Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a treasure trove of art, history, and natural beauty. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches, this island has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Sicily will not disappoint. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the best attractions and things to do on this enchanting Italian island. From the vibrant cities to the sleepy villages, let’s explore the unique culture and charm of Sicily.

The 16 Best Things To Do And See In Sicily

1. Syracuse Segway Tour
2. Syracuse and Ortigia and Noto Tour from Catania Taormina and Nearby Area Small Group
3. Elite Etna Morning from Catania
4. Messina Shore Excursion City Segway Tour
5. Western Sicily Half Day or Full Day Wine Tour
6. Street Food With Fulvio
7. Palermo Shore Excursion City Segway Tour
8. Grand Taste Palermo Artisan Food and History Walking Tour
9. Catania Segway Tour
10. Sicily Sea Land
11. Catania Street Food
12. Messina Segway Tour
13. Cefalu Segway Tour
14. Palermo City Hop on Hop Off Tour
15. Palermo Segway Tour
16. 1 Day Ticket

The 16 Best Things To Do And See In Sicily

1. Syracuse Segway Tour

Explore the historic city of Syracuse on this 3-hour Segway tour, led by an expert guide. Take a scenic ride to the island neighborhood of Ortygia, where most of Syracuse’s top attractions can be seen. As you pass by the Fountain of Aretusa, the ruins of ancient Greek city walls, and the 17th-century Archbishop’s Palace, learn about the history behind each architectural gem.

Travel past ancient Greek ruins that were built by Dionysius the Great and learn about Syracuse in its heyday when it was one of the largest cities in the ancient world. You’ll also pass by other top attractions, including Our Lady of Tears Sanctuary and the Catacombs of San Giovanni. Pose for pictures in Piazza del Duomo and admire the 17th-century Archbishop’s Palace.

The tour includes a 30-minute orientation session, and all necessary equipment will be provided. Food and drink are also included, as well as gratuities. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also available for added convenience. Don’t miss out on this exciting way to discover the historic city of Syracuse.

2. Syracuse and Ortigia and Noto Tour from Catania Taormina and Nearby Area Small Group

This full-day tour takes you on a journey to three magnificent towns – Syracuse, Ortigia Island and Noto – located on the eastern coast of Sicily. Each of these towns boasts a rich and intriguing history that dates back to the ancient Greek civilization, and all three are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your guide will take you on a journey through the Roman ruins of Nepaolis, delve into the fascinating history of Syracuse and its famous Greek Theater and bring to life the exquisite baroque architecture of Noto. With hassle-free round-trip travel included from Catania Taormina and surrounding areas, this tour provides a seamless and unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the best of eastern Sicily. The tour also includes a driver, fuel surcharge and hotel pickup and drop-off or a meeting point close to your accommodation. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful towns in Sicily with a knowledgeable guide.

3. Elite Etna Morning from Catania

This tour takes you to explore Mount Etna with a guide to see its volcanic attractions. You’ll walk past lava flows and around the Silvestri or Sartorius craters, visit Rifugio Sapienza or Rifugio Citelli, see the Valle del Bove, and go inside a lava flow cave. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a tasting of local honey, oil, or wine. This small-group tour provides a more personalized experience and includes insurance, light refreshments, professional guide service, and tips and optional personal purchases. The meeting point is in front of the booking office at Via Giuseppe Garibaldi 39, Catania, and the tour starts at 8:30 AM. It will end at the same location. Please note that confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

4. Messina Shore Excursion City Segway Tour

Explore Messina’s top attractions while in port in Sicily on this Segway tour. Glide around Piazza Duomo and pose for photos by the elegant Messina Duomo. Marvel at the Arab-Norman architecture of the Church of Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani. Learn about the earthquake that rocked the city in 1908 from your guide and hear tales of Don Juan of Austria who fought for Sicily in the 16th-century Battle of Levanto. Ride along Messina’s wide boulevards built after the earthquake and see the Neo-Classical palaces that line the bustling squares. This Segway shore excursion of Messina comes with a local guide, a 30-minute orientation session, and port pickup and drop-off. Food and drinks as well as gratuities are also included. Meet your guide at Via Castellammare and get ready to explore Messina in a fun and unique way.

5. Western Sicily Half Day or Full Day Wine Tour

Travel into the scenic countryside of western Sicily with this half-day or full-day wine tour. The itinerary can be customized according to your schedule and interests. Enjoy wine tastings straight from the vineyards and wineries and get a chance to taste some of the region’s best-known wines. Hotel pick-up is also included for your convenience.

This tour includes a local guide, full unlimited wine tasting, lunch, and gratuities. You will also get a chance to visit the Torre di Ligny, a historic tower that offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Please note that there are no age restrictions for this tour, but keep in mind that the minimum drinking age in Italy is 18. If you have any dietary requirements, such as vegetarian or vegan meals, please let the tour operator know in advance. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.

Experience the beautiful countryside of western Sicily and taste some of the region’s best wines on this customizable wine tour.

6. Street Food With Fulvio

Get off the beaten path and discover the hidden hotspots favored by locals on this in-depth food and drink crawl through Palermo. This guided group walking and tasting tour takes you through Palermo’s historical quarter, covering its most unmissable attractions as you explore the cobbled attraction-packed streets of the old town.

Sample traditional Sicilian delicacies paired with wine or beer, and finish it off with a cannolo or gelato from one of the city’s most atmospheric cafes. The tour includes tastings, a full lunch with alcoholic beverages, and plenty of snacks—plus dessert.

The meeting point is at Via Maqueda 455, Palermo. The tour starts at 10:30 AM and ends back at the meeting point. If you need further information, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the host.

7. Palermo Shore Excursion City Segway Tour

Explore the stunning city of Palermo in just 3 hours with an expert local guide on this thrilling Segway tour. Glide through the vibrant streets and admire Palermo’s eclectic mix of Arab-Norman, Baroque and Neo-Classical architecture. Along the way, you’ll see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Palace of the Normans and Palermo Cathedral. Stop at Piazza della Vittoria for a photo opportunity and learn about the city’s modern art scene as you pass Palermo’s Gallery of Modern Art. Your tour includes a 30-minute orientation session, a Segway tour, food and drinks, gratuities, and port pickup and drop-off. Don’t miss this chance to see the best sights that Palermo has to offer on this incredible shore excursion Segway tour.

8. Grand Taste Palermo Artisan Food and History Walking Tour

Discover Palermo’s rich culture and cuisine with a guided walking tour through the old town. Stroll past iconic landmarks like the Teatro Massimo cathedral and Norman palace while exploring the city’s unique history and architecture. With over 20 local specialties to try, including street foods and gourmet delicacies, this tour offers a true culinary experience. Cap off your morning of sightseeing and eating with a visit to the city’s historic Capo Market. This small-group tour is an affordable way to explore Palermo with a licensed local guide. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included for your convenience. Meeting point is at P.za Giuseppe Verdi 455, right outside the main gate of Teatro Massimo – Opera. Join this Grand Taste Palermo Artisan Food and History Walking Tour for a memorable adventure in Sicily.

9. Catania Segway Tour

Glide through the beautiful city center of Catania on a 3-hour Segway tour led by an expert local guide. Discover the UNESCO-listed historical center, marvel at the Baroque palaces, Roman ruins, and admire the Fountain of the Elephant carved from volcanic rock in Piazza Duomo. Glide along Via Etnea, the city’s vibrant main street, and explore the lush and picturesque park of Villa Bellini. During your Segway trip, make sure to listen to the tales of Catania’s medieval history on a stop outside 13th-century Castle Ursino. Your tour concludes back at the original departure point. This tour includes a 30-minute orientation session, Segway rental, and the services of a knowledgeable guide. Food, drinks, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off are also included. The meeting point is at Parking Bors.

10. Sicily Sea Land

This seven-day tour of Sicily’s eastern coast offers a hassle-free option for travelers to see the top attractions without worrying about transportation and lodging arrangements. The tour is based out of a hotel in Mascali that’s conveniently located near the coastal highlights. The tour is fully customizable and includes cultural treasures like Taormina and Acireale, as well as the opportunity to visit Mt. Etna and Catania Underground. Travel is by car, so there’s no need to worry about the delays and hassles of public transportation. Breakfast and three lunches are included, but other meals, drinks, entrances, insurance, tips and city taxes are not. The tour starts at Catania Airport, and the pickup time should be confirmed with the local organizer.

11. Catania Street Food

Discover the best street food in Catania on a private walking tour with an insider foodie guide. Explore the city’s lively fish market and main Via Etnea while sampling a number of savory and sweet street food specialties. Indulge in paper cones of deep-fried seafood, crisp “arancini” rice balls, icy granita, and sweet ricotta-stuffed cannoli. Along the way, learn about the city’s culinary history and culture. Customize the pace and itinerary of the tour with the help of your guide for a personalized experience. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, brunch, bottled water, and gratuities. You can choose to head directly to the meeting point at Piazza Paolo Borsellino or request a pickup from select points. Don’t miss the chance to experience the vibrant street food scene of Catania.

12. Messina Segway Tour

Explore Messina’s top attractions on a 3-hour Segway tour led by an expert local guide. Glide along the sweeping boulevards that were built after the 1908 earthquake in Messina, passing by Piazza Duomo where you can pose for photos in front of elegant Messina Duomo. Admire the Arab-Norman design of the Church of Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani and learn about Don Juan of Austria who fought for Sicily in the 16th-century Battle of Levanto. As you travel through each vibrant city square, your guide will provide you with insights on how the area changed in the aftermath of the earthquake. The tour concludes at the original departure point after three hours of history, culture, and sightseeing. The Segway tour includes a 30-minute orientation session, and all necessary equipment is provided. Food and drinks, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off are also included in the tour package. Discover the best of Messina on this Segway tour!

13. Cefalu Segway Tour

Discover the highlights of Cefalù on this Segway tour, perfect for those looking to cover a lot of ground in just a few hours. With a 30-minute orientation session, this tour is suitable for all fitness levels. You’ll visit the Church of Purgatory, the Duomo, Fisherman’s Gate, and the Mandralisca Museum, all while traveling in comfort on a Segway scooter. Helmets and ponchos in case of rain are provided. Hotel pickup and drop-off is also included. Meet at Parcheggio Coco near Riva del Sole Hotel for a hassle-free start to your tour.

14. Palermo City Hop on Hop Off Tour

See the best of Palermo at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. From the top of a double-decker bus, you’ll get an incredible view of Palermo’s top attractions, including the Quattro Canti, Vucciria Market, and the famous Teatro Massimo opera house. Your 24-hour ticket allows unlimited stops and starts on both bus routes. Additionally, enjoy audio commentary throughout the tour to learn even more about the city’s rich history and culture. Individual earphones, gratuities, and recorded commentary are included. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as food and drink, are not included. The tour begins at 10:00 AM.

15. Palermo Segway Tour

Discover the stunning city of Palermo on a fun and easy Segway tour led by an expert local guide. Glide upright and on two wheels through the winding streets, taking in the city’s stunning Arab-Norman, Baroque, and Neo-Classical architecture. Admire the Palace of the Normans at Piazza della Vittoria and the nearby Gallery of Modern Art, as your guide shares stories about the city’s history and contemporary art scene. Cruise through the lively Capo Market, where you can sample some of Sicily’s best street food. Then, see the city’s stunning seafront gardens at Villa a Mare, taking in the stunning views. Take advantage of a 30-minute orientation before starting this unique and unforgettable tour experience.

16. 1 Day Ticket

This hop-on hop-off bus tour is the perfect way to explore Taormina and the stunning Sicilian countryside at your own pace. With 24-hour passes, you have the freedom to customize your itinerary and visit the places you’re most interested in. Board the bus and enjoy a scenic ride along the waterfront, past landmarks like the Piazza Sant’Antonio and Castelmola, and through the breathtaking Alcantara Gorges. Along the way, learn more about the area’s history and culture from the included audio guide. Whether you want to discover the top attractions of Taormina or venture further afield, this hop-on hop-off tour has you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sicily

Sicily is an island off the coast of Italy that is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine. It is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. If you are planning a trip to Sicily, you may have a lot of questions about the island. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Sicily.

1. What is the best time to visit Sicily?

The best time to visit Sicily is from April to June or from September to October. During these months, the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists. July and August are the busiest months, and temperatures can reach up to 40°C. Many locals leave the island during these months, so some restaurants and shops may be closed. However, if you want to enjoy the beaches and the nightlife, July and August are the best months.

2. How to get to Sicily?

Sicily is accessible by air, land or sea. The island has two main airports: Catania and Palermo. These airports have connections to major cities in Europe and Italy. You can also take a ferry from the mainland, which usually takes around 12 hours from Naples, 10 hours from Genoa, and 8 hours from Livorno. If you prefer to travel by car, you can use the highway that connects Sicily to the mainland.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Sicily?

If you are a citizen of the European Union, Switzerland, or a few other countries, you don’t need a visa to visit Sicily. However, if you are from another country, you may need a visa. Check the Italian embassy website in your country for more information.

4. What is the currency in Sicily?

Sicily is part of Italy, so the currency is the Euro (€).

5. What are some must-see attractions in Sicily?

Sicily has a lot to offer, from historical landmarks to beautiful beaches. Some must-see attractions include:

• The Greek Theatre in Taormina
• The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento
• The Mount Etna volcano
• The historic city of Palermo
• The baroque town of Noto
• The beach of San Vito Lo Capo

6. What is Sicilian cuisine like?

Sicilian cuisine is a mix of Italian, Greek, African, and Arab influences. Some popular dishes include:

• Pasta alla Norma (pasta with tomato sauce, eggplant, and ricotta salata cheese)
• Arancini (deep-fried rice balls filled with meat or cheese)
• Caponata (a sweet and sour vegetable dish)
• Cassata (a sponge cake filled with sweet ricotta cheese and candied fruit)
• Cannoli (a pastry filled with sweet ricotta cream)

7. What is the nightlife like in Sicily?

Sicily has a vibrant nightlife, especially during the summer months. Many towns have bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning. Taormina, Cefalù, and Palermo are some of the best places to go for nightlife in Sicily.

8. Is it safe to travel to Sicily?

Sicily is generally a safe place to travel to. However, as with any place, you should take some precautions to ensure your safety. Don’t leave your valuables unattended, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone at night in quiet areas.

9. What should I pack for my trip to Sicily?

What you should pack for your trip to Sicily depends on the time of year you are visiting. If you are visiting during the summer months, you will need light clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you plan to visit Mount Etna, bring a warm jacket and good hiking shoes. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit if you plan to visit the beaches.

10. Can I speak English in Sicily?

English is not widely spoken in Sicily, especially in rural areas. However, most people who work in the tourism industry speak some English. It’s a good idea to learn some basic Italian phrases to help you communicate with locals.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and is located just off the tip of Italy’s boot. This beautiful island attracts millions of tourists every year with its rich history, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine. However, with so much to see and do, it can be hard to decide how to spend your time on this island paradise. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time in Sicily.

1. Explore Palermo

Palermo is the capital city of Sicily and is a must-visit destination. The city is steeped in history, with influences from the Greeks, Romans, Normans, and Arabs all visible in its architecture, art, and culture. Start your exploration by visiting the iconic Palermo Cathedral. The cathedral was founded in 1185 and is a beautiful example of Norman architecture. After that, head to the nearby Palazzo dei Normanni, a 9th-century palace that was once the seat of Sicily’s kings. Don’t miss the stunning Palatine Chapel, which is adorned with intricate mosaics and Byzantine artwork.

2. Visit Mount Etna

Mount Etna is an active volcano that dominates the eastern region of Sicily. It’s the largest volcano in Europe and one of the most active in the world. A visit to Mount Etna is a must for any tourist in Sicily. You can take a guided trek up the mountain or hop on a cable car for stunning views of the crater. Make sure to also visit the nearby town of Taormina, which offers breathtaking views of the volcano and the sea.

3. Relax on the Beaches

Sicily is known for its beautiful beaches. The island has both sandy and rocky beaches, so you can take your pick. One of the most popular beaches is the white sandy beach of San Vito Lo Capo. If you prefer a more secluded beach, then head to the rocky coves of the Zingaro Nature Reserve. For a more active beach experience, try kitesurfing or windsurfing in the clear blue waters of the island.

4. Enjoy the Food and Wine

Sicily is famous for its delicious cuisine and wine. The island’s cuisine is a mixture of Italian, Greek, and Arab influences. Be sure to try the pasta alla Norma, a dish made with eggplant, tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese. Sicily is also home to some of the best wineries in Italy. The island is famous for its rich and bold red wines, such as the Nero d’Avola and the Cerasuolo di Vittoria. Don’t forget to try the sweet Marsala wine, which is perfect for dessert.

5. Explore the Ancient Greek Theater in Siracusa

Siracusa is an ancient Greek city that was founded in 734 BC. The city is home to several important archaeological sites, including an ancient Greek theater that dates back to the 5th century BC. The theater is built into the hillside and offers stunning views of the bay. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a performance during your visit.

6. Go Island Hopping

Sicily is surrounded by several smaller islands that are worth a visit. Take a short ferry ride to the Aeolian Islands, a group of seven islands that are home to stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming fishing villages. You can also visit the island of Pantelleria, which is famous for its sweet capers and thermal springs.

7. Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

Agrigento is located on the southern coast of Sicily and is home to a vast complex of ancient Greek temples that date back to the 6th century BC. The Valley of the Temples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Be sure to visit the Temple of Concordia, which is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world.

8. Experience the Festivals

Sicily is home to several festivals throughout the year that celebrate the island’s rich history and culture. One of the most famous festivals is the Carnival of Acireale, which takes place in February and features colorful parades, floats, and costumes. Another popular festival is the Feast of Santa Rosalia in Palermo, which takes place in July and celebrates the city’s patron saint with fireworks, processions, and street food.

Book Your Tour Now

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, beaches, or food and wine, Sicily has something for everyone. With this guide, you can plan your itinerary and make the most of your time on this beautiful island. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos and make memories that will last a lifetime.