Welcome to Sicily – Top Ten Things to Do

Working out the meaning of its different elements is like deciphering a code with the colours, the recipes and the inhabitants all offering clues to the island’s past. This collection of ten things to do and see take you on a route to discover the missing pieces of the puzzle.

Palermo and its ancient markets
The capital of Sicily is a place of art and of tradition where the nobility have always lived side by side with everyone else. Palermo is a place not to miss during your trip not least for the experience of visiting the historic markets that are reminiscent of an Arabian souk. Wander the busy shopping street of Vucciria, or shop at the Capo and the Ballarò markets to find yourself at the heart of the vibrant city.

The Via del Sale (The Road of Salt)
A drive along the ‘Road of Salt’ which hugs the stunning Trapani coastline tells the story of the salt industry. Dotted along the landscape you will see the salt mills that use traditional production methods to harness the power of the wind and sea to bring salt to the kitchen table.

The Temples of Agrigento
The atmospheric Valley of the Temples is a legacy of the Greek occupation of Sicily. Don’t miss the ‘Festival of the Almond Blossom’, held every February. This is when the valley becomes a sea of white as the almond trees come into flower.

Mount Etna
One of the most active volcanoes in the world, Mount Etna dominates the north east coast of Sicily attracting hundreds of visitors who fall in love with its atmospheric presence. The clouds of smoke that drift across the landscape from its crater, and the bursts of fire which can sometimes be seen at night, have brought respect from the people who live in its shadow. Yet rather than fear it, Etna is regarded by the locals as a good luck charm.

Capo Passero and the Isola delle Correnti
The most southern point of Italy, this is the place where the Ionian and the Tyrrhenian Sea meet, the last bit of land before Africa. Try and walk through the crashing waves to the Isola delle Correnti (Island of the Currents) or enjoy a swim on one of the uncrowded white beaches that can be found along this coast.

Taormina, Isola Bella and the Alcantara Gorge
To wander the narrow streets of Taormina is to become enchanted with this elegant hilltop town. Visit the Greek Amphitheatre with its views over the eastern coast of Sicily, Calabria and Mount Etna. Or visit Isola Bella (or ‘beautiful island’) which lies at the foot of Taormina, an island surrounded by clear waters, where you can swim or snorkel from the small pebble beach. Alternatively visit the Alcantara Gorge where you can take guided walks through the canyon, or dive in its icy pools. However be warned, that without proper boots and equipment which are available to hire at the visitors centre, your visit in these waters will be a short one!

The Roman Villa at Casale
The mosaics that can be seen at the Villa Romana, found in the Piazza Armerina, have brought central Sicily to the attention of historic art lovers from around the world. The vast expanse of ancient mosaic floors remains largely intact and is well worth a visit.

The Eolie Islands
Seven small volcanic islands make up this archipelago off the north coast of Sicily. Over the centuries, the wind, the sea and volcanic activity have created these islands with their unique landscapes named after the God of Wind, Aeolus. UNESCO has declared this group of islands a World Heritage Site. Take a boat trip around the islands for the best views.

The Natural Marine Reserve at Ustica
In 1986, the seabeds around Ustica became the first official marine reserve in Italy, as a way to protect the rich flora and fauna that can be found here. The area is a magnet for snorkelers and there are also several guided water walks you can take. Book an excursion on a specially adapted boat for some unforgettable sea-watching.

The Baroque of Noto
The town of Noto is one of the cultural highlights of anyone visiting Sicily with its stunning Baroque architecture that lines the main street. The churches and the cathedral in their golden colours are complemented by the ornate balconies of the old palazzos, intricate in detail and design. In fact this is one of the many Sicilian towns declared a site of historic interest by UNESCO. Others include Palazzolo Acreide, Scicli, Modica, Ragusa, Militello Val Di Catania, Caltagirone and Catania, places where the Baroque architecture that characterises this eastern side of Sicily has achieved world-wide recognition.