Sicily Travelers Recommend

The hilltop town of Taormina is both both rich history and an excellent launching off point for exploring the rest of Sicily. On a three day trip, you’ll have time to visit the local Greek Theater, go snorkeling along the coastline, taste Sicilian wines at Mount Etna, and more. Here are a few ways to spend 3 days in Taormina.

Day 1: Get to Know Taormina

On your first day, get the lay of the land on a tour that will let you explore the city at a leisurely pace: Get your bearings with a ride on the hop-on, hop-off bus, or set out on a sightseeing walking tour including local landmarks like the Greek Theater, Corvaia Palace, and Porta Messina. Admire views of Mount Etna, and learn about the history of the Piccolo Teatro Odeon. 

In the evening, immerse yourself in local culture. Take a food and wine tour, and enjoy a variety of Sicilian wines and Italian liquors alongside traditional snacks while soaking up the atmosphere of Taormina’s nightlife. Opera fans can also catch a performance of Italian arias by composers like Verdi or Puccini.

Day 2: Sicily by Boat, Helicopter, and Jeep

Spend a day outdoors, and enjoy the natural beauty around Taormina. Options abound: Set out on a boat tour along the coast for a few hours of swimming, snorkeling, or fishing, or catch a glimpse into the beauty of the Sicilian countryside with a horseback tour through vineyards and olive groves. Adventurous travelers can even board a helicopter for a scenic tour over Mount Etna that includes views of the city (including its historic Greek Theater) from above, and a flight over lava fields and the volcano’s crater. 

You can also visit Mount Etna in the evening. Take a guided walk around the mountain, ride on a cable car, or explore in a Jeep. Watch the sunset over the coast and the countryside from the top of the volcano, then stop for a local dinner on your way back to town. 

Day 3: Wine, History, or Movie-Focused Day Trips

On your last day, set out to explore more of Sicily. A variety of themed tours can help you focus your trip. Travelers interested in spending more time on Mount Etna can plan a trip to the top of the volcano; options include hiking, quad biking, or Jeep tours. Mount Etna is also home to several wineries, so oenophiles can combine a trip to the mountain with a tasting tour. 

Movie fans may want to join a tour focused on “The Godfather” films, which visits filming locations such as the towns of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò. Alternatively, you can explore more historic cities with a visit to Syracuse and Noto or take an archeology-focused tour of the Valley of the Temples and Villa Romana del Casale. Lastly, if you want to venture outside of Sicily, you can also book day trips to the Aeolian Islands, and spend your last day in the area enjoying the sights of other (much smaller) islands.

Taormina is renowned for its mountaintop Greek Theater and magnificent views of Mount Etna, but the Sicilian hilltop town is also home to some of Italy’s most beautiful beaches. Here are some of the best places to top up your tan along Sicily’s East Coast. 

Lido Mazzaro

Reached by cable car from Taormina, Lido Mazzaro (or Mazzaro Beach) is one of the most popular beaches in all of Sicily. Head there to stroll the pebbly beach, take a dip in one of the bathing lidos, or lounge on a sunbed sipping cocktails.

Giardini-Naxos

Just south of Taormina, Giardini Naxos is undeniably picturesque, with a mixture of pebble and sandy beach, and a lush Mediterranean backdrop. As the longest beach in the area, there are ample spots to swim, snorkel, or take part in water sports, while the seafront promenade is lined with chic bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Isola Bella

The ‘beautiful island’ of Isola Bella lives up to its name, with a scenic stretch of beach linking the tiny island to the mainland. Head out to the island, where you can explore the Isola Bella nature reserve, take a boat cruise around the Grotta Azurra and Capo Taormino sea caves, or tuck into a seafood lunch at a traditional Sicilian trattoria.

Aeolian Islands

The UNESCO-listed Aeolian Archipelago is dotted with remote beaches, hidden bays, and natural wonders, and a full-day cruise from Taormina is the best way to take in the highlights. Admire the black sand beaches of Panarea and Stromboli islands; visit the historic towns and mud baths of Vulcano and Lipari islands; or dive in to swim and snorkel in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Sicily has a unique culture formed by millennia of invaders, resulting in a distinct architecture, cuisine, and language. The island is too vast to cover in three days, but you can see some of the most remarkable sights if you concentrate on the eastern coast. Here are the best options for a quick trip.

Day 1: Taormina and Mt. Etna

High above the Ionian Coast, and home to a dazzling 2nd-century Greek theater set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, the hilltop town of Taormina is considered one of Sicily’s most beautiful. Get a feel for the town on a walking or Segway tour, stopping by the theater and other highlights like the 13th-century cathedral, the shop-lined Corso Umberto I, and the Piazza IX Aprile scenic overlook. (Or, discover the local cuisine on a food and wine tour.) Afterward, head uphill to panoramic Castelmola, or downhill to Isola Bella, a picturesque coastal outcrop. Finish your day on Europe’s largest active volcano, Mt. Etna, which towers above Sicily’s eastern coastline and occasionally makes the news with some impressive sputtering. On the way back down, taste some wine at a cellar on the slopes.

Day 2: Syracuse

Venture south to Syracuse, a golden-hued city with almost three millennia of history. Start in Ortigia, where the city was founded by the Corinthians—today this tiny island off the coast is Syracuse’s most atmospheric neighborhood. Check out the Duomo, with its 17th-century baroque facade; the Fountain of Arethusa, fed by an ancient natural spring; and the Temple of Apollo, Sicily’s oldest Doric temple. Then, dedicate the afternoon to the Neapolis Archaeological Park—go with a guide to learn about the history and architecture of sites like the Teatro Romano and the Ara di Gerone II altar.

Day 3: Ragusa, Noto, and Modica

Cap off your stay at the most important baroque treasure troves in southern Sicily, beginning with Noto. Walking through the clutch of ornate churches and palaces centered around the main Corso Vittorio Emanuele, marvel at highlights like the Cathedral of San Nicolò and Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata. Continue your baroque treasure hunt in Modica, with a tour of the town’s lavish churches and palazzi scattered around the historic center—take a break to sample the town’s traditional chocolate. Finally, in Ragusa, admire magnificent facades sitting shoulder to shoulder with crumbling palaces.

Mighty Mt. Etna, towering over the cities of Messina and Catania on Sicily’s east coast, is Europe’s highest active volcano and one of Italy’s most photographed natural wonders. Whether you want to get your adrenaline pumping or simply marvel at the views, here’s how to best explore Mt. Etna.

• Watch the spectacular sunset over the craters and lava caves of Mt. Etna (Mount Etna) on an evening tour.

• Soar overhead on a helicopter tour and enjoy unbeatable aerial views of Mt. Etna, the hilltop town of Taormina, and the Sicilian vineyards.

• Sample delicious Italian cuisine and Sicilian wines with an expert-led wine tasting in the Etna wine region.

• Ride the cable car to Torre del Filosofo and admire views over the Silvestri Craters and the Mt. Etna lava flows.

• Venture off-road with a local tour guide on a thrilling full- or half-day Mt. Etna Jeep tour or quad-bike excursion.

• Combine a full-day tour of Mt. Etna with nearby sights such as Randazzo, the Alcantara Gorges, or Rifugio Sapienza.

• Take a ride on the Circumetnea Railway and journey through picturesque vineyards and olive groves in the foothills of Mt. Etna.

• Learn more about Mt. Etna’s volcanic activity on a guided short hike or long trek through the magnificent Valle del Bove crater. 

Though you won’t be able to see all of Sicily in just seven days, you will be able to enjoy a number of highlights of this unique island. Spend a week taking in its Greek and Roman ruins, baroque architecture, and unique food and wine. Here are your options for seven days of culture and cuisine in Sicily. 

Days 1–2: The Eastern Coast

Some of Sicily’s most spectacular ancient ruins and atmospheric towns are set along the Ionian coast south of Messina, where most ferries and flights arrive on the island. Begin your week in Taormina, perched high above the coast and famous for its magnificent 2nd-century Greek theater, still used as a venue. Explore the highlights on a walking or Segway tour, or experience Taormina through its cuisine on a food-and-wine tour. Afterwards, take in the view from the village of Castelmola above town or the coastal outcrop of Isola Bella at the water’s edge below. No visit to the area is complete without a trip to the sputtering top of Mt. Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano. Hop on an ATV or join a guided walking tour of its towering peak, stopping to tour one of the many wine cellars scattered on the volcanic slopes.

The following day, continue south to Syracuse for a guided tour of the island of Ortygia (Ortigia), where the city was founded by the Corinthians three millennia ago. Admire the Duomo, Fountain of Arethusa, Temple of Apollo, and other highlights with a walking tour, or combine sightseeing with tastings on a food-and-wine tour. Finally, tour the ancient ruins of Neapolis Archaeological Park (Parco Archeologico della Neapolis), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Days 3–4: The Baroque Noto Valley and Temples of Agrigento

Explore the southeastern corner of Sicily today. Join a tour of the most important towns in the Noto Valley, starting with a guided walking tour of the historic center of Noto, a treasure trove of lavish churches and palaces lining Corso Vittorio Emanuele. After stopping in Modica to take in its baroque masterpieces and sample its famous local chocolate, end with a ramble through the atmospheric jumble of crumbling palaces that make up Ragusa’s old town. 

The next day, take in the ancient Greek temples of Agrigento, dating from when Sicily was part of the vast Magna Grecia empire. Join a Valley of the Temples tour to admire these gloriously preserved ruins that date as far back as the fifth century BC. Afterwards, head inland to the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, an ancient hunting lodge and thermal baths that house the world’s largest collection of Roman mosaics.   

Days 5–7: Western Sicily: Marsala, Trapani, and Palermo

Head to the far western reaches of Sicily today to explore Marsala, in the province of Trapani. Spend the morning exploring this historic port town’s center with a walking or bike tour to take in the unique Catalan–Gothic and baroque architecture before heading out of town to the Trapani and Paceco Salt Pans Natural Reserve. Learn about this area’s long tradition of sea-salt harvesting, and admire the flamingos, cranes, and other waterfowl that now populate the reserve. In the afternoon, join a wine tour to learn about Marsala’s history of winemaking, then try to make it to the hilltop town of Erice by sunset to take in one of the most memorable views in Sicily. Stroll the charming historic center and visit the medieval castle before stopping for a traditional Sicilian dinner.

End with two days in Palermo, where Arab influence can be seen in the architecture, culture, and cuisine. Begin with a walking, bike, or Segway tour of the city’s vibrant old town, a mix of Norman, Moorish, and baroque architecture, to appreciate the 12th-century Arab-Norman churches and their exquisite Byzantine mosaics. The city is also known for its souklike street markets and local flavors that testify to centuries of Arab influence. Take a deep dive into Palermo’s distinct cuisine with a food-and-market tour or cooking class. Finally, visit the towns of Monreale or Cefalù just outside Palermo to tour their dazzling Norman cathedrals, among the most important cultural treasures in Sicily and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There’s no better place to experience Sicily’s unique culture than Palermo, whose architecture, cuisine, and language have been influenced by millennia of invaders. Explore this vibrant port city, admire Sicily’s ancient temples, and relax at sea—here are some of our favorite ideas for a 3-day stay.

Day 1: Architecture and Cuisine in Palermo

Begin your stay in the heart of Palermo in the captivating old town, a heady alchemy of Norman, Moorish, and baroque architecture juxtaposed with street markets, dialects, and dishes molded by centuries of Arab influence. A morning tour on foot, bike, or Segway is the best way to appreciate the grandeur of the historic center—marvel at the 12-century Arab-Norman churches decorated with Byzantine mosaics, including the Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel. At lunchtime, sample the city’s street food on a food and market tour, or sign up for a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional local dishes. Alternatively, architecture enthusiasts might visit nearby Monreale or Cefalù to check out the Norman cathedrals, among Sicily’s most significant cultural treasures and UNESCO World Heritage sites. 

Day 2: Archaeology in Agrigento and Segesta

Sicily was once part of the vast Greek empire known as the Magna Grecia, and vestiges of the Hellenic occupation are scattered across the island. Dedicate today to discovering some of Sicily’s most impressive archaeological ruins, and venture out to the Valley of the Temples outside Agrigento. Or, visit Segesta, closer to Palermo but no less dazzling. Both are home to surprisingly well preserved Greek temples dating from as far back as the fifth century BC. Go with a guide to better understand the history and architecture of these Doric treasures—some tours stop for a traditional Sicilian lunch in Agrigento or the hilltop town of Erice.

Day 3: A Day at Sea

End your visit by exploring the Sicilian coastline by sea. Set sail along Mondello Beach to the picturesque marine reserves of Capo Gallo and Isola delle Femmine, stopping to swim in the crystalline waters and enjoy a lunch of Sicilian classics. Otherwise, sail around to the tip of Capo Mazzaforno to the west and the Finale di Pollina to the east. This stretch of coastline is known for its idyllic beaches, so take a dip in the turquoise bays along the route, before heading back to port to bid farewell to Palermo.

The port city of Catania is the second largest municipality on Sicily and an excellent place to explore the island’s history and culture. Enjoy the local architecture and bustling food markets, then enjoy a helicopter trip over Mount Etna and a cruise along the coast. Here are a few ways to spend 3 days in Catania. 

Day 1: Flavors of Catania

Begin your trip by diving into local culture with a food-focused tour. A street food-focused tour will include stops at markets, bakeries, and street food stalls. If you want a more hands-on experience, opt for a tour and cooking class combo that takes you to a fish market to shop for local ingredients, then teaches you how to make traditional Sicilian dishes. Once the cooking is done, feast on the dishes you’ve prepared in a multi-course meal that includes local wines. 

In the afternoon, take a guided trip of the city to get your bearings. Learn about local architecture and history as you cruise through Catania quickly on a Segway tour. Stops include top landmarks such as the 13th-century Ursino Castle, the Piazza Duomo, and the gardens of Villa Bellini. 

Day 2: Mount Etna Hiking and Helicopters

Discover Sicily’s natural beauty with a visit to nearby Mount Etna. Several types of tours are available: Choose a wine-focused tour to visit vineyards at the base of the volcano, learn about Sicilian winemaking methods, and taste several varieties. Alternatively, you can head out on a sightseeing tour that includes a stop at the nearby town Taormina, which boasts a stunning ancient Greek theater. You can also get a bird’s eye view of Mount Etna with a helicopter ride. Adventurous travelers may want to opt for tours that include exploring the volcano’s ancient lava tunnels or a canyoneering trip to the Alcantara Gorges. Complete your visit to Mount Etna with a relaxing wine tasting or an early evening hike along lava fields to watch the sunset.

Day 3: Day Trips by Land and Sea

On your last day, head out on a day trip to see more of Sicily. As a port, Catania is the base for a variety of boat tours. Take a sailing tour, and learn basic sailing skills, then go swimming and snorkeling while you cruise along the coastline. Or spend a day on a sightseeing cruise. Some boat tours have an adventure focus and offer scuba diving and fishing. 

Alternatively, spend the day visiting Sicily’s charming small towns, such as the historic towns of Syracuse, Ortigia, and Noto. Move buffs can choose a tour that goes to locations where the Godfather movies were filmed. Most trips (regardless of the focus) include free time to allow you to explore the towns’ charming squares and back streets. In the evening, return to Catania for a lesson in the art of the Italian aperitivo and a last night enjoying the city’s nightlife.

The port city of Messina stretches along the northeast Ionian coast, the closest point on Sicily to mainland Italy. Though two 20th-century catastrophes—a 1908 earthquake and World War II bombings—devastated many of the city’s historic monuments, it is home to striking churches and elegant boulevards. Here’s how to take in the city in one day.

Morning: City Highlights

Messina may not have the Greek and Roman ruins that many other Sicilian cities do, but its historic center is home to a number of later architectural jewels, including the 12th-century Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, as well as the reconstructed Norman cathedral, its spectacular bell tower and astronomical clock, and the nearby Fountain of Orion (Fontana di Orione). Learn about the city’s history and architecture with a guided morning walking or Segway tour that touches on these treasures, along with the later Church of San Camillo and Temple of Christ the King (Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re).

Afternoon: Artistic Masterpieces

Messina, like most Sicilian cities, can be oppressively hot in the afternoon, so take cover by visiting the city’s fine Regional Museum (Museo Regionale), which includes masterpieces from the Messina school and other Renaissance and baroque artists. Be sure to admire the San Gregorio (Saint Gregory) polyptych by local 15th-century painter Antonello da Messina, as well as his Madonna con bambino e santi (Virgin with Child and Saints). Other highlights include two dazzling works by Caravaggio: L'Adorazione dei pastori (Adoration of the Shepherds) and Risurrezione di Lazzaro (Resurrection of Lazarus).

Night: Food on the Streets and in the Kitchen

This evening, turn to Messina’s cuisine. Join a food tour to explore the city’s street-food tradition, stopping to taste Sicilian delicacies while you stroll through the old town with a guide. Alternatively, delve deep into the local cuisine with an informal cooking class led by a home cook to learn the secrets behind the city’s traditional dishes and enjoy the fruits of your labors paired with Sicilian wines at a family-style dinner. End your day with a turn down the city’s seafront promenade, stopping to admire the towering golden statue of the Madonna and the Neptune fountain.

From its hilltop location to its Greek Theater, Taormina is striking from all angles. On a visit, stroll through the historic streets, browse the market for ingredients for a cooking class, and learn about Sicilian wines on a wine-focused tour. Here are tips for getting the most out of one day in Taormina.

Morning: Welcome to Taormina

Get your bearings on an introductory tour of the city. For ease, choose a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Or, take a walking tour with a local guide to see top landmarks including the Greek Theater (once host to gladiatorial games), Corvaia Palace, and Porta Messina. To cover ground quickly, opt for a Segway tour that zips through Borgo Medievale, the oldest district in Taormina, and the city park of Villa Comunale. See views of Mount Etna from Villa Comunale and stop in Piazza del Duomo to learn about its baroque fountain.

Afternoon: Cooking Classes and Boat Journeys

Discover the distinct flavors of Sicily with an afternoon devoted to food or cooking. Bring your appetite to food-themed walking tours or cooking classes and explore the Taormina market to see where locals buy fresh produce. Learn how to make a variety of Italian food including pizza from scratch or Sicilian dishes such as pasta with caponata. Alternatively, get a view of Taormina from the sea on a sailing excursion with views of Mount Etna. Set out on a boat for a scenic ride with time for swimming, sunbathing, and maybe even a seafood lunch.

Night: Opera Concerts and Wine Lessons

Experience the Italian tradition of opera by attending an evening performance. Listen to classic arias and duets from famous Italian operas such as Verdi’s La Traviata and Puccini’s La Boheme. Wine enthusiasts may want to opt for an evening wine- and food-themed walking tour. Taste several varieties of Sicilian wines paired alongside traditional snacks. Sample Italian liquors and learn about Taormina’s culinary history from a guide. Travelers looking to experience the culture behind Sicilian food can take a tour that includes a traditional meal in the home of a local chef.

Sicily’s unique history has molded its culture, cuisine, and even language to be worlds apart from mainland Italy. No city illustrates this better than Palermo, with its mix of Norman, Moorish, and baroque architecture; bazaar-like street markets; and Arab-influenced dialect and dishes. Here’s how to experience the city in just one day.

Morning: Culture and Cuisine

Begin exploring in Palermo’s old town and join a walking, bike, or Segway tour to marvel at the historic center’s architecture, much of it part of the Arab-Norman monuments dating from the 12th century and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the Byzantine mosaics in the Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel, Palermo Cathedral, and La Martorana, as well as the baroque Four Corners (Quattro Canti) square, the Renaissance “fountain of shame” in Piazza Pretoria, and the neoclassical Teatro Massimo. Gourmands can opt for a food and market tour that leavens the city’s architecture with its street food, stopping at the outdoor markets for tastings.

Afternoon: Adventures in the Kitchen or Countryside

Food is a fundamental pillar of Palermo’s culture, so take a deep dive into its cuisine with a local cooking class. Shop for ingredients at a traditional open-air market, and then learn the secrets of preparing dishes that blend Spanish, Greek, and Arab elements before feasting on the food you’ve made, paired with Sicilian wines. Alternatively, set off from Palermo to take in the architectural treasures in the surrounding towns, namely the imposing UNESCO-listed Norman cathedrals of Monreale or Cefalù, both exquisitely decorated in Byzantine mosaics and considered among Sicily’s most important cultural treasures.

Night: City Life

Palermo is Sicily’s version of the “city that never sleeps,” with a lively nightlife that stretches from the outdoor markets and their popular street food stands to the trendy restaurants and clubs in neighborhoods like Lo Capo, Castellammare, and Albergaria. Stroll along the waterfront in La Marina to rub elbows with the locals during the evening “passeggiata” walk, relax over a sampling of Sicilian wine paired with artisan cheeses, or sit down to a traditional home-cooked meal with a local cook featuring classics like panzerotti, pasta alla norma, and crostata.

With three days in Trapani, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere of this port town’s historic center and take day trips to admire Sicily’s ancient temples, hilltowns, and wine country. End your stay with a jaunt to the nearby Aegadian Islands. Here are the best options to fill three days in Trapani.

Day 1: Trapani

The maze of lanes in Trapani’s compact historic center still shows signs of the area’s long Spanish occupation, including Catalan-Gothic and baroque churches and palaces. Admire this unique architecture on a morning walking or biking tour, stopping by the cathedral, the church of Santa Maria del Gesù, the Senatorio and Riccio di Morana palaces, and Villa Margherita park. Foodies can opt for a tour that pairs sightseeing with tastings of street food and Sicilian wines. In the afternoon, tour the Trapani and Paceco Salt Pans Natural Reserve, the historic salt flats that were once the center of the city’s sea salt industry. Learn how sea salt was harvested, visit the historic windmills and a salt mill-turned-museum, and admire the dozens of species of waterfowl that nest here. End your day with a stroll along Via Garibaldi in central Trapani and a Sicilian granita or a local glass of wine.

Day 2: The Highlights of Western Sicily

Trapani is the perfect launching pad for exploring some of the top attractions of western Sicily. Begin by taking in the spectacular ancient Greek temple and other ruins from the island’s Hellenic occupation with a tour of the Segesta Archaeological Park just east of the city. On your way back, stop by the delightful hilltown of Erice, considered one of the most scenic in Sicily. Take in the views of the coastline and of the Aegadian Islands, and pause at one of the restaurants or cafés to sample authentic Sicilian cuisine. End the day with a wine tour through Marsala, situated just down the coastline. Sample the area’s famous fortified wine and other Sicilian wines, such as Nero d'Avola, Cataratto, and Grillo.

Day 3: A Jaunt to the Aegadian Islands

The port of Trapani is a bustling hub for boats and ferries heading to and from the Aegadian Islands just off the coast of Sicily. Spend your third day island-hopping with a mini cruise or a boat excursion to Favignana, famous for its beaches and waterfalls, and Levanzo, known for its striking blue water. Learn about the historic battle between the Romans and Carthaginians that took place around these islands, and enjoy free time to explore on land independently, breaks to swim and snorkel in the crystalline waves, and lunch on board. Most full-day excursions return to shore in the late afternoon, leaving you plenty of time on your last evening for a final evening stroll and dinner in Trapani.

Sicily’s unique culture and cuisine shine in the port city of Palermo, where Arab influence remains strong in the architecture, markets, and food. Spend a day experiencing the city’s long history, then travel further back in time with an excursion to the Italian island’s ancient temples. Here’s how to spend two days in Palermo.

Day 1: Palermo

**Morning:**Explore Palermo’s old town, rich in 12th-century Arab-Norman churches and palaces decorated with Byzantine mosaics. Delve deep into the city’s history and architecture with a guided walking, bike, or Segway tour to take in highlights like the Norman Palace, Palatine Chapel, Palermo Cathedral, and La Martorana.

**Afternoon:**No visit to Palermo is complete without a turn through its souk-like markets, so join a food tour that includes market tastings of popular street food. Alternatively, opt for a cooking class that begins with a market visit to shop for ingredients before preparing—and feasting upon—Palermo’s most unique dishes, often paired with Sicilian wines.

**Night:**After your culinary break, take in the architectural treasures in the towns of Monreale or Cefalù, home to two Norman cathedrals covered in glittering Byzantine mosaics. These churches are among the most significant monuments in Sicily and a must for architecture enthusiasts.

Day 2: The Greek Temples of Agrigento and Segesta

**Morning:**Sicily once was part of the sprawling Greek empire. Modern visitors can see a number of Greek temples still standing on the island, including one of the most striking in the Valley of the Temples outside Agrigento on the southern coast, a popular day trip from Palermo.

**Afternoon:**Stay closer to the city with a trip to Segesta, home to temples no less impressive than those of Agrigento. Some tours also include a stop at the nearby Greek ruins of Selinunte or the hilltop town of Erice, where you can enjoy local food and wine.

**Night:**Relax for your final hours in Palermo with a leisurely sail along the coast. Take in views of towering Mt. Pellegrino, La Cala harbor, and Mondello Beach and, as the sun sets over the sea, toast the city with wine and Sicilian appetizers on board.

With two days in Taormina, you can hit the city’s highlights and take in Mount Etna as well. Visit the Greek theater, sail along the scenic coast, learn about local wine, and dip into the Sicilian culinary scene. Here are a few ways to spend 48 hours in Taormina. 

Day 1: Tours and Wine Tastings

**Morning:**Begin your visit with an introductory tour. Choose a Segway tour that covers ground in the hilltop town quickly, a walking tour with a visit to the Greek Theater, or a ride on the hop-on hop-off bus for a city overview. 

**Afternoon:**See Taormina from a different perspective this afternoon. Opt for a boat ride that cruises along the coastline with views of Isola Bella, or splurge on a helicopter journey that offers a glimpse of Mount Etna, including the volcano’s crater. 

**Night:**This evening, taste Sicilian wines and traditional snacks during a food-focused walking tour led by a local guide. Travelers with an interest in music may also want to check out evening tours that combine Italian opera with wine-tasting opportunities.

Day 2: Coastal Explorations and Cooking Classes

**Morning:**Get active this morning and explore the coastline on a snorkeling tour or a fishing tour at Isola Bella. Private tours are also available for visitors seeking a more intimate fishing, snorkeling, or boating experience.

**Afternoon:**Bring your appetite to a local cooking class, and get to know Sicily’s culinary history. Opt for a pizza-making class to learn the art of the Sicilian pizza crust, or choose a tour that begins with a visit to the market to pick up fresh ingredients and concludes with a southern Italian feast. 

**Night:**Continue the culinary theme this evening by joining an Italian chef for dinner in his home. Skip the bustle of a restaurant and enjoy an intimate, multicourse meal with wine on a terrace. Alternatively, set out to see Mount Etna at sunset with an evening tour departing from Taormina. 

Explore the beauty of Sicily’s eastern coast from the port city of Catania. With two days you can visit the city’s historic center, wander through traditional markets, and go sailing along the coastline. Here are our top picks for how to spend 48 hours in Catania. 

Day 1: Welcome to Catania and Cooking Classes

**Morning:**Maximize your time in Catania with an introductory tour. Join a guide for a Segway tour and cover ground quickly throughout the city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about popular landmarks including Castle Ursino and Cathedral Square (Piazza Duomo), and see the Fountain of the Elephant, Villa Bellini park, and Via Etnea, the historic center’s main shopping street. 

**Afternoon:**Learn the secrets behind Sicilian cooking with a hands-on class. Some classes begin in the fish market to source ingredients, while others get started in the kitchen. Make a variety of classic Sicilian dishes such as arancini, and eat what you prepare after the class. 

**Night:**Visit a farm outside Catania, where you can try local delicacies including cured meats and cheeses, sample several different kinds of Sicilian wine, and learn about local winemaking methods. Alternatively, check out a winery at the foot of Mount Etna for a guided tasting. 

Day 2: Sailing and Sunset at Mount Etna

**Morning:**Kick off the day with a walking tour focused on the gastronomy of Sicily. Join a food-loving guide for a stroll to taste your way through the city’s markets, bakeries, and street-food stalls, and get tips on where to eat and drink during the rest of your visit. 

**Afternoon:**This afternoon, climb aboard a boat for a scenic trip along the Sicilian coastline; virtually all tours include time for swimming and fishing. Some include the chance to learn basic sailing skills, while others are focused on scuba diving and snorkeling. 

**Night:**Spend your final evening discovering the beauty of nearby Mount Etna. Choose a sunset tour that includes a trek to see a crater and lava flows or a scenic helicopter tour that includes many different views of the volcano and nearby coastline. 

Tucked away on the eastern shores of Sicily with beautiful views over the Ionian Sea, coastal Catania ranks alongside neighboring Palermo as one of the largest cities in Italy. Here are your options for a little retail therapy among the traditional street markets in Catania.

Piazza Carlo Alberto (Carlo Alberto Square) Market

The outdoor markets in Piazza Carlo Alberto are a very traditional affair, with everything from household items and clothing to jewelry for sale—but explorers who delve a little deeper into the heart of the market are richly rewarded! Locals browse stalls of fresh produce for antipasti ingredients like fruit and vegetables, with cheeses, nuts, and other treats to complete the picture. If your Italian language skills are sharp, feel free to haggle away!

La Pescheria (The Fish Market)

Tucked away within easy reach of UNESCO World Heritage–listed Piazza Duomo (Duomo Square), Catania’s fresh fish market comes alive in the mornings, with busy buyers and traders jostling for a deal. With cheeses, olives, and tasty oils also available, it’s a foodie’s haven. 

Agrigento’s biggest draw is the Valley of the Temples, home to some of the most spectacular ancient Greek ruins in the world. With a full day to dedicate to this area, you can admire these and other archaeological ruins, sample the local cuisine, and even set sail along the Sicilian coast. Here’s how to spend one day in Agrigento.

Morning: The Valley of the Temples

Dotting the hillside outside of what was once the Greek city of Akragas, this group of seven Doric temples dating from the Magna Graecia now comprise the Archaeological Park of the Valley of the Temples. Get an early start to join a guided walking or bike tour to this 3,200-acre (1,295-hectare) UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll learn about the history and architecture of the Temple of Juno Lacinia and the Temple of Concordia, both constructed in the fifth century BC, along with five other temples built between the fifth and sixth century BC. Alternatively, spend your morning connecting with locals during a farm cooking class and lunch, and turn your sights to the ancient world in the afternoon.

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Afternoon: The Villa Romana del Casale

After spending your morning traveling back in time to Magna Graecia, take a trip to ancient  Rome with a tour of the Villa Romana del Casale in nearby Piazza Armerina. This ancient Roman hunting lodge and thermal baths contain the largest collection of Roman mosaics in the world, dating from the fourth century and perfectly preserved by a 12th-century landslide before being excavated in the 19th century. Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruins include 32,000 square feet (3,000 square meters) of spectacular mosaics, including the “bikini girls” and mythological scenes.   

Night: Dinner by Land or Sea

End your time in Agrigento with a sunset sail on the Mediterranean to admire the coast of Sicily  with the conquering eye of the ancients. Choose a cocktail sail, or enjoy dinner onboard featuring fish caught locally and served dressed with island olive oil, lemons, and salt. If you prefer to stay on land, opt for a home dinner experience with a local chef. Dine on pasta tossed with the catch of the day, sip Sicilian wine, and enjoy learning about local history and culture from your host.

The port city of Catania is a popular gateway to the many pleasures of Sicily, but within the city itself is much to see and do, from its historic core—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—to bustling markets. Here’s how to get the most out of 24 hours in Catania. 

Morning: Sicily by Segway or Helicopter

Get your bearings in Catania with an introductory tour. On a guided Segway tour, you’ll cover the UNESCO-listed historic core quickly and learn about Catania’s history at city landmarks such as the 13th-century Castle Ursino and Cathedral Square (Piazza Duomo). For an alternative view of this region of Sicily, start your day with a scenic helicopter tour. Fly above the crater of Mount Etna and see the surrounding lava fields, taking in views of vineyards, citrus groves, and the coastline from the air. 

Afternoon: Street Food or Sailing

This afternoon, taste the local flavors of Catania with a gastronomic tour focused on street food. Explore the city on foot with a guide who leads the way to bakeries, bars, and street-food stalls. Learn about what makes Sicilian cuisine unique as you snack your way through the city. Alternatively, get to know the coastline of Sicily with a sailing tour from Catania. During the tour you’ll learn sailing basics, cool off in the water with swimming and snorkeling, and try your hand at fishing. Tours often include stops along the coastline at charming villages such as Aci Trezza.

Night: Local Wine and a Cooking Class

Sample Sicilian wines with a visit to a winery at the foot of Mount Etna. Tastings often include multiple wines and the chance to learn about local winemaking methods. Then learn about local culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class. Some tours begin with a visit to the local fish market and include the preparation of a multicourse meal with classic Sicilian dishes such as arancini. After the class, sit down to feast on everything you cooked. Private cooking classes can be customized according to your interests and adjusted depending on individual dietary restrictions. 

Messina has long been the gateway to Sicily, and with three days you can both pause at the threshold to discover the city’s treasures and pass through to explore the island’s most important sights. You’ll even have time to experience Sicily as it’s depicted on the silver screen. Here are your options for three days in Messina.

Day 1: Messina’s Culture and Cuisine

Dedicate your first day to the culture and cuisine of the island’s largest port city. Though a disastrous 1908 earthquake and intensive World War II bombing destroyed much of Messina, a clutch of historic headliners remain. Take a walking or Segway tour through the old town to admire highlights such as the cathedral and the Norman Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani. Afterwards, pop in to see the Renaissance and baroque masterpieces in the Regional Museum, pausing before works by Antonello da Messina and Caravaggio. Finish your day by diving into the city’s culinary heart with a street-food tour or an in-home cooking lesson followed by a lively family-style meal.

Day 2: The Heights of Taormina and Mt. Etna

Set off south along the Ionian coast to one of the most beautiful towns in Sicily: Taormina. Perched on a hilltop above the coastline, the old town is home to the magnificent 2nd-century Greek Theater and 13th-century cathedral, as well as the bustling Corso Umberto I thoroughfare and Piazza IX Aprile, with its scenic terrace overlooking the countryside to the sea. From Taormina, make a quick stop either above or below town in the charming hilltop village of Castelmola or coastal outcrop of Isola Bella. Finally, take a guided walk on Mt. Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, then stop at one of the mountainside wineries on the way back down for a tasting.

Day 3: Sicily on the Silver Screen

Sicily is the setting for much of The Godfather, and fans of Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic franchise can join themed tours that trace the series’ most important locations. Godfather completists will enjoy visiting the village of Savoca, backdrop to the wedding between Michael Corleone and Apollonia Vitelli in the church of Santa Lucia. Most tours also stop in Forza D’agrò, where Santa Annunziata Cathedral stood in for the main square of Corleone, as well as at the villa where Michael was ultimately betrayed and Apollonia killed. Also learn about the history of Sicily’s mafia, its clan wars, and its spread to the New World from your guide before returning to Messina.

Baroque architecture flourished on Sicily following the massive earthquake of 1693, when authorities began rebuilding the island. With traditional baroque curves and flourishes, the buildings stand out for their flair and artistry. Here are a few key baroque-style landmarks to look out for in UNESCO World Heritage–listed Catania.

Piazza del Duomo

The three palaces situated around the Piazza del Duomo (Duomo Square) include the Bishop’s Palace and the Seminario—and combined they boast some of the most impressive baroque buildings in Italy. Skilled architect Alonzo di Benedetto worked alongside fellow local architects, and the divisions between their working styles are seamless.

Basilica della Collegiata

The 18th-century Basilica della Collegiata is one of the religious sites reconstructed following the earthquake in 1693. With ornate curvature and intricate facade, it’s widely considered among Catania’s top attractions.

Town Hall

Built in 1741, Catania’s grand town hall takes pride of place on the Piazza del Duomo. The key feature here is the Fountain of the Elephant—intricately carved from Mt. Etna’s black lava in the baroque style.

Teatro Massimo Bellini

The Teatro Massimo Bellini (Massimo Bellini Theater) is an opera house named after local 19th-century composer Vincenzo Bellini. The building was almost 200 years in the making, and the final product features the ornate, stuccoed design for which the distinctive Sicilian baroque style is known.

Catania Cathedral

Dedicated to Saint Agatha, Catania Cathedral has fallen to earthquakes and been rebuilt many times over the centuries. The current construction shows bold baroque design with strong Roman and Spanish influence, and dates back to the rebuilding of Catania following the 1693 earthquake.

The port city of Trapani has a picturesque old town thick with the remnants of centuries of Spanish rule. It also provides a convenient jumping off point to visit the top attractions in western Sicily, including the Segesta Archaeological Park, the medieval town of Erice, and the wineries in Marsala. Here are suggestions for two days in Trapani.

Day 1: Trapani and the Salt Pans

Morning: Take advantage of the cool morning hours to tour the town’s historic center on foot or by bike. Admire the Catalan-Gothic and baroque architecture of its churches and palaces, which date from the Spanish occupation, and stroll through the Villa Margherita park. Alternatively, learn about the unique local cuisine on a food tour that combines sightseeing with stops for street food and wine.

Afternoon: Trapani was once an important producer of sea salt, and the historic salt flats are now the Trapani and Paceco Salt Pans Natural Reserve. Join a guided tour to learn about traditional sea salt harvesting, and visit the historic windmills and salt mill-turned-museum. The lowlands are rich in birdlife, and you can spot flamingos, cranes, storks, and osprey nesting and migrating.

Night: Relax and do as the locals do, setting out for an evening passeggiata (stroll) along lively Via Garibaldi, which closes to traffic in the evening. Enjoy a traditional Sicilian granita or a glass of wine from nearby Marsala, and settle in for a meal of classic local dishes like couscous, caponata, or pasta tossed with pesto trapanese at one of the many restaurants in the old town.

Day 2: Culture and Cuisine Day Tripping

Morning: Sicily once was part of the vast Greek empire, and a number of Greek temples still stand on the island. See one of the most striking by joining a tour of the Segesta Archaeological Park, which is located east of Trapani and is a popular day trip for archaeology buffs.

Afternoon: Wine enthusiasts can spend the afternoon touring the traditional wineries of Marsala, which is situated south of Trapani and known for its fortified wine of the same name. You can also taste other local wines, like Nero d'Avola, Cataratto, and Grillo.

Night: Lovers of beautiful views and authentic food will find both in the hilltop town of Erice, just outside Trapani. One of the most scenic towns in Sicily, Erice overlooks the coastline and offers views of the Mediterranean Sea. Explore the historic center and the medieval castle, stopping for dinner along the narrow pedestrian lanes.

Sicily’s busiest port, Messina is a popular jumping-off point for visiting sights farther down the Ionian coast. Spend a day taking in the city’s architecture, art, and street food before adventuring farther south to admire the ancient ruins in Taormina and the smoldering peak of Mount Etna. Here’s how to spend two days in Messina.

Day 1: Messina

**Morning:**Dedicate the morning to exploring the old town, rebuilt after a devastating earthquake and World War II bombing. A handful of historic buildings survive, so join a walking or Segway tour to visit the 12th-century Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, Norman cathedral flanked by its spectacular bell tower and astronomical clock, and Fountain of Orion. 

**Afternoon:**As the temperatures start to soar, take refuge in the halls of the Regional Museum, hung with an impressive collection of masterpieces by the Messina school and other Renaissance and baroque artists. Highlights include works by the 15th-century painter Antonello da Messina, a local treasure, and the inimitable Caravaggio.

**Night:**Unwind after a day of art and architecture with a food tour, discovering Sicilian street food during a guided stroll through the historic center. True foodies can opt for a home-style cooking class led by a local cook for a hands-on lesson in preparing traditional Sicilian dishes. Cap off the evening with a festive dinner to sample what you’ve created in the kitchen.

Day 2: Taormina and Mt. Etna

**Morning:**One of the most head-turning hill towns in Sicily, perched high above the coast, Taormina is a delightful mix of the truly ancient and simply historic. Tour the old town with a guide to fully appreciate its dazzling Greek Theater, lively Corso Umberto I, and panoramic Piazza IX Aprile. 

**Afternoon:**Many day trips to Taormina make a brief but scenic stop at the tiny hill town of Castelmola, with a crumbling castle above and postcard-ready views of the coastline below. Alternatively, head to Isola Bella, below Taormina, a dramatic, rocky outcrop along the coast—it’s a photographer’s paradise.

**Night:**Take advantage of the golden late-afternoon light to summit Mt. Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe, which rumbles and belches on the horizon above Sicily’s eastern coastline. Explore the lava flows and craters on foot, and then stop for a tour and tasting at one of the wineries located on its slopes.  

Rebuilt after an earthquake devastated much of the region in 1693, Sicily is famous for its striking baroque villages. Most notable of these are the hill towns of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are some of the best to add to your Sicily itinerary. 

Noto

Noto’s magnificent churches and palazzos are characteristic of the Sicilian baroque style, and a walking tour is the most atmospheric way to admire the town’s architecture. Combine a tour with the nearby Roman Villa of Tellaro or the traditional fishing village of Marzamemi.

Catania

Catania is the largest of Sicily’s UNESCO-listed hill towns. Along with many fine examples of Sicilian baroque architecture, it also boasts historic attractions from other periods, including ancient Greek and Roman times. Along the way, take a detour just north of Catania to Mt. Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, which looms on the horizon. 

Ragusa

Like Noto, Ragusa was rebuilt in a different place post-earthquake. The town is most notable for its high baroque style, of which there are nine churches and seven palazzos to admire.

Modica

While the ruins of Modica’s old city lie on the hilltop, the baroque town stretches down the hillside, offering magnificent views over the surrounding countryside. Often combined with a visit to nearby Ragusa, the town’s prize attraction is the exquisite Cathedral of St. George. 

Palazzolo

The baroque town of Palazzolo was erected on the site of an ancient Greek city, and you can still see the remnants of its ancient past along with a number of stunning Sicilian baroque churches. 

Scicli

Uniquely situated between the three hills of San Matteo, Santa Croce, and San Domenico, Scicli is a charming maze of gullies, grottoes, and gardens. Highlights include the ornate bell towers of the Sant’Ignazio church, the grand facade of Palazzo Beneventano, the caves of Chiafura, and the beautiful Via Mormino Penna. 

The hilltop town of Taormina is best known for its gorgeous beaches, lively beach resorts, and magnificent views of Mt. Etna. Yet the Sicilian resort town is also home to some of the island’s most impressive archaeological sites. Here are a few must-sees to add to your Taormina itinerary. 

Greek Theatre of Taormina (Teatro Greco)

Perched high on the cliff-tops, the Greek Theater, or Ancient Theater of Taormina (Teatro Antico di Taormina), is as notable for its dramatic views along the Ionian Sea coast as it is for its well-preserved ruins. The ancient Greek amphitheater was built in the third century BC and boasts a fascinating history: built by the ancient Greeks, used for gladiator games by the Romans, and used as a venue for opera performances and music concerts today. 

Odeon

Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus Octavian built the Odeon, which is similar in style to the Teatro Greco, although much smaller. Located behind the Palazzo Corvaja along the Corso Umberto, the ancient ruins make a popular photo stop on walking tours of Taormina.

Porta Catania and Porta Messina

The last remnants of Taormina’s ancient fortification walls, the historic city gates of Porta Catania and Porta Messina remain two of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Restored in the 15th century and 19th century, respectively, you can admire the gates on walking or sightseeing tours of Taormina. 

The crescent-shaped old town of Trapani, on the coast of Sicily, was once a powerful Mediterranean trading port. Today, it is busy with ferries heading to and from the Aegadian Islands. Before striking out to sea or heading inland, explore the historic city center and the nearby salt pans. Here’s how to spend one day in Trapani.

Morning: The Historic Center

The Spanish occupation of Sicily began with Peter III of Aragon landing in Trapani in 1282, and the town’s historic center is a delightful time capsule of Catalan-Gothic and baroque churches and palaces dating from the harbour’s heyday. Join a walking or biking tour through the warren of small lanes to admire the cathedral and the church of Santa Maria del Gesù, the Senatorio and Riccio di Morana palaces, and the lovely Villa Margherita park. Gourmands can join a food tour that combines sightseeing with stops for street food and wine tastings.

Afternoon: The Trapani Salt Pans

In addition to being a trading port, Trapani was once also an important producer of tuna, coral, and sea salt. Today, the Trapani and Paceco Salt Pans Natural Reserve is one of the most unique destinations on Sicily’s western coast. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of traditional sea salt harvesting, snap photos of the historic windmills and a former salt mill that has been turned into a museum, and admire the dozens of waterfowl species, like flamingos, cranes, storks, and osprey, that use this 2,500-acre stretch of lowlands as a haven for nesting and migration.

Night: Dinner and A Passeggiata

As the sun sets, the daytime ferry traffic slows, and the evening foot traffic picks up. Join the residents who head to the pedestrian-only Via Garibaldi for the traditional passeggiata (evening stroll), stopping for a Sicilian granita or a glass of wine from nearby Marsala. Choose an old-school trattoria for a leisurely dinner of fresh tuna and seafood as well as other local specialties like couscous, caponata, and pasta tossed with pesto trapanese.