This southern Italian island, the first to be inhabited by the Greeks, boasts a wonderful combination of history, art treasures, and nature. Not only the Greeks, but also the Arabs, the Normans and the Spanish have left their mark on the island. This is clearly visible from the varied architecture, which is what makes this Italian island so special. And the Sicilians are not complaining – they love all that splendour and grandeur.
The Greeks have left behind more than the other invaders. You will find many Greek structures along the west and south coasts and you can enjoy many excavations.
Exploring Sicily by car will take you on a diverse journey along almond orchards, orange plantations, ancient Greek temples, dilapidated churches, azure blue bays, and stunning cliffs.
If you like tranquillity, then the natural park of Lo Zingaro is well worth a visit! This is situated in the North. Here, you will not only find wonderful wildlife, but also small inlets where you can indulge in some quiet swimming, diving, and snorkling.
Palermo, the capital, is the place to try out the Sicilian cuisine. Sicily actually has two. The Sicilian menu includes a lot of fish and vegetable dishes. A typical dish is ‘involtini’ - rolled slices of meat with herbs, cheese, or eggs. The Sicilians also love small snacks. You will find many food stalls in the streets with almond biscuits, Arancine di riso (rice balls), and a range of deep fried vegetables. These stalls are often open until way past midnight, so take your time!
Places of interest
Palermo, the capital, is best explored on foot. Here you can walk through the lanes and visit La Vucciria, the city’s oldest and main market. Palermo is also home to the re-opened Teatro Massimo, one of Europe’s largest historic opera houses.
If you wish to explore the surroundings, hiring a bike or a moped is a good option.
Explore the baroque towns of Noto, Modica, Ragusa, and Scicli.
The Etna is Europe’s largest active volcano and one of the largest in the world.
Go for a walk in car-free Castelmola. And walk through the narrow streets around the fortress hill with views over Taormina, the sea, and the Etna.
The Pantalica gorge and its hundreds of graves, cave dwellings and temples, carved by different populations over thousands of years.
Taste the Limoncello – this cold, sweet lemon liqueur is wonderful after a meal.
Sample the Sicilian Almond Wine!
The Temple Valley of Agrigento, dating from the 5th century BC.
The Scicli, situated in a beautiful valley known for its Baroque architecture.
Spacious independent villa located just 300m from the beach. The property benefits from a peaceful and sun-drenched situation with wonderful sea views, close to Ribera (on the south west coast of Sicily).
This house is completely and tastefully furnished....
Colourful villa located just 300m from the beach. The property benefits from a peaceful and sun-drenched situation with wonderful sea views, close to Ribera (on the south west coast of Sicily). Boasting a private 500m2 garden. The first floor (accessible ...
This modern, attractive residential building is 100 m from the Sicilian Sea. The residence is on the coast of SantAgata Militello near the Eolian islands. It is made up of two buildings, each with three floors and a lift, which are connected by a small co...
