Posted by on 21 Jan 2022

Whether it’s your first or fourth trip, Sicily always has treats in store for you. The largest island in Italy offers so many sights for guests from all parts of the world—beautiful cities, stunning views, and magnificent beaches, to name a few.

With so many treasures waiting, it can be challenging to choose which places to go first. But don’t worry, we’ve prepared a list of the best things to see and do in Sicily!

20 Exciting Things to Do in Sicily

Roam Around Palermo

When touring Sicily, one must not forget to explore its capital. The Sicilian metropolis has over 2,700 years’ history filled with rich culture and architecture.

Drop by the lively markets around the area to taste the famed street foods in Sicily. You can also catch an opera show at the Teatro Massimo.

Discover the beauty of the Sicilian capital with our Palermo and Western Sicily tour package.
Revel in the Beauty of Monreale’s Cathedral

Drive by the hillside near the capital to find Monreale’s Cathedral. This cathedral dates back to the 12th century, constructed in the sophisticated Norman style.

It boasts a Benedictine walkway and a golden mosaic inside, along with a verdant garden and courtyard. Climb the nearby tower and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city.
Climb Mount Etna

On the east coast of Sicily, you’ll find one of the tallest volcano in Europe: Mount Etna. Not only that, but it is also among the most active ones in the world. It covers over 220 square miles—that’s around 20 towns!

Enjoy a guided tour up this breathtaking volcano and marvel at the gorgeous landscape on top.
Wander Around the Beautiful Cefalu

The beautiful fishing town of Cefalu is among the must-see places in Sicily. Colourful boats line up the pier, making it a picture-perfect sight.

It offers many resorts and beaches by the seaside that you can swim on. And if you like architecture, you can visit the cathedrals with Arab and Norman influences.
Explore Ancient Towns

Delightful sights await history buffs when visiting the historical sites in Syracuse and Ortigia. These ancient towns are home to monuments, squares, and other ruins with a rich history.

One must-see attraction is the Ear of Dionysius, a large cave whose shape resembles an ear. The Temple of Apollo is also a magnificent sight to behold with its intricately designed columns.
Learn History in the Selinunte Temple

Inside Trapani, you’ll find the famous archaeological city in the Selinunte Temple. It hosts different kinds of temples overlooking the sea.

You can explore two different sites that offer several temples to tour around. Make your stay worthwhile by watching a splendid sunset view on the temple grounds.
Visit the Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples is another must-see attraction in Sicily. After all, it is one of the largest archaeological site in the world and one of the best-preserved Greek temples outside Greece.

The site lies near Agrigento and houses ruins of eight temples from the 5th century BC, such as the Temple of Concordia. Discover the world of ancient Greece in this pre-Hellenic sanctuary.

Wander around the ancient wonders of Sicily in The Treasures of Sicily holiday package.
Marvel at the Scala dei Turchi

After visiting the Valley of the Temples, why not stop by the nearby attraction, Scala dei Turchi? It takes 20 minutes away from the Valley to reach this awe-inspiring natural wonder.

This limestone formation takes the shape of a staircase, hence the name. Enjoy this beautiful landscape with turquoise seas and fine sand beaches.
Travel to a Medieval Town

Aside from ancient ruins, Sicily has also preserved most of its medieval quarters. Erice, for one, sits atop a rocky cliff overlooking the city of Trapani.

Immerse yourself in a time travel-like experience while walking around the streets. Discover the buildings from the Middle Ages, from small medieval shops to grandiose churches and castles.
Admire Baroque Buildings in Noto, Modica, and Ragusa

If Baroque Architecture is your thing, then these towns are for you! Wander around the historic centres of Noto, Modica, and Ragusa in the southeastern part of Sicily.

Cathedrals, churches, and palaces fill this town with rich history and a signature Baroque style. Guests can enjoy an authentic Sicilian experience while touring these towns in a day.

Explore these magnificent Baroque towns and more in our Wonderful Islands: Sicily and Malta package.
Take a Bite of Stone Chocolates

The lovely cliffside Baroque town is home to a haven for sweet tooths. After all, Modica offers one of the most delightful sweet treats—the stone chocolate.

Visit one of the many shops around town and discover the flavour of sweets prepared the ancient Mayan way—that is, cooked over a warm pumice stone.
Join a Street Food Tour

When in Sicily, street food is a must! And what better way to taste the best of Sicily’s flavourful street foods than with a tour?

Explore local markets around Palermo and Catania and have a taste of everything with a local tour guide. Try tasting the most popular items such as arancini, cannoli, panelle, and sfincione.
Taste the Best Wines

Sicily is home not only to architectural wonders but also to the finest wines in the world. Because of this, wine tasting is one of the best things to do in Sicily.

The island has several vineyards and wineries that you can visit all year round. Sample the wines from prominent wine districts such as Etna, Messina, Enna, Favignana, and more.

Savour the wine notes of a local vineyard in Mount Etna with our Authentic Sicily tour.
Spend a Day at Taormina

Taormina is another must-visit for your Sicilian holiday. This hilltop town, lying on the east coast, boasts structures that will leave you in awe.

Visit the Ancient Greek Amphitheatre and, if you’re lucky, catch a live show there. You can also stop by the Duomo di San Nicola and the small chic boutiques around the area.
Witness a Traditional Sicilian Puppet Theatre

The opera dei pupi (or puppet theatre) is one of the best attractions in Sicily. After all, the island has a vibrant puppetry tradition listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Watch unforgettable tales and marionette shows at small theatres in Catania, Palermo, and Syracuse. You can also visit a collection of puppets at museums around the area.
Drop by the Salt Pans

Want something fun for your kids? Drive by the west coast of Sicily and find the salt pans near Nubia. You can also take a train ride to bring you to the delightful sight of salts on the ground.

In this place, hold your breath at the heaping piles of salt drying out in the sun. You can also ask the locals how salt is made there for a fun learning experience. Now, that’s a different taste!
Hop on an Island Adventure

Island hopping is one of the must-try activities in Sicily. Nearby islands provide a different set of experiences for all kinds of travellers.

Mountain lovers will find themselves drawn to the beautiful coves and trails in the Aegadian Islands. Meanwhile, the volcanic Aeolian Islands promises a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Reconnect with Nature in Monte Cofano

Sicily preserves the gifts of nature in various sanctuaries throughout the island. Among the less crowded yet delightfully splendid retreats is the Monte Cofano Natural Reserve.

It showcases beautiful landscapes, spectacular seaside views, and quiet trails so you can immerse yourself in nature. Step up your treks at the summit of Mount Cofano.
Soak in the Mondello Beach

A trip to Sicily isn’t complete without visiting the beautiful beaches around the island. Luckily, one of them—the Mondello Beach—is just a short drive away from Palermo.

Enjoy a pleasant walk on the stretch of sand while soaking in the Italian sun. Bright-coloured villas and cabins also add character to the stunning beach view.
Discover the Wonders of Alcantara Gorge

The Alcantara Gorge in Taormina is nothing short of gorgeous. This breathtaking natural wonder spans 150 feet and packs exciting activities for both relaxed and adventurous souls.

Hike up the trails to gain a picturesque view of this rock formation. On the way down, take a refreshing swim in the cold waters. For a thrilling ride, you can go body rafting and canyoning.

Plan Out Your Dream Sicily Holiday

Exhilarating and enriching experiences await at the tip of the Italian boot island. From gorgeous natural wonders to sturdy ancient ruins, Sicily offers the best things for all kinds of travellers.

Kickstart your dream Sicily holiday with our Italy holiday packages.

Last updated: December 12, 2023