What Can I Expect from a Holiday to Sicily?

When deciding to take a holiday to Sicily, it is important to think not only of the delicious food and picturesque views but also the unique attractions that can make a person’s stay extra-special. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural parks, historical landmarks and iconic cultural attractions allow the tourist to truly immerse themselves in the rich and diverse landscape of this fascinating island.

Those who relish adventure and surprises every day, while still being surrounded by all the comforts of a luxurious holiday, should look no further. A trip to Sicily will be sure to meet all expectations, and surprise you with its beauty.

Beaches

Sicily offers an incredible variety of beach destinations for travellers. Whether you are seeking a tranquil resort or an exciting beach packed with activities, you are sure to find it.

From the secluded and intimate coves of Taormina’s Lido Mazzarò, to the bustling energy of Mondello’s golden shore with its vibrant bars and restaurants, each beach has something to offer for everyone. Visitors can choose to snorkel around the gorgeous polished rocks of Isola Bella, surf the waters of San Vito Lo Capo or bask in the sun on the white sand of Spiaggia dei Conigli on the Aegadian Islands, close to Trapani.

Natural Wonders & Historical Landmarks

Experience a volcanic eruption at Mount Etna or explore the Catanian Geothermal Valley, an attraction that includes hot springs and streams, geysers and mud pools. Alternatively, historical lovers will revel walking around ancient Greek theatre ruins in Sicily’s capital, or witness an array of ancient monuments at Segesta and Selinunte.

Food & Culture

Even if food is not high on your interests list, it is difficult to ignore the delicious specialities prepared by the locals – from Sicilian pastry, Cannoli and Arancini to freshly prepared seafood – all flavoured with delicious local ingredients.

Sicilian culture is clearly on display throughout the island. With a colourful array of creative activities that reflect Sicily’s various colourful dialects, extensive culture and even its quirky folklore there’s always something new to explore.

The warm hospitality from locals is sure to be unforgettable and one of the best parts about a holiday to Sicily.

Summary

In conclusion, tourists planning to visit Sicily can expect plenty of adventure, exceptional hospitality and unforgettable moments that make this area one of Italy’s top tourist attractions. Whether you want to relax on a beach or explore rugged landscapes, cultural sites and local delicacies, there are plenty of experiences for you to enjoy here. So go on, explore Sicily!

For further information about holidays in Sicily please visit Sicily Magazine, a website with travel guides and insider tips about this amazing island.

Insider’s Guide to Palermo, Sicily

Palermo is the capital city of the island of Sicily, which is located in the southern part of Italy. A trip to Palermo can be a fascinating experience for every traveler. The city is a perfect blend of ancient history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural activities. It offers numerous attractions, top-notch dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Here is everything you need to know before you visit Palermo.

Local Attractions

Palermo boasts numerous picturesque landmarks that can be the perfect place for a day trip. Here are some attractions you don’t want to miss when visiting the city:

– Palermo Cathedral: a stunning cathedral with a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles that will leave you stunned
– Norman Palace: a beautiful palace with colorful mosaic ceilings and stunning architecture that dates back to the 12th century
– The Capuchin Catacombs: a fascinating and eerie underground world with more than 8,000 mummified corpses that will take you back to the 16th century
– The Teatro Massimo: one of the most elegant and enormous opera houses in the world that can accommodate up to 1,350 visitors
– Palermo Botanical Garden: a beautiful park with more than 12,000 different plant species where you can enjoy a peaceful walk in nature

Dining Spots

Palermo is famous for its culinary scene, offering authentic Sicilian cuisine. Here are some places you don’t want to miss:

– Antica Focacceria San Francesco: a local institution that has been serving authentic Palermo street food since 1834
– Osteria dei Vespri: located near the cathedral, this cozy restaurant provides the best of Sicilian cuisine and wines
– Ristorante Gagini: a Michelin-starred dining spot that serves the best seafood in Palermo
– Trattoria Biondo: a traditional Sicilian restaurant where you can enjoy authentic homemade food and wine
– Ferro di Cavallo: a lively restaurant specializing solely in horsemeat dishes, for the more adventurous eater

Cultural Experiences

Palermo has a rich cultural heritage that can be discovered through various experiences, attractions, and events. Here are some cultural experiences you don’t want to miss:

– Visit the Mercato del Capo: a bustling market with colorful stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat, and local delicacies. An experience that incorporates all the smells and flavors of Palermo
– Attend a traditional Sicilian Puppet Theater performance, where you’ll watch puppets come to life and perform stories of local legend and folklore
– Visit the Zisa Castle and Museum: a beautiful castle dating back to the 12th century, offering both an expansive collection of Islamic art and elaborate gardens
– Take a cooking class and learn how to cook traditional Sicilian dishes, such as pasta alla Norma and arancini
– Enjoy a traditional gelato at Gelateria del Borgo, where you can taste some of the oldest flavors of Sicilian gelato

Local History

Palermo endured numerous conquests, invasions and occupations throughout history. Thus the city has a rich and fascinating history, which you can experience in various ways. Here are some historically significant sites to visit:

– La Cuba: a small Norman palace in Palermo where William II hosted the Grifeo family in the 12th century
– The Church of San Cataldo: a charming little church which was built by the Arabic Emir in the 12th century
– The Palazzo Comitini: built in 1868 as a residence for Prince Pietro Comitini, the Palace now houses local institutions and is an excellent example of 19th-century Palermo architecture.
– The Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti: a beautiful red-domed church that dates back to the 12th century which incorporates both Norman and Arabic architectural styles seamlessly.
– The Gallery of Modern Art: located in the Palazzo della Cultura, the museum boasts collections from some of the most renowned painters of the Italian 20th century such as Renato Guttuso, Francesco Lojacono, and Ettore De Maria Bergler.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Apart from the popular attractions and experiences, Palermo has a few hidden gems that are definitely worth discovering. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions for your visit:

– Explore the Ballarò Street Market: apart from the famous Capo Market, Ballarò is a local street market where you can discover unusual and fascinating items and dialogues with locals.
– Visit the Palazzo dei Normanni’s Royal Gardens: the stunning gardens provide a green oasis within Palermo’s hustle and bustle. A perfect place to relax and escape the busy city.
– Discover the Teatro dei Pupi: a unique museum dedicated to Sicilian puppet theater, founded by the famous Bruno Caruso, puppet maker and theorist.
– Take a sunset walk in the Mondello seaside: just a few km from the city center, the Mondello seaside provides a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Palermo and Mount Pellegrino
– Visit the Catacombe dei Cappuccini after hours: if you have the stomach for it, consider taking a private tour of the catacombs after hours, where you can experience the eeriness of the underground cemetery in a different perspective.

Palermo is a city with an abundance of history, exquisite landmarks, culture, and local cuisine that everybody should experience at least once in a lifetime. The above-mentioned attractions, local dining spots, cultural experiences, historic sites, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions are excellent considerations for exploring Palermo’s beauty.