If this is your first time in Sicily and you are still not sure which way to go and what towns to visit, you’ve come to the right place. You may have heard a lot about this island at the toe of Italy’s “boot.” And maybe not all of it was good!
Well, forget everything bad you’ve heard about Sicily. Yes, there is corruption, poverty, rubbish, and crumbling buildings, but none of these matter to you, the rambling traveler. What matters to you are the beautiful lemon trees, rugged cliffs, and stunning beaches. The magnificent archeological sites and baroque architecture. Sicily may be Italy’s problem child, but it’s still a fascinating place to visit.
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10 AMAZING TOWNS, CITIES AND VILLAGES TO VISIT IN SICILY
There are many historic cities, quaint little villages, and picture-perfect towns in Sicily that will steal your heart away. So if you are still wondering where to begin, here are some that you shouldn’t miss:
Taormina
To remark that Taormina is very touristy is in no way to diminish its appeal. Perched on a promontory about 700 feet above the sea, Taormina is one of the most beautiful towns in Sicily and the perfect location for a hiking day trip to Mount Etna.
Taormina is irresistibly charming. Its main street – Corso Umberto – twists like a snake through the town’s historical center, always animated with visitors. Despite being jam packed with overpriced boutiques, expensive restaurants, walking through Taormina is a bliss.
The most important attraction in Taormina is its 3rd century B.C. Greek theater. The theater is famous all over the world for its spectacular location, with splendid views toward the coast of Sicily and the cone of Etna. In summer you can attend concerts and classical plays here.
Siracusa
Of all the cities we visited when driving around Sicily, I loved Siracusa the best! It’s one of the most fascinating places I have ever seen. The biggest and most beautiful Greek city – as Cicero called it. This 2,700 year old Sicilian town still bears witness to the art and culture that have flourished in it throughout the centuries.
The old part of Siracusa is on Ortigia Island. Ortigia is a paradise of sightseeing, dining and shopping, but also a great place to discover the history of Sicily. Another great attraction in Siracusa is the Neapolis Archeological Park, that holds the remains of a Roman theater and some other ancient ruins.
Palermo
No Sicily itinerary would be complete without a visit to Palermo, the island’s capital. Some people choose to spend only one day in Palermo, but in my opinion you’ll need a minimum of three days in order to explore it properly.
Palermo surely looks rough around the edges, but has great architecture, medieval streets, a vibrant life and very lively markets. It’s so interesting to see how the many cultures that passed through have left their mark on the city’s architecture, language, and art.
Most of Palermo’s churches are a mixture of Western, Islamic and Byzantine styles, which is the reason many of them have been declared Unesco World Heritage sites.
Palermo has many landmarks and places of historic interest, but there are two that you shouldn’t miss. One is the Norman Palace and its beautiful Palatine Chapel, a masterpiece of Arab-Norman-Byzantine style. The second must-see monument is the Palermo Cathedral, in my opinion the best place to visit in the capital of Sicily.
Monreale
The small town of Monreale is just a short distance away from Palermo, on the slope of Monte Caputo. The town’s most important attraction is the famous Duomo of Monreale, a great example of Norman architecture.
Few people do not gasp in awe when they enter the Duomo of Monreale. This cathedral is much more than “just another church.” The interior of the cathedral is in the shape of a Latin cross with three naves, divided by marble columns.
The walls are adorned with mosaic depicting stories from the Old and New Testament. Decorating the church with scenes from the Bible was a necessity hundreds of years ago, when the parishioners were illiterate.
The most stunning mosaic of the cathedral is the half-figure of Christ Pantocrator (Christ All-powerful), which by far surpasses all the other mosaics around.
Cefalú
Some 70 km east of Palermo, at the foot of a towering rock, lies one of Sicily’s most iconic towns: Cefalú. The Greeks called it Kephaloídion. The Romans knew it as Cephalaedium. For the Arabs, it was Gafludi. But the Normans were the ones who restored it to the splendor it once knew, during the Greeks.
Dominated by its Norman Cathedral, Cefalú has beautiful historic sites, narrow medieval streets, and small squares. Like many other Sicilian towns, Cefalú bears witness to the various cultures that passed through it over the centuries.
One of the Cefalú’s prime attractions is the sandy beach that stretches alongside the town. Tourists flock here almost year round, but especially in summer and fall, when the water is warm.
Agrigento
The little town of Agrigento would probably go unnoticed but for the grandiose Valley of the Temples next door. This incredibly well preserved cluster of temples and relics is one of Italy’s most impressive archaeological sites. It is also the finest example of Greek Doric temples found anywhere in the world, outside of Greece itself.
The temples date back to the 5th and 6th century B.C., when the ancient Greek city of Acragas (also known as Agrigentum) was one of the most powerful cities in the Mediterranean and the leading city of Magna Graecia. Huge walls once surrounded the city of Acragas and the temples that spread along a hilltop overlooking the sea.
Ragusa
There are two parts of Ragusa: Ragusa Superiore (the more modern part of Ragusa) and Ragusa Ibla (the old town). The long main street, Corso Italia, cuts through the upper town and makes for Ragusa’s best promenade.
The most scenic way to reach the old town is by taking the long stairway, Santa Maria delle Scale, heading down from Ragusa Superiore to the historic center of Ibla. If your time is limited, you can skip Ragusa Superiore and spend whatever time you have available in Ragusa Ibla.
One attraction not to miss in Ragusa is the beautiful public garden, Giardino Ibleo. Besides the gorgeous panoramic view across the Valley of Irminio, the garden is home to some religious buildings among which the Church of San Giacomo.
Acireale
Although not exactly undiscovered, Acireale is largely a tourist free town. That comes as a surprise, considering the many beautiful baroque churches and imposing buildings. Every year in February, Acireale comes to life during its Carnevale, which is one of the best in Sicily.
The city seems to be more famous for its beautiful seaside promenade – Riviera dei Ciclopi – than for its baroque architecture. Riviera Dei Ciclopi owes its name to a Homeric legend.
The myth says that the huge black lava rocks that rise out of the sea were thrown by the blinded Cyclops, Polyphemus, in a desperate attempt to stop Odysseus escaping from his cave.
Savoca
If you want to experience a truly authentic Sicilian atmosphere, you should go to Savoca. The town sits high up on Sicily’s eastern coast, just a short drive from Taormina. Savoca became famous because it served as a filming location for the movie The Godfather.
The memorable scene at the Bar Vitelli, where Michael Corleone asks Apollonia’s father for her hand, was filmed here. The Bar Vitelli still looks exactly like it did in the early 1970s, when they made the movie. Also in Savoca is Chiesa di San Nicolò, the church where Michael Corleone married Apollonia.
While in town, you should visit the Capuchin Convent, dating back to the XVI century. Next to the convent there is a crypt that contains the mummified bodies of 37 people who belonged to Sicilian nobility.
Forza d’Agro
There are not many towns in Sicily as authentic and picturesque as Forza d’Agro. Perched high up on a cliff, the picturesque mountain town just a short 20 minutes drive from Taormina.
Because of its quaint location and genuine look, director Francis Ford Coppola used it as a filming location for many of the scenes of The Godfather movie. But fame hasn’t changed the cozy Sicilian village whose winding, narrow streets and crumbled buildings seem frozen in time.
There is not much to do in Forza d’Agro other than wander around. There is a beautiful cathedral in town – the Church of Santa Maria Annunziata – that was almost completely destroyed in the earthquake of 1648 which devastated Eastern Sicily.
You can also climb up to the ruins of an old Norman castle from the 11th century that stands 420 meters above sea level. The are only a few walls left of it, but the 180º view from up there is worth the steep ascent. It’s a great place to visit for half a day and for lunch, even if you are not a Godfather devotee.
Here’s a list of tours you can do in Sicily:
- Etna Countryside Food and Wine Lovers Tour
- Excursions by boat, Giardini Naxos Taormina, Isola Bella, Blue Grotto
- Great Full Day Excursion in Sicily to Cefalù and Castelbuono From Palermo
A Final Note
All these amazing places in Sicily are but a small part of this island’s treasures. It’s simply too much to see in Sicily to be able to cover it all in one trip. We’ve spent almost two weeks there and felt we could barely get a glimpse of it. Give yourself time if you plan to visit Sicily. Buon Viaggio!
Pin this for later:
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Maldives Diaries
Sicily is so gorgeous! The town of Taormina looks delightful and the views from the Greek Theatre spectacular! I didn’t know that The Godfather was filmed in Savoca.
Virginia Apuzzo
Looking to rent a place for one month in February. EXT year. Want to be in a town that makes a good home base and travel by car and train. Can you suggest how I would best begin my search?
Anda
I think Sicily is best traveled by car. A good home would be Palermo. You are close to the train station and the airport, where you can rent a car. Also, you have more lodging options here.
Olga
Love Sicily for food, people and cultural influence. Hope to see the places from your photos soon.
Robert A Fritts
I lived in Sicily for 44 months from 9/81 until 5/85 while stationed at Naval Air Station Sigonella, about 30 Kilometers Southwest of Catania. I lived first in the very beautiful town of Pedara-Etna the first 4 months, then the historical town of Aci Castello just North of Catania for a dreadful Summer of drunk Brits causing trouble at 3AM every night. My final 3 years were in Bellepasso, a town of culture, wine, festivals and amazing hospitality. Finding NOT on your list was a bit disappointing. The people, food, wine and outdoors recreation make Bellepasso a great non-tourist location, so much so that I purchased a traditional apartment there for my retirement.Give Bellepasso a look on your next trip to Sicily.
Anda Galffy
Thanks for the information, Robert. I definitely will.
Jitaditya
Did to know that small island had so many things! Sicily only reminds me of Godfather… lol…
It seems there is much more.
Medha Verma
That’s too many gorgeous cities to choose from! I can see why Siracusa is your favourite, the architecture does look very appealing. I also love Palermo from the looks of it and your description. Such a pity I haven’t been to Sicily, though I’ve been to Italy. Need to return for sure!
Christina
What a delightful collection of Italian towns. Siracusa looks grand (love the architecture!) and Taormina looks so charming. Taormina’s 3rd century B.C. Greek theatre looks rather mystical with the beautiful ocean backdrop. But I’ve always wanted to go to Palermo after hearing about it in the “Godfather” movies.
Debra Schroeder
Sicily is so gorgeous! The town of Taormina looks delightful and the views from the Greek Theatre spectacular! I didn’t know that The Godfather was filmed in Savoca.
Tami Wilcox
No one will ever have to convince me that exploring any part of Italy wouldn’t be anything but wonderful! I haven’t been to Sicily, but all the history and architecture and beautiful beaches are certainly a draw!
Linda
I have definitely saved this post. Sicily is certainly high on our travel wish list. I was fascinated to hear that you liked Siracusa the best. We will definitely plan to visit Ortigia Island. We visited Taormina as a cruise stop but have always wanted to spend some time in Palermo. And a visit to Monreale definitely will be in the plans. But then is kept reading about more great places to stop. We will definitely need more than a few weeks to see it all.
Stevo Joslin
Glad to hear the Mafia is still alive and well! I haven’t had the chance to travel to the south of Italy, this guide makes me want to go! The Palatine Chapel of the Norman Palace is one of the most stunning churches I’ve ever seen. What a unique cultural combination! The architecture and scenery are stunning. Such an amazing part of the world, I can’t wait to experience it! Thanks for sharing!
Tom Bourlet
Ooh I spent the best part of 20 minutes trying to remember if I went to Sicily when I was a youngster, but finally remembered it was Sardinia. The Valley of Temples looks amazing, I’d love to explore the area! I wouldn’t mind chilling in a cafe in Ragusa either.
Danik
I am really hoping to go to this island later this year to do some running (and of course check out the sights). I have never heard of these places and would love to check them out. There is something about small towns and villages in Italy, espeically those when based on top of the hills.
Emese
All gorgeous cities, Anda! Thanks for sharing your photos and descriptions with us. One of these years we’ll have to make it a point to go to Sicily when we go back to Europe.
Anda Galffy
It took us a while to decide to go to Sicily too, Emese.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net)
We’ve really enjoyed reading your posts from Sicily. Our first thought was that we needed to add Sicily to our next Italian agenda. The more we’ve read, though, the more we’ve come to understand that Sicily isn’t just a point on the itinerary, it IS the itinerary! So much to see and do! We can’t wait to follow your footsteps. (We seem to be saying that a lot lately. 😉
Anda Galffy
Sicily is a fantastic destination, Rob. You really need to visit it.
Paul
I must admit, I always thought Sicily was where you go to get gunned down by some mafia boss or at least just break your leg tripping over a pothole in the footpath. Maybe those things could still happen but it doesn’t matter because it looks beautiful. Very intrigued by the ancient ruins and Palermo looks very impressive. The Norman chapel looks exquisite.
Dorothyadele
Anda, love the photos and it’s obvious that you put a lot of thought into this itinerary. What struck you most about Siracusa?
Anisa
Before I started reading about your trip to Sicily, I had only heard of Palermo. You have introduced me to several other cities I want to visit, especially Siracusa. I just have to find the courage to drive there!
Anda Galffy
You should ask your husband to do the driving, Anisa. You can be the co-pilot (not that it’s less stressful).
Luke
If you don’t want to drive or rent a car, it is actually surprisingly easy to get around by train or bus. Ragusa is for example directly connected by train from Siracusa multiple times a day, even easily possible as a day trip from Siracusa. And other UNESCO towns like Noto, Scicli or Modica are located on the same line as well! Both Catania and Palermo airports have train stations. From Catania airport you can reach Taormina and Siracusa without needing to change trains. 🙂
Phyllis La Marca
Great job! You really did wonderful photography and descriptions of all the beautiful places in Sicily . I am from Sicily and have visited almost all the cities and then some, with the exceptions of Savona, Modica and Scicli, which I intend to visit on my next trip this September. You might want to add Sciacca, Sambuca, Selinunte to your list. I always tell people ‘you haven’t been to Italy,if you haven’t visited Sicily ‘ Again great job and thank you for highlighting my beautiful island!
Anda
Thank you Phyllis. Next time we go to Sicily we’ll make sure to add Savona, Modica and Scicli.
Cynthia | Adventuring Woman
Anda, now you’ve put another destination on the top of my wish list! I’ve always wanted to go to Sicily but had no idea of how many wonderful towns, archaeological sites and amazing views there were to be had there. I can see why the Greek theater in Taormina is world famous for that incredible location–it’s just breathtaking. Seeing a concert or play there would be an absolute dream! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Jill
They all look delightful. Lovely photos!
Elaine Masters
Seeing all this just makes my heart ache. So very beautiful. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like I’ll be visiting them anytime soon. But, should that change I’ll be referring to your expertise.
Anda Galffy
Hope you’ll get to visit Sicily someday, Elaine.
Photo(Geo)grapher
What beautiful places to visit you show us. Great photos too
Rhonda Albom
I’ve enjoyed reading about all the cities you have visited in Sicily. Your photos are amazing and make me want to go for a month (or more). I hosted an exchange student who came from a town near Ragusa. Perhaps I need to go for a visit.
Anda Galffy
You should go, Rhonda. Ragusa is a very pretty little town, but you don’t need more than a day there.
Lydia C. Lee
We spent a few weeks in Sicily. I’d also include Pirandello’s house in Agrigento, but that’s cos I’m a big fan!!