Curator’s statement
Sicily is a masterclass in contrast, where the “electrifying masterpiece” of chaotic Palermo meets the honey-hued stillness of Baroque Noto. This journey is about tracing the footsteps of the many civilizations that conquered the island, while retreating into the isolation of a 17th-century working farm in the rustic interior. From the raw geological power of Mt. Etna to the Belle Époque elegance of coastal villas, Sicily offers a sensory depth that is both rugged and refined. It is a place to lose yourself in history and find yourself in the quiet, sun-drenched moments of the Mediterranean.
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Things to do in Sicily
The Mount Etna cable car (Funivia dell'Etna) takes visitors from Rifugio Sapienza (1900m) up to 2500m.
Explore the Ancient Theatre of Taormina: This Greek-Roman amphitheater offers a “spectacular” natural setting with views that stretch from the Calabrian coast to the smoking cone of Mt. Etna. To build it, over 100,000 cubic meters of rock had to be manually removed from the mountain.
Dive into the Palermo markets: Experience the raw spirit of the city at Ballarò or Capo Market, where vendors’ ancient cries mix with the scent of saffron and fresh street food like panelle. It is an essential immersion into the noisy, scented labyrinth of the old city.
Ascend Mount Etna: Confront the geological power of Europe’s most dominant volcano by traversing landscapes that shift from lush vineyards to alien-like black lava flows. An expert guide can lead you to the crater rim or secondary craters for a privileged encounter with nature’s fury.
Walk the Baroque streets of Noto: Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, Noto is a “harmonious work of art” where the golden limestone radiates a warm light from dawn till dusk. Be sure to look up at the whimsical stone lions and mythical beasts supporting the noble balconies.
Escape to the interior at Susafa: Experience a slower pace at this working farm that has been under the stewardship of the same family for five generations. It is the perfect spot for “blessed silence” and watching the sun evaporate the morning fog from the rolling valleys.
Discover the Marzamemi coastline: Visit the quietly captivating village of Marzamemi to see its historic Tonnara (tuna fishery) and the sun-bleached stone of Piazza Regina Margherita.
Places to eat & drink in Sicily
Il Granaio at Susafa: Located in a restored old granary with stone walls and high-vaulted ceilings, this restaurant serves dishes deeply rooted in the estate's farm-to-table philosophy. Almost every ingredient is sourced from their organic farm, including ancient grains and their own olive oil.
Bar & Chiostro at San Domenico Palace (Taormina): Set within the Grand Cloister of a 14th-century convent, this bar offers a sophisticated setting famously featured in the series The White Lotus. It is the ideal place for a handcrafted cocktail or a fine Sicilian wine as the sun sets over Taormina.
Osteria Villadorata (Noto): Tucked inside the Palazzo Nicolaci's ancient cellars, this restaurant offers a contemporary interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine.
Igiea Terrazza Bar (Palermo): Visit this Art Nouveau masterpiece at Villa Igiea for a drink on the sandstone terrace overlooking the sea. The hotel’s meticulous renovation has restored its Belle Époque splendor to its former glory.
Ristorante Timeo (Taormina): Often called the most scenic restaurant in Taormina, its terrace is backdropped by both Mt. Etna and Naxos Bay. The menu features locally sourced Sicilian favorites paired with an expert regional wine list.
Dammuso - Baglieri (Noto): This stylish, contemporary osteria is housed in an atmospheric stone cellar and is celebrated for its commitment to fresh seafood.
Need to know
Sicily is much bigger than it looks, and the roads are winding. Don’t try to see the whole island in a week. Pick either the East or West and save the rest for a return trip.
Avoid July and August—the heat is brutal. The “shoulder seasons” (May/June and Sept/Oct) are much better for exploring the ruins and vineyards.
Don’t think of this as a “tack-on” to a 7-day Italy itinerary. Between the food, the history, and the landscape, Sicily deserves its own dedicated 7–10 days.
Travel Advisor
Ben Murphy
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Sicily page.