The Italian island of Sicily is southwest of mainland Italy . On a map, Sicily is the ball that the boot seems to kick. Sicily is the purest Italian destination according to fans. In any case, it is the hottest in the summer months, when the thermometer regularly rises well above thirty degrees. Sicily has its own cuisine, which differs slightly from the traditional Italian cuisine. In general you can say that many dishes have a bit more ‘bite’ due to the use of more herbs, peppers and other natural seasonings.
Top 10 things to do in Sicily
#1. Volcano Etna
In the east of the island of Sicily is the world famous volcano Mount Etna. Locally the volcano is called ‘Mongibello’. The volcano has a height of 3323 meters and can be visited up to almost 3,000 meters. At about 1,800 meters there are two starting points for hiking and skiing tours. These are Rifugio Sapienza and Piano Provenzana. Etna is still one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
#2. Palermo
According to weddinginfashion, the capital of the island of Sicily is more than 2700 years old and is home to many historic buildings, squares and culture. Palermo is a city with a lot of history, but also music, art and good food. The beautiful palaces such as Palazzo dei Normanni, La Zisa and Palazzo Abatellis are a feast for the eyes. But it goes even further. The churches that can be found in Palermo are certainly not inferior to the palaces. For example, the majestic Palermo Cathedral or the Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, also called Martorana, overlooking Piazza Bellini. Especially the inside of the latter church is definitely worth a visit.
#3. Messina
The city closest to mainland Italy is Messina. The crossing is only four kilometers, which also makes it a fairly busy point. The city is surrounded by the beautiful Peloritan Mountains. Prominently present in the harbor is a monument called the Maria column. The text on it is ‘Vos et ipsam civitaten Benedicimus’ which means freely translated ‘we bless you and your city’. It is in honor of the Virgin Mary. There are a number of museums, including the National and Zoological Museums. The cathedral of the city of Messina has a very beautiful bell tower.
#4. Agrigento
The famous Temple of Concordia can be found in the ancient city of Agrigento. This city was very important in the times of the ‘golden age’. It therefore has a very rich archaeological heritage that attracts many tourists every year. The best preserved temples are Juno Lacinia and Concordia. Remains of the largest temple is that of Zeus. Probably even the largest Doric temple ever.
#5. Syracusa
In the small fishing port of Syracusa there is a fairly quiet atmosphere. A few stately buildings adorn the quay and in the water are often small colored fishing boats. The Greek Theater is well preserved and is one of the city’s tourist attractions. On the historic island of Ortygia, which is located in the city of Syracusa, you will also find a temple ‘Syracusa Cathedral’, ruins of the temple of Apollon and an archaeological museum Paolo Orsi.
#6. Baroque city Noto
Sicily has a beautiful Baroque city in the southwest, which is even referred to as the most important Baroque city in Italy. This is the town of Noto. Of course you can see beautiful buildings here in the beautiful baroque style. There is a beautiful cathedral built entirely of the typical honey-colored peat stone that the area is rich in. Close to this square, Piazza Municipio, is the equally beautiful town hall ‘Palazzo Ducezio’. With a walk through the narrow streets of the city of Noto you have a good view of the beautiful balconies and facades of the houses in the center. Do not forget to climb the Chiesa di San Carlo and enjoy the beautiful view over Noto.
#7. Catania
At the foot of the Etna volcano lies the city of Catania. A fun fact is that this city has the most theaters on the entire island. Many people live there who are active in both professional and amateur theater groups. The historic city of Catania has a number of special sights. The residents are especially proud of the city’s majestic cathedral. You will find this beautiful cathedral on the Piazza del Duomo. The beautiful San Benedetto church can be found in the most beautiful street, namely the Via dei Crociferi.
#8. Villa Romana del Casale near Piazza Armerina
A very impressive Roman villa from the fourth century can be found near the town of Piazza Armerina. In the rather large villa you can admire, among other things, thermal baths, a basilica, an atrium, dining room and the largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world. You see images of girls in bikinis and an event involving an animal hunt.
#9. Autodromo di Pergusa
Fans of motorsport should definitely take a look at the circuit of Sicily. The Autodromo di Pergusa is located around Lake Pergusa near the town of Enna. Major races are regularly held here, including the Mediterranean Grand Prix and World Superbike Championship.
#10. Etnaland
At the foot of the Etna volcano is a large amusement park that makes every child’s heart beat faster. This water park guarantees lots of family fun. Part of the park consists of a zoo where you can come face to face with tigers, elephants and llamas. The top attractions include a bobsleigh track with water, wild water courses that you have to go through on an inflatable tube and lots of slides with light and sound.
