Sicily · 26 Places · Best April–June, September–October
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, renowned for its rich history, stunning coastlines, ancient Greek temples, and vibrant culinary traditions. A crossroads of civilizations for millennia, it bears the cultural imprints of Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish conquerors. Today Sicily enchants visitors with its baroque cities, volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and some of Italy's finest cuisine.
Sicily sits at the heart of the Mediterranean, offering an extraordinary blend of ancient ruins, baroque architecture, volcanic drama, and sun-kissed beaches. From the Greek Valley of the Temples at Agrigento to the smouldering crater of Mount Etna, the island packs more UNESCO World Heritage Sites per square kilometre than almost anywhere else on earth. Its cuisine — arancini, pasta alla Norma, fresh swordfish, almond pastries — is legendary, and its wines from Etna and Marsala are increasingly world-class. Whether you seek culture, nature, beaches, or gastronomy, Sicily delivers it all with warmth and style.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
One of the greatest Greek archaeological sites in the world, this UNESCO-listed complex near Agrigento contains seven Doric temples dating from the 5th century BC. The Temple of Concordia is among the best-preserved Greek temples on earth, and the site is magical at both sunrise and dusk when the golden limestone glows.
Europe's highest active volcano (3,357 m) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Etna dominates eastern Sicily with near-constant volcanic activity. Visitors can hike to the craters, explore lava caves, take the Funivia dell'Etna cable car, or join guided jeep tours through the volcanic landscape. Etna DOC wines produced on its fertile slopes are world-class.
Dramatically perched on a clifftop above the Ionian Sea with Mount Etna as a backdrop, Taormina's 3rd-century BC Greek Theatre is one of the most beautifully situated ancient monuments in the world. Largely rebuilt by the Romans, it remains in use today as a world-class summer concert and film festival venue.
A jewel of Arab-Norman architecture, the Palatine Chapel inside the Norman Palace is covered with the most complete cycle of Byzantine mosaics in the world, commissioned by Roger II in 1132. The fusion of Norman, Byzantine, and Arab decorative styles makes this one of the most extraordinary interiors anywhere in Europe.
Ancient Syracuse was once the most powerful city of the Greek world, rivalling Athens. Today the compact Ortigia island holds a baroque city centre with the stunning Cathedral (built around an ancient Doric temple) and a network of atmospheric alleyways. The adjacent mainland Archaeological Park contains a vast 5th-century BC Greek Theatre and a Roman amphitheatre.
One of the masterpieces of Arab-Norman architecture, Cefalù's 12th-century cathedral contains the extraordinary Christ Pantocrator mosaic in the apse — one of the finest Byzantine mosaics in Sicily. The cathedral occupies a commanding position in the charming seaside town of Cefalù, backed by the dramatic La Rocca cliff.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Perched on a cliff above Taormina with breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, this legendary 19th-century hotel is one of Italy's finest. The Michelin-starred Otto e Mezzo restaurant and infinity pool make it an unforgettable stay.
Check rates on Booking.comA sprawling 5-star golf and spa resort on Sicily's south-west coast, set within 230 hectares of Mediterranean landscape. Three pools, three golf courses, a 4,000 sq metre Rocco Forte spa, and five restaurants make this a destination in itself.
Check rates on Booking.comA romantic boutique agriturismo resort carved from a restored 19th-century monastery on the fertile slopes of Mount Etna. Organic farm breakfasts, a stunning infinity pool, and direct access to Etna hiking trails make it exceptional.
Check rates on Booking.comA belle époque masterpiece set in a stunning Art Nouveau building on Palermo's waterfront, freshly restored by Rocco Forte Hotels. The hotel's terrace overlooking the sea and the historic frescoed ballroom are spectacular.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Palermo's most acclaimed restaurant, occupying a baroque palazzo on Piazza Croce dei Vespri. Chef Marco Venezia creates refined modern Sicilian dishes using the finest local ingredients, with an exceptional Sicilian wine list.
Two Michelin stars and repeatedly voted one of Italy's best restaurants, Chef Ciccio Sultano's Duomo in Ragusa Ibla offers an extraordinary tasting menu celebrating the flavours of south-east Sicily with inventive modern technique.
Two Michelin-starred restaurant in Licata (Agrigento Province) helmed by chef Pino Cuttaia, whose intensely personal cooking tells the story of Sicily through beautifully executed dishes of astonishing complexity and emotion.
An elegant restaurant in Taormina with a terrace overlooking the sea, specialising in the finest local seafood and traditional Sicilian pasta. The grilled swordfish and pasta alle sarde are exceptional.
Set in a beautiful baroque courtyard in Ragusa Ibla, Il Barocco serves refined Sicilian cuisine with a strong focus on local Ragusano cheeses, pork, and seasonal vegetables. The tasting menu is outstanding value.
A Palermo institution loved by locals for its hearty, honest Sicilian cooking at very fair prices. No frills, no pretension — just excellent pasta con le sarde, pesce all'agghiata, and ricotta-stuffed cannoli to finish.
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Sicily is well connected internally by regional trains (Trenitalia), long-distance buses (Interbus, SAIS, FlixBus), and car rental. Two international airports serve the island — Palermo Falcone-Borsellino (PMO) and Catania Fontanarossa (CTA). For exploring rural areas, archaeological sites, and coastal villages, renting a car is strongly recommended. Ferries connect Sicily to the mainland and to the surrounding islands (Aeolian, Egadi, Pelagie).
Daily spend by tier in EUR, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €20–35 | €70–100 | €250–500+ |
| Food (per day) | €12–15 | €30–40 | €70–120 |
| Transportation | €5–8 | €15–20 | €40–80 |
| Activities | €5–10 | €20–30 | €50–100 |
| Daily total | €45–55 | €110–140 | €350–600+ |
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Sicily.
Keep valuables (passport, cards, cash) in a concealed money belt, especially in busy markets like Ballarò and Vucciria in Palermo
Use only official licensed white taxis from taxi ranks or book via the ItTaxi app — never accept rides from unlicensed drivers approaching you at airports or tourist sites
Never leave items visible in a parked car — break-ins targeting tourist vehicles do occur in city centre car parks
Be aware of your surroundings in Palermo's Ballarò and Vucciria markets and around Catania's Pescheria — pickpocket risk is elevated in crowds
On Mount Etna, always hike with a certified volcanic guide above 2,900m altitude — conditions change rapidly and solo access to the craters is prohibited and dangerous
Check the Italian Civil Protection Agency (protezionecivile.gov.it) for Etna volcanic activity status before planning a summit visit
At sea, observe local flag warnings on beaches — red flag means do not swim; yellow means caution; follow lifeguard instructions
Wear high-SPF sunscreen and carry plenty of water during summer (June–September) — temperatures regularly exceed 35°C and dehydration is a real risk
When driving in Sicily, be prepared for aggressive driving habits — maintain larger than usual following distances and be cautious at uncontrolled intersections
In ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) areas in historic centres, do not drive unless specifically authorised — fines arrive by post months later and can be substantial (€80–400)
The mafia (Cosa Nostra) presence in Sicily is real but poses no direct threat to tourists — avoid engaging with or photographing individuals who seem to object
Be cautious on mountain and coastal hiking trails after rain — rocky paths become extremely slippery; wear appropriate footwear
At the Scala dei Turchi (white rock cliffs), the marl rock surface is treacherously slippery when wet — wear water shoes and walk carefully
Ocean currents can be unexpectedly strong around the Aeolian and Egadi Islands — check local conditions before swimming in remote coves
Carry a copy of your passport/ID and keep the original secure in hotel safe — ID checks do occur
Sicily is generally a safe destination for tourists, with most visits passing without incident. Standard urban precautions — being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and not leaving valuables in cars — are the most relevant safety considerations for most visitors. Emergency services: police at 113 (Polizia di Stato) or 112 (Carabinieri — military police), medical at 118 (ambulance) or 112 (European emergency number).
The best time to visit Sicily is April–June, September–October. Sicily enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The island's position at the heart of the Mediterranean means it receives intense sunshine — over 2,500 hours
Entry requirements follow Italy/EU Schengen rules. EU citizens need only a national ID card; most non-EU nationals may enter without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under the Schengen Agreement. US, Canadian, Australian, and UK citizens do not require a visa for short stays. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Sicily is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Sicily: Italian, Sicilian. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Sicily include Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi), Mount Etna, Greek Theatre of Taormina (Teatro Antico), Palermo's Palatine Chapel (Cappella Palatina), and Syracuse (Siracusa) & Ortigia Island. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
