Things To Do In Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and offers a vast array of things to do and see. The island boasts some of the top ancient sites in the world including better Greek temple ruins than in Greece itself. It also has miles of gorgeous Mediterranean coastline and Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Palermo is home to the island’s best museums and is one of several well kept medieval towns which are well worth exploring. It’s difficult to fit in all of the attractions on Sicily in just a few days, as they are spread out across the island. It’s best to give yourself a week if you really want to experience Sicilian life and its rich cultural heritage.

Old Palermo

Often overlooked amid the seething metropolis of the capital city, the heart of Palermo lies in this ancient quarter. In just a few hours on foot you can explore some of Sicily’s most famous monuments and charming squares, such as the Piazza Pretoria. In the midst of all the ancient Arabic and Norman architecture, the daily life of local Sicilians carries on, making for excellent people watching.

La Kalsa (Palermo)

This ancient quarter in Palermo was created during the Arab domination of the city and offers a kasbah experience, similar to what you would find in North Africa. The narrow streets and tiny markets are crowded with locals going about their daily lives. Wandering around this neighbourhood gives one a unique perspective on Sicilian life.

Imperial Roman Villa in Casale

This is one of the grandest Roman villas to have survived from the classical era. It is exceptionally well preserved and offers a real glimpse into imperial Roman living. The highlight sare the floors of its 40 rooms, which are tiled with the most magnificent mosaics to be found in Europe, which date from the 4th century. The villa is open year round from 08:30 until 17:30.

Mount Etna

Europe’s highest volcano, and one of the most active in the world, continues to draw visitors to view its awe-inspiring power. You can wander over the enormous lava dunes and eerie moonscape of the lower slopes. You can also climb Etna, but it is mandatory to go with a guide.  For a safer and less strenuous experience, take a ride on the Circumetnea Railroad which circles the volcano. This 5-hour trip offers dramatic views of Etna and the surrounding lava fields.

Parco Archeologico della Neapolis (Syracuse)

Two of the most impressive attractions from the world of the ancients lie in this town in southeastern Sicily. The Greek Theatre is one of the greatest remaining theatres from the classical area and in very good condition. Also nearby is the ‘Ear of Dionysius’, the most famous ancient quarry of Syracuse where many of the stones that built the great Greek structures came from.

The Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)

The largest collection of classical Greek ruins in the world sits along the southern coast of Sicily. Among the extensive grounds are many well preserved temples, monuments and other buildings which create a truly surreal atmosphere. The temples are even more impressive at night when they are lit up by massive lights.

Medieval Erice

Perched 755 metres above sea level, this heavily fortified medieval town is a fascinating and beautiful place to explore. Its narrow cobblestone streets and tiny courtyards transport you back to the Middle Ages. At the top of the town is a lovely temple dedicated to Aphrodite that once served as a lighthouse for approaching mariners. The women of Erice are widely considered the most beautiful in all of Sicily.

Catacombe dei Cappuccini

For a truly fascinating yet somewhat eerie experience, check out these underground crypts just outside Palermo. Beginning in the 16th century, Palermitans were laid to rest here. There are over 8,000 mummies which are remarkably well preserved. You can wander among the dimly lit corridors and look at the very life-like corpses (if you dare). 

Ortygia Island (Syracuse)

Famous from its role in Greek mythology, this island has dozens of impressive ancient ruins dating rom as far back as the 6th century BC. Among the highlights are the Temple of Apollo and a Doric temple, which is oldest of its kind.

Galleria Regionale della Sicilia (Palermo)
Housed in the Gothic-style Palazzo Abatellis, this museum has the most impressive collection of regional Sicilian art in all of Italy. The collection includes Sicilian paintings and sculpture ranging from the 13th to the 18th century. Only here can you see southern Italian masterpieces such as Triumph of Death, painted in 1449.

Museo Archeologico Regionale (Palermo)
With an incredibly rich collection of rare artefacts from the Greek and Roman periods of colonisation, this museum ranks as one of the best in Italy. Among the amazing finds are the priceless metopes which were dug up in the city of Selinunte.