Sicily Travelers Recommend

Get to know Taormina on your first day. That means - in no particular order - meandering up and down the Corso Umberto I to get an idea of what souvenirs you might want to buy later, walking up to the Greek Theatre to see the city’s most famous attraction, and taking the Funivia (cable car) down to Lido Mazzaro to while away a sunny day lying on the beach. Your second day is a perfect opportunity to take a day trip from Taormina to one of the many attractions and destinations in the surrounding area. Visiting Mt. Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, is a popular excursion - but if the weather isn’t good, you won’t be able to hike up very far or see very much. Day three in Taormina can be another relaxed day close to the city, or can be a chance to take in yet another day trip destination, depending on where else your Sicily itinerary is taking you.

Palermo may not be as big or famous as Rome, but the Sicilian capital city offers more attractions and activities than you’ll be able to cram into a three day visit. On your first day in Palermo, it’s a good idea to get to know the layout of the historic city. One of the best ways to do this is simply by walking. In the historic centre of Palermo this can lead you to Norman churches, chapels with exquisite Byzantine mosaics, and Italy’s largest opera house. Are you intrigued by other Sicilian destinations nearby, and not planning to stay in another Sicilian city on this trip? If Mondello Lido isn’t enough beach time for you, or you spent all of day one sightseeing, then a day trip to the pretty beach town of Cefalu. Your third day in Palermo can be a time to focus more on your favourite part of your visit so far or head for the outdoor markets to seek out edible souvenirs or - better yet - sign up for a cooking class.

The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily offers outdoor adventurers plenty of options to get out and play. Here are a few ideas to add to your itinerary. Water Adventures Great beaches abound n Sicily, so travelers shouldn't have any trouble finding a sandy spot to cool down during a southern Italian heat wave. Spend a summer day swimming and you'll fit right in with the crowds of Italians doing the exact same thing. To get a bit more active, visitors can head out on a boat tour for a day of snorkeling or exploring the many islands that surround Sicily. Divers of all experience levels can enjoy the scenery below the surface around the spectacular Isola Bella. Travelers can even learn how to catch the fish seen on Sicilian menus.