Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and one of Italy’s most popular travel destinations. From Palermo to Catania, I’ll show you the best corners of the island and give you insider tips for your trip!
Are you looking for a small island to relax on? Somehow remote, but still easy to reach within Europe and a destination that not everyone knows? Salina is the perfect place for a few relaxing days in absolutely breathtaking surroundings! I’ll show you a Mediterranean island that really impressed me with its charm – and one of the coziest accommodations I’ve experienced in a long time.
Where is Salina actually located?
Salina is a small island in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the northern coast of Sicily. Together with the six other islands of Stromboli, Lipari, Filicudi, Panarea, Vulcano and Alicudi, it forms the archipelago of the Aeolian Islands, which are often referred to as the Lipari Islands.
The name Stromboli may sound familiar to you: This is where actress Ingrid Bergman shot the avant-garde film “Stromboli ” with director Roberto Rossellini, which also made the island itself more famous. The island is also home to Stromboli, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. It erupts regularly. As part of a guided tour, you can even observe these eruptions yourself during a climb.
Santa Marina is the lively main town on the island and the most important port of arrival for ferries. You can feel the special flair of this small harbor town as soon as you dock: it is lively, but not overcrowded.
The main street, which runs from the harbor through the town, is lined with small boutiques, souvenir stores and cafés. You can take a leisurely stroll here, especially during the season from April to October, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.
Malfa: Foodie’s paradise
Malfa is located in the north of the island and is the center of viticulture on Salina. Here you will find the famous Malvasia vineyards. Foodies will be delighted anyway: Salina is also known for its capers! The village itself is small and cozy – and my personal tip for spending a few days on Salina.
Principe di Salina in Malfa
The Principe di Salina* is a genuine boutique hotel: Family-run and designed with great attention to detail, you will feel like you are in a cozy nest that you will hardly want to leave.
Basically, there’s everything you need here for a relaxing vacation: Nice company, breathtaking views and – really good food. The food is cooked on a large scale for all guests every evening, served at a long wooden table and everyone somehow gets to talk to each other.
The Principe di Salina is my absolute heartfelt recommendation. However, there is a catch: it’s usually almost impossible to book spontaneously (I was very lucky because it was already the end of the season) – all rooms are usually fully booked by mid-October in spring! So if you find capacity, book quickly. You won’t regret it!
Pollara is a small, remote village that became famous thanks to the 1994 film “Il Postino“. The film, in which the paths of a simple letter carrier and the Chilean author Pablo Neruda cross, is actually set on the island of Procida near Naples.
But Pollara, with its striking half-crater and the rocks all around, has a very special atmosphere, so it’s not surprising that this place has made it into a movie set.
Pollara is probably the most remote place on the small island of Salina, and many of the houses are abandoned. Together with the impressive surroundings, this creates a very special atmosphere. In good weather, you can also swim in the Baia di Pollara.
There is no real sandy beach, but that is also the charm of this place. However, if you visit Pollara in stormy weather like I did, you’d better be careful; the rough rocks and high waves can quickly become dangerous.
Helpful tips for your trip to Salina
When is the best time to visit Salina?
As always, it depends a little on what you want to do on the island. If you want to do a lot of hiking, e.g. through the Riserva Naturale Orientata or up to Monte Fossa delle Felci, the months of May/June and September/October are more suitable. The temperatures are mild to warm, but not too hot.
If you want a real summer feeling, balmy nights and a bit of entertainment, then you should visit Salina in July and August. That’s when all the restaurants are open, the island is full of life and the Mediterranean climate means you’re almost guaranteed good weather during these months.
But the island is small and the number of accommodations is limited. It is very difficult to find something spontaneously, especially in summer. The price level is correspondingly high and comparable to regions such as the Amalfi Coast or the Cinque Terre.
Many accommodations are closed from November to April. Ferry services may also no longer run regularly or may be canceled altogether due to weather conditions.
I myself was on Salina at the end of October. The end of the season was already very noticeable and the last days of late summer had just come to an end. The tranquil atmosphere had something going for it, but I personally would have found it a little too quiet a few weeks later – then you really are very isolated on Salina.
How many days do you need for Salina?
If, like me, you are also traveling in Sicily and therefore don’t have that much time, two days are enough. Salina is not particularly big, so you can explore a lot in a short time if you plan well.
However, I would plan an extra 1-2 days if possible. Salina is really great and simply very relaxing; it’s a real shame if you only experience the island in a rush. Especially if you’ve found such great accommodation as the Principe di Salina*, where you can really unwind.
How to get to Salina
By ferry to Salina
There is no airport on Salina. You have to travel here by ferry or hydrofoil, which depart from various ports in Sicily, e.g. Milazzo, Palermo or Messina. The journey from Milazzo is the quickest and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. There are connections several times a day with the ferry companies Liberty Lines and Siremar.
If you are already on one of the other Aeolian Islands, you can also take a boat from there to Salina. There are regular connections from Lipari in particular, the largest of the islands; the journey takes just 30 minutes.
By car to Salina
If, like me, you are traveling with a rental car on a road trip in Sicily, I recommend leaving the car in Milazzo. The crossing by car is very expensive, and you can always hire a car or scooter on the island. Most accommodations also offer pick-up services at the port of Salina. So it really isn’t necessary to take an expensive rental car with you.
There are several garages near the port of Milazzo, as well as cheaper parking lots with a shuttle service a little outside. I simply parked my rental car for several days at Garage del Porto, and the car was parked for me in the parking lot outside and brought back to the garage when I picked it up. No problems and super easy!
Arrival from outside Sicily
If you are not already in Sicily, you can fly to either Catania or Palermo and from there take a rental car or bus to Milazzo. It takes a little longer from Palermo to Milazzo, but you will also pass beautiful places such as Cefalù. From Catania, a detour to Taormina is a good idea.
If you have time, you can also get to Milazzo by train from the Italian mainland. Train travel in Italy is quite pleasant, and the north-south connection is often scenic.
This article was written on behalf of a research trip for Travellers Insight, the travel blog of Munich Airport. You can find more articles about Sicily here.
Catania is the second largest city in Sicily and always seems to be a little overshadowed by Palermo. But Catania is also unexpectedly charming and definitely worth a visit. In this article, I’ll show you Catania’s must-see sights and a few very interesting insider tips!
There’s plenty to see in Catania, and if you can, feel free to set aside a little extra time to explore this side of Sicily. After all, Catania has quite a few attractions to offer.
Cathedral of Catania, Piazza del Duomo & Fontana dell’Elefante
Almost more striking than the cathedral itself is the Fontana dell’Elefante on the Piazza del Duomo in front of it. The elephant fountain depicts the Liotru, symbol of the city of Catania.
There are many myths surrounding the Liotru, the most beautiful of which I found to be the interpretation as a symbol of the strength of the inhabitants of Catania to withstand severe natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions throughout history.
Piazza dell’Universita
The large Piazza dell’Universita is almost directly adjacent to the Piazza del Duomo. It also marks the start of the Via Etnea. Many walking tours through the center of Catania start from here.
When it comes to the traditional fish market in Catania, I’m still not sure whether I can recommend this place with a clear conscience: The many halved swordfish, bloody fish knives and a very rustic ambience can dampen your mood somewhat.
Despite everything, I found the hustle and bustle of the market super interesting and somehow fascinating. The fish market is located directly behind the Piazza Duomo, but the entrance is so well hidden in a corner behind a fountain, the Fontana dell’Amenano, that you think you are entering another world.
A few steps below the actual street level is the actual fish market with its many stalls, so that you have a perfect view of the action from above.
The tall buildings all around with their dark marble stone façades add to the atmosphere of the market.
In the side streets around the fish market, you will find other market stalls with fruit and vegetables as well as lots of great little bars and restaurants.
In addition to the Teatro Romano, there is another excavation in the middle of Catania. You can visit the Anfiteatro Romano in Piazza Stesicoro for a small fee.
Via Etnea
In contrast to Via Maqueda, the central shopping street in Palermo, Via Etnea in Catania is rather unadorned. Only partly pedestrianized, the Via Etnea is not necessarily the best place for a stroll. However, the name is no coincidence: from the Via Etnea you can see the summit of Mount Etna in good weather!
Via Crociferi
There is hardly a better example of Baroque architecture in Sicily in such a small space: the Via Crociferi was built after the earthquake of 1693 and became one of the most important urban planning projects in Catania at the time. Baroque churches and monasteries line the streets here.
Castello Ursino
In the middle of the city you will also come across the Castello Ursino. The medieval fortress was built in the 13th century under the rule of Frederick II of Hohenstaufen to protect Catania from attacks.
The enormous size and massive construction of the fortress in its present location seems strange, as it does not fit in at all with the rest of the cityscape. However, when it was built, Castello Ursino was located directly on the water! However, due to a major eruption of Mount Etna in 1669, lava flowed around the fortress and caused the coastline to shift.
Eating & drinking in Catania
Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab
The street food hype in Catania really started with Scirocco: What once began as a small stall on the edge of the fish market is now THE place to go for fish and seafood on the go.
If you still need to get something down after the bloody fish market spectacle, there is no better place than Scirocco for a little snack in between. Or you can just come back in the evening.
Mooddika
The Mooddika was a bit of a surprise. I had actually expected a boring tourist trap here, in a side street near the central Piazza dell’Università, and only ended up there out of convenience.
But the pasta was surprisingly fresh and delicious – and the ambience of the bar, restaurant and salumeria was very pleasant. Absolute recommendation!
I was on a big road trip through Sicily, so I was particularly pleased when I found an absolutely central boutique hotel with an attached parking space.
The B&B Palazzo Bruca* is located in an old palazzo and is just a few meters from the Piazza del Duomo. So if you’re looking for central accommodation in Catania, you’ve come to the right place!
Due to its proximity to Mount Etna, Catania is a great base for excursions to the still active volcano. You take a cable car up to the mountain station, from where you continue up in a jeep – alternatively, you can start the hike right away.
I definitely recommend a guided tour. On Mount Etna, the weather can change quickly, the paths are not necessarily safe and, in addition to orientation difficulties in the vast lava fields at an altitude of up to almost 3000 meters, there can also be discomfort caused by altitude sickness. Having a local guide with you is worth its weight in gold.
If you don’t want to climb Mount Etna, you can also take the Ferrovia Circumetnea almost all the way around the volcano. The last narrow-gauge railroad in Sicily exudes an absolute retro vibe and travels to many small villages around Mount Etna.
The Ferrovia Circumetnea starts in Catania at Borgo station in the northern city center.
From Catania, you can also reach many other interesting places on the east coast of Sicily. The romantic mountain town of Taormina, for example, is only 50 kilometers from Catania.
Tip: Save yourself the trouble of searching for a parking space in a hire car through narrow streets in Taormina or complicated journeys by public transport and book a day trip from Catania!
To help you find your way around Catania quickly, I have put together a map with all the tips from this article. You can also easily download them and use them on your cell phone when you’re out and about.
My trip to Sicily was sponsored by Travellers Insight, the travel blog of Munich Airport. Click here to find more exciting tips for Sicily, Trapani & Palermo.
Located on the east coast of Sicily and blessed with fantastic views of the imposing Mount Etna and the azure blue Ionian Sea, the small mountain village of Taormina has always been a magnet for visitors. And that can sometimes be more of a curse than a blessing. In my big guide, I’ll show you the most important sights in Taormina and tell you whether visiting Taormina is really worth on your trip to Sicily.
You absolutely have to do this in Taormina:
Stroll along Corso Umberto
Admire the giant Mount Etna from the Teatro Greco
Sip a granita at the Bam Bar
In Taormina, it is also worth taking a look at the small side streets. Most visitors often concentrate on Corso Umberto and the Teatro Greco. Both are well worth seeing, but Taormina has a lot more charm to offer.
Places of interest in Taormina
Taormina is quite clearly laid out. Therefore you can easily explore the most important sights in the center in one day and enjoy the atmosphere of this special place in Sicily at the same time.
Corso Umberto I
Corso Umberto I is the lifeline of Taormina. Lined with medieval and Florentine buildings, you can stroll for all you’re worth. Here you will find small boutiques and luxury brands such as Dior or Louis Vuitton, boring stores with stuff for tourists, but also some small, quaint stores.
Daneu 1885 Old-fashioned store for home textiles and a bit of ceramics with a nostalgic flair
Di Blasi Typical Sicilian ceramics and the small store itself is a sight to behold
Tip: If you really want to breathe in the jet-set air on Corso Umberto, you should take a short break from sightseeing at the Louis Vuitton Café by Timeo. The café is part of the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo*, which in turn also belongs to the LVMH Group.
In the café, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the sea with Louis Vuitton decorations – if I hadn’t been wearing my casual sightseeing outfit that day in Taormina, I would certainly have ended up here. (Unfortunately, you should look a bit more stylish here, otherwise you’re likely to be turned away or blasély ignored).
Piazza IX Aprile
Piazza IX Aprile is one of the most popular viewpointsin Taormina and is always busy. However, the square is very large, so that the crowds of tourists are well distributed here even in the high season. And the checkerboard pattern looks great on any souvenir photo!
Porta Messina & Porta Catania
Two city gates form the beginning and end of Corso Umberto I. The northern end is marked by the Porta Messina. To the south is the somewhat imposing Porta Messina. Both are part of Taormina’s medieval fortifications, which were built by the Arabs to protect the city from invaders.
The gates are also a popular meeting point for tours of Taormina.
Teatro Greco
The ancient Greek theater, the Teatro Greco, is an absolutely stunning location in Taormina that you should definitely not miss. The entrance fee is quite high, but the view of the city, the sea and Mount Etna from the stands is simply unique.
The theater was originally built by the Greeks in the 3rd century. BC. later used by the Romans and in the 2nd century. AD. into an arena for gladiator fights.
Large events and concerts take place here in the evenings. The atmosphere with this backdrop must be incredibly fascinating – if you have time, ask about current events on site.
The Duomo di Taormina dates back to the 13th century and is rather plain on the outside. You can also easily recognize the Norman influences in the straightforward architecture. The square in front of it with its baroque fountain is particularly pretty.
Find your accommodation in Taormina here
Advertising / *affiliate link
Naumachie
In a small side street off Corso Umberto you will find a very special sight in Taormina: the Naumachie is a massive brick wall about 120 meters long and 5 meters high, which probably once formed the boundary of a sports facility where athletes trained.
Villa Comunale
Taormina can be quite exhausting during the day, especially if you keep getting caught between tours of cruise tourists at neuralgic points such as the Corso Umberto or the Teatro Greco.
The gardens of Villa Comunale are a true oasis of calm and a perfect opportunity to take a breather. You also have a great view of the sea and the coast.
The gardens were originally owned by Lady Florence Travelyan, an English noblewoman who also owned Isola Bella. However, like Isola Bella, the park now belongs to the town of Taormina and is open to the public.
The small oriental-style buildings, the“beehives“, are particularly striking. These used to be used for birdwatching or afternoon tea, but are currently not accessible and unfortunately no longer in such good condition.
Via degli Artisti
Via degli Artisti is also a great photo opportunity in Taormina. Here you will find galleries, murals and colorfully designed house facades.
Isola Bella
Isola Bella is a small island off the beach of Mazzaró. It is connected to the beach by a small sandbank and can therefore be reached on foot. Depending on the tide, your feet may or may not get wet, so it’s best to wear something that can be rolled up or put on a beach outfit.
The island itself is a nature reserve and part of it can be visited for a few euros.
However, I personally didn’t find the beach at Mazzaró particularly nice for swimming. A large part of the beach is taken up by hotels and beach bars. And instead of a sandy beach, you’ll find coarse pebbles here.
The view of Isola Bella is nevertheless very beautiful and the elegant vibe at La Plage Resort* tempted me to settle down here for a cool drink – but it’s not exactly cheap, and spending an entire vacation here wouldn’t be my thing.
Where to dine in Taormina
You’ll find plenty of cafés and restaurants in Taormina. Unfortunately, the price level here is much higher and you also have to be careful with the quality: Tourist traps are not uncommon here.
Here are a few tips that won’t disappoint you and where you can enjoy typical Sicilian specialties without the touristy atmosphere!
Taverna Don Nino This small, cozy taverna is located near the Villa Comunale and quite away from the hustle and bustle. A real insider tip! There are only two pasta dishes on the menu: pasta alla norma (tomato, eggplant and ricotta) and pasta with pistachio cream and bacon, but they are really, really good and very cheap for Taormina. My recommendation for lunch!
Bam Bar The Bam Bar serves typical Sicilian granita, brioche and coffee in a colorful atmosphere – perfect for something sweet in between.
Chapeau Corso Umberto is of course bustling with life in the evening, but the Chaplin, whose terrace is somewhat hidden down a flight of steps to the side of the Duomo, is a really atmospheric place to sit. And the cocktails are great!
Casamatta Small, modern wine bar with a relaxed atmosphere. Also open during the day.
Budget tip: Rosticceria Da Cristina 2 always serves fresh and good pizza from the tray, delicious street food such as arancine and inexpensive daily specials!
If you want to learn a little more about Sicilian wine, a trip to Taormina is a good opportunity to take part in a wine tasting:
Taormina is definitely one of the most expensive spots in Sicily. This means that accommodation here is not exactly cheap and the price-performance ratio often leaves a lot to be desired.
However, if you want to spoil yourself with slightly more expensive accommodation, Taormina is the place for you! Here you will find beautiful boutique hotels or luxury hotels such as the San Domenico Palace*, known from the Netflix series “White Lotus”.
For example, if you want to stay in the middle of it all, but still in a stylish and cozy atmosphere, you should take a look at the Taodomus Small Boutique Hotel*. There are only a few rooms available, so book early.
I was just passing through and unfortunately made a complete mess of my first accommodation: Too expensive, too unfriendly, too dirty. That’s why I moved again, and I can really recommend the accommodation:
Budget tip: Just outside the city center, but within walking distance of the valley station of the cable car and Isola Bella, I discovered a quaint guesthouse in an old town villa. The Villa Moschella* is a little dated, but really well maintained – and the location is unbeatable. Please note: The rooms are very popular and get booked up quickly!
Taormina is relatively easy to reach despite its location on a mountainside. Day trips are offered from many places, e.g. from Catania. You can also take the train to Taormina-Giardini station on your own. From there, buses run up to the center.
Taormina cable car
Mazzaró beach can be reached by cable car from the center of Taormina. During the season, the cable car runs late into the night, so you can easily enjoy balmy summer nights in the atmospheric old town and then return to your beach hotel.
Driving in Taormina can be a sheer horror: The access roads are sometimes winding, narrow and crowded. In the high season, you also have to share the narrow roads with various coaches and the roads that you are allowed to drive on in the town center are often one-way streets.
This way you can avoid stress when traveling by car:
Head straight for Porta Catania. There is a large multi-storey parking garage where you have the best chance of finding a parking space close to Corso Umberto. Unfortunately, the driveways are relatively narrow and you sometimes have to drive up many floors. But the location is unbeatable.
There are many parking lots around Taormina that offer a shuttle service.
There are also several parking spaces around the valley station of the cable car.
Day trips to Taormina are also offered from many places, so you can simply leave the rental car/your car behind.
Are you staying overnight in Taormina and traveling by rental car? Find out in advance whether a parking space is available.
Taormina has a bit of a reputation: It’s posh, at the same time very crowded and somehow doesn’t really want to create a Sicilian atmosphere. And when the big cruise ships dock in neighboring Naxos, it gets even more crowded.
Nevertheless, Taormina is really very charming, and if you follow some of the tips in my guide here, you will certainly find one or two less crowded corners. You should also experience Taormina in the evening: The atmospherically illuminated old town in the evening is truly romantic.
However, I wouldn’t want to spend too much time here, it’s just too touristy and Sicily has so much more to offer! So: excursion definitely, longer no.
Here you can find a map with all the locations from this article. Perfect for saving for your trip!
This post was written on a research trip through Sicily for Travellers Insight, the travel blog of Munich Airport. On the website, you can find more exciting tips for Sicily, TrapaniPalermo.
Sicily blew me away: The largest island in the Mediterranean is so incredibly diverse and fascinating. Here you will find vibrant cities such as Catania and Palermo, beautiful beaches and bays, as well as historical sites from all eras. In this article, you will find my selection of the 20 most beautiful places in Sicily. Perfect for inspiring you to take a trip to Sicily or to start planning your itinerary right away.
What you need to know
Sicily has a long and eventful history, which is why you will even find influences from the ancient Greeks, Normans and Arabs in its architecture and culture.
Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, offers impressive hikes and day trips in a spectacular setting.
Sicily is home to many towns and villages with unique charm, such as Palermo, Taormina and Cefalù – all worth a visit!
Sicily sights: What you must see
Sicily is a destination for all the senses: the landscape is impressive, the Sicilians are open-minded – and oh my God, the food everywhere is simply delicious! A trip to Sicily is worthwhile for this alone. But the largest island in the Mediterranean also has other great sights to offer. You can discover natural wonders such as the brightly lit Scala dei Turchi or Mount Etna, Europe’s highest volcano.
And the Sicilian Baroque in the Val di Noto or the ancient temples near Agrigento are not just for history buffs. If you’ve had enough of history, you can simply plunge into the hustle and bustle of the capital Palermo and explore one of the most exciting cities in Europe. You’re guaranteed not to get bored in Sicily!
#1 Etna – Europe’s highest volcano
Have you ever stood on a volcano? Mount Etna is not just any volcano – it is Europe’s highest and also one of the most active volcanoes. It can be seen from afar, and on days with good visibility you can even see it from the Piazza del Duomo in the center of Catania or from the ancient theater in Taormina.
Advertising / *affiliate link
As Mount Etna is still an active volcano, you should only climb it as part of an organized tour. Most tours include a ride on the Funivia dell’Etna cable car and an experienced mountain guide who will accompany you safely to the best spots.
Opinions differ on Palermo – which I personally cannot understand at all. For me, Palermo is one of the most exciting cities in Italy or even Europe. The city is so full of life without being intimidating; it’s always busy around the clock – people dance, play music and live on the streets.
In Palermo’s old town, you can explore the exciting history of Sicily through all eras in a very small space, as you will find Norman, Arabic and Byzantine influences in the various architectural styles.
And there is hardly a better place to try so many Sicilian specialties at once: The street food at Palermo’s markets is simply legendary.
#3 Mondello: the city beach of Palermo
In summer, you will probably meet the whole of Palermo here at the weekends: Mondello is the city beach of the Sicilian capital, so to speak. Here you can stroll, sunbathe and swim in the truly turquoise waters.
And of course, Sicilian street food is a must: The food stalls serve delicious arancini – the stuffed rice balls are a typical beach snack on a hot summer’s day.
#4 Cefalù – coastal idyll and Norman architecture
Cefalù is only an hour’s drive from Palermo and is definitely one of my favorite places in Sicily. The small fishing village has managed to retain the charm of the old days and is now the perfect mix of beach, culture and vacation atmosphere: the perfect choice for a Sicilian vacation!
In the almost car-free city center, the Norman cathedral forms the center of Cefalú. Here you can sip a cappuccino in the large piazza and then stroll directly to the small beach at the old harbor of Cefalú to refresh yourself in the turquoise blue sea. And then there is the Rocca di Cefalù, the town’s local mountain, which towers above everything and which you can even climb via a hiking trail.
#5 Taormina – The pearl of Sicily
When it comes to the most beautiful places in Sicily, Taormina is often mentioned. Situated high on a hill, the town with its charming old town offers views that will blow you away.
The ancient theater is also one of the top sights in Sicily. Here you will not only learn more about the long history of Taormina, but you will also have a magnificent view of Mount Etna and the Gulf of Giardini-Naxos.
However, Taormina is literally flooded with tourists during the season. Many cruise ships also dock in nearby Giardini Naxos, so it can get quite crowded in the small old town during the day. Nevertheless, Taormina is really pretty and I would definitely recommend at least one trip here.
In Siracusa, you can experience Sicily’s history up close. In the Neapolis archaeological park, you can visit the ancient Greek theater and explore the Ear of Dionysius.
The old town of is located on the island of Ortigia, where you can stroll through the old, narrow streets. From the Norman fortress to the ancient temples – Ortigia is simply like one big open-air museum.
#7 The Valley of the Temples near Agrigento
Curiously, the Valley of the Temples near Agrigento is not a valley, but a hill. On days with good visibility, you can even see the sea from here!
In the Valley of the Temples you will find impressive remains of the ancient Greeks in Sicily, such as the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Greek temples in existence, the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, once one of the largest temples of antiquity.
The Valley of the Temples is particularly impressive at night when the buildings are specially illuminated.
#8 Noto
Noto is like a little treasure in the Val di Noto of the same name. Here you will find some of the Sicilian Baroque towns that are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Personally, I was most impressed by Noto: the small old town is clearly laid out, but still full of pretty cafés, great restaurants and, of course, really great baroque architecture.
And it is truly breathtaking to experience the sunset on one of the church towers. The warm sunlight then envelops the entire city and gives the sandstone of the buildings a golden glow.
#9 Riserva naturale orientata dello Zingaro
If you are looking for pure nature and tranquillity, then the Riserva dello Zingaro is the right place for you. In the nature reserve in the northwest of Sicily, there is nothing but breathtaking scenery and beautiful bays.
Several hiking trails lead through the reserve, which is located between Castellamare di Golfo and San Vito Lo Capo. Originally, a coastal road was planned here, but due to the continuous protests of local residents, the plans were scrapped and the region has now been protected forever – also to the delight of all visitors to Sicily, as the Zingaro is truly impressive.
#10 Aeolian Islands
The Aeolian Islands are a real insider tip if you love nature and especially volcanoes. The most famous of the Aeolian Islands (also known as the Lipari Islands ) is Stromboli.
The volcano of the same name on the island is one of the most active in the world and can be climbed as part of a guided hike*. There are also complete boat tours from the mainland, where you can explore Stromboli and the surrounding islands and, with a bit of luck, see the lava running down from the volcano from the sea after dark.
But I can particularly recommend one of the best-kept secrets of the Aeolian Islands: On Salina, you really enter another world.
The small island is also of volcanic origin and tends to be ignored by large crowds of tourists. Here you will find fine, cozy boutique hotels such as the Principe Di Salina* and relaxing nature – perfect for switching off!
#11 Trapani and its salt pans
Trapani is a real underdog among Sicily’s coastal towns. Many tourists don’t pay much attention to Trapani, and only set sail from here to the Egadi Islands.
But the old town of Trapani really does have some treasures to offer and scores highly in terms of architecture and cuisine with old Arabic influences. An exciting mix!
The salt pans on the outskirts of the city are also really great. You can even see wild flamingos in the extensive lagoon landscape! And a sunset with a view of the sea is unforgettable from here.
#12 Egadi Islands
Trapani is also the best place to reach the Egadi Islands, consisting of Favignana, Marettimo and Levanzo. Favignana in particular is worth a detour.
For me, the island seemed like a mixture of Ibiza and Sylt: lots of nature, beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water – but also Mediterranean, relaxed nightlife with great restaurants and cocktail bars in the small main town.
The characteristic tufa caves and the former tuna factory Ex Stabilimento Florio delle tonnare are just some of the sights you can discover on Favignana.
#13 Catania
Catania, the second largest city in Sicily, is bursting with energy. The many dark building facades are also striking: Lava stone from Mount Etna was used for many of the buildings, giving the city its unmistakable flair.
Here you will also find a piece of Sicily’s long history in the form of the Roman theaters.
But today’s Catania is also really exciting: at the fish market, which is located right in the center behind the Piazza del Duomo, it gets really busy almost every day when the freshly caught fish is brought to the people.
You will also find great bars and restaurants all around, where you can enjoy the typical Sicilian hustle and bustle until late in the evening.
Tuna fishing once played a major role in Sicily: entire families lived off the bloody mattanza for generations. Shoals of tuna swim past Sicily on their way to their spawning grounds in May. Off the coast, they are guided through a sophisticated system of nets and finally caught.
However, due to overfishing in the Mediterranean, tuna fishing in Sicily has declined sharply and fishing has been abandoned in many places.
Today, the Tonnara di Scopello is one of the most popular Instagram spots in Sicily: the small bay with the rocks in front of it is simply a beautiful photo motif. The old tonnara itself is now home to a pretty boutique hotel and a small museum, which can also be visited by day visitors by appointment.
#15 Marzamemi
Although the fishing village of Marzamemi is no longer an absolute insider tip, only a fraction of Sicily’s holidaymakers find their way here to the south-eastern tip of the island. The region around Marzamemi is sparsely populated and the town itself has retained its original charm – the perfect conditions for a relaxing stay.
Around Marzamemi you will also find extensive beaches and a nature reserve with flamingos and many other wild birds.
Exciting: the former tuna factory has been converted into a small excursion destination! Colorful restaurants, small boutiques and delicatessens line the streets here.
#16 Scala dei Turchi
The Scala dei Turchi is a true natural wonder: the gleaming white limestone cliff drops into the sea like a staircase. Until recently, you could simply walk up to the rocks.
However, as there have been repeated cases of vandalism in the past, the rocks are now cordoned off and you can only admire them from a distance.
However, there are several beaches all around where you can go for a swim. The view from and to the Scala dei Turchi is particularly beautiful at sunset, when the sunlight reflects off the bright limestone.
#17 Ragusa
Ragusa consists of two parts: Since the severe earthquake in Sicily in 1693, the city has been separated by a gorge. The upper part is called Ragusa Superiore, the lower town Ragusa Ibla.
Most of the Baroque buildings worth seeing can be found in Ragusa Ibla. Here you can stroll through romantic alleyways or simply relax in the inviting Giardini Iblei.
If you are traveling by rental car, you can always stop at viewpoints on the winding mountain roads around Ragusa to enjoy the incomparable view of the valley.
Modica is also one of the Baroque towns in the Val di Noto. However, it is somewhat less touristy than Noto or Ragusa Ibla, for example. Nevertheless, there is plenty to discover in Modica, especially a famous sweet – chocolate from Modica is not only famous, but also really delicious.
The special feature: The cocoa is processed cold, so the sugar it contains does not dissolve completely, giving the chocolate a completely different texture. Be sure to try it!
#19 San Vito Lo Capo
San Vito Lo Capo, known for its beautiful sandy beach and relaxed atmosphere, is the epitome of a perfect seaside resort. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, you can also try out numerous water sports here.
Or you can go out on a boat and explore the bathing bays of the nearby Riserva dello Zingaro from the water.
#20 Sicilian street food
Especially on the streets of Catania and Palermo you can get to know the famous Sicilian street food. The many, mostly deep-fried delicacies and the stalls where they are prepared are a sight in themselves.
Most of the dishes are very filling, so bring enough hunger with you. Popular dishes include arancini (stuffed rice balls) and pani ca meusa (bread rolls with veal spleen).
There are so many great accommodations for every budget in Sicily! Whether in an old palazzo in Trapani* converted into a boutique hotel, on an idyllic farm near Scopello* or in a beach bungalow on Favignana*, I have never had a bad night’s sleep. Especially in the low season, you will find really good options for every taste in Sicily.
Frequently asked questions when traveling to Sicily
How many days do you need for Sicily?
Sicily is really very big. In order to visit most of the island’s sights in a relaxed manner, I recommend planning at least three weeks, preferably four. Or you can decide to visit only a certain part of Sicily. Conveniently, the two major airports of Catania and Palermo are located at two different ends of the island: if you want to explore the east coast of Sicily, it is best to fly directly to Catania; from Palermo you can easily reach Cefalù or Trapani with the Egadi Islands.
Both Catania and Palermo are served by many major airlines, including Lufthansa* and Eurowings* which fly directly to Sicily from many airports in Germany.
The small airport of Trapani on the west coast of Sicily is also served by some airlines.
Especially if you want to see a lot or go hiking, I recommend a trip in the low season. In July and August you will of course experience pure summer in Sicily, but it also gets very hot. Due to the vacation season, prices naturally rise and many places are overcrowded. Recommended months are therefore April, May, September or October. I was traveling in October and had really consistently warm late summer weather, where you could even swim in the sea for the most part.
Is Sicily dangerous?
The bad times of public clashes between hostile criminal groups seem to be largely over and as a tourist you don’t notice much of it anyway.
I was also very surprised at how safe I felt in Palermo and Catania – I find Naples and Barcelona much more stressful in this respect. Safety is always a personal impression, but I think the image of a dangerous Sicily that many people still have is outdated.
Is Sicily dirty?
Well, Sicily is probably not the first destination that comes to mind when you think of organized and clinically clean places. And if you turn into a quieter street in Palermo away from the hustle and bustle, you might find piles of garbage next to the overflowing containers.
Nevertheless, I never noticed garbage as a problem that could have dampened my enthusiasm for Sicily.
Do you need a rental car in Sicily?
Yes and no. If you are traveling in cities, I would advise against renting a car. In Palermo and Catania there is public transport such as buses, and Uber is not expensive either. You can also reach many locations and sights on foot.
You can also easily reach nearby towns such as Cefalú by coach or train. However, if you really want to explore the whole of Sicily or certain more remote corners, a rental car is almost indispensable.
This post was written on a research trip through Sicily for Travellers Insight, the travel blog of Munich Airport. On the website, you can find more exciting tips for Sicily, TrapaniPalermo.
This site is registered on wpml.org as a development site. Switch to a production site key to remove this banner.
