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If you want to know what things to do in Sicily, Italy, you’re in for a treat. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Sicily from dreamy beaches to active volcanoes and historic cities. And of course, its food is out of this world!
Sicily has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation. It’s also a special place for us, as the first trip we took together was to this lovely island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. We did a 10-day Sicily road trip and, while I may be biased, there’s no denying Sicily’s charm. There are plenty of tourist attractions in Sicily worth visiting, and we’re planning to return in the future so we can see even more.
Before I share my tips and recommendations, I want to mention that the best way to get around the island is by renting a car. This way, you’ll have more flexibility to see the different sites at your own pace. However, I should warn you that Sicilians aren’t known for their pristine driving skills. So, be sure to check out our rental car hacks, and don’t skip the insurance.
With that said, let’s dive into the 25 best things to do in Sicily. Get ready to discover the most gorgeous places on this island!
1. Visit Palermo, the best thing to do in Sicily
Palermo is one of the best places to visit in Sicily, especially for its history. As with many capital cities, Palermo doesn’t have the best reputation in terms of cleanliness and security, but it’s still one of the most popular sites on the island.
The port city sees hundreds of cruise ships each year, although it’s quite easy to find cheap flights to Palermo too. For this reason, lots of visitors start their Sicily itineraries here.
1. Visit Palermo, the best thing to do in Sicily
Among the most popular places to visit in Palermo, the Palace of the Normans is a top choice. Also known as the Royal Palace, this building is home to the Sicilian Parliament. You’ll also find the Palatine Chapel inside, a must-see in Sicily.
Visiting the beautiful Cathedral of Palermo and the Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy, is another great thing to do in Sicily‘s capital city. Afterward, head to the Vucciria market for some delicious food. If you don’t mind creepy stuff, check out the Catacombs of the Capuchins and make friends with the corpses.
This free tour is perfect if you’re not sure what to do in Sicily since it takes you to the coolest attractions in the city center. Also, if you have a couple of free days, I suggest visiting Mondello Beach and the Cathedral of Monreale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can find more tips about Sicily’s capital in our 25 top things to do in Palermo guide.
2. Taormina, one of the best places to visit in Sicily
Taormina is a beautiful medieval city, making it a great historical attraction in Sicily. There are lots of ancient ruins to explore here, and different areas reflect the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine empires. The European aristocracy admired these old remains so much that Taormina became a luxury destination in the 19th century. To this day, you can find many 5-star hotels along these classic streets.
The Taormina Theater is a beautiful place in Sicily. This Greek Theater is, like the rest of Taormina, over a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Etna.
2. Taormina, one of the best places to visit in Sicily
Another interesting thing to do in Sicily is to take the cable car to Isola Bella at the foot of Taormina. I wouldn’t go to Taormina for the beaches, but during the funicular ride, you’ll get spectacular views of the island’s more luxurious tourist attractions.
What makes Taormina a great place to visit in Sicily is the cultural heritage. There are many things to do in Taormina along Corso Umberto Street, such as the Duomo di Taormina, a 13th-century cathedral dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Bari. I also suggest stopping by the Piazza IX Aprile, the main square with nice views. But where you’ll get the best views in Taormina is in Madonna della Rocca Sanctuary, so be sure to add it to your list.
3. Climb Mount Etna, the best hike in Sicily
Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe at 10,990 feet. If you like hiking, a trek up this volcano is one of the coolest things to do in Sicily.
Unfortunately, during our trip in 2016, the volcano was quite active and dangerous, so we couldn’t get as close to it as we would’ve liked. As soon as we’re back on the island, we’re going to visit this famous Sicilian landmark again!
3. Climb Mount Etna, the best hike in Sicily
As a top place of interest in Sicily, Mount Etna is very popular. The most-visited area around the volcano is the Silvestri Craters region, which is located below the top of Mount Etna. You can visit this area on your own, but you need a certified tour guide to take you to the top.
Most tours start from the Sapienza Refuge just next to the Silvestri Craters. Then, you will take a cable car and 4×4 Jeep to the hiking trail, about 9,500 feet up. From there, it’s about a 2-hour walk and, if you complete it, you’ll be rewarded with the most stunning views of the island.
4. Catania, something you can’t miss in Sicily, Italy
With so much to see and do here, Catania is one of the main attractions in Sicily you don’t want to miss. Besides, the city has an international airport, so many travelers end up starting their journey here.
Catania’s proximity to Mount Etna has exposed it to several severe eruptions and earthquakes throughout history. Even so, it’s one of the most scenic places to visit in Sicily, so I recommend checking it out.
Most of Catania’s tourist attractions are in the historic city center, and it’s possible to see them all in one day. If you’re short on time, this guided walking tour will ensure you see all the main sites.
4. Catania, something you can’t miss in Sicily, Italy
Something you can’t miss in Catania is the Cathedral of Santa Ágata, which many consider the crown jewel of Italian Baroque architecture. I also recommend visiting the Ursino Castle, where you’ll find the Communal Museum. This museum is a must-do in Sicily if you love art and history. The collection includes over 8,000 archaeological pieces such as sculptures, columns, coins, paintings, sarcophagi, and more.
Another gorgeous site in Catania is the iconic Elephant Fountain and Caltagirone, where you can climb the Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte. This 142-step ceramic staircase was built in 1608, and each step features a unique composition.
Finally, visit La Pescheria, an old fish market where locals sell fresh fish and some ready-to-eat treats.
5. Syracuse, something you must see in Sicily
Syracuse is another essential place to visit in Sicily. Not only is it beautiful, but the streets are like a time capsule of Greek history. Syracuse is an important part of the island’s past, so I recommend adding it to your itinerary.
As a prime Sicily tourist attraction, Syracuse offers plenty of cool sites and excursions. One of the best places to visit is the island of Ortygia, where you can see ancient Greek ruins. The island is less than a mile long, but parking is a pain, so I recommend walking across the pedestrian bridge, the Ponte Santa Lucia.
5. Syracuse, something you must see in Sicily
In Ortygia, you can visit the Cathedral of Syracuse, which sits on an old Greek temple. The Arethusa Fountain is another popular attraction, as are the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the oldest temple in Sicily.
You can also explore the outskirts of Syracuse, where you’ll find Neapolis Archaeological Park. The area is so rich in ancient ruins that there’s a guided walking tour through the park. I recommend taking this tour to learn more about the old Greek amphitheaters and other archaeological relics from the Roman Empire and the Hellenistic period.
For more information on what to do in Sicily on this part of the island, read our things to do in Syracuse guide.
6. Cefalù, the most beautiful lookout in Sicily, Italy
If you’re wondering where to go in Sicily for the best views, look no further than Cefalù. I would even say that this area is one of the most beautiful places in all of Italy.
Cefalù is nestled on the Sicilian coast between the Tyrrhenian Sea and La Rocca, a mountainous 885-foot rock from which you’ll get fantastic views. The village is less than 45 miles from Palermo, so it’s a popular tourist destination. The downside to this is that the prices in Cefalù are noticeably higher than anywhere on the island.
6. Cefalù, the most beautiful lookout in Sicily, Italy
That said, visiting this area is a cool thing to do in Sicily, and you’ll find plenty of interesting sights. For example, the Cathedral of Cefalù is one of the most important Norman monuments in Sicily. Built in 1131, the basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes an amazing mosaic of Christ Pantokrator.
Cefalù’s sparkling beaches make it a must-visit in Sicily. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend the Giudecca Reef or this boat ride along the coast.
Other places to visit in Cefalù include the Madralisca Museum, where you can see the work of Italian painter Antonello da Messina; and the Fiume Cefalino medieval lavatory, which dates to the Middle Ages.
7. Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples, a unique activity to do in Sicily
Agrigento is a famous place to visit in Sicily, thanks to its impressive ruins. This is your chance to see one of the best archaeological sites on the island, including the ancient city of Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples.
The city sits on a hill on the southern Sicilian coast. During the Greek and Roman times, the city was in its prime. However, it fell into disarray with the arrival of the Byzantines and Christians in Sicily.
Most people would agree that seeing the Valley of the Temples is one of the best things to do in Sicily. Besides being an important historical landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruins are a remarkable archaeological feat.
7. Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples, a unique activity to do in Sicily
Where else can you feast your eyes on ancient temples dedicated to Hera, Hercules, Hephaestus, Concordia, Asclepius, Castor, Pollux, and Zeus? Plus, all but the Temple of Hephaestus are in good condition, so it’s like being transported to another world.
Given the historical significance of these temples and how well they’ve been preserved, I consider them a top visit to do in Sicily. If you don’t have much time, this electric scooter tour is just 2 hours and takes you around most of the ruins. That said, if you can’t get enough ancient Greek and Roman relics, check out the Agrigento Regional Archaeological Museum.
8. Scala dei Turchi, one of the best beaches in Sicily
While you’re in Agrigento, you’ll be close to another Sicily tourist attraction, the Scala dei Turchi. Also known as the Stair of the Turks, this rocky cliff in southern Italy overlooks the Realmonte coast. The name is a reference to its former use as a port of call for Saracen and Arab pirates.
8. Scala dei Turchi, one of the best beaches in Sicily
Not only does Scala dei Turchi have a colorful past, but it’s also a stunning geological wonder. The cliff’s distinct shape is the result of tens of thousands of years of impact from wind and water. Plus, the turquoise waters on Realmonte provide an interesting contrast to the white limestone of the rock.
On either side of the cliff, you will find a white, sandy beach. Many locals admit that the beaches at Scala dei Turchi are among the best beaches in Sicily. It’s no surprise that these marvelous cliffs have been featured in famous books and movies and that they’ve joined the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Scala dei Turchi is among the top things to see in Sicily. Just be sure to protect yourself from the sun, as there isn’t any shade here.
9. Visit Stromboli and the Aeolian Islands, an extraordinary thing to do in Sicily
No, I’m not talking about the delicious Italian dish! Stromboli is an Aeolian island famous for an impressive Sicilian landmark: Mount Stromboli. This stratovolcano is one of three active volcanoes in Italy, with a summit of over 3,000 feet.
If you want to climb Mount Stromboli, I recommend this excursion, which takes you to the Sciara del Fuoco, a 13,000-year-old horseshoe-shaped crater where you can see flowing lava. The tour leaves a couple of hours before sunset, so you get stunning views of the fiery Mediterranean landscape.
9. Visit Stromboli and the Aeolian Islands, an extraordinary thing to do in Sicily
In the town of Stromboli, you’ll feel a sense of calm since the streets are free of cars. That said, you might see a Piaggio Ape, a strange three-wheeled Vespa. If you have time, check out the black sand beach of Grotta di Eolo, which has a magnificent cave.
Without a doubt, the Aeolian Islands are a top thing to see in Sicily. Lipari is the largest of the islands and is known for the Lipari Castle and some beautiful coastal coves. Panarea is smaller but boasts underwater eruptions you won’t want to miss.
Vulcano has several popular fumaroles, steam jets, and therapeutic sulfur mud. Salina has one of the highest peaks on the archipelago, as well as the fern forest of Fossa delle Felci.
Finally, Alicudi and Filicudi to the west are full of dormant volcanic craters. So, if you aren’t sure what to visit in Sicily, Italy, start with the Aeolian Islands.
10. See the Segesta Temple, the best thing to do in Sicily, Italy
If you’re curious about where to go in Sicily‘s northern region, I highly recommend Segesta. This beautiful rural area is a major settlement of the indigenous Elymians in Sicily. It is also home to the Segesta Temple, an ancient symbol of Athenian architecture.
The temple is just 50 miles from the capital, and the surrounding rocky landscape makes it a picturesque journey. What’s interesting about the temple is that it’s unfinished and doesn’t even have a roof. Still, the 36 completed columns remain in good condition, and the temple has several Doric features, such as a molded doorway and a frieze with triglyphs and metopes, or carved patterns.
10. See the Segesta Temple, the best thing to do in Sicily, Italy
It’s not the most impressive temple in Sicily, but if you’re going to be in the capital for only a couple of days, it’s worth seeing. I suggest this excursion of Segesta, which includes a visit to Erice and the Trapani salt flats. It’s a great activity to do in Sicily if you don’t have much time.
Visiting the Greek Theater in Segesta is another cool thing to do in Sicily, Italy. Unlike other Greek theaters in the region, this one faces the north, so you get lovely views of the foothills and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a pleasant sight that you should take advantage of while you’re in the area.
11. Trapani, an incredible place to visit in Sicily
A visit to Trapani is another fun thing to do in Sicily. This popular city is one of the best places to enjoy a stroll through town. Trapani is a charming, quiet city with a historic district free of vehicles.
Here, you’ll find gorgeous Baroque buildings such as the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. I recommend walking along Via Garibaldi and Via Vittorio Emanuele to experience the true essence of this town. Trapani is known as ‘the city of 100 churches,’ many of which you’ll see on the two streets I mentioned.
11. Trapani, an incredible place to visit in Sicily
If you ask any Italian what to see in Sicily, they’ll point you towards the Trapani salt flats. Visiting this area is a must-do, and if you can go at sunset, that’s even better. They create a crystalline landscape that you won’t find anywhere else.
Other unique sites in Trapani include the Palazzo Senatorio, a palace for the Senate; and the Dark Tower, which has one of the oldest astronomical clocks in Europe. If you come here in July, you can partake in the Straugusto Gastronomic Festival and taste delicious local and international dishes.
Also, Trapani’s strong seafaring tradition means that several ferries depart from the port each day. From here, you can reach some of the best attractions in Sicily, such as the Aegadian Islands.
12. Aegadian Islands, the best Sicilian islands you can visit
The Aegadian Islands are a group of small islands to the west of Trapani. Thanks to their amazing beaches, they’ve become a popular summer tourist attraction in Sicily.
The archipelago consists of Favignana, Marettimo, Levanzo, and other smaller islets that mark the boundary between the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian Seas. Each island has something unique to offer, and exploring these lands is an exciting thing to do in western Sicily.
I suggest starting with Favignana’s old town, a pedestrian-friendly coastal area. One of the best things to do in Sicily, is to explore the Lido Burrone, Cala Rossa, and Cala Azzurra coves, on Favignana. As the largest of the Aegadian Islands, Favignana boasts the most idyllic beaches in Sicily.
12. Aegadian Islands, one of the best Sicilian islands you can visit
Marettimo is smaller, with a town of 300 inhabitants. This island offers a beautiful natural landscape and the Castle of Punta Troia, a Saracen fortification that’s now in ruins. In addition to being a great snorkeling destination, Marettimo is home to several sea caves like Camello, Ficaredda, and Tuono.
Levanzo is even smaller than Marettimo, but it’s the most beautiful of the islands. Surrounded by clear blue waters, Levanzo has gorgeous beaches and a 912-foot hill, Pizzo Monaco, from which you can get stunning views. The island is also famous for the Genovesa Cave, which has prehistoric cave paintings dating back about 10,000 years.
To get to the Aegadian islands I recommend booking this tour.
13. Temples of Selinunte, one of the can’t-miss attractions in Sicily
Selinunte is in Trapani province, about an hour from some of Sicily’s main attractions, yet many tourists overlook it.
Even so, this ancient Greek city is well worth visiting and has some impressive temples of its own. The temples have suffered quite a bit of deterioration, so it’s not entirely clear which deity each temple honors. Still, if you love history and ancient ruins, Selinunte is a top place to go in Sicily.
13. Temples of Selinunte, one of the can’t-miss attractions in Sicily
To better distinguish the temples, historians have named each one after a letter. Temple E, which is suspected to be Hera’s temple, is in the best condition. Temple F is the oldest and is believed to honor Athena or Dionysus. Temple G is the largest of all and was probably that of Zeus. Lastly, Temples A and O are known as the Twin Temples. They were the last to be built but are the most deteriorated. They may belong to Castor and Pollux, or Apollo, or maybe Poseidon.
The entire archaeological site is divided into five areas: the Eastern Temples, the Acropolis, the Ancient City, the Sanctuary of Malophoros, and the Necropolis. You could spend all day exploring this area, and with the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop, it’s one of the best things to see in Sicily.
14. Erice, an unforgettable place to go in Sicily, Italy
Erice is another beautiful place to visit in Sicily‘s Trapani province. This medieval town sits atop Mount Erice, over 2,460 feet above sea level. From here, you can get incredible views of the Trapani salt flats and the Egadi Islands.
Besides this spectacular lookout, you can also find medieval monuments and rich ancient Greek history here. For example, the Castello di Venere is one of the top historical points of interest in Sicily. This Norman fortress was built on top of an old Roman temple and dates to the 12th century.
14. Erice, an unforgettable place to go in Sicily, Italy
Another can’t-miss attraction in Erice is a pair of castles: Torretta Pepoli and the Castle of Venus. The former is a unique stone residence reflecting the Saracen period, while the latter was constructed on top of the ancient Temple of Venus. Both structures are located on a cliff, so you’ll get beautiful views of the sea.
A visit to Erice is something to do in Sicily if you’re already in Trapani. It won’t take long to see everything, but the sights are among the most impressive in the region.
15. The Baroque Tour to Ragusa, Noto, and Modica, the best thing to do in Sicily
If you don’t know what to do in Sicily, one of my top recommendations for you is to visit the baroque cities of Ragusa, Noto, and Modica, which share a rich cultural and artistic history.
Back in 1693, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake destroyed nearly every building in southeast Sicily. During the rebuilding phase, architects turned to the style of the day, creating what is known as Sicilian Baroque. As a result, these three cities display some of the most elaborate architecture in Sicily.
15. The Baroque Tour to Ragusa, Noto, and Modica, the best thing to do in Sicily
Noto is known as the Jewel of the Sicilian Baroque or the Garden of Stone, thanks to its massive cathedrals and palaces. Modica also has a few baroque churches, but is most known for the Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, the oldest Sicilian chocolate factory.
Finally, Ragusa is divided into Ragusa Ibla, the one built over the ruins after the earthquake, and Ragusa Superiore, that was built over a close hill for a new start.
Noto, Modica, and Ragusa are beautiful places to visit in Sicily. We were lucky enough to have a local friend guide us around, although this tour is a great alternative.
If you plan to visit the baroque cities of Sicily, check our Ragusa, Noto and Modica itinerary.
16. The Alcantara Gorge, one of the best places to go in Sicily, Italy
Seeing the Alcantara Gorge, is one of the best things to do in Sicily. Located just 30 minutes from Taormina’s city center, the gorges have a mystical air about them.
Geologists believe that this natural phenomenon occurred after a Mount Etna eruption thousands of years ago. Subsequently, erosion along the Alcantara River created a basaltic canyon over 1,300 feet long and 16 feet wide.
16. The Alcantara Gorge, one of the best places to go in Sicily, Italy
If there is a natural wonder you should visit in Sicily, it’s these jagged gorges. The black rock walls and craggy, prismatic texture is something you have to see to believe. Plus, when the light hits the canyon just right, the gorges look like a scene out of a fairytale. This setting is a photographer’s paradise, too!
Not only that, but you can access the canyon and wade in the river. Cooling down in the Alcantara Gorge is one of the most unique activities to do in Sicily on a hot summer day. It’s certainly something you’ll want to brag to your friends about! The Botanic and Geological Park of the Alcantara Gorges is open year-round and has several walking paths that lead to the canyon.
17. Marsala, one of the most spectacular places to go in Sicily
Wine tasting is one of the best things to do in Sicily but there is no better place than Marsala to do so. This western Sicilian city is famous for its great wine, so what are you waiting for?
You’ll find local wineries scattered throughout Marsala, and tastings typically range from 20€-30€ ($24-$35). What makes Marsala wine special is that it’s usually mixed with brandy and makes a great dessert wine, although there are drier varieties, too.
17. Marsala, one of the most spectacular places to go in Sicily
If you’re a teetotaler or just not into wine, Marsala offers a beautiful historic center. Here, you can visit charming shops, lovely cathedrals like the Church of the Addolarata, and the quaint little houses that are characteristic of the city.
Some other interesting things to do in western Sicily include visiting the Lilibeo Regional Archaeological Museum of Marsala and watching the sunset over the Saline Della Laguna salt flats.
18. Savoca, the best thing to visit around Sicily
If you’re a fan of The Godfather movie, then Savoca is one of the best cities to visit in Sicily. The village of Savoca was the main setting for the film, although it has plenty of hidden gems you might not know about.
As I mentioned in our guide to Savoca, the town is an intriguing maze of narrow streets, and it’s best to discover its charm on your own. That said, here I’ll tell you what to see in Sicily‘s Savoca region if you’re short on time.
18. Savoca, the best thing to visit around Sicily
First, you must visit the Vitelli Bar at Piazza Fossia, which is famous for The Godfather saga. Today, the bar is also a mini-museum, full of film memorabilia that you can check out while you enjoy a beverage or snack.
Not far from the bar is the Church of San Nicolo, which was also featured in The Godfather movies. The Church of Santa Maria in Cielo Assunta is also worth visiting.
The cathedral is in Savoca’s historic Pentefur section and overlooks the entire city. The Pentefur Castle is nearby, although it has remained empty since it being riddled by earthquakes in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Another Savoca activity to do in Sicily, Italy, is visiting the Historical Ethno-Anthropological Museum.
19. Zíngaro Nature Reserve, another hike to do in Sicily
Visiting the Zíngaro Nature Reserve is one of the top things to do in northern Sicily. As the first place to be declared a nature reserve in Sicily, Zíngaro is a lovely area of lush vegetation, wild animals, and archaeological relics.
Nestled between Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo, Zíngaro Nature Reserve is a refuge of greenery and fresh mountain air. This area has everything a nature lover could want since there is also a beach along the Gulf of Castellammare.
19. Zíngaro Nature Reserve, another hike to do in Sicily
Spending a few hours here is also a fun thing to do in Sicily with kids. You’ll all be able to spend time together in the great outdoors and maybe learn a bit about the area’s archaeological past.
There are several trails you can take, and while they’re all enjoyable, I recommend the 4.3-mile path along the coastal coves. Just be mindful of the heat, as it can get quite hot along this unshaded path. I think it’s worth it though, as you’ll discover several Sicily sights along your route. Among these are the seven stunning beaches of Zíngaro: Cala Capreria, Cala Varo, Cala Disa, Cala Berretta, Cala Marinella, Cala dell’Uzzo, and Cala Tonnarella.
20. Enna, the best place to see the sunset in Sicily
There is a mythical atmosphere in Enna and visiting this city is a romantic thing to do in Sicily. It’s the highest city in Sicily, at 3,280 feet above sea level. If you visit on a clear day, you’ll get incredible views of the island and Mount Etna.
Even if the weather isn’t great during your visit, you won’t have any trouble figuring out what to do in Enna, Sicily. I suggest visiting Lombardy Castle, an impressive military fortress built in the 1st century and restructured by several kings throughout history. The archaeological sites of Murgantia and Lake Pergusa are also noteworthy, with the latter being the location of the Persephone myth.
20. Enna, the best place to see the sunset in Sicily
Perhaps the best thing to do in Sicily‘s highest city is to see the Cathedral of Enna on Via Roma. While the church was built in the 14th century, a fire ravaged it in 1446. The original apse still stands, and even though the rest has been restored, the cathedral is a significant architectural monument in Sicily.
If you have time, stop by the Alessi Museum, where you can see part of the Cathedral’s treasure, including jewels, “Crown of the Virgin,” Byzantine iconography, ornaments, and ancient coins.
21. Visit Aci Trezza and Aci Castello, the best thing to do in Sicily for couples
The most enjoyable thing to do in Sicily, Italy, is to visit Aci Trezza and Aci Castello. These two coastal towns are a relaxing paradise after a sightseeing excursion around Sicily and they are not far from Catania.
First, the best thing to do in Aci Trezza is to take a seaside stroll to see the Faraglioni. Also known as The Island of the Cyclops, these three sea stacks jut out of the water and are only accessible via boat. They are said to be the giant stones the cyclops Polyphemus threw at Odysseus in The Odyssey.
21. Visit Aci Trezza and Aci Castello, the best thing to do in Sicily for couples
Aci Castello is another must-see in Sicily that’s equally as impressive. Your first stop should be the Norman Castle, which was completed in 1081. Besides these ancient ruins, the highlight of Aci Castello is its black sand beach. The color comes from the tiny volcanic stones along the shoreline, which contrast spectacularly against the crystalline waters.
While I don’t think you’ll ever run out of things to do in Sicily, I recommend making time for Aci Trezza and Aci Castello. They’re conveniently close to each other, and we managed to visit both before boarding the plane home from Catania.
22. Explore Villa Romana del Casale, one of the best things to do in Sicily, Italy
The Villa Romana del Casale is one of the most famous places to visit in Sicily. Located in Piazza Armerina near Enna, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has the largest collection of Roman mosaics on earth.
The palace dates to the 4th century and belonged to a powerful Roman family. The ancient mosaics cover nearly 38,000ft², not only on the walls, but also on the floors and ceilings. A series of landslides preserved the work for centuries, so it’s one main attraction in Sicily that’s in great condition.
22. Explore Villa Romana del Casale, one of the best things to do in Sicily, Italy
The villa’s entrance is flanked by three arches and leads to a courtyard and central fountain. The southern rooms include the Diaeta of Orpheus, a small room covered with depictions of Orpheus, as well as a peristyle garden.
The main basilica features marble floors and columns made of pink Egyptian granite. There is also a great hall with a mosaic of Hercules going through the 12 labors.
Afterwards, pay a visit to the center of Piazza Armerina, where you’ll get striking views from 2,365 feet above sea level. Even on its own, this town is a gorgeous example of Baroque architecture. However, if you’re short on time and now sure what to see in Sicily‘s Enna province, I recommend the villa.
23. Necropolis of Pantalica, another interesting attraction in Sicily, Italy
The Necropolis of Pantalica is another popular tourist attraction in Sicily thanks to its great historical significance. Located in Syracuse in the southeastern part of the island, the Necropolis has about 4,000 tombs from the 13th to the 7th centuries BC. The area covers nearly 510 acres and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Obviously, this is one of the most historical points of interest in Sicily, but it’s also a beautiful natural place. The tombs are scattered across a limestone hill surrounded by the Calcinara and Ánapo rivers. While you’re exploring the area, you may come across all kinds of unique flora and fauna.
23. Necropolis of Pantalica, another interesting attraction in Sicily, Italy
It’s practically impossible to see all the sites at the Necropolis in a single day, but several trails run through it, and they pass by the main highlights. The most impressive tombs are those of the Necropolis of Filiporto, which has about 1,000 graves that were excavated around the 4th century BC. They’re the most recently discovered tombs, so they’re the best preserved.
You should also check out the North Necropolis, the largest area which also has viewing platforms overlooking the Calcinara River. The Anaktoron is another intriguing section of prehistoric houses. Finally, the Grotta Pipistrelli is a natural bat cave that seems quite fitting for a Necropolis.
Many would say that this excursion is a creepy thing to do in Sicily, but it’s also super unique.
24. Cava Grande de Cassibile Nature Reserve, the calmest place to go in Sicily
The Cava Grande del Cassibile Nature Reserve is one of the most incredible things to do in Sicily, Italy. This gorgeous nature reserve is closer to Ávola, about 30 minutes south of Syracuse and just 15 minutes from Noto.
It encompasses over 6,670 acres within the Iblei Mountains. It’s a protected park, so you can enjoy lush vegetation, impressive geological formations, and a wide variety of wildlife. Spend some time walking through canyons and to waterfalls and serene pools. This is where you’ll find some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Sicily.
24. Cava Grande de Cassibile Nature Reserve, the calmest place to go in Sicily
You can also get a good hike in while you’re here. If you visit during the summer, you can cool down in the refreshing crystal-clear waters after hiking around. Along the edges of the canyon, keep an eye out for the Paleolithic caves. Some of them date to the 10th century BC.
Even though this is a spectacular place to go, many visitors overlook it. We wouldn’t have known about it if it weren’t for our Sicilian friend, who insisted we check it out. He was right, so we’re including it in our list of top things to do in Sicily.
25. Walk around Morgantina, the best activity to do in Sicily
The final must-see in Sicily that I recommend is Morgantina, also known as Murgantia or Morgantium. It is an ancient Greek city located to the east of the island that often goes unnoticed despite its historical value.
Back in those days, the city served as a connection point between the north coast, the south, and the east. Moreover, archaeological ruins at Morgantina date as far back as the 4th century BC, such as a Greek theater dedicated to Dionysus. The theater had a 2,000-person capacity, not bad for ancient times!
25. Walk around Morgantina, the best activity to do in Sicily
Today, Morgantina is one of the best cities to visit in Sicily, especially if you love ancient history. As you walk around the town, you’ll see the Agora sanctuary, the public square, Roman gymnasium, and the ekklesiasteron, an assembly meeting place. The bouleuterion Senate house is a good example of Hellenic craftsmanship.
As you observe the commercial area, you’ll notice the remnants of different stores. Also, some of the homes still have recognizable mosaics and other ornamental elements. Morgantina is, without a doubt, a peculiar place, and visiting this city is an excellent thing to do in east Sicily.
Now you know the 25 places to visit in Sicily that I recommend. I’m including a map of what to see in Sicily to help you find all the cities, monuments, and points of interest. This way, you can plan your Sicily activities and create the perfect itinerary.
There are so many awesome things to do in Sicily, so no matter where you go, you’ll find something amazing. If you have any questions about where to go in Sicily, leave me a comment, and I’ll get back to you.
I wish you safe and happy travels!
