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A QUICK GUIDE SICILY

Things to Know
Sicily is home to a blend of Mediterranean cultures - ancient Greek temples, Baroque palazzos and Norman churches all coexist on this diverse and interesting island. One could easily take weeks exploring Sicily and discovering its historical yet cosmopolitan personality. Mount Etna dominates the scenery creating one of the most stunning landscapes in the world; while Sicily’s combination of remarkable history, excellent Mediterranean climate, noteworthy monuments, and mouthwatering cuisine make it an ideal year-round travel destination!
Things to See
Archaeological Area of Agrigento – Agrigento
Also known as the ‘Valley of the Temples’, this outstanding archaeological site is one of the most spectacular examples of art and architecture of what was known as Magna Grecia or Greater Greece. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the area includes numerous Doric temples and ancient remains.
The Norman Palace & Palatine Chapel – Palermo
This palace in Palermo was the seat of the Kings of Sicily during Norman rule and is the oldest royal residence in Europe. The palace also contains the Palatine Chapel which is famous for its ornate mosaics and Arab-Norman-Byzantine style.
Monreale Cathedral – Palermo
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Monreale Cathedral was built between 1170 and 1189. It’s one of the most visited places in Sicily due to its thousands of square meters of golden mosaics; in fact, experts have estimated that the cathedral’s mosaics were made with 2200 kg of pure gold.
Palermo Cathedral – Palermo
Built in1185, the Palermo Cathedral is a prime example of the island’s exceptional Arab-Norman architecture. The cathedral is famous for the royal Norman tombs, the treasury, and its panoramic rooftop views.
Teatro Massimo – Palermo
The Teatro Massimo is a six-level art nouveau masterpiece and the largest opera house in Italy! Inaugurated in 1897, the theater is famous for its perfect acoustics and stages opera, ballet and music concerts from September to June.
The Greek Theater of Syracuse – Syracuse
This is one of the biggest ancient theaters in the world that once seated 16,000 people. The theater is a masterpiece of classical architecture and has staged famous works by play writes such as Sophocles, Euripides and Aeschylus.
Villa Romana del Casale – Piazza Armerina, Enna
A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, this extravagant Roman complex is home to 3535 square meters of impeccably preserved colorful mosaics.
Piazza Duomo – Syracuse
One of Sicily’s most famous squares and a masterpiece of Baroque city planning. This massive square is lined with beautiful Baroque palaces, impressive buildings, and the Syracuse Cathedral which houses Caravaggio's 'The Burial of Saint Lucy'.
Monastery of San Nicolo l'Arena – Catania
Located close to Catania's Cathedral square, this is one of the largest monasteries in Europe. Today, it is home to the Department of Humanities of the University of Catania and part of the Val di Noto UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to Do
Hit The Beach: San Vito Lo Capo Beach:
Located in San Vito Lo Capo town, this large sandy beach is ideal for families.
Isola Bella:
A small but sandy beach in Taormina, ideal for snorkeling.
Scala dei Turchi:
A romantic beach in Realmonte which offers stunning turquoise waters and limestone cliffs.
Torre Salsa Nature Reserve:
An impressive 6 km-long sandy beach with pristine clear waters located near Siculiana. The beach doesn’t offer any kind of facilities so bring your own gear.
Calamosche Beach:
One of the busiest sandy beaches around Syracuse with shallow translucent waters.
Day Trip to the Aegadian Islands
A small mountainous group of three islands: Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo. An ideal day trip for long walks, cycling, and swimming breaks in beautiful coves.
Visit Mount Etna
An exciting day trip for the whole family, Etna is Sicily's highest mountain and the largest active volcano in Europe. Don't leave without visiting the Alcantara Gorge and the spectacular waterfall.
Discover the Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto
This cluster of 8 Baroque towns is waiting to be discovered. Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, Ragusa and Scicli are all part of the Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll around their historic centers and discover unique Baroque-style palaces and buildings.