One of the most popular destinations for all who come to Sicily is Syracuse, famous for its historical beauty, Baroque architecture, typical Mediterranean landscapes and the beauty of the sea and its caves. This city with several UNESCO heritage sites can be discovered in just two days! But let’s see in detail what are the things to see in Syracuse and not to be missed during a visit to the city.

What to see in Syracuse? Start with the enchanting Ortigia

One of Syracuse’s main attractions is the famous Ortigia Island, the city’s historic centre so well preserved that it can be considered a veritable open-air museum. One of the island’s peculiarities is its being connected to the rest of the city by three bridges, thus making the area easily accessible.

The best time to start a visit to Ortigia is definitely in the morning, when the sunlight illuminates the white stone of the historic buildings and when the alleys are still quiet and there are no crowds of tourists.

For a truly immersive experience, you might consider leaving in the morning to see the island’s main attractions, then returning in the evening simply to take a stroll through the city lights.

What to see on the island of Ortigia?

The majestic Piazza del Duomo represents the very essence of Ortigia. The Cathedral, built incorporating the ancient temple of Athena, is an extraordinary example of layered architecture that tells two thousand years of history.

Its Doric columns, still visible both inside and out, bear witness to its ancient Greek origins. An evening visit to the cathedral is particularly impressive, when artificial lighting enhances the details of the Baroque façade.

A stone’s throw away is the Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco, a sublime example of Sicilian Baroque, while in the nearby Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia you can admire Caravaggio’s famous painting ‘Il Seppellimento di Santa Lucia’ (The Burial of Saint Lucy).

The charm of the sea and legends

The Arethusa Spring, with its natural papyruses growing just a few metres from the sea, is particularly impressive during sunset. This mythological site lends itself perfectly to a contemplative pause during a tour of the city.

Continuing along the promenade, you will reach Castello Maniace, a Frederician fortress that dominates the tip of the island. Sunset tours of the castle offer spectacular views of the Ionian Sea and are particularly popular with photographers.

For those who love the sea, boat excursions around the island of Ortigia are available that allow you to admire the city from a unique perspective and, in fine weather, also include breaks for swimming in the crystal-clear waters. The boat excursions also take you to the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, a beautiful promontory that forms part of the Maddalena Peninsula and Capo Murro di Porco, with dreamy natural scenery.

The Neapolis Archaeological Park

The Neapolis Archaeological Park deserves a thorough visit, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense heat, especially if you are travelling in summer or spring.

The Greek Theatre, which is still used during the summer for classical performances, is particularly impressive at sunset. During the summer season, in fact, it is possible to combine a visit with an evening performance to fully appreciate the beauty of the Greek theatre.

The Roman Amphitheatre and the Latomie, with the famous Orecchio di Dionisio cave, are other unmissable stops in the park. The unique acoustics of the Ear of Dionysus are best appreciated during guided tours, when guides demonstrate its extraordinary sound properties.

Culture and spirituality: a visit to the regional archaeological museum and the sanctuary

The Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi, one of the most important in Europe, is certainly one of the attractions not to be missed if you are in Syracuse for two days.

It is recommended to visit the museum especially during the hottest hours of the day or in case of rain. During your visit to the museum, you can fully appreciate ancient history and discover numerous archaeological finds that reconstruct the habits and customs of the time.

Finally, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Tears, which offers an interesting contrast to the city’s ancient architecture, is a must-see. A point in its favour is certainly its panoramic terrace that offers a spectacular view of the whole of Syracuse.

Flavours and traditions

The Ortigia market is worth a morning visit, when the atmosphere is more authentic and the stalls have just been set up. Food tours of the market and the alleyways of Ortigia are an excellent opportunity to sample local specialities such as Pachino tomatoes, black olives, local cheeses and fresh fish.

For example, with a food and wine tour in Syracuse it is possible not only to savour the goodness of local dishes but also to discover typical products and recipes. This is possible thanks to the support of a local guide who tells the history of the place and the origins of the dishes linked to Syracuse’s traditions and history.

Why take a walk tour to see Syracuse in two days?

If you are planning to visit Syracuse in two days, a recommended solution could be the half-day tour that takes you to discover the Archaeological Park and the Island of Ortigia. The tour allows you to discover the history and origins of Syracuse while walking among the ruins preserved in the famous archaeological park.

The walking tour of Ortigia Island, with a local guide, allows you to discover the most beautiful and ancient part of the Sicilian city. In a walk of about two to three hours you can see some of the main attractions in the area and get to the beautiful Piazza Duomo. With the tour, you can also reach the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia, where there is a wonderful painting by Caravaggio inside.

To see Syracuse in two days and have a truly typical and distinctive experience, participating in the various tours that are organised in the city allows you to have local expert guides at your side to allow you to fully discover the traditions and peculiarities of one of the most popular destinations in eastern Sicily.

Escursioni

VIVI LE PIU’ BELLE ESPERIENZE IN SICILIA, ABBIAMO SELEZIONATO PER VOI LE PIU’ BELLE ESCURSIONI PRESENTI IN SICILIA. 

Alloggi

CERCHI UN HOTEL DI LUSSO, CASALI ESCLUSIVI,  VILLA CON PISCINA O B&B? SCEGLI L’ALLOGGIO PIU’ ADATTO A TE

Noleggio auto

IL NOLEGGIO DI UN’AUTOMOBILE IN SICILIA È IL MODO MIGLIORE PER SCOPRIRE LE PRINCIPALI BELLEZZE DELLA REGIONE SENZA ALCUN VINCOLO

Organising a trip to Sicily allows you to discover the largest island in the Mediterranean, with a culture and traditions dating back thousands of years. Sicily being extensive and rich in attractions can require a great deal of effort in organising your trip, which is why we have decided to provide you with a useful guide that will allow you to fully enjoy the experience that only this region with its peculiarities can offer you.

That’s why relying on our expert guides to organize a unique trip to Sicily for you and your group or family may be the best solution to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the beauty of this land! In this guide we give you some tips for an unforgettable trip to Sicily!

Plan your trip to Sicily in advance

Before leaving, it is important to have a clear plan, as Sicily offers a variety of attractions, from the paradisiacal beaches of the Zingaro Reserve to the majestic archaeological sites of the Valley of the Temples. For this reason, deciding what to see and how much time to dedicate to each place depends on your preferences and the type of experience you wish to have: sea, culture, nature or food and wine.

Once you have chosen, at least in principle, what you want to see and where you want to go, you can choose to book tours in Sicily or you could consider asking for the support of an external guide who is an expert in the area and who will allow you to customise your trip and the different tours you can take during your stay in the region.

Booking and organising everything in advance offers you several advantages: you will be sure to find the best hotels at competitive prices, you will be able to organize your travel more easily, and you will have time to create an itinerary that fully meets your needs.

A trip to Sicily: attractions not to be missed

Organising a trip to Sicily, gives you the opportunity, to immerse yourself in an area that offers an extraordinary variety of experiences: crystal-clear sea, ancient ruins, cities of art and a cuisine with distinctive food and wine nuances. But let’s see what attractions you absolutely cannot miss on your trip to Sicily.

Syracuse and the Island of Ortigia

Syracuse and the Island of Ortigia are one of the main attractions on the Sicilian coast. Their history, architectural peculiarities and island attractions also make them unique on the island. The Neapolis Archaeological Park, for example, is famous for housing the world-famous Greek Theatre of Syracuse. While the island of Ortigia is a little gem with its picturesque alleys, squares and sea views that leave everyone breathless.

Palermo and Monreale

The Sicilian capital is a city with a thousand faces, where every corner tells a story. Don’t miss Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Arab-Norman architecture, and the Norman Palace with its splendid Palatine Chapel. Stroll through historic markets such as Ballarò and Vucciria, where you can sample local street food, and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the city. Not far away, you must visit Monreale, home to one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world, famous for its Byzantine mosaics

The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

A trip to Sicily is not complete without a visit to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, one of the most important and best-preserved archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Here you can admire Doric temples dating back to the 5th century B.C., surrounded by a landscape of almond and olive trees, and the view of the illuminated temples at sunset is a magical experience.

Taormina and Mount Etna

Taormina is one of the pearls of Sicily, famous for its Ancient Theatre, from which there are spectacular views of the sea and Mount Etna. The narrow streets of the historic centre, full of small shops and restaurants, are perfect for a romantic stroll. If you love nature and adventure, Mount Etna is a must: Europe’s highest active volcano offers hiking trails and ‘lunar’ landscapes that seem to come from another world.

The Sicilian Islands

A trip to Sicily can be enhanced by a visit to its minor islands, true natural paradises. The Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer volcanoes, volcanic beaches and thermal waters. Favignana, in the Egadi archipelago, is perfect for those who love crystal-clear sea and slow rhythms. Not to be missed is Pantelleria, with its dammusi and natural thermal baths, offering an unforgettable experience that will enhance your holiday.

Catania and Sicilian Baroque

Catania is a city famous for its Baroque architecture and fish market, one of the most characteristic on the island. From here you can explore the baroque towns of the Val di Noto, such as Ragusa, Modica (where you can taste the famous chocolate of Modica) and Noto, authentic jewels of the region declared as the ‘jewels of the region’.

Travelling in Sicily: why choose a local guide for unique experiences?

Of course, you could simply visit Sicily and explore the towns and places that are purely touristy, but you can make this holiday even more beautiful and unforgettable, and above all unique, with the support of a local guide.

With the help of an experienced guide, you can enjoy your holiday without stress and have help in organising unique experiences away from the tourist masses. You will be able to tailor any tour and excursion to your needs and also discover small local gems that a local guide knows. Moreover, Sicily will remain even more in your heart with the help of a local guide who will always be ready to advise you and tell you about the history and curiosities that this island has guarded for millennia.

Whether you are a couple, a group or a family, choosing to organise a trip to Sicily with the help of a local guide will give you the chance to experience a holiday that will remain in your memories forever. Thus experiencing Sicily in a completely authentic way and with true emotions and stories that will enrich your trip.

Escursioni

VIVI LE PIU’ BELLE ESPERIENZE IN SICILIA, ABBIAMO SELEZIONATO PER VOI LE PIU’ BELLE ESCURSIONI PRESENTI IN SICILIA. 

Alloggi

CERCHI UN HOTEL DI LUSSO, CASALI ESCLUSIVI,  VILLA CON PISCINA O B&B? SCEGLI L’ALLOGGIO PIU’ ADATTO A TE

Noleggio auto

IL NOLEGGIO DI UN’AUTOMOBILE IN SICILIA È IL MODO MIGLIORE PER SCOPRIRE LE PRINCIPALI BELLEZZE DELLA REGIONE SENZA ALCUN VINCOLO

The complete guide to planning your vacation in Sicily

Sicily is my passion and my only love

Plan your vacation in Sicily

Your vacation in Sicily can turn out to be wonderful and unforgettable if you organize it in the best possible way. A trip to the main tourist destinations in Sicily is certainly an incredible opportunity to go and discover a place that with its characteristics is able to captivate anyone who reaches it. History, culture, food and wine, the sea and lots of adventures await you in Sicily.

By organizing the right vacation in Sicily, you can consider so many solutions to be able to meet your needs, whether you reach this destination during the winter or summer period .

But let’s find out in detail how you can plan a vacation to discover Sicily and its main attractions while living every moment to the fullest! Here are some tips!

Start by choosing the best accommodations in Sicily

To plan a tour in Sicily you first need to choose the accommodation or accommodations in which you will spend your vacation.

If you want to touch multiple points of this magnificent region and want to explore both eastern and western Sicily, the advice is to evaluate multiple facilities in strategic locations that will allow you to easily reach the most beautiful destinations and its best attractions.

As for accommodations, you should know that in Sicily you will have a wide choice. In fact, Sicily offers ideal solutions to meet the needs of tourists who reach it throughout the year.

Among the main accommodations you can evaluate are:

• B&B: ideal for allowing you to discover not only the beauty of Sicily but also its food and wine by stopping for lunch or dinner at its establishments.
• Hotels: hotels from two to five stars offer a convenient and comfortable solution for couples and families who want to experience a relaxing vacation with many quality services.
• Resort: if in addition to exploring Sicily you also want to fully relax and have spaces dedicated to your well-being, you should opt for a resort with a spa and pool.

Whichever property you choose whether it is overlooking the sandy beaches and its crystal clear sea or the historic center of Syracuse or Palermo, you are sure to find a welcoming and genuine environment.

Rent a car

After choosing the facilities in which to stay, the advice is to rent a car. Car rental is a perfect solution to be able to move easily from west to east, north to south without any limitations.

You can rent the car at major airports in Sicily or you can also consider renting at ports. Renting a car not only makes travel easier but also allows you to discover little hidden gems that you can only visit by car.

Excursions in Sicily: for a 360-degree experience

If you want to experience not just a vacation but a real adventure to discover the most beautiful places in Sicily then the best solution is to go hiking. Excursions in Sicily are scheduled tours that ensure that those who follow them have a truly unique and unrepeatable experience in evocative places rich in tradition.

There are so many excursions that can be taken in Sicily. Among the most recommended are:

• Hiking trekking: many people love nature and immersing themselves in its beauty. In this case, the best solution is to book excursions by trekking on Mount Etna or in the natural parks of Sicily.
• Hiking Mount Etna: One of the most beautiful routes to take in Sicily is definitely hiking on the slopes of Mount Etna. You will not be disappointed! Its characteristic beauty, the opportunity to take an ATV, or take a walk on the slopes of the volcano are experiences that can only be fully experienced with an organized tour.
• Boat tours: there is no better way to discover the beauty of Sicily than with a boat excursion. Boat tours can be conducted starting from the port of Syracuse or from the port of Taormina. You can take boat tours to explore the caves, or tours with lunch or dinner on board.
• Cruises: for a really very relaxing excursion you can consider a half-day or day cruise. Cruises are perfect for those who want to take a quiet sea trip with their partner or with their family with children.
• Day Trips: to explore some unique places in Sicily with an expert guide who will also tell you about its history, you cannot miss day trips such as those organized to Noto Antica, San Vito Lo Capo or the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
• Food and wine: finally, there are food and wine tours perfect for exploring the most beautiful cities and their history through taste. Don’t miss sweet, savory preparations and the wines that represent the heart and soul of Sicily.

The must-see destinations during a trip to Sicily

As mentioned, from eastern to western Sicily, from north to south, there are really so many attractions you can discover during a trip to this wonderful Italian island.

When planning a tour, however, it is recommended that you choose some of the best destinations for your trip to Sicily.

Among the main ones are:

• Agrigento: a perfect city for discovering the history of Sicily and organizing many tours of the city, its archaeological sites or on the sailing boat.
• Catania: perfect for exploring its naturalistic riches among gardens and nature reserves.
• Cefalù: known for its crystal clear sea, golden sand, and welcoming village.
• Etna: You cannot go to Sicily and miss an excursion to its volcano.
• Egadi Islands: stunning, wonderful, with truly unique features and natural environments that are part of a marine protected area.
• Aeolian Islands: Sicily makes it possible to explore many islands such as the Aeolian Islands where you can discover and admire many wonderful beaches and villages.

These are just some of the must-see destinations, in fact, you must not forget its cities such as: Palermo, Syracuse, Ragusa, Trapani and villages such as Noto, Marzamemi and Taormina.

Sicily is a region full of life and wonderful beauty, and now that you know how to plan your trip you just have to do it right in advance by including all the tours so you don’t miss anything!

Excursions

LIVE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL EXPERIENCES IN SICILY, WE HAVE SELECTED FOR YOU THE MOST BEAUTIFUL EXCURSIONS PRESENT IN SICILY.

Accommodations

LOOKING FOR A LUXURY HOTEL, EXCLUSIVE FARMHOUSES, VILLA WITH POOL OR B&B? CHOOSE THE ACCOMMODATION THAT SUITS YOU BEST

Car Rental

RENTING A CAR IN SICILY IS THE BEST WAY TO DISCOVER THE MAIN ATTRACTIONS OF THE REGION WITHOUT ANY CONSTRAINTS

Find the villa to stay in Sicily

Sicily is my passion and my only love

Find the villa with pool to stay in Sicily

Finding a villa with a pool to stay in Sicily is certainly among the most popular options for couples, families, and all those who also want to have a really fun, unique experience with friends, perfect especially for the summer period.

In Sicily it is very common to find villas with swimming pools as they are cozy and especially private facilities that allow to experience the vacation with maximum privacy, without having to share open spaces with other people (as happens in hotels), with the freedom to be able to do what you most want, including the ability to make lunch or dinner in a large kitchen.

This desire for comfort and freedom, with just the right amount of privacy, are among the reasons why people look for a villa with a swimming pool as their accommodation in Sicily, rather than a hotel, a B&B or a simple seaside apartment.

Where to book a villa with a pool?

You can find villas with swimming pools all over Sicily, among the main destinations there are definitely the more touristy to famous ones that offer more accommodations.

If a villa with a pool cannot be found, it would also be possible to consider booking resorts with spas in Sicily, or hotels with swimming pools or directly overlooking the sea.

Among the cities where you can search for accommodations for your vacation in Sicily are:

• Agrigento: known for its long history and for the possibility of also making magnificent excursions to its archaeological sites or a pleasant boat trip.
• Catania: a splendid city, rich in fine architectural elements, also known for its gardens, nature reserves and theaters.
• Cefalù: one of the most popular areas for those who like to go to the sea. In fact, Cefalù is a Sicilian destination known for its sandy, golden beaches and clear blue sea.
• Palermo: why not have a luxury experience by choosing a beautiful villa with pool in and around Palermo? In addition to being able to enjoy pleasant moments by the pool, you can also discover all the beauty that Palermo has in store with its restaurants, stores and places nearby where you can organize excursions.
• Ragusa: a small town but the hub of a wonderful area that will take you to discover magnificent tuff architecture that is characteristic of its churches and palaces. Near Ragusa then you must not miss a trip to Modica where you can delight your palate with its famous chocolate.
• Aegadian and Aeolian Islands: what could be nicer than a villa with a pool booked in the best destinations in the Aegadian and Aeolian Islands? All these islands are perfect for fully exploring nature trails, going to the sea, and enjoying its beaches and towns.
• Syracuse and Ortigia Island: the city of Syracuse presents itself as the perfect destination for those looking for a villa with pool that also has a truly unique sea view. In this area you will have the opportunity to go to the discovery of so many natural wonders, to reach the Neapolis Archaeological Park and so on.
• Taormina: Finally, one of the best destinations in which to book a villa with a pool is Taormina. Famous for its architectural features, for the beauty of its downtown, for the nightlife that characterizes it, booking your accommodation in Taormina is really the best solution for you and your family.

Why choose a villa with a swimming pool?

Is choosing to find a villa with a pool in Sicily really the best solution? Certainly, as mentioned you can choose from a variety of accommodations such as 4- or 5-star hotels, B&Bs, residences, hostels, hotels with swimming pools or apartments, but among the most popular solutions for guests are villas with a comfortable swimming pool and with a garden.

The villa with pool offers several advantages, among the main ones are:

1. The chance to choose a fine location and enjoy your vacation outside the tourist and city chaos, however.
2. Experience the vacation in complete privacy with the possibility of not having to share amenities such as the garden or pool with anyone.
3. Making their own vacations also in the company of the whole family or with one or two pairs of friends depending on the size of the villa.
4. Being able to choose every day whether to go to the beach or to the pool.
5. Enjoy pleasant evening cocktails by or inside the house pool.
6. Being able to cook in the garden with a barbecue or in the kitchen and prepare pleasant dinners or lunches in total comfort.

A villa with a swimming pool is therefore a very convenient, comfortable and above all relaxing solution. If you are interested in searching for accommodations such as villas with pools, do not hesitate to start your search now to find the best solution in no time.

Excursions

LIVE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL EXPERIENCES IN SICILY, WE HAVE SELECTED FOR YOU THE MOST BEAUTIFUL EXCURSIONS PRESENT IN SICILY.

Accommodations

LOOKING FOR A LUXURY HOTEL, EXCLUSIVE FARMHOUSES, VILLA WITH POOL OR B&B? CHOOSE THE ACCOMMODATION THAT SUITS YOU BEST

Car Rental

RENTING A CAR IN SICILY IS THE BEST WAY TO DISCOVER THE MAIN ATTRACTIONS OF THE REGION WITHOUT ANY CONSTRAINTS

Most beautiful beaches in Syracuse: Sicily as you’ve never seen it

Sicily is my passion and my one love

Sicily Tour

Our guide for curious tourists Sicily Tour

The best guide to discovering Agrigento

What to see and all the activities you can do.
Agrigento, a very ancient city where you can still admire the Greek Temples that surround it, was called “the most beautiful city of mortals” and remains a must-see if you decide to visit SicilyIts incredible archaeological area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What to see in Agrigento

The most spectacular place to visit is Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, which includes the remains of the ancient city of Akragas. Not to be missed are the Cathedral of San Gerlando, Pirandello’s Birthplace, the Scala dei Turchi (a white limestone cliff in the shape of a staircase), the Regional Archaeological Museum, the Church and Crypt of Addolorata, the Agrigento Market, the Church of Santa Maria dei Greci, the Monastery of Santo Spirito, the Pirandello Theater, and Caporosso Beach.

What to do in Agrigento

Ideal town for organized excursions with an expert guide both by sailboat and on foot. A wonderful place to relax immersed in an atmosphere of other times that will make you dream among magnificent beaches, city walks and incredible sunsets over the sea.

THE ITINERARIES
The Daily Itinerary The daily cruise concentrates the sailing experience into a single day. You discover the beauty of the Syracuse coast from Ortigia, to the “Two Brothers,” to the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area with snorkeling opportunities.

The undiscovered coastline
The Sunset Itinerary The sailing experience can also take place at sunset with the possibility of enjoying an aperitif anchored under Syracuse’s Maniace Castle to spend a romantic evening out of the ordinary.

The sunset
Aperitif on board A weekend on board a 2-3 day cruise provides you the possibility of reaching the southern part of Sicily: sailing through the Vendicari Nature Reserve, you reach the ancient seaside village of Marzamemi, where you can stay one night. On the second day, you can sail to Capo Isola delle Correnti near Portopalo di Capo Passero and there is the possibility of staying overnight at anchor under the spectacle of stars and evening silences.

Accommodations
Learn to sail The week-long itinerary The weekly charter aboard Armonia gives the opportunity to explore more distant destinations such as the Aeolian Islands or Malta, fully customizing itinerary, start/end cruise locations and stops.

Tours are fully customizable, for more information contact us by e-mail, we will be happy to guide you in your choice.
For other services offered aboard Armonia, we recommend visiting our website and clicking on the “Services” item on the menu bar.

Contact
For information and/or reservations you can call Iolanda at +39 3339458579.

Excursions

Experience the most beautiful moments in Sicily. WE HAVE SELECTED FOR YOU THE MOST BEAUTIFUL EXCURSIONS PRESENT IN SICILY.

Accommodations

LOOKING FOR LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS? CHOOSE FROM A TOP-RATED HOTEL, A PRIVATE VILLA WITH A POOL, OR A COZY BED AND BREAKFAST. THE PERFECT OPTION IS WAITING FOR YOU.

Car Rental

RENTING A CAR IN SICILY IS THE BEST WAY TO DISCOVER THE REGION’S TOP ATTRACTIONS WITHOUT ANY LIMITATIONS

Sicily Tour, a guide for curious tourists: from departure to stay

Sicily is my passion and my one love

Sicily Tour, a guide for curious tourists: from departure to stay

 Our guide for curious tourists Sicilia Tour has the ambition not to leave anything out.

We’ll give you tips on how to book your flight and hotel on the Mediterranean’s largest island.

Imagine a 15-day trip to Sicily trying to maximize the time to explore it to the fullest.

Travel planning, advice, stages, main destinations, how to get there, how to get around, where to go and what to do in Sicily.

The ‘pearl’ of the Mediterranean is the pick of trips to southern Italy in your vacation plan and that of many other tourists.

Sicily smells of its thousand-year history, of Greece and Africa, of Byzantium, Arabia and the Norman world. It is not only the largest region in the Boot.

Ancient Trinacria must be explored thoroughly, unveiled on more than one tour, on many journeys of discovery of its Greek temples, Byzantine mosaics, Arab architecture, and Norman art.

Every corner of it tells of splendor, tradition, culture and wealth.

Delicious foods, superb nature. Four nature parks, some ninety nature reserves, a universe dotted with beaches, coves and fairy-tale inlets, an evocative underwater world.

Are you ready for the tour? Follow us.

Sicily Tour: booking flights + hotel + car

What is the best budget hotel booking site in Sicily?

If you only want to book a hotel or B&B because you intend to travel by car, we recommend booking.com or trivago.it. By typing ‘Sicily Italy’ into the search engines, you will find the best hotel offers in Sicily.

If, on the other hand, you are looking for an all-inclusive package flight + hotel and you want to plan your trip in a simple, fast and convenient way, take a look at Tripadvisor or on Skyscanner, Expedia, Edreams, Volagratis. These are price comparison sites. They allow you to choose the best one, book quickly and perhaps even request a rental car.

In short, a guide for planning Sicilian holidays can give you, in economic terms, one of these sites.

In case you are looking for particular Sicily tour packages, a tour of attractions in Sicily or luxury travel, there are online travel agencies that organize tours for groups and individuals.

Sicily travel guide: when to go

The Sicilian climate is typically Mediterranean with long, hot, dry summers and short, most often mild, winters.

For a trip to Sicily, every season of the year is good, even if the most suitable months are those between April and October. This is because the months between October and February (autumn and winter) are the rainiest.

The mild climate in spring and autumn allows you to swim and visit the sites of greatest interest without suffering too much from the heat.

In Sicily, in the summer (especially in August) the beaches are filled with hordes of holidaymakers and prices soar.

Sicily, the pearl of the Mediterranean, is so full of history, enchanting beaches and evocative natural landscapes that, to tell it all, a guide is not enough. Just as the classic summer vacation is not enough. There is so much, too much to visit and admire. The only solution to this surplus of natural beauty is to organize a Sicily Tour, perhaps to be repeated in various stages.

You could plan a vacation to the eastern part or the western part. Let’s try.

Sicily tour in the western area: itineraries and main destinations

The north-west part of Sicily represents an area of ​​particular value on the island.

Among the tourist destinations not to be missed in the western area of Sicily we find:

– Palermo, the Baroque capital of the region. In this city you cannot miss Palazzo dei Normanni, the Cathedral of Palermo and the royal tombs, the Teatro Massimo, the Palatine Chapel, the Martorana church, the Catacombs and the local markets;

– Trapani, thanks to its enchanting and crystalline sea and its naturalistic areas. Of the historic centre, we recommend the Hundred Churches and Palazzo Senatorio. Don’t miss the Clock Tower and the Purgatorio church, the Castello del Mare, the Colombaia Tower, the Ligny Tower and the Saline Museum either;

– Marsala, the city of wine, with one of the most suggestive stretches of coast. In the historic centre, the Mother Church, the Museum of Tapestries, the historic buildings, the Insula Romana, the archaeological park are worth admiring.

The tour certainly doesn’t stop here.

We cannot overlook the Egadi islands (in particular, Pantelleria, Lampedusa and Favignana) similar to Caribbean paradises, or the archaeological sites of Segesta (with the Doric temple and the Greek theatre), Selinunte (with its Cusa quarries) and Agrigento (Valley of the Temples), the enchanting historic villages of Cefalù, Sciacca, Erice.

In Agrigento, in particular, we were very impressed by the Scala dei Turchi, a white limestone cliff that has real steps.

Those who aim for holiday spots will find what they are looking for: San Vito Lo Capo, Scopello and Castellammare del Golfo.

The Foce del Belice reserve, the Zingaro reserve or the Madonie park are perfect for those who love nature.

Sicily Tours in the eastern area: itineraries and main destinations

The south-east region of Sicily is equally fascinating and evocative.

You can visit important cities such as Messina, Catania and Syracuse.

Messina should not be considered simply the main point of arrival for those arriving by ferry. It is worth visiting the historic center and the Cathedral, the Astronomical Clock and the Orion fountain, the Vittorio Emanuele II Theater. The obligatory stops in Messina, for those who can afford them, are Taormina, which boasts an immense historical and archaeological heritage, and Giardini Naxos (don’t miss the museum). To admire the Aeolian Islands (or Lipari) properly with their two active volcanoes (Stromboli and Vulcano), you need a separate tour.

Catania offers city beaches such as Praiola di Giarre, and Foce Simeto but, above all, Baroque monuments. Visit the cathedral of Sant’Agata, the Bellini Garden, the underground and the Museum of the Landing, Acitrezza with the eight Faraglioni of the Cyclops and the island of Lachea.

In the city of Syracuse, we recommend you to explore the island of Ortigia, the historical part (Duomo, Tempio di Apollo), the port to then move towards the Greek Theater, the Amphitheater Roman and the Maniace castle.

Last but not least, the splendid landscape of Etna, the coastal areas of Capo Passero and the island of Correnti.

Noto, near the Vendicari nature reserve, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site but is also referred to as the capital of the Baroque.

Among the various beaches, we recommend that of Letojanni and Bella (Taormina), Calamosche and Marzamemi, Punta Asparano (Syracuse) and the Foce del Simeto (Catania).

Sicily Tour: Enna and Ragusa

The Tour in Sicily can continue to Enna and Ragusa.

Enna is nicknamed ‘the navel of Sicily’, it is the heart of the island.

It is the only Sicilian city that does not have access to the sea. On the other hand, it boasts the largest number of lakes, including Lake Pergusa (the only natural one).

It is located 900 meters above sea level and offers various places of interest, in addition to Lake Pergusa:

• The Archaeological Museum;
• The Castle of Lombardia, which allows an unobstructed view of Mount Etna;
• The Cathedral of Enna;
• Via Roma, the historic center of Enna.

Even Ragusa has a nickname, or rather more than one: ‘the city of bridges’, ‘the island within an island’, ‘the other Sicily”.

After the post-earthquake reconstruction of 1693, it was divided into Ragusa Superiore and Ragusa Ibla.

It is one of the most important UNESCO sites in the world. It holds treasures: archaeological finds from the Greek age, ancient rural traditions, Baroque architecture flaunted by churches, palaces and alleys.

Sicily Tout: How to get to the Trinacria Island?

In the search engines you entered ‘Sicily airport transfers Italy’ and also ‘car transfers Sicily airport’. You cannot find the answer you are looking for.

Perhaps you entered the wrong keyword, maybe you don’t have the patience or desire to search.

Probably, you are confused and have not yet decided whether you want to go by car or by plane.

We’ll explain how to get to Sicily in all possible ways.

The fastest way to reach the pearl of the Mediterranean is by plane.

There are two airports on the island:

– Falcone-Borsellino of Punta Raisi which is 32 km from Palermo;

– Fontanarossa 7 km from Catania.

The first, Palermo airport, is connected with direct flights to the main airports of Italian cities (Naples, Turin, Venice, Milan, Bologna, Pisa, Rome). As for the Catania airport, the connections are similar.

Once you arrive at the airport, finding a taxi in Sicily won’t be a problem.

If you want to travel by train, the railway lines connect Milan, Florence, Rome, Naples and Reggio Calabria to Messina and from there to Palermo, Catania and other Sicilian cities. Trains are transported from the peninsula by ferry from Villa San Giovanni. The fastest, punctual and most expensive are the Eurostar trains of the Intercity.

By land it is also possible to use buses: the best-known company that manages connections from Rome or Naples to Sicily is Interbus.

If you want to travel comfortably with your car, with the A3 Salerno-Reggio Calabria you can reach Villa San Giovanni, where the ferries leave for Messina.

The island can also be reached by sea:

– by ferryfrom Naples, Livorno, Genoa and Cagliari;

– with the hydrofoil service that connects Messina to Reggio Calabria.

The price of tickets increases between June and September and it is advisable to book them well in advance.

City tour: Sicily and local transportation

Once you set foot in the Sicilian city to visit, you ask yourself: is it better to rent a car or motorbike or travel by public transport?

Public transport in Sicily is complicated and time consuming.

Connections between the main cities and tourist resorts are good. However, if you choose less traveled paths, you may encounter difficulties.

Trains are slow with limited services but are preferable to buses if traveling between major Sicilian cities. They are slow but cheap and, in any case, reliable.

The trains that service the circuit of Etna are not managed by Trenitalia but by Ferrovia Circumetnea, a private company.

Connections with the islands off the coast are guaranteed by an efficient system of ferries and hydrofoils. Services decrease significantly in winter.

Pantelleria and the Pelagie Islands are best reached by plane, which is cheaper and faster than the ferry.

Flavors and specialties of Sicily

One fine day, you got up and decided: I’m going to Sicily”. For its scenic beauty, the sea, the history, the charm, the mystery, the sense of hospitality. Also for its specialties to be savored on site.

This land is tempting. The flavors of Sicily are a triumph of taste.

When organizing a Sicily Tour it is impossible not to dream of the island’s specialties.

The list of the Sicilian menu is long but we will try to limit ourselves:

– pasta with sardines or with tenerumi (sprouts of the long courgette plant);

– baked anelletti timbale;

– pasta alla Norma with sauce and fried aubergines;

– cardoons and artichokes dipped in batter and fried;

– baked swordfish;

– fish couscous;

– sarde a beccafico (sardines rolls filled with breadcrumbs, pine nuts and sultanas);

– Chiaramonte Gulfi or Sant’Angelo di Brolo sausages;

– “acciurate” olives (drowned in extra virgin olive oil with local perfumes);

– arancini with meat sauce;

– cannoli;

– strike;

– almond paste;

– aubergine caponata;

– eggplant parmesan;

– panelle made with chickpea flour;

– Ustica lentils;

– capers from Salina;

– pistachios from Bronte;

– slush,

– typical wines such as Nero d’Avola, Fuoco dell’Etna, Passito di Pantelleria, Malvasia, Marsala.

Let’s stop here even if there is much more to list.

Sicily Tour: What to do in the Sicilian Island?

There are several things to do in Sicily, in addition to enjoying the beaches, the flavours, the history and the architecture.

Among these, participating in traditional religious festivals and events in general, the most important religious festivals are the one dedicated to Sant’Agata (February, Catania), Santa Lucia (Syracuse), the Living Nativity of Custonaci, the Feast of Santa Rosalia in Palermo (which ends on the night of July 14),

These are some of the events:

– Stone Theaters with live performances in various ancient theaters and monumental sites;

– Pirandelliana Week in Agrigento in July/August, with theater performances, ballets and operas;

– Taormina Arte international festival (July/September) with shows and theatrical performances in the famous Greek theatre;

– Almond blossom festival which takes place in the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento in the first ten days of February;

– Carnival of Acireale, one of the most spectacular on the island;

– The seasons of the Teatro Massimo and the Teatro Politeama;

– Festival di Morgana, between November and December, with the famous Sicilian “puppets”.

Bon appétit, have fun and enjoy your journey to discover the goodness and beauties of Sicily.

Excursions

Experience the most beautiful moments in Sicily. WE HAVE SELECTED FOR YOU THE MOST BEAUTIFUL EXCURSIONS PRESENT IN SICILY.

Accommodations

LOOKING FOR LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS? CHOOSE FROM A TOP-RATED HOTEL, A PRIVATE VILLA WITH A POOL, OR A COZY BED AND BREAKFAST. THE PERFECT OPTION IS WAITING FOR YOU.

Car Rental

RENTING A CAR IN SICILY IS THE BEST WAY TO DISCOVER THE REGION’S TOP ATTRACTIONS WITHOUT ANY LIMITATIONS