Why visit Sicily in 2023?

Whether you’re in search of a relaxing beach holiday, an adventure in the great outdoors or an immersive cultural experience, holidays in Sicily offer all of this and so much more.

From ancient ruins and medieval castles to traditional Sicilian dishes like cannoli and arancini to indulge in, a holiday to Sicily is the promise of an unforgettable experience in southern Italy. Below we look at some of the top places to visit in Sicily in 2023. Here's why the island of Sicily should be at the top of your travel bucket list.

Palermo is the capital of Sicily and can be found on the north western coast of the island. A city with lots to offer, Palermo boasts a rich architectural heritage and a vibrant atmosphere. The first stop on any Palermo itinerary should be the historic centre of the city which is an UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the winding streets and be amazed by the intricacy of the architecture which includes influences from the Norman, Baroque and Gothic eras.

For those looking to take a step back in time, a visit to the Museo Archeologico Regionale is a must. This museum showcases Sicily’s ancient past with interesting artifacts including Roman and Greek ruins.

After all the sightseeing, no trip to the capital is complete without sampling the cuisine. Famous for its street food, Palermo is home to delights like arancini, panelle and sfincione (Sicilian pizza). Delicious!

On the north coast of Sicily, Cefalù is a pretty seaside town offering a lovely atmosphere and a rich history. With stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and architecture from medieval times, Cefalu is a must-see destination when in Sicily.

One of the towns highlights is the sandy beaches that meet crystal clear waters where visitors can enjoy a whole range of watersports.

Built in the 12th century, you should not miss the towns medieval cathedral, a wonderful spectacle of Norman architecture with intricate mosaics and sculptures. For stunning panoramic views, visitors can head to the top of the bell tower and soak up the scenery.

Head to the east of Sicily and enjoy Taormina, a charming hillside town with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Famous for its cultural heritage, Taormina delights with its ancient Greek amphitheatre which dates back to the 3rd century BC.

For adventure lovers, Taormina is the perfect base for outdoor activities. You can hike up Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world and feel that adrenaline rush. Alternatively, you can head for the water and try your hand at snorkelling, scuba diving or another watersport.

After a day of activities, enjoy the tantalising flavours of Sicilian cuisine. Taormina is famous for its seafood dishes including grilled swordfish and pasta with fresh clams.

The historic city of Syracuse can be found on the eastern coast of Sicily and is the ideal destination for lovers of ancient Greek history and architecture. One of the most powerful cities in the Mediterranean, Syracuse was founded in the 8th century BC by Greek colonists.

Today, Syracuse is a holiday hotspot thanks to its warm climate and easy access to other destinations in Sicily. Be sure to visit the small island of Ortigia with its winding alleyways, baroque architecture and pretty piazzas.

The beaches in Syracuse are lovely with golden sands that meet crystal clear waters – perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

On the southeast coast of Sicily, Noto is a baroque town nestled in the heart of history and charm. With well preserved architecture and ancient landmarks, take a stroll around the historic centre which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and soak up the atmosphere. Stop for a bite to eat in one of the cafes and just watch the world go by.

Noto is also home to the Vendicari Nature Reserve which is a protected area and contains a diverse ecosystem of fauna and flora. Be at one with nature as you wander around this area of natural beauty.

For foodies, Noto cuisine is fantastic with its famous almond pastries and cannoli. You can even try some popular Sicilian wines here, including the locally produced Nero d’Avola.

 

Are you ready to see Sicily? Citalia are the UK’s leading Italy specialist with over 90 years' experience in tailoring holidays to Italy. Experts are on hand every step of the way to ensure you make memories to last a lifetime. It’s never too late to start planning your Italian escape!         

Visit citalia.com to discover the real Italy on your next adventure. Andiamo!

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