A Sicilian Getaway

Mount Etna: This active volcano is one-of-a-kind and I highly recommend a hike or a cable car ride. The drive up the mountain is full of incredible views and more lava stone than one can imagine.

Vineyard visit: It is a tough choice for a favorite between Azienda Agricola VELLA or Favazza Etna vineyard but whatever you choose, a winery visit is a must-do for your time in Sicily.

Valley of the Temples: This valley hosts ancient Greek ruins dating back to the 6th century BC. A guided tour takes you through the valley and immerses you in the history of this place.

Ortigia boat ride: Ortigia, the peninsula off of Siracusa, is host to some of the prettiest water I’ve seen and one-of-a-kind sea caves. A boat ride around with a bottle of prosecco cannot be topped.

Taormina: Taormina is a hilltop city overlooking both the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. With tons of history and beautiful city streets, you can spend the day wandering.

Palermo food tour: Palermo is known for its markets hidden all throughout the city. A food tour allows you to immerse yourself in the culture and taste the local favorites.

Via Etnea and Piazza del Duomo, Catania: Via Etnea is a pedestrian street known for its shops, food, and lively environment. Take a stroll down the road, stopping for souvenirs or gelato and end in the Piazza del Duomo, home to the iconic Fontana dell’Elefante. From here, find a cafe to sip a cappuccino and watch the world go by.

Bellevue Restaurant, Taormina: Located inside the Hotel Metropole, this restaurant gives you stunning views of the sea and the towns below. I recommend grabbing a bottle of local wine and enjoying a gorgeous sunset.

Bam Bar, Taormina: This bar is a local favorite, known specifically for their granitas and brioche rolls. Grab a drink or a sweet treat and sit a moment in the piazza to enjoy.

Trattoria Carpaccio, Palermo: This restaurant was so phenomenal that we went twice! It is family-owned and on a Saturday night you can see the grandchildren dining while their grandparents check in on each table and make the experience feel personal. I highly recommend the spinach ravioli or spaghetti with clams.

I Segreti del Chiostro, Palermo: Located inside a historic monastery, their recipes have been perfected over 700 years. All the best tour guides say their cannolis are a must, but the line gets long so go early!

Fontana Marina, Palermo: The yachting marina in Palermo is home to a host of new restaurants, bars, and a beautiful fountain. Grab a drink or a snack and walk around the boardwalk as you watch the boats sail in and out.

Ristorante Arricriati, Siracusa: On a street full of restaurants, this one is a true gem. Sit and enjoy a lunch while overlooking the port with its beautiful blue waters and boats sailing by. With fresh pasta, the best aperol spritz, and divine seafood, the experience makes you feel truly Sicilian.

La Terrazza degli Dei, Agrigento: This restaurant is located inside Villa Athena, a 5-star luxury hotel, just steps from the Temple of Concordia and Juno. This upscale restaurant offers an incredible fine-dining experience and panoramic views of the archaeological park.

Ménage, Catania: This Michelin star restaurant is situated in the heart of the city near the Teatro Bellini and Piazza Università. It is run by a trio of young chefs and known for its contemporary Sicilian cuisine with a heavy focus on high-end barbecued meats and an expert wine pairing program.