking and cultural activities."

Margaret K.

"This was an amazing trip. From diamond-in-the-rough Palermo to the jewel that is Taormina and the great variety of architecture, culture, and landscape in between, Sicily is full of surprises. The three all-Sicilian guides added enormously to the experience and deepened our understanding of this complicated culture."

"This trip was terrific, a great mix of outdoors and archaeology. The hotels were charming, the food delicious, and the sites amazing. Hiking through Sicily (and Mt. Etna!) was great!"

Marlaine L.

Princeton, NJ

"Fantastic trip! Sebastiano, Francesco, and Tania did a great job. We loved the local foods, the wines, and the people, and felt we really got to experience Sicily. And we had a very nice group of fellow travelers!"

"This is a really fun trip with lots of good food and wine as well as some very nice hiking."

La Jolla, CA

"Sicily is quite an amazing destination, and we were very happy to experience it through this fine itinerary with these excellent guides."

Minneapolis, MN

"I would recommend this trip to anyone who wants to walk and experience Sicily in an up close and personal way. The three trip leaders made this happen."

"The chemistry between our three guides was good, each complementing the other, making the trip fun and lighthearted. They made us feel welcomed in Italy and were eager to share their love of the island, its people, and the beauty of this ancient land."

Fountain Hills, AZ

"Simply put, this was the best trip ever. The deliberate balance of exercise, education, and culinary extravaganzas made each day a feast for the eyes, minds, and bodies."

Haverford, PA

"Everything about this trip was exemplary. The itinerary included important, well known, and lesser known sites, all highly enjoyable, located around the entire island of Sicily. I felt I got to experience so many interesting and truly fascinating aspects of Sicilian life and culture. The food choices were astonishing: fresh, delicious, and wide ranging, from really special local restaurants to cafes, hotels, and agriturismos. The hotels/accommodations were all lovely, clean, and well run. This was a fantastically fun trip!"

Santa Monica, CA

"A wonderful trip with interesting, capable, and kind leaders. We had a great time!"

"I cannot say enough how wonderful in every way this trip experience was! And our leaders were the icing on the cake! They both were on top of every aspect, looking after every detail and also anticipating what might be needed."

Westminster, CO

"The absolute key to the success of the trip was the leaders, Sebastiano, Lisa, and Tania. They were just superb in every way. We were briefed on the next day's itinerary every evening during the excellent dinners and they were thoroughly professional, knowledgable, and accommodating."

Los Altos, CA

"I must say this was the best vacation that I have ever experienced."

Chadds Ford, PA

"We had a wonderful time. Sicily was fantastic and our enjoyment was enhanced by our three guides."

Walter and Anneliese B.

Toronto, Ontario

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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

Welcome to Wish Sicily travel Blog

Exploring Sicily’s Madonie mountains

• Wish Sicily
• Sicily holidays , Sport, nature and relax

Off the beaten track in Sicily

Unless you’re a keen hiker, you’re likely to be amongst the many visitors to Sicily’s shores who head for the beaches and completely overlook the Madonie mountains. But the mountainous reserve is alternative Sicily at its best, offering almost year round walking and a string of captivating medieval villages.

The Madonie was the second nature reserve to be established in Sicily, located at the centre of the north coast of the island and extending over 35,000 hectares.  Skiing takes over in winter but during spring, summer and autumn, the network of paths through the mountainous region are popular with walkers.

Best of all, there’s no need to choose between a holiday in the mountains or on the coast. The Madonie nature reserve is just a short drive from several of our villas in and around Cefalù , including the seafront villas of Casa Turchina and Villa Carlotta .

How high are the Madonie?

The impressive range comprises some of the tallest peaks on the island, with the highest peak at Pizzo Carbonara standing at 1979m and six of the mountains at over 1500m. At the ski resort of Piano Battaglia, at just over 1500m, it’s hard to believe that you’re still only 10 miles from the coast!

Hideaway villages

So why visit the Madonie mountains? If a holiday for you means chilling by the pool and sea swimming, it’s hard to beat a relaxing stay at a luxury villa like Arte Mare Blue . However, if you love exploring medieval villages with maze-like cobbled alleyways, winding lanes and pretty churches, a day trip to the Madonie ticks every box.

Gangi boasts the title of ‘il borgo più bello d’Italia’ (Italy’s prettiest village), as well as sweeping views of the valley from the Belvedere del Duomo piazza. And from the town’s medieval Castello dei Ventimiglia, you’ll get views as far afield as Mount Etna on a clear day.

Other must-see villages include Polizzi Generosa, Petralia Soprana, Petralia Sottana, Castellana Sicula and Isnello, variously boasting captivating medieval centres, historic Arabo-Norman churches, piazzas and dazzling views across the surrounding hillside.

Castles, towers and churches

Many of the villages are characterised by imposing castles and towers. The best known is undoubtedly the 14 th century castle of Castelbuono, with its impressive staircases, ancient clock tower and square towers at each corner. Today the castle houses the town’s Civic Museum.

You’ll find historic towers in Gangi and Petralia Soprana. Gangi’s imposing Norman Ventimiglia Tower, a former watchtower, dates back to 1337 and, attached to the façade of the Chiesa di San Nicolò, now serves as a bell tower. In Petralia Soprana, the two bell towers on the Chiesa di San Pietro e Paolo, divided by a magnificent 18-column porch which leads into the church, date back to the 15 th and 18 th century and are extraordinarily beautiful.

You’ll find an extraordinary number of churches to visit in Gangi, and Petralia Soprana where the Church of Santa Maria di Loreto is crammed with paintings and provides some spectacular views. In neighbouring Petralia Sottana, the most charming of the many churches is perhaps Santa Maria della Fontana.

Gastronomic traditions in the Madonie

Culinary traditions in the Madonie are firmly rooted in the territory and deeply protective of the land. Indigenous plants include the Badda bean and the ‘pipiddu’ pepper, both endangered varieties that are still being grown locally. Olive oil, mushrooms, hazelnuts and fresh ricotta and pecorino made with ancient methods, shape the culinary landscape, alongside salami and sausages.

You’ll even find some rivalry between the villages for the best local speciality of ‘sfoglio madonita’, cake made with thin pastry filled with ‘tuma’ (unsalted local cheese), candied pumpkins, sugar and pieces of chocolate. And in Castelbuono, iconic Fiasconaro produces some of the best panettone and Easter ‘colombe’ you’ll ever taste.

Of course, the nature reserve is a wonderful place for anyone who likes to get out in the great outdoors. Hillsides are covered in evergreen holm and cork oaks, beech, oak and holly trees. At Piano Pomo, a cluster of giant holly trees, each the size of a birch tree, is a remarkable sight.

During the spring months, hillsides are sprinkled with wild flowers, including over 60 species of orchids, red poppies, mimosa and red and white peonies.

Not surprisingly, horse riding, hiking and cycling are amongst the most popular activities. Choose from a selection of guided walks or, if you’re looking for some more adrenaline busting activities, there’s the option of quad biking, mountain biking or a selection of adventure experiences and jeep trails. If you’re holidaying with the kids, they’ll love the Parco Avventura Madonie, a woodland adventure park complete with rope ladders, tree climbing and open air experiences in Petralia Sottana.

For more villas close to the Madonie mountains, please visit our collection of villas in Cefalù .

Madonie mountains

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The Madonie Natural Park

Discover why the Madonie are the most beautiful mountains of Sicily and why our Hiking tours & Experiences are the best way to enjoy their hidden treasures.

The Madonie Mountains

The Madonie Mountains are located on the northern coast of Sicily, about 70 km east of Palermo . They belong to the Sicilian Apennines, like the Nebrodi and the Peloritani Mountains. The main mountain — the Carbonara Massif (1979m above sea level) — is the second-highest peak in Sicily, after Mount Etna.

In 1989 the Sicily Region created the Madonie Natural Park to protect the area. This special place is extraordinarily rich in biodiversity and of geological interest.

But there is no need to be a scientist to catch the Madonie’s beauty: its impressive landscapes, colourful flowers, delicate butterflies, giant trees, medieval villages, and welcoming locals can touch everyone’s heart .

See our Hiking Tours and Experiences in the Madonie Natural Park

Biodiversity in the Madonie Park

The Madonie Park not only has the richest biodiversity in Sicily but also hosts one of the most abundant and distinctive in the entire Mediterranean region .

Regarding flora, more than 1,600 species of vegetal organisms have been found in the Park’s 40,000 hectares.

Why so much biodiversity in such a small territory? 

Above all, it is thanks to geographical factors:

• The Madonie Park stretches from the coast to mountains nearly 2,000m above sea level. This means that the area offers a wide variety of climate and geographical conditions.
• When temperatures rose at the end of the last glaciation, nearly 10,000 thousand years ago, the top of the mountains remained thermically isolated and many species developed in such a specific way that they became endemic .
• Sicily’s crossroads position between Europe, Africa and Asia is also reflected in the local biodiversity in Madonie Natural Park.

Rare Plants

Many endemic species grow in the Madonie, like the Madonie fir (Abies nebrodensis) which only lives naturally in the Vallone della Madonna degli Angeli and nowhere else in the world. This endangered tree has become the symbol of the Park. There are about 30 of them left in nature and they are now protected.

Other interesting endemic plants include Cupani broom (Genista cupanii), Madonie astragalus (Astragalus nebrodensis), Madonie violet (Viola nebrodensis), Helichrysum nebrodense, Iris pseudopumila, Boccone thistle (Jurinea bocconei), Stipa sicula, Alyssum nebrodense, Dianthus cyathophorus subsp. minae, Armeria nebrodensis and Sternbergia sicula.

The Madonie also has a rich variety of wild orchids , with 65 species and varieties, including Ophrys pallida, Orchis brancifortii, Ophrys oxyrrhynchos and Neotinea commutata. The best time of year to see The Madonie’s orchids is April at low altitudes and May at higher altitudes.

Best tours: – Giant holly trees hike – Full day discovery hike in the Madonie Park – Hike to Pizzo Carbonara – Big Madonie Trek (semi-itinerant)

Monumental Trees

The Madonie Mountains is home to many monumental trees. In Piano Pomo, there is an entire wood of giant hollies . They nearly reach 20 metres high and are one of a kind.

A few kilometres away an oak , which is about 1000 years old , quietly watches over the surrounding forest.

Other relevant centuries-old trees include maples, beeches, ash trees, olive trees, hawthorn trees, as well as wild pear and apple trees. They are scattered throughout many areas of the park.

Best tours: – Giant holly trees hike – Full day discovery hike in the Madonie Park – Big Madonie Trek (semi-itinerant) – Madonie Tour Villages & Nature

The Madonie Park hosts all the mammal species living in Sicily .  Fallow deer and wild boars were reintroduced some years ago and are easy to see during hikes. Porcupines, wild cats, martens, weasels, foxes, and rabbits are usually more discreet.

Many species of birds can be seen in the Madonie including raptors like red kites, peregrine falcons, kestrels, buzzards, and a few pairs of golden eagles. Griffon vultures are being reintroduced thanks to an ongoing project. There are several species of corvids , such as the red-billed chough, the big raven, the Eurasian jay, the jackdaw, and the hooded crow.

Invertebrates are also well represented in the Madonie; they include rare species of butterflies (e.g.: Parnassius apollo siciliae and Polyommatus daphnis pallidecolor, both endemic to the Madonie) and coleopters (e.g.: Rosalia alpina, Osmoderma cristinae and Gnorimus decempunctatus, which saproxylophagous larvae feed on decaying monumental trees).

As there are still traditional shepherds in the area, many sheep, goats and cows pasture freely, as do donkeys and horses.

The Geology of the Madonie Park

The Madonie Mountains are composed of sedimentary rocks, above all limestone, sandstone and clayey rocks . Some of them are particularly old and were formed more than 200 million years ago . The area is of great geological interest and the Madonie Park belongs to the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network .

Sea fossils up in the Madonie Mountains

In the past, the Madonie rocks were seabeds. They rose a few million years ago due to the movement of tectonic plates. This is why sea fossils can be seen in many places throughout Madonie Natural Park.

Cefalù’s old town is partly paved with a local stone called lumachella (which means “small snail”) full of gastropod fossils (nerinea and rudists). In Piano Battaglia (1,600m), you can find amazing coral and sponge fossils.

Best tours: – Hike to Pizzo Carbonara – Big Madonie Trek (semi-itinerant) – Madonie Tour Villages & Nature

Stones carved by the water

You can observe interesting examples of karst in the Madonie’s limestone; these consist of caves, sinkholes, and gorges created by the dissolution of the stone in contact with water . Some examples of local karst are easy to reach, such as Grattara’s cave near the village of Gratteri, Battaglietta’s sinkhole, and the Gorges of Tiberio on the river Pollina.

You may have heard of the Abisso del vento cave (Abyss of the Wind), which is one of the largest caves in Sicily; while this cave is spectacular, it is only accessible to speleologists because it has many vertical parts that request equipment and strong speleology skills.

Other places of the Madonie Natural Park with geological interest include the Anfiteatro di Quacella, Monte Ferro, and Portella Colla.

The Madonie’s Charming villages

In the villages of the Madonie Mountains, old men take the sun on the benches, play cards or chat in the bars. Linen dries on the balconies. Local mammas cook exquisite food for the whole family.

Yes, the towns and villages of the Madonie are typically Sicilian, but they all have something more in common: architecture and local traditions . The people of The Madonie have a special sense of hospitality that is hard to capture or describe on our website. You’ll just have to join us and experience it for yourself!

Geography and, above all, history , are probably the roots of this “Madonitan” identity: the area was indeed ruled for centuries by a unique and powerful noble family, the Ventimiglia, which left a visible and long-lasting influence.

The following towns and villages have at least part of their territory included in the Madonie Park: Cefalù, Castelbuono, Collesano, Isnello, Gratteri, Pollina, San Mauro Castelverde, Geraci Siculo, Petralia Sottana, Petralia Soprana, Castellana Sicula, Polizzi Generosa, Caltavuturo, Sclafani Bagni, and Scillato.

The towns of Alimena, Blufi, Bompietro, Gangi and Lascari Gangi should become part of the Madonie Park soon.

Best tours: – Manna experience – Wellness experience – Madonie Tour Villages & Nature

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The appenine Madonie range mountains, in Palermo , links twenty one counties and, ideally represents a poker of asles on a tourism table of the most beautiful villages in Italy: Cefalù , known as the mith land, with is arabic reminders and its combinations of feelings, from the Rocca to seaside; Gangi , which spreads it mountain smell and that received the title of the borghi in 2014; Geraci Siculo , with the evidences of Saints and Madonna on the Madonie and Petralia Soprana , rock through the rocks, entitled Borgo of the Borghi in 2018.

The slugghish pace in discovering  the preserved area allow to find out the infinite wonders of these mountains, that, beside mount Etna, are the highest in Sicily.

Here it is possible to knowledge and understand secrets about the craftsmanship , through precious pottery and ancient textures, to live the spiritual and monastic dimension linked to medieval atmosphere , to be impressed by the architectural and artistic side of Castelbuono , with its amazing castle and the panettoni more tasty and fashionable of the whole Island, even in the biblical taste of manna , allowing you to relive traditions and feasts still fascinating.

From Pizzo Carbonara , at 1979 meters s.l.m. your look will be lost in the immensity.

Free climbing Madonie – Mount Caltavuturo – ph. Ignazio Mannarano

But not just the eyes want to be satisfied, even the palate wants it: do not leave Madonie before having tasted the local beans “ badda” , the meat flavoured with finocchietto selvatico (wild finocchietto)  and the delicious cheeses , in particular provola and caciocavallo.

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30 Super Useful Sicily Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Visiting Sicily for the first time? You will love it! To make your trip absolutely amazing, here are my 30+ super handy Sicily travel tips you need to know before embarking on the Sicilian adventure. 

I traveled around Sicily twice so far (and I am pretty sure I will be coming back). During my two road trips (one and two weeks respectively), I got familiar with local culture, the best ways to get around, what to see, and also how to plan a great Sicily road trip .

Whether you are going for a day, a week, or a month, let me guide you through some practical traveling in Sicily tips, as well as share some inspiration on why you should visit Sicily.

In this Sicily guide, you will find the most important topics and questions answered about Sicily travel: when is the best time to go to Sicily , how to get to Sicily and the best way to travel around Sicily (public transport or driving), how many days in Sicily and which part of Sicily (east or west) to choose for nature, history and architecture, as well as insights into culture, food, and Sicilian lifestyle . 

• Related reads: 21 practical tips for driving in Sicily stress-free .

Disclosure :  This Sicily Travel Guide contains affiliate links to our trusted partners. It means that we may make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase by clicking a link. It helps us grow the blog and create more of free useful travel advice for you. 

30+ essential Sicily travel tips: plan your perfect visit

Sicily travel essentials.

• Rent a car : The best way to explore Sicily is self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars . I use this website to book my rental cars.
• Stay: find your perfect accommodation in Sicily on Booking.com .
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Sicily from your location.
• Peace of mind: always remember to get travel insurance to be on the safe side. Get a quote at SafetyWing .
• eSIM Card: Stay connected as soon as you land.   Airalo   offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe.

GETTING TO KNOW SICILY

1. there is italy and then there is charismatic sicily.

Kicked by the toe of mainland Italy, the volcanic island of Sicily developed its own identity with a distinct character. Sicily has delightful mischief that you won’t find anywhere else in Italy. 

Sicily, although part of Italy, could easily be a country on its own (historically it used to be the Kingdom of Sicily before it became an autonomous region of Italy). Locals proudly call themselves Sicilians and even get offended if you refer to them as Italians.

Indeed, everywhere you go you will see Sicilian flags stretched between the balconies. Meanwhile, colorful Sicilian ceramics are a statement of Sicilian house decor. However, the most obvious way to understand Sicilian identity and witness the pride of being Sicilian is while interacting with locals.

We stayed in different parts of Sicily during our road trip. Every host we met was raving not only about how wonderful Sicily is but also pointing out that the area they are from is the best on the island.

And trust me, the way Sicilians describe their hometown will make you excited to explore it. We got particularly lucky in Palermo with our host Mario whose passion for the town and food made us fall in love with the underrated capital of Sicily.

In short, when the place has a distinct character and identity of its own ready to be explored, it makes traveling way more fulfilling than just scratching the surface of main tourist sights. And Sicily definitely has the charisma!

2. Sicily has some of the most diverse histories in Europe

Sicily has been invaded dozens of times by Arabs, Spaniards, Normans, Greeks, and Romans, to name a few major ones. Therefore, if you have an interest in history, discovering Sicily’s layered and diverse past through many remaining historical sites will definitely keep you busy.

Today’s Sicily is like a living museum, a historical artwork celebrating and commemorating some of the most powerful cultures and civilizations. 

With a history that stretches over thousands of years, you will find out about the ancient Greek settlements in Agrigento and Syracuse, learn about Baroque architecture in Val di Noto, Roman cultural influence in Villa Romana del Casale mosaics, Arab and Norman impact in Palermo, as well as discover frozen in time medieval villages of Madonie mountains. 

To sum up, Sicily is a perfect place to travel back in time and get acquainted with its turbulent history. 

3. Is Sicily worth visiting? 

Sicily is a must-visit place in Italy. You can expect to have a very different travel experience even if you have already been to other parts of the country.

You may already know that Italy is very diverse, with different regions having distinct landscapes, architecture, and even cultural nuances. But even if you have been all around Italy, and think that there is just so much more you can expect from yet another region, you will be pleasantly surprised how different from other parts of the country Sicily is.

Sicily can satisfy any kind of traveler as it has everything- fantastic beaches, nature reserves , mountains with hiking trails, some of the most impressive architecture (Syracusa, Val di Noto, Palermo), important historical sights like the valley of temples in Agrigento, frozen in time mountain villages of Madonie , and even wonderful low-key Egadi and high-end Aeolian islands you can easily catch a ferry to. 

But above the scenery and cultural sights, Sicily’s highlight is the locals. To me, Sicilians appeared to be some of the friendliest people compared to other parts of Italy. Locals in Sicily are genuinely happy to see you and are very welcoming, curious, and outgoing.

• Make sure to also check my post about 21 must-visit places in Sicily .
• Find The most beautiful small coastal towns and fishing villages in Sicily.

4. Is it safe to travel to Sicily – the birthplace of the Mafia?

Travelling in Sicily is very safe . From my personal experience everywhere we went felt extremely safe in Sicily. People are very welcoming, kind, and genuinely curious about travelers. 

Leaving the luggage in the car was probably my biggest safety concern while road tripping in Sicily . Leaving bags in the car was heavily advised against on other travel blogs, but in reality, it wasn’t an issue at all. Of course, there is no need to irresponsibly display your digital camera, laptop, or wallet on the seat which could seduce some robbers. But even if you left some of your belongings in the back seat, it doesn’t mean someone will definitely break into your car. 

The only place I was looking over my shoulder was when we walked in the Ballaro neighborhood in Palermo. Later on, however, our local host explained that there was nothing to be worried about. Apparently, Mafia owns many hotels and restaurants in the capital of Sicily. That means tourism is one of their main businesses and travelers are sort of looked after. Thus, small criminals don’t dare to touch a tourist. 

Regardless, I would still suggest keeping your guard up in busy areas of Palermo as pickpocketing certainly happens. Just make sure to keep your wallet and phone somewhere safer than the back pocket of your jeans when walking in crowded areas of Palermo, or Catania. 

• Related article: Is Sicily safe? Areas to avid and safety tips.

WHEN TO TRAVEL TO SICILY

5. the best time to visit sicily-when should you go.

The best time to visit Sicily is from May to the beginning of June, and from September to the beginning of October. These are shoulder seasons when the weather is great both on the coast, in the towns, and in the mountains. Also, around these months tourists either haven’t arrived yet or already departed.

If you love beaches, September will be better than May as the water in the sea is still warm as opposed to slightly chilly late spring temperatures.

If you don’t care much about the beaches and swimming, and prefer cultural activities, like wandering UNESCO-listed towns and small villages, then any time of the year is a good time as Sicily has a pleasant island climate all year round. You might encounter some fogs and rain if you visit during autumn/winter. On the bright side, it may add to the mysterious atmosphere and interesting photography scenarios.

I would suggest avoiding July and especially August when the majority of Italians are on vacation. Prices of accommodation and car rental shoot up, while beaches and towns are packed with people- not the greatest time to travel to Sicily.

Nonetheless, if you only have summer months, you can still have a great time and pick some less visited places around the Island. Sicily has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be explored. 

• READ MORE: Planning on hiring a car in Sicily? Here are my 21 Useful Tips for Driving in Sicily, Italy.

6. Go before it is too late! 

Is Sicily very touristy? Yes and no, depending on which place and when you choose to go.

In recent years Sicily has definitely seen a quick increase not only in local but also in foreign tourism. The rough towns like Palermo which used to be considered a bit dangerous, are now completely tourist-friendly and adapted to serve the foreign visitor.

Meanwhile, even remote villages are slowly but steadily opening up cozy B&Bs and getting completely booked out during the peak season.

While many popular beach towns are packed with sun-seekers and local holidaymakers during summer, still there are enough places on the island where you can have an authentic Sicilian experience without crowds. But don’t wait too long, as with social media being so proactive, Sicily is getting on tourist radar pretty fast. Some of the seemingly remote places I have discovered on Instagram!

GETTING TO AND AROUND SICILY

Getting to sicily: airplane, ferry, or train.

Sicily is an island separated from the mainland of Italy by the narrow strait of Messina. The good news is that Sicily is very well connected not only to mainland Italy but also to the rest of Europe and even other parts of the world.

Getting to Sicily by air

As expected, most travelers come to Sicily by air. There are 4 airports in Sicily -one in the capital Palermo in the West North, one in Catania in the East, one in Trapani in the West of the island and one near Ragusa Ibla in southeast of Sicily.

If you are flying from Europe, sometimes you can get insanely cheap deals to land in Sicily.  Search for the best flight deals using KIWI flight search aggregator .

Getting to Sicily by ferry

Another also quite popular option to reach Sicily is taking a ferry, both nationally and internationally. 

Nationally, the main places from where you can reach Sicily are Rome, Naples, Salerno, Genoa, and San Giovani in Calabria (southern Italy-the toe of the boot).

The overnight ferries from Naples, Salerno, Genoa, and Rome arrive in Palermo. Meanwhile, if you are traveling by land from Southern Italy, you can take a 30 min ferry from Villa San Giovani to the port town of Messina, Sicily. This is precisely what we did on our combined Sicily and Calabria road trip. 

Internationally, you can reach Sicily from Malta and Tunisia. 

Top tip: Ferries to Sicily also accommodate various vehicles. Therefore, if you travel by car, instead of driving long distances, you can “jump” onto the ferry.

• You can easily search for the ferry schedules from your selected departure place using the Directferries website.

Popular ferry routes to Sicily

• Palermo-Naples: 10.5- 11.5 hours; from 50 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Palermo-Rome (Civitavecchia): 14.5 hours; from 60 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Palermo-Genoa: 19.5-20.5 hours; from 45 or 75 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Messina- Salerno: 9-10.5 hours; from 52 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Messina- Reggio Calabria (South Italy) : 30 minutes; from 10 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Catania- Valletta (Malta): 4 hours 45 minutes; from 80 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Palermo-Tunis (Tunisia): 10.5 hours; from 85 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here

Getting to Sicily by train

The third way is taking a train from the mainland of Sicily. There are train departures from Rome (12 hours) and Naples (9 hours) to Palermo. The train also has routes heading to East Sicily and stops in Taormina, Catania, and Syracuse.

Question- how on Earth does this train get through the water? Apparently, there is a special ferry which transports, yes, the train! This could be an interesting and fun travel experience.

• You can find a train route and book tickets from Italy to Sicily using Omio train search aggregator.

8. Driving is by far the best way to explore Sicily

I am a huge fan of road trips, and Sicily is a perfect place to go on one (check out my 2-week in Sicily Itinerary ).

I am sure you have heard that driving in Sicily might be challenging, which is partially true (if you don’t know what to expect).

However, driving is by far the most convenient way to get around Sicily as you don’t have to rely on irregular and not frequent public transport schedules. Also, hidden gems are only accessible by car (well, in some cases by boat-like Favignana island ). Finally, you will be able to travel at your own pace and get from place to place much faster than with a train or a bus. 

Therefore, I strongly recommend renting a car if you are planning to see more than just bigger towns like Catania or Palermo (those places don’t require a car). 

Important: book your car well in advance to get the best deal! We booked 3 months ahead to secure a good deal (20 EUR per day). If you leave it to the last minute, chances are, the car rental rates will be much higher.

I found the best car rental prices for my road trip in Sicily with DiscoverCars.

• Car rental tip:  if you are looking for  an affordable rental car, check  Discovercars .  This is a car search website that I use for all my trips to Italy. Just by comparing rates between different rental companies,  Discovercars can help you save up to 70% on your rental rate .  It also gives an option to add a reasonably priced full coverage (insurance).

9. Getting around Sicily with public transport

Public transport in Sicily connects main destinations and more popular tourist towns like Palermo, Catania, Agrigento, Taormina, Messina, and Trapani. If you are not willing to drive you might be able to find your way around using only busses, or trains. Also, you can join organized day trips to places like Taormina, Etna Volcano, and Agrigento.

When it comes to using public transport in Sicily, buses are known to be the most complicated to deal with. I have read stories of buses having completely unreliable schedules, lack of accurate timetables online, needless to say not the most frequent service.

All this makes travelling and planning your time quite tricky. Although, larger companies like Interbus are pretty good. However, regional buses, unless you have unlimited time in Sicily, you can forget about. More often than not, you will have to rely on asking around for accurate information when travelling between smaller towns.

I personally would avoid using buses, except if you are planning to get between main towns and are not going to explore beyond the main tourist destinations. Even some of those places do not always have a guaranteed regular connection.

Trains mainly connect the coastal part of Sicily but are not available for the inland due to its mountainous terrain. Trains as far as I have researched are quite efficient and run according to schedule.

HOW TO PLAN YOUR SICILY ROUTE

10. how many days do you need in sicily .

You need at least 2 weeks and at least 5 different overnight bases to explore the whole perimeter of the island at a medium pace .

To see all the highlights plus some hidden gems of Sicily you will need at least 3 weeks, ideally a month. Having this amount of time, you can slowly drive all around the island discovering different parts of Sicily. Those would include beaches, mountains, archeological sites, baroque towns, fishing villages, Etna volcano and you can even squeeze in a trip to Egadi or Aeolian islands.

Do not try to see the whole island of Sicily in one week. Sicily is bigger than it looks at a first glance. Driving time from West to East of the island is around 4.5 hours.

Understandably, not everyone has a month worth of time to allocate for their vacation. Still,  as a bare minimum, I would recommend 10 to 14 days in Sicily . However, you will have to be strategic about how and where you spend your time. You will definitely have to trim down the long list of places of interest in Sicily leaving only what excites you the most. 

If you have only around one week in Sicily, the best is to focus on one side of the island. For example, highlights of the west and northwest part, or highlights of the east and southeast part of Sicily, depending on which airport you land at. Definitely don’t try to move all the way from west to east as you will end up spending most of the time in a car. 

• Check my two-week road trip itinerary for inspiration and help to you plan your own vacation in Sicily.

11. Visit West Sicily and the hinterlands for a more authentic experience and wild nature

If you are landing in Palermo or Trapani, you are for a treat of wild beaches and nature, the unfiltered lifestyle of Palermo, sleepy Madonie mountain villages, and a slow-paced Favignana island. Western and Norther parts of Sicily are less touristy than the Eastern part. This means you will have a very authentic travel experience wherever you choose to go.

12. Visit East Sicily for Baroque and Greek architecture, Etna volcano, and famous archeological sites

If you are landing in Catania on the Eastern part of Sicily, then you are getting a treat of unparalleled architectural gems-Val di Noto baroque towns like Ragusa, the Greek amphitheater of Taormina, the valley of temples in Agrigento, spectacular Syracuse with Ortigia at its heart, and mighty Etna volcano which you can explore up close by hiking .

Note, that the Eastern part of Sicily is more touristy (due to its cultural wanders and a large number of UNESCO heritage sights which indeed made Sicily famous).

13. The best beaches in Sicily are on the northwestern side of the island. 

If you are seeking the sun and going to Sicily mainly for the beaches, then head to the North West. Here, you can find crystal clear waters and some of the most spectacular beaches in Sicily.

The mountainous backdrop characterizes the northwest of the coast. There you will find a perfect natural combination of mountains and the sea offering an array of hiking and swimming activities in one place.

You can find exactly that in Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve . To me, it was the best nature spot with the most incredible beaches in the whole of Sicily.

If you love sandy beaches, then San Vito Lo Capo at the northwestern tip of the island is a place to be. If you are looking for great city vibes with a close-by beach escape then Mondelo beach is just 30min drive from Palermo.

Finally, Favignana islands on the West side of Sicily will surprise you will azure waters and wild beaches to lay your towel at. Read my post about visiting Favignana island for more details.

14. Mix up big cities, small towns, and the seaside for a diverse experience in Sicily

To get a real taste of Sicily, plan on visiting a mix of different parts of the island. To understand daily hustle and bustle as well as admire impressive historical buildings, aim for a few days in the biggest towns (Palermo, Catania, Ortigia Island in Syracuse), for the beach scene, go to smaller seaside towns (Cefalu, Castellammare del Golfo), you will find UNESCO listed Baroque architecture in Ragusa, Modica or Noto, for the important archeological treasures head to Agrigento, while for chilled island life- to Egadian islands, for raw nature – to Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve, and to get the sense of the frozen time drive up to medieval villages in Madonie mountains. 

15. Get used to sweating up the hill-mountainous terrain of Sicily

Sicily’s climate and terrain can be very unforgiving in summer. It might become overwhelming if you are not used to almost African heat and hiking. Many Sicilian towns are located in mountainous areas. Getting from landmark to landmark on foot will require broken-in shoes, a hat for shade, lots of sunscreen, and good stamina. Indeed if you are planning to visit some of the small mountain tows, be ready to burn a few calories (which is great considering the carbs intake you will have while in Sicily).

ACCOMMODATION – WHERE TO STAY IN SICILY

There is no shortage of accommodation in Sicily. Depending on your budget, you can pick a room in a boutique hotel, stay in a dorm or in a fancy timeless hotel, rent a cozy apartment, or opt for a homestay. Bigger towns like Palermo and Catania or Trapani will have all these options. Meanwhile, smaller villages may only offer homestays and boutique hotels. In remote locations, you may not always find dorms in Sicily.

The only type of accommodation I have not seen (gladly) was monstrous seaside hotels. Okay maybe a couple of ugly ones in Cefalu were ruining the scenery, but they weren’t nearly as massive as the ones you can find in the UAE or Turkey, for example. And I hope it will stay this way.

16. Stay in homestays for the best local experience in Sicily

I always aim to support local small businesses when travelling, and one of the best ways to do so is to stay in a family-run B&B. Not only do you bring business to a local family but in return, you get more personal and warm treatment as opposed to the very formal approach in regular hotels.

Finally, Sicilians are very knowledgeable about their local area and they are more than happy to share some tips for sightseeing, the best places to eat, and sometimes they even cook for you!

For example, we were very lucky with our host in Palermo who was extremely passionate about his town and Sicily overall. He shared some insider tips, and fantastic stories about Palermo, and gave some great insights about Sicily. It enriched our travel experience and helped us understand the local culture much better. 

17. Book your stays in popular destinations in Sicily early in advance

Some of the towns in Sicily receive way more visitors than others during the high season (July/August). Therefore, booking early is strongly recommended.

The most popular places that get booked out are Cefalu, Taormina, Syracuse and Ortigia, Favignana (Egadi islands), and Trapani.

For example, even at the beginning of May, accommodation in Cefalu seemed to be 70 percent occupied when I looked it up on the booking site. So I can imagine it can be pretty tough finding a place to stay in summer, let alone getting a reasonable deal.

Alternatively, if you are driving, there are countryside guesthouses called Agriturismo- those are usually fantastic family-run getaways not too far from the main towns.

• Accommodation: I always book my stays through Booking.com . This accommodation search site provides a variety of places to stay for any budget. Also, as a returning customer of Booking.com, you get some great Genius discounts (10-30%), and special mobile-only prices when booking through their app. Tip: always check the booking cancelation policy, and if possible, choose accommodation with the most flexible cancelation terms. I usually book places that I can cancel as close to the trip as possible to be on the safe side in case my plans change.

18. Make sure to check if the parking is available and is not in the ZTL zone

If you are driving, parking is one f the factors you will be making your decision about whether or not you should book a place. Often in towns like Cefalu, there won’t be any parking included in accommodations located in the historic center. Thus, you might have to look for a place to stay outside but close enough to the historic center.

Also, in case you manage to find a place to stay that offers parking in the historic center, double-check with your host if it doesn’t fall under ZTL (Zona Trafico Limitato) , which only permits registered vehicles. You can read more about sneaky ZTL zones in my post about driving in Sicily .

GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH SICILIAN CULTURE

19. travel to sicily just for food.

You could travel to Sicily just for the food.  From the famous Pasta alla Norma , tuna burgers, couscous with fish, all sorts of arancini , pizzas to ricotta-filled pastries with cannoli being the king of all, brioche with ice cream, and many more- eating Sicilian specialties can keep you busy all day long. Just looking at the menu in trattoria you can quickly realize that Sicilian cuisine adopted the crossroads of civilizations. There are flavors from Europe and Africa on one plate.

Moreover, Sicily’s capital Palermo is worldwide famous for the best street food. Therefore, forget about fancy restaurants, and go try the fast food- it is fresh and delicious.

20. Breakfast is not the main meal of the day, but in Sicily, you can fuel up with ice cream in a bun

Sicilian breakfast (as common everywhere in Italy) is always sweet. But having ice cream in brioche is something unheard of and probably only to be found in Sicily.

I know that eating an omelet in the morning sounds bizarre to Italians, but come on, ice cream with bread?! This is whole another level of weird…

Nonetheless, this combination is a guaranteed energy boost and is extremely filling. I have tried brioche with ice cream but decided to stick to the regular pastry and coffee.

Note: when you see breakfast included in your accommodation booking, do not expect English breakfast with sausages and beans. Usually, you will only get coffee and pastries. On a rare occasion, you may find B&Bs offering some panini (sandwiches with ham and cheese). Continental breakfast is only common in bigger hotels.

21. Catch up on your sleep during riposo – understanding Sicilian time (aka siesta) 

You probably have heard of siesta in south European countries. Unlike any other timing-related matters, Sicily is taking the midday nap very seriously.

Shops, museums, and restaurants close for so-called riposo or siesta at around 12-1 pm and re-open at around 3-4 pm or even later. Siesta’s starting time is always on the dot while the finishing time is sort of flexible.

Longer siestas are very common in smaller towns. We have struggled to find a place to eat lunch in Madonie mountain villages-everything was closed, and there was no live soul to be seen in the afternoon. Taking into account Sicilian summer heat, having a power nap in the middle of the day is probably the best thing you can do. 

Sundays are usually days off and shops and museums, and even some restaurants are also shut for the whole day.

However, in bigger towns like Palermo and Catania, as well as touristy places like Cefalu, Taormina, or Syracuse you can find quite a lot of cafes and gelaterias, and casual eateries which are open during siesta hours and even on Sundays.

22. There is time for aperitivo and then there is time for dinner

Restaurants and trattorias usually open at around 6-7 pm, however actual dinner time is around 8-9 pm in Sicily and Italy. Therefore, it is recommended to reserve a table to avoid the disappointment of having to wait for an even later meal.

However, before heading out for dinner, you should not miss aperitivo which is a time between late afternoon and dinner when people head out for a drink and a small snack before they actually go to have a proper meal.

23. What is coperto – tipping culture and service fee in Sicily, Italy

Coperto (or servizio ) in Italy and also Sicily is a fixed service fee that you pay per person for being served at a restaurant. The amount you must pay varies from place to place but usually it ranges between 1-2 euros. Some more expensive restaurants may charge 2.5-5 euros for coperto per person.

The amount of coperto is usually indicated on the menu. It is a fixed charge and doesn’t depend on how much or little you eat or how long you spend at a table. 

If I pay coperto , do I have to leave a tip? 

If you love the service and food, the tip will be highly appreciated but it is not a must in Sicily, Italy. 

24. Coffee price at a bar vs at a table

Note that you may have to pay coperto in some coffee shops/bars if you choose to have your cappuccino at a table rather than at a bar, as most Sicilians do. Most likely the cost of being served coffee at a table will range from 20 euro cents to one euro.

This doesn’t apply to all coffee shops though. Charging extra for a coffee at a table is more common in touristy and popular areas or famous fancy coffee places. For example, I have been to places in Venice, Rome, Amalfi Coast , and Naples where we had to pay extra for having our cappuccini at a table. Smaller and more casual bars and coffee shops do not collect this fee.

LANGUAGE AND INTERACTION WITH LOCALS

25. a few italian phrases will go a long way but be ready for the sicilian language.

Sicilians barely speak English. Most of the locals don’t speak a word, especially in smaller towns and villages. I can count on my one hand fingers how many fluent English speakers we met on our road trip (when I think of it, probably only 3 or 4 people were very well versed in English and those guys were our hosts at the B&B). Nonetheless, you can still meet younger generation people working at bars and restaurants who can speak some basic English, but not as much as you may expect.

Moreover, even information in museums, churches, and even parking signs are in Italian! Therefore, learning some basic survival phrases in the local language will go a long way.

After many years of thinking about it, I finally signed up for an online Italian course just 3 months before my Sicily road trip. I could not be happier about dedicating some time to learning Italian. It really came in handy in Sicily and South Italy.

It seemed that Sicilians really appreciated my effort to speak in Italian, even if it was a very basic conversation. It also helped me to understand simple daily things related to accommodation questions and directions. And don’t worry if you don’t know how to say something properly, Sicilians will always try to help you out when you are lost in translation.

Nonetheless, there was a bit of a catch. Sicilians apparently often speak the Sicilian language (it is a language, not even a dialect). Although they do speak official Italian, there were times when they spoke in Sicilian and it sounded like a totally different language- I couldn’t catch a single familiar word!

However, this didn’t happen often. Most of the time people spoke regular Italian and if you are lucky- even a few English words.

If you are thinking of learning some Italian basics, the best interactive course that I found online is Rocket Languages. Rocket Italian course is a set of audio conversations, grammar, and written and oral practice. You can have it on an app on your phone or your laptop, and learn at your own pace, come back to it whenever you want to repeat something or skip ahead.

Subscribing to the course gives you a 2-week free trial, lifetime access, and also 60-day money-back guarantee if you don’t find it useful (I definitely find it super useful and I still continue to study after my trip).

26. Meet the locals

Interact with locals. Sightseeing is amazing, but the true joy is in those short (or long) conversations and cheerful interactions with the local people. Sicilians are very outgoing and friendly (I think I already mentioned that before).

Even if you don’t speak Italian, don’t shy away from the hand language. I am sure the minimum you can learn is a friendly ‘ciao’ when you meet a person on the street. Trust me, they will happily respond. Sicilians are often curious to know where you are coming from-‘ di dove sei? ‘.

Usually, their guesses revolve around the most well-known destinations such as UK, Germany, France, or America (apparently people from these countries are frequent visitors). Sicilians were extremely delighted to find out that we came all the way from the UAE to their beautiful island. In fact, many of them confessed that Dubai is their dream destination to travel to. To this, I always joyfully replied, that yes indeed it is a beautiful place to see and live, but there is no place as wonderful as Sicily (I do have a very soft spot for Italy- a perfect place to move to one day). 

27. Do not joke about Mafia

Sicily is often associated with the birthplace of the Mafia. Thanks to Hollywood films that have glorified organized criminal groups in movies such as Godfather, there are a lot of misconceptions about past events. In reality, Sicilians had to deal with horror created by the local mafia and face consequences until today.

Therefore, this is a sensitive subject to bring up when talking to locals. It is not advisable to joke about it as you never know whose family member has actually been a victim of organized crime in Sicily.

Although the local mafia in Sicily still exists and operates today. In some places, business owners still pay a second tax that goes to organized crime and so-called protection. 

However, as a tourist, you are not likely to come across any of these mafia-related aspects. Let alone experience any violence or dealings with the Mafia. Interestingly, in Palermo some hotels are owned by Mafia, while some actually set themselves free and signed anti-extortion charters – there is even a “pizzo-free” map with the list of these accommodations, in case you want to avoid supporting the bloody businesses. 

MONEY, INTERNET, SIM CARD, GROCERIES

28. is sicily expensive to travel to .

Sicily is still less expensive to travel around than, for example, northern and central Italy. Especially if you go to smaller and less known towns like Castellammare del Golfo, you can find great accommodation deals. When it comes to food, you can get some bargain deals for street food in Palermo, amazing pizzas, and an unlimited supply of pastries everywhere.

You can check the budget breakdown on my Sicily Road Trip Itinerary post HERE to get an idea of what it costs to travel in Sicily.

29. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Sicily but always have some small change

Contrary to what I had read online before traveling to Sicily, debit and credit cards were widely accepted across the island. Even in smaller restaurants and shops. We paid for all our accommodation by card and very rarely needed to use cash (usually the possibility to pay by card is indicated on booking, or it is an automated advance charge prior to arrival).

Nonetheless, I still advise having some emergency cash for small spending. Not all the shops will have card machines, and even if they do, sometimes they may say it is not working so they can collect cash (as we learned from a local).

Some self-service petrol stations might also have card issues- which happened to us- and in this case, you definitely want to have cash.

Also buying small things like souvenirs or paying for toll gates is usually more convenient in cash.

30. Get a local sim card for cheaper data

If you are travelling for a couple of weeks in Sicily, it is well worth getting a local sim card with data and calls. It would usually be much cheaper than roaming. Tourist packs are available to purchase from TIM or Vodafone providers are offering pay-as-you-go tourist packages with the best coverage.

31. Be ready to allocate a couple of hours to sort out the SIM card

Okay, there is a catch when it comes to sorting out the local SIM card in Italy, and also Sicily. It is probably one of the most complicated places when it comes to getting a data plan. The tricky part is that you may not be able to get SIM card at the airport which is the most convenient way when starting your journey in a foreign country.

Instead, you may have to look for a local TIM or Vodafone store in the town. If you are renting a car at the airport, the best way is to look up the nearest store and pre-download its location on Google Maps.

Be aware of your arrival time- if it is during working hours or not. Also, take siesta time into consideration (stores close from around 1-2 PM till 4-5 PM). Luckily, this might not be applicable if the store is located in a bigger shopping center. However, malls are not that common in Italy.

Once you are at the store, expect around 30 minutes to sort out payment, and installation, and then add another hour for activation of the SIM.

I am sharing my personal experience here. When landed at Naples airport, there was no SIM card shop available (2022). Therefore, we pre-downloaded Google maps with the nearest mall that had TIM shop (it was open during siesta time- made sure to check it). It took around 2 hours to sort out the internet but it was totally worth it to get this out of the way for our 3 -week-long journey in South Italy and Sicily. We purchased a generous 70GB plan for around 20 EUR, which was valid for 30 days, local calls included.

32. Big supermarkets are less popular than local specialty shops and markets

When travelling to Sicily, and also Italy, you may notice that big supermarkets are not that common. Thus, whenever you want to do grocery shopping, it might not be as per your usual habit of buying everything in one spot.

In Sicily, people still love using markets and specialty shops where they buy a specific product. There are separate pescaterias (fish shop), paneterias (bakeries), cheese, meat, fresh pasta, and vegetable shops. Those are the best places to get fresh produce.

Certainly, you can find mini-markets in every town where they sell the basics- milk, eggs, canned stuff, a small selection of cheese and sausages as well as some cleaning and shower products, detergents, and whatnot.

Talking about mini markets, we had a fun experience in Castellamare del Golfo. We were looking for a small bottle of olive oil to use for breakfast, but all shops had only 1-liter bottles which we couldn’t carry around and it would have been a waste of buying one. A lady working at one of the mini-markets in town understood our situation, and literally pulled out a bottle of olive oil and poured some of it into a small plastic cup for us to take away (at no extra cost). It was very kind of her and something you are not likely to experience in big shopping centers.

33. Covid – 19 in Sicily requirements

UPDATE: this is not applicable, Corona is gone!

Today you can travel to Sicily and Italy by air for tourism purposes. All Covid-19 regulations have been lifted for travel to Italy. For more information about the requirements related to covid- 19 refer to this page .

Masks are still being worn inside supermarkets, churches, and museums. It was a strict requirement to wear a special medical mask (sold at the coffee shop at the port in case you don’t have one) on the Trapani-Favignana ferry. I have noticed that many elderly people still wore masks outside, and even in small towns. Knowing that Italy was one of the countries hardest hit by pandemics, it comes as no surprise.

Have you ever been to a destination where traveling felt challenging, or on the contrary- a complete breeze? Share your experience in the comments below. Also, if you have more questions about traveling to Sicily, please feel free to get in touch.

More Italy travel guides

Sicily travel guides.

• Useful Tips for Renting a Car in Sicily and Driving Stress-Free
• Renting a car in Catania, Sicily
• Renting a car in Palermo: what you need to know
• Epic Road Trip for 2-weeks in Sicily itinerary
• Essential Sicily Travel Tips .
• 21 spectacular places to visit in Sicily 
• How to visit Favignana island, Sicily
• Guide to hiking Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve
• Visit Gangi mountain town in Sicily
• The most beautiful small coastal towns and fishing villages in Sicily.
• The most charming mountain towns in Sicily .
• Which is better: Amalfi Coast or Sicily?
• Is Sicily safe? Areas to avoid and safety tips by a regular visitor.
• Airports in Sicily Italy : which one you should fly to?

Italy Itineraries

• 15 Most Beautiful Road Trips in Italy: great ideas for your Italy itinerary
• 10-Day South Italy Itinerary: Naples to Calabria road trip
• 14-Day Sicily Itinerary: a 2-week Sicily road trip
• 2 Days in Amalfi Coast Itinerary: how to spend 48 hours on Amalfi Coast, Italy
• 2 weeks Puglia itinerary – Italy’s heel in 14 days

General Italy travel guides

• Browse all my  blog posts about Italy   HERE .
• Looking for romantic road trip ideas in Italy? Check my list of  15 Best Road Trips in Italy.
• The ultimate guide to renting a car in Italy
• Tips for driving in Italy for the first time .
• Best coastal towns in southern Italy.
• Explore Calabria- the least visited region in Italy.
• Visit Sicily- the biggest island in Italy.

Italy travel resources

Here are links to essential travel resources and services I always use when organizing my trips.

• HIRE A CAR : Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• CHEAP FLIGHTS: find the cheapest and the best flight combinations with Skyscanner .
• ACCOMMODATION: find your perfect stay on Booking.com .
• VISA: apply for a Schengen visa easily at iVisa . Use OneWayFly to reserve dummy flight tickets/hotels if required for your visa application.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider. For the cheapest travel insurance on the market check SafetyWing .
• eSIM CARD: Stay connected before you land. Airlo offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe for reasonable rates.
• GUIDED TOURS:  Find the best day tours in Italy on  GetYourGuide , outdoor tours and activities with Manawa .
• PRIVATE TRANSFER: Book a private transfer to any location in Italy with GetTransfer .
• FLIGHT GOT CANCELLED OR DELAYED? You may receive compensation of up to 600 EUR. Consult and get support from AirHelp or Skycop .

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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