Things to do in Sicily
Discover the best attractions and experiences Sicily has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore a tapestry of ancient and historic sites that define Sicily's past, from Greek temples to medieval cathedrals.
Valle dei Templi (Valle dei Templi)
A dramatic ensemble of ancient Greek temples set in a sunlit valley, one of Sicily's most iconic archaeological sites.
Temple of Concordia
One of the best-preserved temples in the Valle dei Templi, framed by olive trees and blue sky.
Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo)
A multilayered Norman-Arab-Baroque masterpiece in the heart of Palermo's historic center.
Museums
Sicily's museums showcase a mix of archaeology, art, and regional history.
Antonino Salinas Regional Archaeological Museum (Museo Salinas)
Palermo's premier archaeology museum with Greek and Roman artifacts from across the island.
Museo Paolo Orsi
Siracusa's major archaeological museum highlighting Sicily's ancient cultures.
Museo Bellomo (Palazzo Bellomo)
Medieval to Renaissance art collection housed in a historic Ortigia palazzo.
Religious Monuments
Religious landmarks reflect Sicily's diverse faiths and architectural styles.
Monreale Cathedral (Cattedrale di Monreale)
Norman-Byzantine masterpiece perched above Palermo with dazzling mosaics.
Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo)
A layered synthesis of Arab-Norman and later Baroque influences near the historic center.
Duomo di Messina (Messina Cathedral)
Impressive cathedral with a striking Gothic façade and a renowned tall bell tower.
National & Theme Parks
Sicily's dramatic landscapes are best explored through these parks and reserves.
Parco Nazionale dell'Etna
Sicily's living geological wonder with volcanic landscapes and scenic hiking trails.
Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro
Coastline walks along coves and pine forests on Sicily's northwest coast.
Parco Naturale dei Nebrodi
Green mountain forests offering wildlife spotting and long-distance hiking.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant districts reveal local life, markets, and coastal charm.
La Kalsa (Palermo)
Historic district with narrow lanes, courtyards, and a lively arts scene.
Ballarò (Palermo)
Traditional market neighborhood buzzing with vendors and street food.
Ortigia (Siracusa)
Historic island neighborhood with seafront promenades and ancient ruins.
Free Things to Do
Discover free experiences that let you soak up Sicily's atmosphere.
Stroll Ortigia's seafront and medieval lanes
Wander the historic waterfront and narrow streets of Siracusa's old town.
Relax on Mondello Beach
Unwind on the long sandy stretch just outside Palermo.
Hike Mount Pellegrino
Take a hike to vantage points offering sweeping views of Palermo.
Explore Palermo's open-air markets
Experience the buzz of Ballarò or La Vucciria without spending a euro.
Gastronomy
Taste Sicily's bold flavors, from street bites to cellar doors.
Arancini tasting in Palermo
Sample crisp, stuffed rice balls and other street-food staples.
Cannoli & granita in Catania
Indulge in iconic Sicilian sweets in a lively street setting.
Etna wine tasting
Visit vineyards on Mount Etna for aromatic wines and volcanic soils.
Seafood dinner in Ortigia
Savor fresh seafood by the fishermen-filled quays of Siracusa.
Nightlife
Evening options range from lively squares to night markets and bars.
Piazza Verdi & Teatro Massimo area (Palermo) by night
Cafés and bars orbiting Sicily's grand opera house.
Taormina's Corso Umberto after dark
Stroll illuminated streets lined with bars, shops, and eateries.
Piazza Duomo, Catania after sunset
Evening atmosphere around the cathedral square with lively energy.
Entertainment
Seek performances, theaters, and outdoor venues across the island.
Teatro Antico di Taormina
Ancient Greek theatre offering dramatic performances with sea views.
Teatro Massimo (Palermo)
Italy's grand opera house hosting concerts and performances.
Teatro Greco di Siracusa
Historic Greek theatre in Ortigia hosting concerts in warm months.
Sports
Adventure and sports opportunities in Sicily's varied terrain.
Hiking on Mount Etna
Trek volcanic trails and enjoy panoramic crater views.
Scuba diving around the Aeolian Islands
Explore underwater caves and clear volcanic waters.
Sailing along Sicily's coastline
Experience coastal adventures and marine scenery by boat.
Off the Track
Uncover lesser-known corners and unique experiences off the well-trodden path.
Selinunte Archaeological Park
Extensive ruins of one of the Mediterranean's great ancient cities.
Erice
Medieval hill town with cobbled streets and sweeping views.
Scala dei Turchi
Impressive white limestone cliff along the southern coast.