A Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Sicily, Italy

Sicily isn’t just the largest island in the Mediterranean. It’s one of Europe’s most fascinating cultural crossroads. With a history shaped by ancient Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers, this sun-soaked island is like an open-air museum, a paradise for food lovers, and an adventurer’s dream all at once.

I remember my first trip to Sicily vividly. The intoxicating smell of freshly fried arancini wafting through a Palermo street market, the awe of standing beneath the massive ruins of the Valley of the Temples, and the thrill of hiking up Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Sicily has a way of leaving you breathless, both literally and figuratively.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the best things to do in Sicily, from historic treasures and natural wonders to culinary indulgences and unique experiences. Whether you’re planning a quick 3-day getaway or a 10-day road trip around the island, this post will help you plan an unforgettable Sicilian adventure.

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Historical & Cultural Highlights

1. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)

If there’s one place that captures Sicily’s ancient grandeur, it’s the Valley of the Temples. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of the best-preserved Greek temples outside of Greece itself.

Wandering through the almond-tree-dotted landscape feels like stepping back 2,500 years. The Temple of Concordia, with its towering Doric columns, is breathtaking at sunset when the golden light makes the stones glow. Don’t miss the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Heracles either. If you’re a history buff (or just someone who loves dramatic Instagram shots), this site is a must.

Consider booking a guided tour of the Valley of the Temples on Viator to bring these ruins to life with expert storytelling.

2. Villa Romana del Casale (Piazza Armerina)

Deep in the heart of Sicily, Villa Romana del Casale houses one of the most stunning collections of Roman mosaics in the world. Built in the 4th century AD, the villa was likely the luxurious estate of a powerful Roman noble.

Skip the hassle of planning and join a day trip to Villa Romana del Casale to explore these mosaics stress-free.

The mosaics cover nearly every floor. Imagine intricate hunting scenes, mythological figures, and the famous “bikini girls” mosaic (proof that two-piece fashion isn’t as modern as we think). It’s incredible how much detail has survived through centuries of wear, floods, and earthquakes.

3. Palermo

Palermo, Sicily’s capital, is chaotic, vibrant, and absolutely unforgettable. It’s a city where Baroque palaces stand next to bustling street markets, and Norman cathedrals showcase a blend of Arab, Byzantine, and Gothic influences.

Highlights include:

• Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of layered architectural styles.
• Palazzo dei Normanni & Cappella Palatina, where dazzling golden mosaics leave visitors speechless.
• Ballarò and Vucciria Markets, where you can sample panelle (chickpea fritters), sfincione (Sicilian pizza), and some of the freshest seafood imaginable.

To make the most of your time, try a Palermo street food and history walking tour.

Palermo may feel overwhelming at first, but give it time. You’ll fall for its gritty charm.

4. Syracuse & Ortygia

Once one of the greatest cities of the ancient world, Syracuse (Siracusa) still carries its Greek legacy proudly. The Archaeological Park of Neapolis boasts a massive Greek theatre, a Roman amphitheater, and the mysterious Ear of Dionysius cave.

Save time by booking a skip-the-line Syracuse archaeological tour.

Then there’s Ortygia, the small island at the heart of Syracuse. With winding alleyways, sea views, and Piazza Duomo (a square that feels like a movie set), Ortygia is endlessly romantic. At night, restaurants spill out into the piazzas, and the sound of clinking glasses and live music fills the air.

5. Catania & Mount Etna’s Heritage

Catania, sitting at the foot of Mount Etna, is a city of resilience. Built and rebuilt from lava flows and earthquakes, it’s full of dramatic Baroque architecture. Piazza del Duomo with its iconic elephant fountain is a great starting point.

But the true star here is Mount Etna. For centuries, it’s shaped not only the landscape but also the people’s culture, traditions, and even cuisine (think rich volcanic wines).

Adventurers shouldn’t miss a Mount Etna jeep or cable car tour.

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Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures

6. Mount Etna

Etna isn’t just Europe’s tallest volcano. It’s also one of its most active. Hiking here is unlike anything else. The black lava fields, steaming craters, and sweeping views of the Ionian coast make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Book a guided Mount Etna hike for an unforgettable adventure.

You can take a guided trek, ride the cable car up, or even join a 4×4 jeep tour. And if climbing isn’t your thing? Simply enjoying a glass of Etna Rosso wine made from grapes grown on volcanic soil is an adventure in itself.

7. Aeolian Islands

A volcanic archipelago north of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are a paradise for nature lovers.

Experience the best of the islands with a boat excursion.

Each island has its own personality:

• Stromboli: famous for its constantly erupting volcano.
• Lipari: the largest, with a mix of history and nightlife.
• Salina: lush and green, known for capers and Malvasia wine.
• Panarea: chic, upscale, and perfect for yacht spotting.

Hopping between these islands by ferry is a summer dream.

8. Beaches

Sicily’s coastline is nearly 1,500 km long, so you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches. A few standouts:

• San Vito Lo Capo: powdery sand and turquoise waters, perfect for families.
• Scala dei Turchi: a dazzling white limestone cliff that looks like a staircase plunging into the sea.
• Isola Bella (Taormina): a postcard-perfect pebble beach with a tiny island you can walk to at low tide.

If you’re planning to stay nearby, explore beachfront hotels in Sicily on Expedia.

9. Nature Reserves

Beyond the beaches, Sicily is dotted with nature reserves ideal for hiking and birdwatching:

• Zingaro Nature Reserve: crystal-clear coves accessible only on foot.
• Vendicari Nature Reserve: wetlands teeming with flamingos and migrating birds.
• Madonie Mountains: rugged trails, medieval villages, and chestnut forests.

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Charming Towns & Cities to Explore

10. Taormina

Taormina is Sicily’s crown jewel. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, it combines history, luxury, and jaw-dropping views. The Greek Theatre, with Mount Etna as its backdrop, might be the most scenic stage in the world.

Yes, Taormina can be touristy, but it’s worth it. Sip an espresso on Corso Umberto, then take the cable car down to Isola Bella for a swim.

You can also join a Taormina day trip to get the most out of this magical town.

11. Cefalù

Cefalù is where Sicilian charm meets beachside bliss. Its Norman cathedral, with golden mosaics rivaling Palermo’s, towers over a maze of medieval streets. Down below, fishermen mend their nets along the sandy beach. It’s an ideal blend of culture and relaxation.

For an enriching experience, consider a guided tour of Cefalù and the Madonie villages to discover its hidden gems.

12. Noto & Ragusa

The towns of the Val di Noto are a Baroque lover’s dream. After the 1693 earthquake, towns like Noto and Ragusa were rebuilt in spectacular Baroque style. Walking through Noto feels like stepping into an architectural fantasy, while Ragusa’s old town, Ibla, is a labyrinth of winding alleys, elegant churches, and romantic viewpoints.

Dive deeper into their history with a Baroque towns tour that often includes stops in Modica and Scicli.

13. Trapani & Erice

Trapani is famous for its salt pans, windmills, and access to the Egadi Islands. Meanwhile, Erice, a hilltop town just above Trapani, feels frozen in time. Its cobblestone streets and medieval castles come with sweeping views of the coast.

Consider booking a day trip to Erice and the Salt Pans to truly appreciate the contrasts between sea and sky.

14. Messina

Often overlooked, Messina is more than just a port city. Its cathedral, with a fascinating astronomical clock, is worth a stop. Plus, it’s the gateway for travelers arriving from mainland Italy.

Many visitors combine Messina with a shore excursion to Taormina or Mt. Etna for a fuller Sicilian experience.

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Culinary Experiences

15. Sicilian Street Food

Sicily’s street food is legendary. Don’t miss:

• Arancini: fried rice balls stuffed with ragu, cheese, or even pistachio cream.
• Panelle: crispy chickpea fritters.
• Pane con la milza: a Palermo specialty sandwich with spleen (not for the faint-hearted, but a true local experience).

Hungry? Join a Palermo food tour with tastings for the ultimate experience.

16. Seafood Specialties

Being an island, Sicily thrives on seafood. From swordfish steaks to sardines stuffed with breadcrumbs and raisins (sarde a beccafico), the dishes are as fresh as they are flavorful. Coastal towns like Mazara del Vallo offer some of the best.

17. Pastries & Sweets

You can’t talk about Sicily without mentioning its sweets:

• Cannoli: crispy shells filled with ricotta cream.
• Cassata: a colorful sponge cake with ricotta, candied fruit, and marzipan.
• Granita: a refreshing slushy dessert best enjoyed with brioche for breakfast in summer.

18. Wine Regions

Sicily is Italy’s largest wine producer, and its volcanic soil makes for bold, unique flavors.

• Etna wines: reds made from Nerello Mascalese grapes are gaining international fame.
• Marsala: fortified wine from western Sicily.
• Nero d’Avola: one of the island’s most iconic reds.

Don’t miss the chance to visit family-run wineries near Mount Etna.

19. Markets Worth Visiting

Markets are where Sicilian life truly unfolds. Some of the best include Palermo’s Ballarò, Catania’s La Pescheria (fish market), and Ortigia’s daily food market.

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Unique Experiences & Activities

20. Attend a Traditional Festival

Sicily’s festivals are colorful, loud, and deeply rooted in tradition. The Feast of Saint Agatha in Catania (February) draws thousands, while Easter processions in Enna and Trapani are unforgettable spectacles.

21. Take a Cooking Class

Learning to cook Sicilian dishes is an experience you’ll treasure forever. From mastering the art of pasta alla Norma to perfecting cannoli, cooking classes let you bring Sicily home with you.

Try a Sicilian cooking class to master pasta alla Norma or cannoli.

22. Sailing & Boat Tours

Exploring Sicily from the water is magical. You can sail around the Aeolian Islands, take a boat trip along the Zingaro Reserve, or simply cruise around Taormina’s coast.

Sail along the Zingaro Reserve or Taormina’s coast with local boat operators.

23. Visit Local Wineries & Olive Farms

Beyond wine, Sicily produces some of the world’s best olive oil. Visiting family-owned farms gives you insight into centuries-old traditions and plenty of tasting opportunities.

24. Explore Sicily’s Film Locations

Cinephiles will love visiting the filming locations of The Godfather (Savoca and Forza d’Agrò) or Cinema Paradiso (shot in Palazzo Adriano). It’s a fun way to connect pop culture with travel.

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Travel Tips for Visiting Sicily

• Getting around: Renting a car is the best way to explore, though driving in Sicilian cities requires patience! Compare and book rental cars and hotels in Sicily in advance.
• Best time to visit: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Language: Italian is spoken everywhere, but many Sicilians also use Sicilian dialects. English is understood in tourist areas, but learning a few phrases in Italian goes a long way.
• Budgeting: Sicily is generally more affordable than mainland Italy, though Taormina and the Aeolian Islands can be pricier.

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Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Highlights Itinerary

• Day 1: Palermo (markets, cathedral, street food).
• Day 2: Valley of the Temples + Scala dei Turchi.
• Day 3: Taormina + Mount Etna excursion.

7-Day Cultural & Nature Mix

• Days 1–2: Palermo & Monreale.
• Day 3: Cefalù.
• Days 4–5: Syracuse & Ortygia.
• Day 6: Mount Etna + Catania.
• Day 7: Taormina.

10-Day Road Trip Around the Island

• Day 1: Palermo.
• Day 2: Monreale & Cefalù.
• Day 3: Agrigento (Valley of the Temples).
• Day 4: Piazza Armerina (Villa Romana).
• Day 5: Syracuse & Ortygia.
• Day 6: Noto & Ragusa.
• Day 7: Catania & Mount Etna.
• Day 8: Taormina.
• Day 9: Messina & Aeolian Islands day trip.
• Day 10: Trapani & Erice.

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Conclusion

Sicily is more than just a destination. It’s an experience that stays with you. From the echoes of ancient temples to the thrill of volcanic hikes, from lazy beach afternoons to lively festivals, the island has something for every kind of traveler.

What makes Sicily truly special is its unique blend of history, nature, and cuisine. You can spend a morning exploring a Greek ruin, enjoy a seaside lunch of swordfish and cannoli, and end your day watching the sun set over a medieval town.

If you’re planning a trip, don’t just stick to the famous sites. Seek out the hidden gems too. Wander into that quiet village piazza, follow your nose into a family-run trattoria, and let Sicily surprise you.

Ready to go? Start planning your trip by checking the latest hotels and vacation stays in Sicily on Expedia.

Have you been to Sicily? I’d love to hear about your favorite spots, secret finds, or dream itinerary. Share your experiences in the comments, or drop your questions. I’d be happy to help you plan your own Sicilian adventure!