What to do and what to see in Sicily ?

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Sicily is a fascinating island that combines cultural richness, natural beauty and gastronomic traditions. This Italian destination offers a range of activities to suit all tastes, from exploring historic cities such as Palermo and Catania, admiring ancient sites in Syracuse and Agrigento, to enjoying unique experiences on Mount Etna and idyllic beaches such as Cefalù and Scala dei Turchi. Every day spent in Sicily is an opportunity to discover a new treasure, whether it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, a memorable excursion or a tasting of Sicily’s rich cuisine. This guide gives you an overview of Sicily’s must-sees, with practical tips for planning your visits and activities on the island.

What to see in Sicily: Cultural visits

Palermo and Syracuse: Cities of Art and History

Palermo, the pulsating capital of Sicily, is a city rich in history and culture, a veritable crossroads of Mediterranean civilizations. Located on the island’s northern coast, Palermo is a city where epochs overlap, offering you a diverse panorama of art, architecture and traditions.

There are many things to see and do in Palermo:

• Palermo Cathedral: An emblematic monument to visit, where Norman, Gothic and Baroque art meet.
• Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel: A magnificent architectural complex, bearing witness to Norman and Byzantine influence.
• Historic markets: Stroll through the famous Ballarò and Vucciria markets to feel the pulse of the city.
• The Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum is another essential stop in Syracuse, housing an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of Sicily, from prehistory to the Roman period. A visit to this museum is an immersion in the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Syracuse is also the ideal place to explore Sicily more widely, offering day trips. This historic city on Sicily’s east coast is a treasure trove of ancient history. Founded by Greek colonists, it became one of the most influential cities in the ancient Mediterranean world. When you visit Syracuse, you’ll discover a panorama of history and culture, where every stone and every street tells tales of the past.

• Neapolis Archaeological Park: Explore the great Greek theater, the Roman amphitheater and the latomies.
• Isle of Ortygia: Stroll through the ancient streets of this historic district, visit the Piazza del Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa.
• Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum: One of Italy’s most important archaeological museums, it houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts from ancient Sicily.
• Catacombs of San Giovanni: A fascinating tour of early Christian burial practices.

These cities, Palermo and Syracuse, are Sicily’s treasures, offering a wealth of culture and history to their visitors. They perfectly combine exceptional historical sites with a lively, authentic atmosphere, making them a must for any cultural exploration of Sicily.

Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples

Agrigento, also known by its ancient name of Akragas, is a historic town on the southern coast of Sicily, Italy. World-famous for its archaeological site, the Valley of the Temples, it offers much more in terms of history, culture and natural beauty. Take a day out of your trip to Sicily to visit this historic city:

• Agrigento historic center: A visit to Agrigento often begins with a stroll through its historic center. This part of the city is a harmonious blend of medieval and Baroque architecture and vestiges of its glorious Greek and Roman past. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll discover majestic palaces, ancient churches and charming squares, each telling a part of Agrigento’s complex history.
• Regional Archaeological Museum: The Regional Archaeological Museum is a must-see for history buffs. It houses a vast collection of objects tracing the history of Agrigento, from prehistory to the Greek and Roman periods. This museum is essential for understanding Sicily’s rich history and culture, with well-organized and informative exhibits.

Agrigento is a fascinating destination not only for its historical heritage, but also for its natural beauty and strategic position on the Sicilian coast. A day in Agrigento is a day rich in discovery and wonder, a must for any trip to Sicily.

A visit to Agrigento would not be complete without a visit to the Valley of the Temples. This archaeological site is one of the most representative examples of Greek architecture in the world, and is home to majestic temples such as the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Heracles and the impressive ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus. A walk through the valley is a journey back in time, allowing visitors to connect with Sicily’s ancient past.

Here’s a list of 3 must-see temples on your day trip to the Valley of the Temples:

• Temple of Concordia: Visit this remarkably well-preserved Doric temple, a symbol of Greek architectural grandeur. Built around 430 BC, it is one of the best-preserved Hellenic temples in the Greek world.
• Temple of Heracles: Explore the ruins of this temple dedicated to the mythical hero, one of the oldest on the Valley of the Temples site.
• Temple of Olympian Zeus: Although its ruins are more fragmentary, this temple was one of the largest religious edifices in ancient Greece.

Catania and Taormina : Between Sea and Mountains

Catania, strategically located at the foot of Mount Etna, is a city that perfectly combines cultural richness and Baroque architecture. Walking through its streets, you can feel the vibrant energy of a city that has risen and rebuilt itself through the centuries, despite volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.

• Piazza del Duomo: The beating heart of Catania, this square is a magnificent example of Sicilian Baroque architecture. It is dominated by the imposing Cathedral of Saint Agatha, a religious edifice dedicated to the city’s patron saint. The cathedral, with its ornate facades and rich interior, is a testament to Catania’s history and faith.
• Elephant Fountain: A symbol of the city, this unique fountain features a lava-stone elephant supporting an Egyptian obelisk. It’s a must-see if you want to understand local mythology and legends.
• Roman Theatre and Odeon: Catania is also home to important remains from Roman times. The Roman theater, still used for cultural events, offers a glimpse into the social and cultural life of antiquity.

Taormina, perched on a hill, is a true jewel of Sicily. With breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, this historic town is a captivating blend of history, culture and natural scenery.

• Ancient Greek Theater: Taormina’s theater, one of Sicily’s most famous ancient sites, offers an unforgettable experience. Its location, with panoramic views of the sea and Mount Etna, makes it a spectacular setting for theatrical performances and concerts.
• A stroll through the city: Walking through the streets of Taormina is like stepping back in time. Narrow streets lined with stores, restaurants and picturesque gardens invite you to discover and relax. Every corner offers a new view or a glimpse of the town’s history.
• Isola Bella: Near Taormina lies Isola Bella, a small island linked to the beach by a sandy isthmus. This protected natural site is ideal for swimming, snorkeling or simply admiring the beauty of the Sicilian coast.

The combination of Catania and Taormina offers a diverse exploration of Sicily, between the urban vitality at the foot of an active volcano and the charm of a perched historic town with breathtaking sea views. These destinations are essential stops on any trip to Sicily, offering immersion in the island’s history, culture and natural beauty.

What to do in Sicily : Experiences

• Adventures on the Mount Etna
  
  Etna excursions: Etna, that giant among European volcanoes, offers a variety of excursions for all levels. Whether it’s day hikes, sunrise ascents or off-road vehicle tours, Etna promises breathtaking panoramas and an unforgettable experience. These excursions, accessible from Catania, will take you through unique volcanic landscapes, offering a fascinating insight into Sicily’s geology and natural history.

• Sicilian cooking class

Cooking workshops: For a complete immersion in Sicilian culture, take part in a traditional cooking class. These workshops, often located in picturesque settings, allow you to learn how to prepare local specialties such as caponata, arancini or cannoli. It’s a delicious way to spend a day in Sicily, ideal for gourmets and cooking enthusiasts.

• Diving, Snorkeling and Island Exploration

Aeolian Islands and Isola Bella: For sea lovers, a trip to the Aeolian Islands or Isola Bella near Taormina is a must. These sites offer exceptional opportunities for diving and snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity. Discover underwater caves, coral reefs and perhaps even ancient shipwrecks.

• Wine and food tasting

Etna and Marsala Wine Route: Explore the Etna and Marsala wine regions to discover exceptional wines. Visit wineries where you can taste unique wines, often accompanied by local produce. It’s an enriching experience that combines the pleasure of tasting with the discovery of Sicilian wine traditions.

• Discover the Beaches and Coasts

Scala dei Turchi and Cefalù: Visit Scala dei Turchi, a stunning natural rock formation, and enjoy its unique beaches for a day of relaxation. In Cefalù, combine beach fun with a visit to its charming historic center, where you can admire Cefalù Cathedral and stroll along its picturesque lanes.

• Road Trip through Sicily

A road trip in Sicily is the ideal opportunity to explore the island’s diversity at your own pace. From the historic town of Mazara del Vallo to the marvelous mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale, each destination reveals a different facet of Sicily. Be sure to visit sites such as the Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or picturesque Piana degli Albanesi.

The island of Sicily is a destination that offers rich experiences, blending ancient history, natural beauty and vibrant culture. From climbing imposing Mount Etna to strolling the historic streets of Palermo and Syracuse, every moment spent on this Mediterranean island is an opportunity for enrichment and discovery.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure, a cultural trip or simply a relaxing moment by the sea, Sicily has a lot to offer. It’s a destination that invites exploration, whether it’s a day trip, a guided tour of an archaeological park, or a road trip through its varied landscapes. When you leave, you’ll take with you memories of an island where history, nature and culture meet in harmony.