Sicily

Known from the Mafia films with an unprecedented rich history, and Mount Etna.

Sicily is the farthest point of Italy‘s boot. It is the largest island in the Mediterranean. It is a perfect place for a beach holiday, but also for an active trip. You'll taste a brilliant mix of culture and nature.

It is the largest island in the Mediterranean. The island is about 230 km long and 170 km wide. It has about 1,000 kilometers of coast and is much more rugged than most people think. Sicily is Italian, but it is not. The island has its own culture, cuisine and character.

The island of Sicily is typically Italian, although the Ancient Greeks, for example, also lived on the island. Which can still be seen in various places. The Normans and Phoenicians also visited Sicily. Just like the Arabs, which created the Emirate of Sicily. Only in 1861 did it belong to Italy. And that colourful mix of cultures is still clearly visible. These are the best attractions for your visit to Sicily. It includes also the main attractions of the island.

Syracuse

Syracuse is a large and important city of Greek Antiquity. In the city lies the special island of Ortygia, which is the historic center. Here you can walk through the winding streets to special archaeological remains. A special place.

Climbing Mount Etna

The Silvestri crater at Mount Etna.

The 3,329-meter high mount Etna is located in Sicily. The climb to the volcano is intense and always somewhat dangerous because the Etna is very active. The view is phenomenal; both on the road and from above.

Read my tips to climb Mount Etna

Cefalù

Cefalù is an old city, best known for its cathedral. This Cattedrale di Cefalù dates from the 12th century. The church is best known for the Byzantine mosaics and the two striking towers. You will see the cathedral automatically when you walk through Cefalù. Take a walk through the surrounding narrow streets. Perfect for lunch or dinner.

Valley of the Temples

Valle dei Templi on Sicily.

Valley of the Temples, or Valle dei Templi, is a remarkable remnant from the Greek Antiquity. There are remains of seven temples in the Agrigento area, including one that is near-perfect. It is a wonderful area to stroll around. Here the past is still there for the taking. Also visit the Archaeological Museum on site. Here you will find many finds that have been made in the area.

Tindari Beach

The wonderful Tindari beach on Sicily.

Tindari beach is special because of its shape. A headland runs into the sea, giving you an unprecedented number of meters of beach here. The city of Tindari is of Greek origin with the church prominent. From the church you have a wonderful view of the beach and the Aeolian Islands behind.

Palermo

A church in Palermo, the capital of Sicily.

Palermo is the capital of Sicily. It is a wonderfully chaotic city, where you stumble across the museums, theaters and churches. Including the famous Cappella Palatina Museum, where you see Arab-Norman art.

Catacombs of the Capuchins

The remarkable Catacombs of the Capuchins in Palermo.

The Catacombs of the Capuchins is a macabre attraction in Palermo. This is where the first monk was mummified in 1599, Brother Silvestro of Gubbio. There are now more than 8,000 mummies of monks in the Catacombs. But also famous people, women, virgins and children. Some are put in poses, including two children in a rocking chair. You can visit the catacombs. Taking pictures is prohibited.

Address: Piazza Cappuccini, Palermo

Taormina

The ruins of Taormina, Sicily.

Taormina is a city with a unique Greco-Roman theater from the 7th century BC. You will find a stage and coulisses here. Here are numerous concerts in the summer. The view of the Etna is special. According to many, including writer Goethe, this is the most beautiful open-air theater in the world. This city is also known for its Cathedral from the 13th century. And the Odeon, a Roman theater from the 1st century. It lies partly under the baroque church of San Caterina.

Noto Flower Festival

The flower festival of Noto on Sicily.

The town of Noto is known for its Sicilian Baroque architecture. Everywhere you look you see richly decorated buildings. You can wander around through Noto. If you are here in May you can experience the special Flower Festival of Noto. Then the flowers are in full bloom.

Sicilian food and drinks

A tour of the island of Sicily is enjoyable. Think of the nice climate, the rough environment, and the delicious Italian food and drinks. Or rather Sicilian food, because the kitchen on the island has countless dishes of its own. And has its own taste.

Cannoli

Cannoli is the island’s most famous dish. These sweet dough tubes are often filled with ricotta.

Granita

Granita is the island’s well-known shaved ice. Often served with a brioche (soft and sweet white bread). Just pay attention, it is even consumed here for breakfast.

Sicilian pizza

The Sicilian pizza is actually called Sfincione. It is a pizza with a thick base and is rectangular in shape instead of round. It most resembles focaccia with all kinds of extras on it. But tastes slightly different.

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta alla Norma is mainly found near the city of Catania. It’s pasta with fresh tomato sauce, eggplant, and grated ricotta.

A fresh Pane Cunzato.

Pane Cunzato

Pane Cunzato was long food for the poor. It is bread filled with tomatoes and, for example, anchovies, fresh cheese, olive oil and oregano. Today it is a perfect lunch on the go.

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