What to do in Sicily?
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. We visited the island two weeks in May and we loved it for its rich history, stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and local culinary delights.
Although the more popular, known cities like Taormina, Palermo, and Catania are definitely worth a visit and a must see, we discovered also more hidden gems and unique places to visit across the island. Here are my favorites:
Cefalù: picturesque medieval streets
Cefalù was definitively one of most beautiful villages in Sicily we visited, located on the northern coast. Here you have the feeling to step back in time as you wander through the labyrinthine streets of Cefalù's historic center.
You can admire medieval architecture, visit the imposing Cathedral of Cefalù, relax at the sandy beaches, and discover hidden piazzas adorned with colorful flowers and charming cafes serving Sicilian delicacies.
Things To Do in Cefalu?
Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing by the sea, Cefalù offers a wide range of experiences to enjoy. Here are my recommendations:
Visit the Cefalù Cathedral: Explore this impressive Norman cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful mosaics and unique blend of architectural styles.
Relax on Cefalù Beach: Spend some time soaking up the sun on the golden sands of Cefalù Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Sicily. Swim in the crystal-clear waters or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
Climb La Rocca: Hike up to La Rocca, the rocky promontory overlooking Cefalù, for breathtaking views of the town and coastline. The hike takes about an hour and offers stunning photo opportunities.
Explore the Old Town: Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of Cefalù's historic center, lined with medieval buildings, charming cafes, and boutique shops. Don't miss the picturesque Piazza del Duomo.
Visit the Mandralisca Museum: Discover a fascinating collection of art and artifacts at the Museo Mandralisca, including paintings, archaeological finds, and the famous Portrait of an Unknown Man by Antonello da Messina.
Relax in the Piazza Garibaldi: Sit back and relax in the lively Piazza Garibaldi, a bustling square lined with outdoor cafes and restaurants. Enjoy a coffee or gelato while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
Take a Boat Tour: Explore the coastline of Cefalù and discover hidden coves and sea caves on a boat tour. Choose from options like snorkeling excursions, sunset cruises, or fishing trips.
Enjoy Sicilian Cuisine: Indulge in delicious Sicilian cuisine at one of Cefalù's many restaurants and trattorias. Try local specialties like arancini (rice balls), pasta alla norma, and fresh seafood dishes. You can also join a small group street food tour, a great way to learn about local gastronomy and enjoy tastings, while at the same time discovering the village.
Visit the Temple of Diana: Explore the ruins of the Temple of Diana, an ancient Greek temple located on La Rocca. The temple dates back to the 5th century BC and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Attend a Festival: Experience the vibrant culture of Cefalù by attending one of its many festivals and events throughout the year. From religious processions to music concerts, there's always something happening in this lively town.
Valley of Temples in Agrigento
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is so unique that it is definitely worth a visit. It is renowned for its exceptional archaeological significance and stunningly preserved ancient Greek temples and ruins.
These temples are dating back to the 5th century BC. They are dedicated to various gods and goddesses, including Concordia, Hera, and Zeus. Also the setting is spectacular! It is nestled amidst rolling hills and a lush countryside.
Tip: visit the temples early in the morning, then it's not that warm yet and not too many people yet.
Afterwards we took a walk through Agrigento's charming Old Town and enjoyed a refreshing 'gelato'. The old town is characterized by narrow streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares.
Scala dei Turchi: natural wonder
On our way back from Agrigento we stopped at this stunning natural rock formation. It is located along the coast near Agrigento. Here we enjoyed breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the unique white limestone cliffs. The cliffs are carved by wind and sea and rises majestically above the azure waters of the Mediterranean.
Scopello and the nearby Riserva dello Zingaro
Scopello is a charming, authentic village on Sicily's northwest coast. We liked it for its stunning natural beauty, the ancient ruins of the tuna fishery (tonnara), the small bay with clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. The village has cobblestone streets, and colorful buildings adorned with flowers. It is perched atop cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Nearby attractions include the Zingaro Nature Reserve with hiking trails and secluded beaches. It's a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Here you can hike along scenic coastal trails, swim in crystalline coves, and enjoy the untouched beauty of this protected nature reserve.
Savoca: picturesque village
This picturesque village is immortalized in Francis Ford Coppola's "The Godfather" trilogy. Savoca breathes old-world charm and timeless beauty.
Tip: Visit the Bar Vitelli, where scenes from the iconic films were shot, and explore ancient churches and quiet cobblestone alleyways steeped in history.
Segesta's Ancient Ruins: impressive ancient site Escape the tourist crowds and journey to Segesta, home to one of Sicily's most impressive ancient sites. Here you can visit the remarkably well-preserved Doric Temple, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and olive groves, and explore the nearby theater and archaeological park.
Ragusa: Unesco-listed city This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city in southeastern Sicily boasts a stunning Baroque architecture, charming piazzas, and a rich culinary scene. Stay in one of the city's historic palazzos-turned-boutique hotels for a truly immersive experience, where you can soak in the atmosphere of this enchanting city.
Noto This is another gem of Sicily's Baroque towns and located to the south-east of Sicily (east of Ragusa and south of Syracuse).
Noto is renowned for its exquisite architecture. It is lovely to just walk around the town with the stunning Noto Cathedral and Palazzo Ducezio as the highlights.
Syracuse While Syracuse is a well-known destination, it's often overshadowed by other cities in Sicily. Here you can explore the city's ancient ruins, including the Greek Theatre and Ear of Dionysius, visit the cathedral and wander through the picturesque streets.
Conclusion These are just a few examples of the hidden gems and special places that Sicily has to offer. Whether you're seeking history, culture, nature, or simply a tranquil escape, Sicily has something to offer every type of traveler. Looking forward to hear more tips about Sicily!
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