a travel blog by renata green
While Palermo as such is very much underrated, also the city’s best street art thrives in the shadows. Very unjustly so!
In this post, I’m taking you on a tour of the city’s hotspots for urban art.
Prepare for some truly powerful murali!
Ma certo, one week is quite tight when it comes to a trip to Sicily, even if you limit your visit to the very best places. The island at the southern tip of mainland Italy has more to offer than you would find in many entire countries! Did you know that Sicily has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites? These excellent locations are so different that there is something for everyone. Whether it is the ancient archaeological sites in Syracuse, the artistic mosaics of the Villa Romana del Casale near Armerina, the baroque center of Noto, or the Aeolian Islands – you will be amazed!
But in addition to these fantastic sites, you should, of course, also make time to laze on the beach in Taormina and enjoy a delicious aperitivo in the evening during the sunset. After all, the Dolce Vita is as much a part of Italy as pizza and pasta.
So that you don’t lose track of all these fantastic options, I have put together an itinerary for you with the best places that you should definitely visit in one week in Sicily.
If you have more time, even better – you won’t be bored for a second, believe me!
Agreed, Taormina is definitely one of the most touristy places in Sicily, and this comes with all the annoyances overtourism tends to cause. This being said, no one can deny that Taormina is the most beautiful town in all of Sicily, hence, in this guide, I’m introducing the best thing not to miss when visiting this gem on the eastern coast of the island.
Although often overlooked and definitely underrated, Catania is a city full of beauty, history, and, on clear days, magnificent views of Mount Etna. In particular, the palaces constructed during the Baroque period after the city was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693 reflect the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Although there is no generally accepted exact number, there are certainly around 50 notable palaces in and around the city.
Apart from the famous palaces such as the Palazzo Biscari, the Palazzo degli Elefanti, and the
Palazzo Minoriti, there are numerous smaller and lesser-known ones scattered throughout the city. Many of these are privately owned and have been converted for business purposes. That’s why, even as a self-proclaimed Poverty Jetsetter, I was able to spend a restful night in a real Italian Palazzo!
More about that – and all the other marvels of Catania – in this post.
What a treat to see Noto, Sicily’s Baroque Town, on a day trip! This architectural gem dazzles with honey-colored limestone buildings that glow at sunset, making every corner feel like a masterpiece. Stroll up and down picturesque streets lined with stunning palaces and churches. Make time to enjoy delicious caffè, artisan gelato, and Sicilian charm. With beauty at every turn, Noto promises an unforgettable day of history and magnificence.
In this post, I’m taking you on a trip to Syracuse to explore the ancient wonders and coastal charms of Sicily. However, this city on the island’s southeastern coast isn’t just for history buffs! Its markets burst with local flavors while its sun-soaked piazze invite leisure’n’pleasure. And as the sun slowly sets, bathing the historic buildings in a burning golden light, the coast of Syracuse shines in its radiant splendor, waiting for you with a delicious dinner by the sea.
Few places can match Syracuse’s ability to captivate both mind and heart. It’s not just a destination—it’s a journey through time and an invitation to experience Italy’s legendary dolce vita at its most enchanting.
Syracuse is Sicily at its finest!
One of the most memorable things I did on my recent trip to Sicily was an extraordinary journey through the island’s rich history on an excursion to two of its most iconic treasures. In fact, a day trip to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and La Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina perfectly blends Greek grandeur and Roman elegance.
So, step back in time to ancient Greece as you wander through the valley that’s home to some of the most well-preserved Doric temples in the world. Set against a stunning backdrop of rolling hills and olive groves, it’s a feast for the eyes and the spirit. Eventually, immerse yourself in the luxurious world of Roman aristocracy by exploring the opulent Roman villa, famed for its astonishing mosaics. From the colorful Bikini Girls to the intricate Hunting Scenes, in this mansion, every room is a masterpiece brimming with vivid storytelling and unparalleled artistry.
This Way to the Whole Story ->Particularly in recent years, Sicily has developed from an insider tip into a holiday destination for aficionados of history, passionate nature lovers, but also the rich and famous – and not just since the second season of The White Lotus, which is set primarily in the incredibly picturesque town of Taormina. However, while places like Cefalú, San Vito Lo Capo, and obviously Taormina are groaning under the influx of visitors, life in the capital Palermo continues largely unaffected by this development. Actually, that’s not a bad thing. On a two-day visit, it allows you and me to experience the real, authentic Sicily from up close.
Hence, in this post, I’ll show you the best things you definitely shouldn’t miss – even those that are a bit off the beaten path.
This Way to the Whole Story ->Whether you guys are first-timers or repeat visitors, beautiful and exciting Rome will turn everyone into an eternal admirer for sure.
It is known as the Eternal City for a reason. Just like in Athens, there’s ancient history everywhere. Yet, it goes just fine with the modern, energetic, and sophisticated millennial metropolis.
However, Eternal City could also refer to the number of sights and landmarks and beautiful spots in Rome. Because you actually might need an entire lifetime to experience everything this timeless metropolis has to offer.
Few other cities can match Rome’s cultural wealth and fascinating variety.
This Way to the Whole Story ->Of all Italian cities, Milan probably deems the least what we consider Italian. No jolly groups sipping Aperol Spritz while playing boccia. Instead, executives rush from their stately apartment houses to offices in glittering business centers. Hardly a narrow cobblestone alley. Rather big cars on broad avenues. Money makes the world Milan go round.
And yet, if you visit with an open mind, Milan will by no means disappoint: Get the big picture from the roof of the Duomo, and enjoy contemporary art at various industrial sites that were transformed into humongous art galleries. Window shop at the posh Brera district or the fabulous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Admire Leonardo da Vinci’s Cenacolo, hence, the Last Supper. Oh, talking ’bout food: Finish a long day of sightseeing with a relaxed Milanese Aperitivo in one of the countless bars alongside the Navigli, the city’s old waterways.
Sounds like a plan? Mind you, these are only a few of the best things you should do in Milan on a long weekend!
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