Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean. The place where bygone civilizations’ remnants and references are everywhere.
A passerby since the time of legends. Exquisitely beautiful, and charming.
History buffs will have definitely come across Homer and Virgil referring to Sicily’s beauties and culture.
10 Quotes About Sicily – Inspiring and Motivating to visit and enjoy this destination
But when visiting Sicily, you will also discover sparkling seas, extraordinary beaches, restless mountains, and dramatic landscapes.
And who can ignore “La Signora Etna,” the grand and impressive volcano, which is still active, and the savory Sicilian Cuisine!
Therefore, when you decide to travel to Sicily, you will need to spend a week to ten days, or more, on the island. For more information, you can read the 21 Interesting True Facts about Sicily by KEVMRC.
Organize yourself. Plan ahead where to go and what to see.
But don’t miss visiting the following cities, towns, and villages, which are definite musts and part of the Sicilian Highlights.
Palermo
The capital of Sicily, in the northwest part of the island, is also known as the “Kingdom of Sun”.
Palermo is the main economic center, a city famous for its history, culture, architecture, art, music, and, of course, its gastronomy.
In 2018, Palermo was declared the Italian Capital of Culture. You will need at least 2 or 3 days to explore Palermo.
A great 10-day itinerary for Sicily by Our Escape Clause
When you arrive in Palermo, be sure to visit the Cathedral, which houses the royal tombs.
The neoclassical Teatro Massimo is famous for opera performances.
The Palazzo dei Normanni and the Capella Palatina, with its mosaics. Surely go for a walk at the baroque-style piazzas like Piazza Vialiena.
Visit the Museums, the city walls, and the amazing Churches.
For a taste of the real Palermitan lifestyle, go for a stroll in the famous, noisy markets influenced by Arabs.
Here you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, and other goodies.
And why not taste the street food of Palermo, which is found almost on every corner of the markets?
Monreale
Monreale is located on the slopes of Monte Caputo overlooking the rich, fertile valley “La Conca d’ Oro” where orange, olive, and almond trees fill the picture.
Main sights of interest include the Cathedral of Monreale, a typical example of Norman architecture.
The Castellacio a fortified convent on Monte Caputo, and the Abbey church of San Marino with paintings by Paolo de Matteis.
Segesta
An ancient monument, also visible from the motorway connecting Palermo to Trapani.
Segesta is very well preserved, with the Doric Temple standing pristine and impressive.
At the top of the hill is the semicircular theatre, built at the same time.
The views are excellent, and the uphill walk is worth it.
Erice
Erice is a historic medieval town in the province of Trapani.
One of the most beautiful villages in Sicily, where tradition is everywhere!
The poet Virgil recounts the history of Erice in his famous work, the Aeneid. The town is surrounded by defensive walls.
The Castello di Venere, Chiesa di San Giuliano, Chiesa di San Giovanni, Il Duomo, and Chiesa di San Martino are among the sites to visit.
Erice is situated 750m above sea level with unpredictable weather from sunny afternoons to foggy evenings.
Agrigento
Agrigento lies on the southwest coast of Sicily.
Famous for its ruins of the ancient city of Akragas in the Valley of the Temples.
A large archaeological site with well-preserved Greek temples. Very impressive.
On the city’s outskirts, the Museo Archeologico Regionale “Pietro Griffo” exhibits sculptures of giant male figures.
If you love the sea, then go a bit west, where you can enjoy the amazing Scala dei Turchi.
A steep white cliff gazing at sandy beaches. Comfy shoes are mandatory.
Piazza Armerina
Piazza Armerina is a village in the Province of Enna in the Sicilian hinterland.
Visit Villa Romana del Casale to see the preserved mosaics.
The Archeological Museum of Aidone and the massive Baroque-style Cathedral.
The Pergusa Lake, and the Erean Mountains with the historic attractions.
Ragusa
In the South-east part of Sicily, Ragusa is a valuable record of Baroque art.
In the old town of Ragusa, we encounter many Baroque buildings, such as the Duomo di San Giorgio. A Catholic church decorated with paintings and stained-glass windows.
The Giardino Ibleo is a public park with churches and fountains.
Ragusa’s Cathedral, with religious art and relics in the city’s modern section, is also worth visiting.
Ragusa is designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, along with the other 7 towns of Sicily in the Val di Noto, for its valuable record of Baroque art.
Siracusa
This is the city of Sicily, where the island’s immortal history and precious beauty are well preserved.
In Siracusa is where the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis. One of Sicily’s greatest archaeological sites is located.
And at Siracusa is Ortigia! One of the most beautiful and exquisite corners of Sicily.
Ortigia is popular with tourists for its uniqueness, architecture, and overall character.
It features important ancient monuments, including archaeological sites, churches, and cathedrals.
Siracusa hosts the Teatro Greco, where plays and other events take place during the summer.
Terracotta and Roman art crafts, and Old Testament scenes carved in white marble, are on display at the Museo Archeologico Paolo Rosi.
The city is also notable as the birthplace of the Greek mathematician and engineer Archimedes.
Taormina
Taormina is a hilltop town with fantastic views of Etna and the Mediterranean Sea.
This town is elegant, impressive, and so different!
A popular destination and a very loved resort.
Chosen not only by today’s travelers…
But also by famous actors, writers, poets, and the European aristocracy since the 18th century, who visited the area to enrich their culture.
Strolling in Taormina’s streets and alleys, you will relax, enjoying the postcard-like scenery.
Potted flowers in vibrant colors are arranged along the stairways and narrow alleys leading up or down from Corso Umberto, making a special statement.
The beautiful piazzas are lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, and the streets are bustling all day.
The town’s main archaeological attraction is the Teatro Greco.
There, the Greeks paired the views of Etna and the bay of Giardini di Naxos.
Purely fantastic. A scenic location!
Other sites worth visiting include the Palazzo Corvaja and the Duomo di San Nicola. Isola Bella…
Chiesa di San Pancrazio… l’Odeon… Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria…
The Park Giovanni Colonna-Duke of Cesaro… Santo Stefano… Church of St. Joseph.
Each is distinct in its style and architecture.
Cefalu
Cefalu is an attractive, charming seaside small town on Sicily’s northern coast.
Famous for its beautiful sunsets. Cefalu is certainly one of Sicily’s most appealing spots.
When in Cefalu, you must visit the town’s Duomo, the two-towered cathedral with its lovely mosaics.
La Rocca is a massive hill overlooking the Duomo. The picturesque harbor.
The town center is where you can admire the ruins of the Templo di Diana, built in the classical Greek style.
The medieval alleys. The Museo Mandralisca.
If you have more time to spare and an adventurous spirit, Sicily offers a variety of stunning islands to explore
For one, the enchanting Egadi Islands or the breathtaking Aeolian Islands.
Additionally, if you’re a winter holiday enthusiast, spending Christmas in Sicily can be a memorable and unique experience.
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