Last winter, *The White Lotus* brought Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, onto many travelers’ radar. With its luxurious seaside resorts, beautiful sandy beaches, and unique ceramic head designs, it captured the attention of viewers around the world, turning them into enthusiastic explorers of Sicilian culture. Now that the enchanting theme tune has faded and visions of ‘Peppa Pig’ riding on a Vespa have ebbed, my answer to the question “Is Sicily worth visiting?” remains crystal clear: an emphatic yes.
Sicily is considered one of the best islands to visit, not just in Italy but worldwide. This island is alive with history and culture, serving as a living testament to various civilizations such as the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Byzantines, each leaving their mark. For those seeking stunning beach experiences, the picturesque coastlines of Cefalù and the tranquil waters of Isola Bella will leave you breathless. However, food lovers will rejoice, for Sicily undoubtedly offers some of the most exquisite cuisine in the world.
The finest reason to visit Sicily may be to take your time, savoring what the island has to offer. While there is plenty to see and do, Sicily encourages you to unwind in charming hilltop towns, marvel at its active volcanoes, and delve deeper into the rich local lifestyle – a blend that is unmistakably Italian yet uniquely Sicilian, making every moment worth cherishing.
The Slower Pace of Sicilian Life
During my month-long first visit to Sicily, I was utterly captivated by its leisurely pace of life. This enchanting island – home to two smaller archipelagos – was practically made for slow travel. Whether you’re basking in the sun by the beach, trekking through long-distance hiking trails in the countryside, or exploring the lesser-known Aeolian or Aegadian Islands where local fishermen create vibrant hubs of life, the best reasons to visit Sicily largely revolve around escaping the turmoil of fast tourism.
Even in chaotic Palermo, the island’s lively capital, there are numerous opportunities to slow down and engage with the local culture, be it through a Sicilian cooking class at Mamma Corleone’s culinary studio or a pottery workshop at MUD, where you can craft your own piece and understand the significance of the iconic ceramic heads found throughout Sicily.
Essentially, Sicily resembles an open-air museum, featuring seven World Heritage Sites. To truly appreciate them, you need to either plan a leisurely trip or join one of the many relaxed tours available in southern Italy, ideally dedicating at least a week – preferably ten days – exclusively to explore Sicily.
An Archaeological Journey Through Time
So, why visit Sicily when the rest of Italy boasts numerous historic sites? This island has enticed sailors for millennia, layering stories, flavors, and architectural styles. A true treasure trove of history, Sicily’s archaeological sites span eras that have influenced not only its own shores but also Europe and beyond.
At the ancient Greek Valley of the Temples, which dates back to the 5th century BC, you can walk the ridge where one of Greece’s most important cities once stood. Although subsequent invaders damaged some original temples, respectful restoration has made the site both fascinating and picturesque.
Another standout location is Villa Romana del Casale, home to what UNESCO declares the finest mosaics in the Roman world. This expansive villa from the 4th century AD is known for its intricate mosaics, and raised walkways provide optimal viewing angles.
Unforgettable Accommodation Options for All Budgets
You don’t have to splurge on a stay at the luxurious White Lotus Resort (also known as the San Domenico Palace in Taormina) to enjoy stunning sea views or lavish accommodations; Sicily offers a wide array of fantastic lodging options to fit any budget.
For our first week, my primary requirement was to have a sea view, and with many tranquil villas available on both the main island and its archipelagos, it was easy to find an affordable base from which to enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the waves.
Another appealing reason to visit Sicily is the opportunity to stay in a palazzo (a small palace). There are many palazzos scattered across the island, many of which have been converted into affordable short-term rentals, providing a unique experience.
Food That is Worth Savoring
If I had to sum up why visit Sicily in just one word, I might hesitate for a moment before ultimately conceding that the food is one of the most compelling reasons – and that’s quite significant when considering the culinary reputation of Italy as a whole.
From dishes crafted from seasonal, flavorful ingredients to mouthwatering desserts, freshly prepared seafood, and sweet pomegranate juice stands, Sicily is an unforgettable gastronomic destination in Europe.
Make sure to try signature dishes like caponata (a sweet and sour eggplant dish), cannoli (pastry filled with ricotta), pasta alla Norma (pasta topped with eggplant and ricotta), and arancini (fried stuffed rice balls). And that’s just the beginning; Sicily’s culinary offerings are extensive and exceptional.
Cities Rich in History
While Sicily’s reputation as a European beach destination is well-known, don’t overlook the island’s cities. Bursting with art and architecture, each city presents a unique personality and rich history.
In Palermo, the lively capital, your senses may be overwhelmed by the chaos and beauty of the streets, particularly at Ballaro Market, where the island’s character shines through its lively atmosphere and extraordinary street food. Be sure to visit the stunning 12th-century Cathedral, admire the Byzantine mosaics of the Cappella Palatina, and explore the Royal Palace of Palermo, where courtyards and grand ceilings are sure to leave you in awe.
On the east coast, the city of Catania offers a more ‘traditional Italian’ experience with beautiful Bellini Gardens, the castle-turned-gallery of Ursino, and a Basilica adorned with an impressive marble façade, along with the remnants of a Roman-Greek amphitheater to explore. However, it’s in Syracuse where the Greek influence is most palpable, with notable archaeological sites and amphitheaters that will take your breath away.
Volcanoes and Wineries
You might wonder why you should visit Sicily considering the abundance of active volcanoes in the region; however, that’s part of its allure.
Mount Etna and Stromboli, both UNESCO-listed, are the most renowned among them. But there are even more volcanic wonders waiting to be explored. On Vulcano Island, for example, the pungent scent of sulfur greeted us, and trails were closed due to recent volcanic activity. Yet despite the close environment’s trepidation, life continues to thrive near these natural marvels. You can hike up Mount Etna with a guide, or for those who prefer to enjoy the view from a safe distance, sample some exquisite wines from Sicily’s historic vineyards nestled on the slopes.
Lazy Days on the Aeolian Islands
One of my cherished experiences during my visits to Italy was my time spent in the Aeolian Islands, a stunning cluster of volcanic islands. These serene locations warrant their own reason to visit Sicily; outside of the bustling August vacationers, they remain lesser-known Italian gems.
We chose to stay on Lipari, the largest of the islands, where we enjoyed sipping spritz overlooking the fiery crater of Stromboli at sunset. It was the ideal setting to relax and explore during the sunny autumn days, taking day trips to neighboring islands like Vulcano and Salina via local ferries. The highlights included volcanic black sand beaches, scenic hiking trails, and delightful dining options right by the water. If you question whether Sicily alone is worth your visit, a trip to these scenic islands will undoubtedly prove to be an additional incentive.
Breathtaking Beaches
However, you don’t need to venture out to the smaller islands to enjoy picturesque beaches, as the main island of Sicily is a beach destination in its own right. Relax on the stunning sands of Cefalù, a medieval coastal town filled with beach clubs and stunning architecture like the Cathedral, which makes for a perfect backdrop.
At Isola Bella, the crown jewel of Taormina’s coast, you’ll find a beautiful tombolo leading out into sparkling turquoise waters, while the more secluded beaches near Noto offer a perfect escape for a tranquil day by the sea.
Timeless Towns and Villages
There are just as many reasons to explore Sicily’s enchanting hilltop villages as there are to enjoy its coastal towns. With some of Italy’s most picturesque towns that offer breathtaking panoramas and hidden villages off the beaten path, a road trip across the island reveals hidden gems.
Venture inland to discover the Baroque splendor of Val di Noto, where towns like Modica, Ragusa, and Noto boast a classic charm amidst their storied streets. Across the island, Erice, a picturesque hilltop village crowned by a Norman castle, and Sperlinga, another of Sicily’s ‘most beautiful villages,’ are must-sees. Don’t miss the museums clustered around Piazza Armerina after your visit to the mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale.
Reconnect with Nature
Sicily has long been celebrated as an inspiring destination for slow travel, embraced by discerning travelers, writers, and artists. The region’s lush green hills, carpets of pistachios and vineyards, and the stunning blue of the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas provide a feast for the senses – not to mention the awe-inspiring Mount Etna.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Sicily’s natural beauty is on its extensive network of hiking trails. If you’re seeking an adventure, consider the 116-mile Magna Via Francigena, an epic coast-to-coast trek that takes about ten days. It starts from Palermo in the north and leads to Agrigento in the south, passing through bustling urban areas, serene forests, and quaint villages, offering accommodation in rural guesthouses surrounded by picturesque lakes, mountains, and pastures; the island’s interior is undeniably idyllic.
Why visit Sicily, you ask? The answer is almost evident. Here, you can find the best of Italy’s experiences combined into one magnificent microcosm of culture and beauty.
