The pearl of this century!
Al-Idrisi
The well-known Arabian Geographer Al-Idrisi described Sicily this way. Neurologist Sigmund Freud also described it as:
The loveliest region of Italy: a stunning orgy of colours, scents, and lights … a great delight.
Sigmund Freud
Therefore, we will provide you with the best things to do in Sicily, Italy.
Officially referred to as Regione Siciliana, Sicily is famous for its stunning beaches and coastal walks. Besides, it has charming villages and towns, snow-capped mountains, and three active volcanoes. Sicily is also known for its cultural richness, architecture, and delicious cuisine. Further, it has numerous archaeological sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
There are several famous Sicilian figures. If you are a fashionista, you may know Domenico Dolce, the Sicilian fashion designer. He is one-half of the iconic luxury fashion house Dolce & Gabbana (D & G). Furthermore, the well-known Greek mathematician and inventor Archimedes was born in Sicily’s province of Syracuse. Keep reading this article to know the best things to do in Sicily.
Sicily on the Map
Marcello Giordani, an Italian Operatic Tenor, once said:
Sicily is a blessed land. First, because of its geographic position in the Mediterranean. Second, for its history and all the different peoples who have settled there: Arabs, Greeks, Normans, the Swedes. That has made us different from others.
Giordani
In the heart of the Mediterranean Sea off the toe of Italy’s boot, Sicily is the largest island in Italy and the Mediterranean Sea. It is located between Italy in the north and Tunisia in the southeast. The Strait of Messina separates Sicily from mainland Italy. However, the Strait of Sicily separates Sicily and Tunisia.
How to Get to Sicily, Italy
You can travel to Sicily by car, bus, train, plane, ferry, and ship. If you take the train to Sicily, you will enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. When crossing the sea, the train will be disassembled and embarked on a ferry where you can enjoy the dolphins that swim along the ferry.
If you are a sea lover, travel to Sicily by ferry or ship. It is possible to travel with your own vehicle on ferries. Flying is another way to reach Sicily. You can take the plane to Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) or Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA).
How Many Provinces in Sicily?
Italy has 20 regions, including Sicily which is divided into nine provinces:
- Palermo (the regional capital of Sicily).
- Catania (in the east of Sicily).
- Messina (in the east of Sicily).
- Ragusa (in the east of Sicily).
- Syracuse (in the east of Sicily).
- Enna (in the centre of Sicily).
- Caltanissetta (in the centre of Sicily).
- Trapani (in the west of Sicily).
- Agrigento (in the west of Sicily).
100 Adventurous Things to do in Sicily
With nine provinces, Sicily is one of the five Italian autonomous regions. This Mediterranean paradise has fascinating landscapes, iconic beaches, astounding mountain ranges, stunning villages, Baroque architecture, rich cultural heritage, and more.
In Sicily, you have numerous activities, like kayaking, snorkelling, diving, hiking, and monitoring the migratory birds in natural reserves. In the following lines, explore the best things to do in Sicily.
A. Things to do in Sicily’s Palermo
“Palermo was lovely. The most beautifully situated town in the world – it dreams away its life in the Conca d’Oro, the exquisite valley that lies between two seas. The lemon groves and the orange gardens were entirely perfect.”
Oscar Wilde, the great Writer
Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a province located in the northern middle of Sicily at the Tyrrhenian Sea. It has astonishing beaches, kid-friendly areas, ancient museums, beautiful gardens, historical churches, and stunning parks. The following is a list of the places you must visit in Palermo.
1. Norman Palace of Palermo
Among the top things to do in Sicily’s province of Palermo is to visit the Norman Palace of Palermo (Palazzo dei Normanni) or the Royal Palace. This fascinating palace is a perfect example of the Arab-Norman-Byzantine architectural style that appeared in the 12th century.
Explore the great modern art exhibitions and the beautiful rooms of the ancient Norman and Spanish kings. Appreciate the Palatine Chapel with its golden mosaics, the marble floor and walls, and the elaborately fretted wooden roof. Also, enjoy the enchanting views of the botanical gardens that surround the palace.
Entrance is available from Monday to Saturday from 8: 30 am to 4: 30 pm. On Sundays and holidays, entry is open from 8: 30 am to 12: 30 pm.
Tickets on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and holidays cost €19.00 per adult and €11 per 14 to 17-year-old child. You will visit the Palatine Chapel, Royal Apartments, Re Ruggero Room, Neo-Gothic Chapel, Pisan Tower, Royal Gardens, exhibition, and Punic Walls.
However, tickets cost €15.50 per adult and €9.00 per 14 to 17-year-old child on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. On these days, you will visit the Palatine Chapel, Royal Gardens, exhibition, and Punic Walls only.
2. Zisa Garden
Zisa Garden (Giardino della Zisa) is another wonderful destination of Arab-Norman Palermo. Relaxing there is one of the top things to do in Sicily. Appreciate the ornamental pool, the cascades, and the fountains it has.
Zisa Palace
Zisa Garden houses Zisa Palace, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale. It is a Mediaeval Moorish palace with a Sicilian-Norman-Arab style. Explore its rooms which are full of Islamic art pieces and artefacts from the Mediterranean era.
3. Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale are located on the northern coast of Sicily. In this area, explore the cathedrals of Cefalú and Monreale, three other churches, two palaces, a cathedral, and a bridge and appreciate their excellent architectural style.
This series of nine religious and civil structures shows an example of a social-cultural syncretism between Islam, Western, and Byzantine cultures in Sicily. This interchange developed new concepts of decoration and structure that spread through the Mediterranean region.
4. Palermo Cathedral
Visiting Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo) on Sicily’s north coast is among the top things to do in Sicily. It is officially known as Santa Maria Assunta or Saint Mary of the Assumption. Classified as a UNESCO Heritage site, it is one of the Arab-Norman monuments in Sicily.
Having a long history of restorations, additions, and alterations, Palermo Cathedral is characterised by Moorish, Gothic, Norman, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles. Appreciate its impressive facade, fabulous interior, and stunning small cupolas.
5. Cefalù
On any Sicilian itinerary, stopping at Cefalù is worth a try. It is a charming small fishing town known for its mediaeval alleys, colourful pier-moored boats, and sandy beach. In this old town, stroll through its narrow streets and try the classic Sicilian food at one of its many restaurants. Do not forget to try their delicious ice cream or order the delicious brioche con gelato, ice cream in a brioche bun.
Cefalù Norman Cathedral
When you are in Cefalù, do not miss out on visiting the Cefalù Norman cathedral, the city’s most important building. It is among the UNESCO World Heritage site: Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale.
Appreciate this 12th-century fortress-like structure that has an Arab, Norman, and Byzantine architectural style. Walk through its cloisters and explore its soaring twin Towers with their mullioned windows. Also, discover its treasury and elaborate Byzantine Mosaics.
La Rocca di Cefalù
If you are into hiking, hike up the Salita Saraceni staircase to the top of La Rocca di Cefalù. Overlooking Cefalù, this rocky crag offers splendid views of the town and the sea. With a small entry fee, explore the castle’s ruins at the top.
Temple of Diana
While you climb to the archaeological area La Rocca di Cefalù, have a picnic at the Temple of Diana (Tempio di Diana). It is considered the oldest structure in Sicily. In ancient times, it was a sacred place. Then, the Greeks converted it into a temple. This temple is secluded from the bustling town and offers spectacular views.
Lavatoio Cefalù
During mediaeval times, Lavatoio Cefalù is built over the River Cefalino. It is a washhouse with rectangular stone pools. Walk down Via Vittorio Emanuele avenue and explore where and how the Sicilians used to wash their clothes.
Beach of Cefalù
Among the best things to do in Cefalù is to relax on the fabulous white sandy Beach of Cefalù (Spiaggia di Cefalù) and admire its heavenly views. Enjoy swimming or fishing in a boat in its crystal clear blue water. You can also go on a wonderful boat excursion to explore the grottos accessible only by water or see the town from a different view.
6. Capuchin Catacombs
Another tourist attraction in Palermo is Capuchin Catacombs. It is a museum with the largest collection of mummified and partially-skeletonised remains in Europe. Discover the ancient sacred Sicilian tradition of mummification found in the Palermitan aristocratic families.
7. Massimo Theatre
Visiting Massimo Theatre (Teatro Massimo), also called Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele, is also among the top things to do in Sicily. It is Italy’s biggest opera house and Europe’s third. Known for its perfect acoustics, it is an opera house and opera company with a fascinating neoclassical-style exterior.
8. Church of San Giuseppe dei Teatini
Another fantastic destination in Palermo is Church of San Giuseppe dei Teatini (Chiesa di San Giuseppe dei Teatini). It is one of the most wonderful churches in Sicily. This 17th-century church is a remarkable example of the Sicilian Baroque architectural style.
You will get impressed by the church’s elegant dome and outstanding stuccoed Baroque-styled interior. Appreciate the beautiful frescoes in the nave and the fantastic two aisles divided by unique marble columns of variable heights.
9. Ballarò Market
Shopping at Ballarò Market is one of the best things to do in Sicily. This local market is one of the oldest and most lively in Palermo. It is a traditional street market that sells fresh fish, seafood, meat, fruits, and vegetables. From there, enjoy some exciting flavours and buy your essential needs.
10. Praetorian Fountain
The Praetorian Fountain (Fontana Pretoria) is also one of the major landmarks you should visit in Sicily. It is located in Piazza Pretoria in the heart of the historic centre of Palermo on the west flank of the Santa Caterina Church. It is said that the nuns, at this time, called Fontana Pretoria the Fountain of Shame because its statues of mythological figures are nude.
Besides the mythological figures, the fountain represents the Twelve Olympians as well as the animal heads, each with a water spout from their mouth. Representing the rivers of Palermo, these animal heads circle the entire fountain. A long 90-wood-column arbour surrounds the fountain and its 48 marble statues.
This monumental fountain becomes marvellous when it is lit up at night. Visiting this stunning landmark in the morning is also fantastic, as you will enjoy the marble gleaming on a bright sunny day. The price ranges from $31.47 to $879.22, which may vary according to the selected tour and the group size. Booking in advance is recommended.
11. Foro Italico
Visiting Foro Italico is also one of the best things to do in Sicily. It is a beautiful lawn along the seafront of Palermo. Vice-King Marco Antonio Colonna created a walking path that became a fantastic tourist attraction in this area. While walking along the trail or relaxing in front of the sea, enjoy the clear blue water and the vast green spaces.
12. Porta Felice
Taking selfies in front of Porta Felice is also one of the best things to do in Sicily. It is a monumental city gate at the water-side entrance of Cassaro, the most ancient street in Foro Italico. Admire the imposing look of Porta Felice with its excellent Renaissance Baroque style.
13. Porta Nuova
Another monumental city gate in Palermo is Porta Nuova. It is at the entrance of Cassaro but from Corso Calatafimi, the way to Monreale. Porta Nuova is near Palazzo dei Normanni. With its Baroque style, the gate has two facades. One facade has triumphal arches, and the other has four telamons of Moors.
14. Zafferano Cape
Located on the northern coast of Sicily, visiting the Zafferano Cape (Capo Zafferano) with its breathtaking views is one of the most adventurous things to do in Sicily. Enjoy hiking the stunning mountains surrounding the cape. Besides, snorkelling and swimming are great activities there.
Capo Zafferano Lighthouse
Capo Zafferano Lighthouse is a notable place on the cape. It is considered the eastern entrance to the port of Palermo and is located under a steep ridge. It consists of an octagonal white tower, a balcony with a white lantern, and a grey metallic lantern dome.
Seaside Villa Capo Zafferano
Seaside Villa Capo Zafferano is another stunning place near the cape. Relaxing at this villa is one of the top things to do in Sicily. Overlooking Capo Zafferano, the villa with its modern architecture is located on a rocky slope on the northern coast of Sicily. Sunbathe and enjoy the fascinating views of the sea and the nearby mountains in this fascinating villa.
15. Blue Arch
Walking across the Blue Arch (Arco Azzurro) is one of the top exciting things to do in Sicily. This iconic tourist attraction is located northeast of Aspra in Palermo, Sicily. It is a natural rocky arch that connects two mountains in the sea, giving an astonishing view. Are you ready to cross it?
16. Parco Piersanti Mattarella
To relax and stroll in a tranquil place, head to the Piersanti Mattarella Park (Parco Piersanti Mattarella), also known as English Garden (Giardino Inglese). Enjoy wandering around this English-style city garden. Also, admire the monuments, sculptures, trees, and the ornamental pool with fountains. Having a picnic in the Piersanti Mattarella Park is one of the best things to do in Sicily.
17. Riserva Naturale di Capo Gallo
Suppose you want to relax while enjoying the magnificent views of nature. In that case, Riserva Naturale di Capo Gallo is the right place for you. Enjoy the fantastic cliffs, the splendid caves and the wonderful habitats for the falcons, the owls and the buzzards.
If you are a scientific researcher, visiting this natural reserve is one of the top things to do in Sicily. It has become a scientific destination for all researchers worldwide since it hosts species of phytogeographic interest or faunal value.
18. Area Archeologica di Solunto
Also, among the best things to do in Sicily is to explore the remains of the Hellenistic Roman town of Solunto. This archaeological site has a small archaeological museum, ancient pottery, sculpture, glassware, and domestic utensils that you can explore.
19. Sicani Mountains
Climbing Sicani Mountains (Monti Sicani) is also one of the best things to do in Sicily. It is a mountain chain in central-southern Sicily between Agrigento and Palermo. From the top of one mountain, enjoy the charming landscape and the sun rays passing through the clouds to the top of the greenery and the other mountains. On the mountains, you can explore some mammals, many reptiles and numerous species of rare birds.
Mountain of Roses
In this area, hiking the Mountain of Roses (Monte delle Rose) is one of the most entertaining things to do in Sicily. It is on the border of Palermo and Agrigento and is known for its various herbs.
20. Mount Pellegrino
Mount Pellegrino is the most beautiful promontory, as the German poet, Goethe, described. When hiking this granite-covered mountain, enjoy the fantastic panoramic views of the city, the beautiful Tyrrhenian Sea, and the great surrounding mountains.
21. La Favorita Park
At the foot of Mount Pellegrino, La Favorita Park (Parco della Favorita), also known as Real Tenuta della Favorita, has the vastest green area in Palermo. Located in the Riserva Naturale Orientata Monte Pellegrino, enjoy taking a tour between citrus, walnuts, and olive trees in the park. If you are into hunting, there is a hunting reserve in the park where you can hunt woodcocks and rabbits. Exercising, strolling, and breathing fresh air are also some great activities you can do in the park.
22. Fossa della Garofala
In addition, strolling in Fossa della Garofala is one of the top things to do in Sicily. It is located in Viale delle Scienze, a narrow valley full of cultural heritage. Relax on the lush green vegetation in this quiet place and enjoy the picturesque landscape.
23. Palermo Botanical Garden
Are you a lover of plants? Want to have a peaceful mind in a quiet place? Relaxing at Palermo Botanical Garden (L’Orto Botanica di Palermo) is one of the most exciting things to do in Sicily. It has around 12,000 species of spectacular plants.
Explore the Aquarium, a large round pool that consists of three concentric rings. Each ring is divided into eight wedges, and each wedge is home to various aquatic plants. You will also be fascinated by the small ponds and the informally arranged plants in the lagoon.
If you are a researcher, L’Orto Botanico di Palermo is also a research and educational institution for the Department of Botany at the University of Palermo. You can explore the Caldarium and the Tepidarium which house plants from warm and temperate zones, respectively. You can also explore its greenhouses, biological and geographical zones, herbarium, experimental and research zones, and flora gene banks.
24. Castello a Mare
One of the best things to do in Sicily is to visit Castello a Mare or Castellammare. It is an ancient fortress at the entrance of Palermo port. Appreciate its fortified gate, the Norman keep, and the remains of a Renaissance star-shaped defence. Not all the remains are open to the public.
25. Vucciria Market
In the heart of the old city, Vucciria Market (Mercato della Vucciria) is the oldest market in Palermo. Purchasing everyday needs and affordable souvenirs from there is one of the best things to do in Sicily. It is an open-air street market with vegetables, fruits, seafood, and meat stalls. There are also stalls of bric-a-brac, old photos, postcards, hats, and more. If you are hungry, the market has areas for street food where you can sit and eat.
26. AcquaPark Monreale
Are you and your kids fond of water and water games? Visiting AcquaPark Monreale is one of the top things to do in Sicily with kids. You have endless choices of water play areas, such as water slides, swimming pools, waterfalls and water playgrounds There are also areas for sunbathing. If you feel hungry after playing, you can have lunch in the on-site restaurant or pizzeria.
27. Toy Park Beach
Like AcquaPark Monreale, Toy Park Beach is a beautiful amusement park in Mondello, Palermo. Having fun there is among the top things to do in Sicily with kids. Your kids will enjoy the water slides, the swimming pools, the 6D cinema, the merry-go-round, and many other games.
28. Mondello Beach
Only 12 km north of Palermo, Mondello Beach (Spiaggia di Mondello) is one of the most beautiful and best beaches in Sicily. Offering stunning vistas of a long-curved white sandy bay, appreciate the calm and clear water of Mondello Beach and its historic seaside village.
Enjoy many beach sports, such as beach tennis, paddle boarding and beach volleyball. The beach is surrounded by many restaurants and small shops where you can drink a cup of coffee and get a sandwich. Swimming and staying on the beach, as well as using the toilets and the showers, are free. However, you have to pay if you want to have a chair and a parasol.
B. Things to do in Sicily’s Catania
Catania is the second-largest city in Sicily after Palermo. On Sicily’s east coast, it is an ancient port city at the foot of Mount Etna, the biggest volcano in Europe. It is the first economic and industrial hub, famous for its petrochemical industry and sulphur extraction. Catania has several fantastic mountains and marine reserves. In the following lines, we list the top things to do in Sicily’s Catania.
29. Mount Etna
On Sicily’s east coast, Mount Etna is the tallest active volcano in Europe, at 3,326 metres high (10,912 feet). The last eruption period of this stratovolcano started in February 2021. Due to the explosions at the crater, the highest part of the volcano is closed to tourists. Go hiking safely in the lower parts of the volcano. Hiking Mount Etna is one of the top exciting things to do in Sicily.
30. Via Etnea
If you are into shopping, head to Via Etnea, Catania’s monumental shopping street. Connecting Piazza Duomo and Villa Bellini, it is around 3 km2 long and is lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants. You can visit this thoroughfare in the morning or evening and enjoy it to the full! From here, you can head up to many other attractions, including Monastero dei Benedettini, Ursino Castello, Piazza Università, Piazza Stesicoro, and several churches.
Taking a guided walking or segway tour around Via Etnea is among the most exciting things to do in Sicily. Appreciate the historical grand buildings and monuments and walk through the shops and restaurants there. Also, enjoy the magical views of Mount Etna, framed by the beautiful cityscape.
31. Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo is at the southern end of Via Etnea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the central and most beautiful square in Catania. Strolling along the streets of Piazza del Duomo is among the top things to do in Sicily.
Appreciate the surrounding historic Baroque-style buildings, including the grand Cattedrale di Sant’Agata. Also, enjoy the three-day annual festival of Saint Agatha, Catania’s most important religious festival, which begins on 3 February and ends on 5 February each year.
32. Basilica Cattedrale Sant’Agata V.M.
Visiting Basilica Cattedrale Sant’Agata V.M, or Catania Cathedral, is also among the top things to do in Sicily. Dedicated to Saint Agatha, it is a majestic building in the heart of the city with a Baroque-style facade. It has a dome and a more than 90-metre-high bell tower that is the third-largest in Italy.
Its parvise is also fascinating. To access it, walk through a marble facade that culminates with wrought iron. What separates the parvise from the cathedral square is a white stone balustrade. Along it, you will be impressed by the five wonderful giant Carrara marble statues of saints.
In addition, the cathedral has three levels with granite Corinthian columns. Many fascinating marble statues decorate these orders. Over the gate, there are marble statues of Saint Agatha. Further, there are statues of Saint Euplius on the right and statues of Saint Birillus on the left.
Basilica Cattedrale Sant’Agata V.M. also has a giant main wooden door. The door has 32 sculpted plaques which represent the life and martyrdom of Saint Agatha, the papal coats of arms, and some symbols of Christianity. When you enter the cathedral, you will be fascinated by the spectacular decorations. So prepare your camera and take loads of astonishing photos.
Inside the cathedral is a Latin cross-ground plan with two aisles and a nave. In the southern aisle, visit the baptistry, a canvas of Saint Febronia of Nisibis, and the tomb of the composer Vincenzo Bellini. Between the southern aisle and the nave, admire the notable Chapel of St. Agatha and the Baroque monument of Bishop Pietro Galletti.
In the northern aisle, enjoy several beautiful 17th-century paintings of saints. Also, explore the Chapel of the Holy Crucifix at the end of the transept in the north. This chapel has the tombs of the Aragonese branch of Sicily’s members, including King Frederick III, King Louis, Queen Constance, and John, Duke of Randazzo.
The decorative 12th-century apse will impress you. It has a late 16th-century choir, mediaeval mullioned windows, and several beautiful statues.
33. Palace of Chierici
Facing Piazza del Duomo is the Palace of the Seminary of the Clerics (Palazzo del Seminario dei Chierici). It is also known as the Palace of Chierici (Palazzo dei Chierici). Visiting it is one of the best things to do in Sicily. Located beside the Cathedral of Sant’Agata, Palazzo dei Chierici is a monumental, imposing building with a black and white facade. Appreciate the elaborately decorated large window frames and the Baroque-style balconies.
34. Palace of Elephants
On Piazza del Duomo’s north side is the Palace of Elephents (Palazzo degli Elefanti). This historic building houses the city’s Town Hall. That’s why it is also known as the Town Hall. At the entrance, you will find a staircase opening with four wonderful porticoes. On the second floor, exploring a series of large religious and historical oil paintings is one of the best things to do in Sicily.
35. Fountain of Elephant
Located between Palazzo dei Chierici and Palazzo degli Elefanti, appreciate the stunning Fountain of Elephant (Fontana dell’Elefante), the symbol of Catania. This fountain includes a smiley black-lava stone statue of an elephant surmounted by an Egyptian obelisk marked with hieroglyphs. Exploring it is among the most exciting things to do in Sicily.
36. La Pescheria
Behind Piazza del Duomo is a bustling, colourful seafood market called La Pescheria (Piscaria in Sicilian). It is one of Sicily’s largest fish markets that retains and preserves ancient folklore. Besides the fish stalls, there are stalls for fruits, citrus fruits, and Catania’s typical products.
In this old market fish, you will find various fish species. The experts in the fish market will tell you how to pick the best fish and prepare it. You must try some tasty seafood dishes at one of the several seafood restaurants surrounding the fish market.
37. University Square
Bisected by Via Etnea, University Square (Piazza dell’Universita) is in the historic centre of Catania north of Piazza del Duomo. Relaxing at this city square is among the top things to do in Sicily. Enjoy the beautiful Baroque-style buildings there and admire the stunning university building with its glorious arched courtyard. At night, the university is lit up, creating a magical atmosphere.
38. Villa Bellini
A short walk from Catania’s main thoroughfare, Via Etnea, will lead you to Villa Bellini, also known as Giardino Bellini. Relaxing there is among the best things to do in Sicily. This city’s central park is one of Italy’s most exquisite public gardens. It is named after Vincenzo Bellini, the local-born composer.
Villa Bellini is known for its botanical variety because it contains over 100 species of plants and flowers. It also has a vast area of greenery and several hilltop viewpoints where you can look at Catania and Mount Etna. Escape the noise of the hectic city life and unwind in such a serene place. You can enjoy strolling in the scenic walkways in the shade of towering palm trees and fig trees.
39. Teatro Massimo Bellini
If you are into musical performances, head to Teatro Massimo Bellini! Also named after the Catanian composer Vincenzo Bellini, it is a remarkable opera house located in Piazza Vincenzo Bellini, Catania. Going there is one of the top things to do in Sicily.
Once you go there, you will get impressed by the spectacular neo-Baroque-style facade. Inside it, you will appreciate the ornate and stuccoed marble foyer, along with the painted ceiling that depicts scenes from Bellini’s famous operas. You will also admire the red-plush interior with the four tiers and the main floor seating that has 1200 seats. There is also a fantastic statue of Bellini between its central arches.
40. Ursino Castle
From Via Etnea, you can head to Ursino Castle (Catello Ursino) or Castello Svevo di Catania. It is one of the significant landmarks in Sicily and a symbol of authority and imperial power. Emperor Frederick II ordered to build it to fortify the east coast of Sicily between 1239 and 1250. Snooping around this 13th-century castle is one of the top things to do in Sicily.
The devastating eruption of Mount Etna in 1669 caused the lava to flow to the south of the castle, creating a new strip of land. Consequently, the castle was locked entirely and no longer surrounded by sea. What actually survives from Frederick’s time are the castle’s north-side rooms.
This castle turned into a prison in the 16th century. The prisoners wrote inscriptions and scrawled graffiti on the walls. Despite the several renovations of the castle, these inscriptions and graffiti are still visible on the ground floor.
From 1934 till now, this royal castle houses a gallery of local art. Explore some unusual artworks and paintings attributed to local artists, including El Greco. It also includes Greek and Roman artefacts and colossal classical sculptures. You will be amazed by the remarkable mosaics and the beautiful ceramics there.
Ursino Castle has also become home to the Museo Civico (Civic Museum). In the museum, appreciate the valuable archaeological collections of the Benedictine monastery. These priceless collections belong to the Biscaris, Catania’s most important aristocratic family. Also, explore some findings of Baron Asmundo-Zappalà, donated by him to the castle.
41. Benedictine Monastery
From Via Etnea, you can also visit Benedictine Monastery (Monastero dei Bendettini), one of the biggest Benedictine monasteries in Europe. This late Sicilian Baroque-style building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can explore Catania’s human and historical events of Catania. Visiting it is one of the top things to do in Sicily.
42. Aci Trezza
Also, among the top things to do in Sicily is to visit Aci Trezza, a popular spot for Italians on vacations. It is a Sicilian town with a seaside resort on the coast of the Ionian Sea. Relax on its rocky beaches and appreciate the wonderful views of the black volcanic sand and crystal clear blue water. You will find three prominent sea stacks on its coast.
Casa del Nespolo Museum
In the heart of Aci Trezza, explore the old house Casa del Nespolo Museum with its photos, posters, and materials from the “I Malavoglia” movie. In the museum, La stanza dei Malavoglia (Malavoglia’s room) exhibits the furnishings and materials of the sailors that inhabited Aci Trezza in the 19th century.
43. Storico dello Sbarco Museum
Are you interested in exploring the history of World War II? Visiting the three-floor Museo Storico dello Sbarco is one of the most exciting things to do in Sicily. It is part of the Le Ciminiere museum complex that represents the allied landings in Sicily. Offering multimedia exhibits, it narrates the events that took place in Sicily from 10 July to 8 September 1943.
44. Amphitheatre of Catania
Visiting the Roman Amphitheatre of Catania in Piazza Stesicoro is also among the most exciting things to do in Sicily. Adorned by statues and columns, the amphitheatre was built with lava rocks in an elliptical shape and covered with marble.
The cavea, the audience and orchestra space, was built with limestone blocks partially covered with marble. It was separated by two corridors and divided into sections by small lava stone ladders. The arches were constructed with large rectangular red bricks.
The ruins of the amphitheatre are now used as foundations for some buildings near the square, such as Villa Cerami, Palazzo Tezzano, and the church of San Biagio.
C. Things to do in Sicily’s Messina
Messina, another province in Sicily, is the 13th largest city in Italy. It is most famous for the Strait of Messina, which connects Sicily’s east with Calabria’s west in Southern Italy. Here are some beautiful places you should visit in Messina, Sicily.
45. Taormina
Were a man to spend only one day in Sicily and ask, “What must one see?” I would answer him without hesitation, “Taormina.” It is only a landscape, but a landscape where you find everything on earth that seems made to seduce the eyes, the mind, and the imagination.
Guy de Maupassant, French Writer
One of the best things to do in Sicily is to visit Taormina, a hilltop town on Sicily’s east coast. With magnificent views of Etna, Catania, and Isola Bella, it offers plenty of unique places where you can visit and enjoy.
Ancient Theatre of Taormina
Taormina is most known for the remarkable Ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina (Teatro Antico di Taormina). It is the most spectacular ancient venue for the annual arts festival, Taormina Arte. From there, take in the astonishing views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.
Isola Bella
Taormina is also famous for its notable small island Isola Bella (Ìsula Bedda in Sicilian). You will find a narrow path that connects the mainland beach and the island that is surrounded by sea caves. Relaxing on the island’s stunning rocky beach and enjoying the enchanting views along the coast of Taormina is one of the most exciting things to do in Sicily.
Mazzarò Beach
Located in the bay north of Isola Bella, Mazzarò Beach (Baia di Mazzarò) is a must-visit spot on the east coast of Sicily. It is one of Sicily’s most elegant and sought-after pebble beaches. It has free public areas and private beach clubs.
On the beach, rent a deck chair and a parasol and relax. Relaxing there is one of the most beautiful things to do in Sicily. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the blue water, the yellow beach and the greenery around the area.
You can also take a boat tour along the coastline to explore the hidden gems. Some boat tours will stop in the middle for snorkelling and having lunch at a seaside restaurant.
Blue Grotta
From Mazzarò Beach, take a boat trip to explore well-known caves, such as the Blue Grotta (Grotta Azzurra), a beautiful cave on the isle of Capri. You will enjoy the splendid views of the sunlight passing through an underwater cavity and creating a blue reflection on the seawater. The seawater then shines and illuminates the cave. That is why exploring it is one of the fun things to do in Sicily.
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