AGELESS GLOBAL NOMADS

Sicily

Discover the Wonders of the Mediterranean

Discover the Wonders of the Mediterranean

Sicily, the biggest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a mesmerising place that attracts tourists with its affluent past, breathtaking sceneries, and mouth-watering cuisine. From ruins of ancient times and quaint coastal towns to lively markets and tempting street food, Sicily offers an unparalleled and unforgettable travel experience.

Sicily presents an enchanting combination of history, culture, and culinary delights. With its stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and welcoming locals, it's a destination that satiates the wanderlust of every traveller. From Palermo's vibrant streets to Taormina's serene beaches and quaint little hilltop towns like Erice, Sicily's charm will leave an everlasting impression on your travel memoirs. Begin planning your trip to this gem of the Mediterranean today!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Sicily is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. The temperatures are mild, and the tourist crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months. Springtime showcases colourful blooms, while autumn reveals a tapestry of vibrant foliage.

Budget

We found Sicily very budget-friendly, allowing us to stay for 10 days to explore the island.

Budget: $50-70 USD per day.
Mid-Range: $100-150 USD per day.
Luxury: $200+ USD per day.

These budget estimates can vary based on personal preferences, travel season, and chosen accommodations. 

Things to Do 

Palermo: Explore the vibrant capital city with its bustling markets, magnificent Palermo Cathedral, and the stunning Palazzo dei Normanni.
Mount Etna: Embark on an adventure to witness Europe's most active volcano, where you can hike to the summit or take a guided tour.
Valley of the Temples: Discover the well-preserved Greek ruins in Agrigento, including the Temple of Concordia and the Temple of Hera.
Syracuse: Immerse yourself in ancient history by visiting the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, which boasts a beautifully preserved Greek theatre.
Taormina: Enjoy breathtaking sea views and visit the ancient Greek Theater, perched on a hilltop.
Erice: It is a hidden gem perched on top of a mountain overlooking the city of Trapani that a local suggested we visit. Erice is a medieval town with narrow streets, ancient fortresses, and breathtaking views. It is known for its well-preserved architecture and is a great place to explore on foot.
Cefalù: Located on the northern coast, Cefalù is a charming coastal town with a beautiful beach, narrow medieval streets, and a stunning cathedral. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to popular tourist spots like Palermo and Taormina.
Ragusa Ibla: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is part of the city of Ragusa and is known for its Baroque architecture. Strolling through the streets of Ragusa Ibla feels like stepping back in time, with its charming squares, palaces, and churches.

Where to Stay

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, offers many beautiful and captivating places to stay. Here are some of the best places to consider when visiting Sicily:

Palermo: Sicily's capital city, Palermo, is a vibrant and historic destination. It boasts stunning architecture, lively markets, and a mix of cultures. 
Taormina: Located on the eastern coast of Sicily, Taormina is renowned for its breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. It features a charming medieval centre with narrow streets, ancient ruins, and a famous Greek theatre. 
Syracuse: With its rich historical heritage and Greek ruins, Syracuse is a captivating city to explore. The island of Ortigia, Syracuse's historical centre, is enchanting with its narrow streets, Baroque architecture, and picturesque piazzas. 
Agrigento: Agrigento is famous for the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring remarkably preserved Greek temples. The area offers a mix of historical and natural beauty, and lovely accommodations are available.
Cefalù: Situated on Sicily's northern coast, Cefalù is a charming coastal town with stunning beaches, a medieval centre, and a picturesque harbour. 
Trapani: Trapani is a coastal city on the western tip of Sicily. It has a beautiful historic centre and impressive architecture and is an excellent base for exploring the nearby Egadi Islands.
Catania: Located at the foot of Mount Etna, Catania is a bustling city known for its vibrant atmosphere and impressive Baroque architecture. 

These are just a few examples of the best places to stay in Sicily. Each destination has unique attractions, so choosing the ideal place to stay ultimately depends on your preferences and interests.

Food & Drink

Arancini: Indulge in Sicily's famous street food, deep-fried rice balls filled with various delicious ingredients such as ragù, cheese, and peas.
Cannoli: Sample the iconic Sicilian dessert of crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cream.
Pasta alla Norma: Taste a classic Sicilian dish with eggplant, tomato sauce, basil, and grated ricotta salata cheese.
Granita: Beat the heat with this refreshing frozen dessert, available in various flavours such as lemon, almond, and coffee.
Nero d'Avola: Savor Sicily's renowned red wine, known for its rich flavour and deep colour.
Cassata: A traditional Sicilian cake, cassata, is a sponge cake layered with sweetened ricotta cheese, candied fruit, and marzipan. 
Marsala Wine: Sicily is known for producing Marsala wine, a fortified wine with a rich, amber colour and a sweet, nutty flavour.
Limoncello: This lemon liqueur is popular throughout Italy. However, Sicily's warm climate and abundant citrus groves make it an ideal place to enjoy this refreshing drink. 

Getting Around

Rental Car: Having a car allows you to explore the island at your own pace, especially when visiting remote areas and smaller towns. I recommend booking your car before arriving, as hire cars book out quickly during the high season.
Trains: The rail network connects major cities, making it convenient for travelling between Palermo, Catania, and Syracuse.
Buses: Local and regional buses are cost-effective for short-distance travel within cities and nearby attractions.
Ferries: If you plan to visit the Aeolian Islands or mainland Italy, ferries are available from ports such as Messina and Milazzo.

Tips & Tricks

  • Be prepared for hot summers by packing sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing.
  • Cash is still widely used, so have some on hand, especially when visiting smaller towns or markets.
  • Take your time to savour the local cuisine and indulge in leisurely meals at traditional trattorias.
  • Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your interactions with locals, as English proficiency may vary.
  • Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover hidden gems and immerse yourself in authentic Sicilian culture. Therefore I recommend hiring a car for at least part of your time in Sicily.