Sicily, and more specifically Taormina, is now probably our favorite Italian destination. Once you have explored the main cities on the mainland and are looking for something different and unique then Sicily is out go to.
Sicily has had so many influences over its history from the Phoenicians to the Greeks, the Carthaginians to the Romans and then the Byzantines, the Arabs and the Normans. Lastly we have the Spanish and North African influence and all of these are reflected not only in the architecture that makes up the island but also the food which is a wonderful collection of ‘the best of’ these lands.
Sicily is also quite unique in that one feels like they are vacationing in Greece while experiencing the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the well-preserved ruins of 7 monumental Doric-style Greek temples or visiting the Greek Roman theater in Taormina.
Other must sees in Sicily include Mount Etna, one of Europe’s highest active volcanoes, on the east side of the island; the Baroque towns including Noto, Modica and Ragusa and after an incredible street food tour of Palermo one should definitely visit Monreale Cathedral.
Sicily is best explored over 10 days allowing you to cover west, east and south of the island. If you have 10 days then Palermo should form part of your trip (a day or two is all that is needed); if you only have a week then I would base myself on the east side of the island, primarily in Taormina and then some time in Syracuse (Siracusa).
Here are some articles and resources that will help you….
Best Restaurants in Palermo
Here is our list of what we feel are the best restaurants in Palermo, these include family-run trattorias, some options for those who want to spend a little more and something for the more romantic. Sicilian cuisine is an incredible fusion of Italian, Greek, African, Arab, French and Spanish. It’s unique and its great!When recommending …
What to do in Sicily with kids
If you are contemplating planning a trip to Sicily and are unsure if there is anything for kids to do then don’t worry as Sicily is an incredibly diverse island with lots to do for many age groups. In the Italian culture family plays a very important part in an Italians day-to-day life and so …
Where do you go on your second visit to Italy?
Once you have tipped your toe in the water Italy will take hold of your heart and you will want to return time and time again. Having immigrated to the United Kingdom from South Africa we were so lucky to be so close to Italy and we started to enjoy vacations in Italy from 2002. …
What to do in Syracuse (Siracusa) while on vacation
Syracuse is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily, Italy. It’s known for its ancient ruins. The central Archaeological Park Neapolis comprises the Roman Amphitheater, the Teatro Greco and the Orecchio di Dionisio, a limestone cave shaped like a human ear. The Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi exhibits terracotta artifacts, Roman portraits and Old …
Some must sees while in Taormina
Taormina is on the northeastern coast of Sicily; a 45 minute drive from Mt. Etna. The town is built high above the sea with some incredible views but is also a beach city famed for the Isola Bella beach and nature reserve which is reached by aerial tramway. The Old Town overlooks the sea 250 …