Why Sicily Should Be at the Top of Your Italy Bucket List

Top places to visit in Sicily

Western Sicily

Palermo

Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant capital, bursts with life, history, and culture. Its bustling markets, Baroque churches, and Norman palaces mix with lively streets, street food, and colorful piazzas, creating a chaotic yet captivating charm. A city full of flavor, character, and authentic Sicilian energy.

• Stay: Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel

Things to do:

• Explore the Palermo Cathedral and Quattro Canti

• See Monreale Cathedral, Sicily’s Treasured UNESCO gem just outside of Palermo

• Wander Ballarò Market for street food (try arancina and panelle) or do a food tour

• Enjoy sunset cocktails on the terrace at Villa Igiea

Jato Valley

A peaceful rural area that makes for a perfect day trip from Palermo with scenic drives, vineyards, and classic Sicilian countryside. Driving through this valley was one of my highlights of the trip. The views were truly jaw-dropping and a photographer’s dream!

Things to do:

• Drive through rolling hills and mountain ranges dotted with farms

• Wine tasting and lunch at Tasca d’Almerita Sallier de La Tour

Castellammare del Golfo

A picturesque seaside town with a postcard-perfect harbor, charming streets, and traditional cafés. Its soft sandy beaches and clear waters make it ideal for relaxation, while nearby hills and villages offer scenic exploration. A perfect blend of coastal beauty, history, and laid-back Sicilian charm. I loved wandering the cobblestone streets and snapping photos of the turquoise waters.

• Stay: Marina di Petrolo Hotel and Spa

Things to do:

• Stroll the marina and dine at waterfront restaurants

• Swim at Cala Petrolo

• Take a boat tour to nearby coves and beaches

Scopello

Scopello is a tiny, idyllic coastal village on Sicily’s northwestern shore, famed for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic tufa rock formations rising from the sea. The village has a charming, rustic feel, with a small historic center, quaint fishing houses, and local eateries serving fresh seafood. Scopello is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the stunning natural beauty of the coast. Its proximity to the Zingaro Nature Reserve also makes it an excellent base for hiking along scenic trails with breathtaking sea views.

• Stay: Tonnara di Scopello

Things to do:

• Swim at the famous Faraglioni

• Explore the historic Tonnara

• Hike the trails inside Zingaro Nature Reserve

Salemi

Salemi is a charming inland town surrounded by vineyards and farmland. Its cobblestone streets, historic churches, and quaint squares offer a glimpse of authentic Sicilian life, while nearby wineries and olive groves invite visitors to savor local wines and flavors. Visit this countryside town for a true Sicilian local experience away from all the tourists!

Things to do:

• Visit/stay at Calia Farms for an authentic lunch experience with a local family

• Tour Tenute Mokarta Winery

• Walk the historic old town and hilltop castle

Sciacca

Sciacca is a picturesque coastal town on Sicily’s southwestern shore, famed for its colorful fishing heritage, artisan ceramics, and vibrant cultural life. Its historic center is a maze of narrow streets lined with lively markets, Baroque churches, and charming squares. With golf courses, private beaches, and easy access to Sciacca’s cultural and natural attractions, Verdura Resort blends leisure, luxury, and local charm for an unforgettable Sicilian escape.

• Stay: Verdura Resort

Things to do:

• Explore Sciacca’s old town

• Enjoy the beaches, golf, and spa at Verdura Resort

• Shop at artisan ceramic studios

Eastern Sicily

Noto

One of Sicily’s most beautiful Baroque towns, Noto dazzles with golden sandstone palaces, ornate churches, and elegant streets. Known for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, it’s a charming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking history, culture, and Sicilian hospitality.

• Stay: Borgo Tancredi or Seven Rooms Villadorata

Things to do:

• Walk along Corso Vittorio Emanuele

• Visit the Noto Cathedral

• Try the famous granita at Caffè Sicilia

• Spend time at nearby beaches like Calamosche

Syracuse (Siracusa)

Syracuse, perched on the southeastern coast of Sicily, is a city steeped in millennia of history. Once a major power in the ancient Greek world, it boasts remarkable archaeological treasures. Beyond its monuments, Syracuse offers vibrant markets, charming cafés, and a lively cultural scene, blending ancient heritage with modern Sicilian life. Visitors are drawn to its unique mix of history, architecture, and seaside charm, making it one of Sicily’s most captivating destinations.

• Stay: Minareto Resort

Things to do:

• Tour the Archaeological Park and Greek Theatre and Ear of Dionysus

• Take a private boat across the bay to Ortigia and do a cooking class on the water

Ortigia

Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, is a tiny island full of charm. Cobblestone streets, Baroque piazzas, and ancient temples mingle with lively markets, cafés, and seaside promenades. With its rich history, elegant architecture, and fresh Sicilian cuisine, Ortigia offers an unforgettable blend of culture and coastal beauty.

Things to do:

• Wander narrow Baroque streets

• Visit the Duomo di Siracusa

• Enjoy an aperitivo along the water

Mount Etna region

A dramatic volcanic landscape famed for its fertile soils and distinctive wines. Rolling vineyards, ancient villages, and hiking trails offer breathtaking views, while boutique wineries provide intimate tastings of Etna’s unique varietals. The region is a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and gastronomy. The wine here is truly unique and is a must-visit for any wine lovers!

• Stay: Donna Carmela Resort

Things to do:

• Taste Etna DOC wines at Planeta Sciaranuova (where a scene from White Lotus was filmed)

• Visit Tenuta Tascante winery

• Take guided hikes or 4×4 excursions on Mount Etna

Taormina

A glamorous hillside town overlooking the Ionian Sea, Taormina is one of Sicily’s most iconic luxury destinations famed for its cinematic scenery, elevated boutiques, and world-class hotels (and yes, its scenery made The White Lotus a household name). Perched high above the coast, it blends historic charm with modern indulgence, offering sweeping views of Mount Etna, dramatic cliffs, and sparkling blue waters.

• Stay: Grand Hotel Timeo, Four Seasons San Domenico Palace, or Hotel Metropole

Things to do:

• Visit the Ancient Greek Theatre

• Shop along Corso Umberto and have a drink at the famous Dolce & Gabbana Bar

• Take the cable car down to Isola Bella

• Experience fine dining with panoramic views

Central Sicily

Polizzi Generosa

A quiet, authentic mountain town perched in the Madonie Mountains, Polizzi Generosa offers a glimpse into untouched, traditional Sicilian life. It’s a perfect stopping point when driving between Palermo and Taormina. Far from tourist paths, it’s known for its warm locals, medieval streets, and panoramic views across rolling hills and rugged peaks. This is the birthplace of Domenico Dolce of Dolce & Gabbana, and the town still reflects the understated elegance and heritage that inspired much of the brand’s early work.

Things to do:

• Have a glimpse into the true traditional Sicilian village life and see local trattorias and bakeries

• Take a ceramics workshop in a 600 year-old, family-owned studio

• Explore nearby hiking trails within the Madonie Regional Natural Park or do a tour with a local shephard

Turkish Steps (Scala dei Turchi)

A dramatic white cliff overlooking turquoise sea and one of Sicily’s most iconic landscapes. One of the most photographed spots in Sicily!

Things to do:

• Walk along the bright limestone formations

• Relax on nearby beaches

• Stop here while driving between southwestern towns

Agrigento

Famous for its ancient Greek ruins, Agrigento is home to the stunning Valley of the Temples, set amid rolling hills and lush countryside. The town’s historic center, local markets, and traditional cuisine add cultural charm to this southern central region of Sicily.

Things to do:

• Visit the Valley of the Temples

• Have lunch in a secret lemon grove garden

• Explore Agrigento’s old town streets

Whether you’re dreaming of crystal-clear beaches, ancient ruins, volcano-side vineyards, charming hill towns, or Michelin-worthy cuisine, Sicily offers a little bit of everything that makes Italy magical without the overwhelming crowds of the mainland. It’s a place where every corner feels authentic, every meal tastes like home cooking, and every view feels like a postcard.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, don’t make Sicily an afterthought. Reach out to me for my travel planning services to get help building the perfect itinerary at the best rates with extra free perks!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Sicily page.