Curator’s statement
Sicily has a way of feeling both timeless and alive all at once. It’s a place where layers of history—Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman—are not tucked away in museums but woven into everyday life, from crumbling hilltop ruins to ornate baroque cities. The landscapes shift dramatically within short distances: golden beaches, volcanic slopes, citrus groves, and sun-drenched countryside that seem to slow time itself. What truly sets Sicily apart, though, is its atmosphere. Meals linger for hours, markets buzz with color and conversation, and there’s a deep appreciation for simple sensory pleasures—fresh seafood, handmade pasta, local wine, the warmth of the sun. It’s not just a destination you check off a list. It’s a place you feel, where every moment invites you to savor, explore, and connect.
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Things to do in Sicily
Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
Spend a day at the beach
The island of Sicily has several beautiful beaches to choose from, but the beach in Cefalù is one of my favorites. The town is famous for its long, golden sandy beach, which borders the historic medieval town center and is framed by the dramatic Rocca di Cefalù cliffs. Take a dip in the Mediterranean and grab a bite at one of the many beachside restaurants.
Wine tasting
Abbazia Santa Anastasia, located in Castelbuono near Palermo, is a premier winery and 5-star resort set in a former medieval abbey, specializing in organic and biodynamic wines. They offer a variety of tasting and luncheon options.
Visit the town of Castelbuono
Located near Abbazia Santa Anastasia, this sweet little medieval town’s crown jewel is the castle for which it is named. It was built around the 14th century. Stop by Fiasconaro’s pastry shop for an espresso or cappuccino, and a pistachio cream-filled treat.
Shopping in Cefalù
This coastal town has such a familiar feel to it, and it has some great shopping! Stop by Ortiga, a Sicilian-based luxury fragrance and home decor shop, Signorini Tartufi Cefalù for high-end truffle products like olive oil and honey. Visit Colori del Sole for table linens and crafts, or Kasamoda for clothing, jewelry, and unique accessories.
See the burial of St. Lucy
Caravaggio’s primary masterpiece in Sicily, The Burial of Saint Lucy (1608), is located in the Basilica of Santa Lucia al Sepolcro in Syracuse (Piazza Santa Lucia). This is a must-see if you’re interested in art and/or the Renaissance.
Visit Taromina
Taormina has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century. Its beaches along the Ionian Sea, the Castello Saraceno, the Arab Necropolis, and the ancient theater of Taromina are just a few of the many sights to see in this amazing ancient city.
Hike La Rocca
La Rocca di Cefalù is a nearly 900-foot limestone cliff towering over the Sicilian town of Cefalù, offering panoramic coastal views and rich historical ruins. A 40–60 minute hike leads past the 5th-century BC Temple of Diana and a 9th-century Saracen castle. This is the top attraction in Sicily for history and hiking. Pro-tip: pack a picnic lunch to enjoy once you reach the top!
Visit Mount Etna
Mount Etna is one of the world’s most active volcanoes and is in an almost constant state of activity. Located on the east coast of Sicily in the metropolitan city of Catania, Mount Etna is one of the top sights to see in Sicily.
Places to eat & drink in Sicily
Sicilian cuisine is defined by fresh Mediterranean seafood, citrus and Arab-influenced flavors.
Triscele Restaurant
Located in Cefalù, this popular spot offers traditional Sicilian cuisine like fresh seafood, pastas, and Arancini (fried rice balls). During the summer, the restaurant also offers a well-maintained outdoor space to fully enjoy the view of Cefalù’s historic center.
Bastione & Costanza
This multi-use cultural space sits right on the Mediterranean and offers incredible views. The former military structure (built in 1588) functions as a museum, event space, and waterfront restaurant. Bastione & Costanza’s main restaurant offers pastas, salads, and fresh seafood. They also offer wine and cheese tastings, and they have a more casual pizza cafe as well.
San Michele - Villa Zuccaro
Located in the heart of Taormina’s historic center, San Michele celebrates Sicily’s rich culinary and winemaking traditions, offering a menu that showcases the island’s finest ingredients. They also offer cooking classes, which I highly recommend.
Vineria Modì
This Michelin-star restaurant is a local favorite in the historic city of Taromina. Conceived to deliver an authentic yet contemporary dining experience, the restaurant reinterprets Sicilian tradition with elegance, showcasing the island’s finest ingredients through a modern and creative perspective.
Ethica Chef’s Table and Garden
This five-star casual fine dining restaurant offers raw seafood, handmade pastas, fresh seafood cooked over a charcoal fire, and much more. Ethica prides itself on their completely handmade and transparent approach. They also work with local farmers and fishermen to source the very best and freshest ingredients from around the island of Sicily.
Buatta Cucina Popolana
This simple yet lively and dynamic restaurant occupying the beautiful, historic rooms of an old shop in the bustling city of Palermo, is always busy with locals and tourists, so booking ahead is highly recommended. Dishes are traditionally Sicilian, such as the “sarde a scottadito” (sardines) and change regularly in line with the seasons. Meat, fish, offal, and vegetarian options all feature on the menu.
Retrobottega di Prezzemolo & Vitale - Quattro Canti
This Palermo bistro is perfect for quick, quality meals. They offer charcuterie, fresh sandwiches, salads, and a selection of small plates. They also have a bottle shop, so you can always grab a bottle of wine (or two) to take home with you.
Sapore di Sale Gelateria Cefalù
This is the best spot for gelato in Cefalù. Although they have several flavors (many of which rotate with the seasons), pistachio and lemon are what they’re best known for!
Need to know
The easiest way to travel to Sicily is to fly into Palermo, the capital of Sicily. Located on the northwestern coast, Palermo serves as the region’s administrative, cultural, and economic hub, known for its rich Arab-Norman history, vibrant street markets, and diverse architecture. If you’re staying elsewhere in Sicily (like Taormina, Syracuse, or Cefalù), I recommend booking a taxi to pick you up at the airport. These towns are about an hour away from Palermo, and booking transportation in advance is always a good idea. Some hotels and resorts even offer transportation as part of your booking package. Ask me about this if you’re interested!
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Alexis Welch
Alexis Welch
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