Finally we can start traveling again and Sicily would seem from the polls to be one of the most desired Italian destinations for the upcoming summer. I have a particular passion for this splendid Mediterranean island which has crossed in its history such diverse and rich cultures, from the Greeks to the Romans, from the Arabs to the Normans.
However, I try to draw up a ranking of the 10 experiences that in my opinion deserve a trip to Sicily
Taormina, a small elegant city rich in history, the undisputed pearl of the island, which lies on the hills of the east coast offering wonderful panoramic views of the sea and the Etna volcano. The Greek Theater is its flagship but to enjoy the most beautiful view it is worth going up to the small town of Castelmola, here on the panoramic terrace get ready to get excited!
Climb on Etna, up to the craters first with cable car then with jeep. The view from the top of the volcano is spectacular also there are the smoking craters that are very suggestive. On the slopes of Etna there are flourishing crops and you can have gastronomic experiences with the excellent typical products, both of wine and food.
Val di Noto with an artistic and cultural heritage of excellence: Noto, Modica, Ragusa, places with historic centers of great charm and beauty. In Modica you can also get to know the famous local chocolate up close. A curiosity for fans of Montalbano ... near Marina di Ragusa there is the famous house of the commissioner, protagonist of the Camilleri’s detective novelsh, translated all over the world.
Two other treats in this area are the small village of Marzamemi, a characteristic fishing village and nearby the Vendicari Nature Reserve, with long golden beaches and a turquoise sea.
Not to be missed near Trapani is Erice, perched on a small mountain, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view up to the Egadi Islands. This city retains all the charm of history, surrounded by walls with small cobbled streets, it can only be visited on foot and can also be reached by cable car from Trapani. Here there is also an important international center of scientific culture founded by Antonio Zichichi.
Even if they are already a well-known tourist destination, I would not forget the Egadi Islands. Favignana remained in my heart, and it was love at first sight. The sea and beaches are magnificent and you can get around easily by bike or scooter. The Levanzo and Marettimo islands are two small paradises.
San Vito lo Capo is gorgeous, the sea is blue and the white and pink beach gives the impression of being in the Caribbean. The world famous Cus Cus festival is celebrated here in September. Not to be missed near San Vito is the Zingaro Reserve, which can be reached by boat or hiking along the breathtaking panoramic path that crosses the whole reserve.
Palermo boasts an important cultural and artistic heritage, we mention the Cathedral and the Norman Palace among all, and it is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. In addition, those arriving in Palermo can fully experience the Sicilian atmosphere of the past, the markets of Vucciria and Ballarò are an unforgettable experience, not to mention the delicacies of street food, available in every corner of the city. The Florio family, who was able to relaunch Marsala wine in the world, played an important role in the history of Palermo of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Villa Igea, now returned to its former glory as a Rocco Forte resort, was strongly desired by the Florio family as hotel for Belle Epoque customers.
The Aeolian Islands, the 7 sisters as they are called, certainly deserve an article in themselves since each island is different from the others. In addition to being famous for the blue sea, they are also beautiful in terms of nature and landscape, such as Vulcano, Stromboli and Salina.
Cefalù, where we end this roundup of the splendors of Sicily, in addition to being a renowned seaside village, has a very beautiful and characteristic historical center, which is why it is included in the club of the most beautiful historical villages in Italy. The cathedral has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you like to spend a holiday in Sicily, please don’t hesitate to contact me. It will be my pleasure to recommend you other experiences!
nadia@mikrotour.it
