Today Sicily is part of Italy, but over the last several thousand years, the largest island in the Mediterranean has been host to the Greek, Roman, and Arab empires, along with nearly every other major European power from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance. Italy is a traveler’s paradise, but when Italians want to get away, they often go to Sicily. Here are some of our favorite reasons why.
Climb an active volcano
Take a jeep tour on Mt. Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe outside the Caucasus and one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Don helmets and torches and explore craters and underground lava flows.
Stay in a palazzo
You’ll find idyllic villas all along Sicily’s rocky coast, many of which have been converted into hotels and guesthouses. For less than the cost of a standard hotel room in Rome, you can spend a night in 14th-century luxury with sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
Search for buried treasure
Sicily rivals Greece and Israel for unearthing historic artifacts and boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit Siracusa, Taormina, Catania, and Agrigento to discover ancient theaters, cathedrals and temples, fortified ports, and historic hilltop villages.
Eat the world’s first cannoli
Originating in Palermo in 1000 A.D., the cannoli was invented by the Arabic Saracens people—who first brought sugar cane to Sicily—and is believed to have been prepared as a fertility symbol during Carnevale season.
Insider Tip: Sicily’s summer arrives early and leaves late, providing ample opportunity to soak up the Mediterranean sun along 1,200 kilometers of coastline.
Fun fact: The indigenous Nero d’Avola, Grillo, and Zibibbo grapes are putting Sicily on the world winemaking map.
