Category: ITALY

Take a Break: The Best Day Trips from PALERMO by Public Transport

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There’s no question about it: Palermo is a very cool place with tons of things to see and to do. This being said, spending a couple of days in a row in such a busy city can quickly become a bit stressful. Fortunately, there are quieter places within reach, even by public transport, that are perfect for day trips away from the hustle and bustle of Palermo.

View of Cefalù.
Just one hour east of Palermo the sun bathes the coast at Cefalù in an unreal, beautiful light.

Hence, I’m introducing you to four amazing places that you can reach quickly and easily by train or bus. Whether you are looking for archeological remnants, Baroque architecture, Sicilian cuisine, a shopping spree, or relaxing hours on the beach: I promise you’ll find it in this post.

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Best Things to Do in PALERMO

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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.

Chiesa di San Domenico in Palermo.
View of the Chiesa di San Domenico, the resting place of many significant figures in Palermo’s history, and the mountain range on the city’s outskirts.

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.

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A Day Trip to Isola delle Femmine: Coastal Trails And Crystal Waters

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Considering how many trains stop at Isola delle Femmine station every day and how many people pass through, it is almost a miracle that this delightful little fishing village has managed to retain its authentic atmosphere and laid-back vibe.

Boat in Isola Delle Femmine.
Isola delle Femmine: A town in blue and white.

The surprisingly large number of passengers passing through Isola delle Femmine train station is due to the simple fact that this charming little coastal town lies on the railway line from Palermo’s city center to the airport. For very few is Isola delle Femmine their final destination. And that’s a good thing, because it suits this hidden gem very well.

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Sea, Salt, and Sunset: Experiencing the Best of TRAPANI

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Set on the western edge of Sicily, Trapani is a city where amazing views and history blend like a perfect aperitivo. Even in just one day, you can experience a compact yet unforgettable glimpse of authentic Sicilian life. Stroll through its baroque old town, taste the flavors of centuries-old culinary traditions, and end the day by watching the sun set over ancient salt pans.

View of Trapani, the city that's famous for Salt and Sunset.
From the former defense wall, you have an unobstructed view of Trapani’s entire northern coast.

With its easy-going pace, breathtaking coastal views, and proximity to other amazing places, Trapani is simply ideal for a short escape.

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From Clifftop Views to Gelato Scoops: A Guide to CEFALÙ

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On the picturesque north coast of Sicily, nestled between the emerald-green waves of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the imposing rock of La Rocca, lies the charming coastal town of Cefalù. However, Cefalù is far more than just a seaside resort.
While its golden sands and crystal-clear waters attract beach bums from all over the world every summer, a rich past lies hidden behind the postcard-perfect backdrop.
In fact, history, culture, and the Mediterranean dolce vita converge in a captivating fashion. Already from afar, the silhouette of the medieval old town is impressive, dominated by the majestic cathedral, which has watched over the labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful facades, and sun-drenched squares since the 12th century.

View of Cefalù.
The mesmerizing coast of Cefalù.
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Best Street Art in PALERMO

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While Palermo as such is very much underrated, the city’s best street art also 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!

Best Street Art Palermo: Portrait of Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino
Immortalized in the heart of Palermo: Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino.
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Comprehensive Guide to ROME – For First-Timers, Repeat Visitors, And Eternal Admirers

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Few cities can match Rome’s cultural wealth and fascinating variety. Hence, it is known as the Eternal City for a reason. There’s ancient history at every corner. Yet, this goes just fine with the modern, energetic, and sophisticated millennial metropolis. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll show you why mesmerizing Rome turns first-timers as well as repeat visitors into eternal admirers.

View of The Colosseum and Romolus and Remus drinking from the Capitoline Wolf - some of the Icons of Rome to be visited by first-timers.
View of the Ancient Roman Icons.
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Comprehensive Guide to FLORENCE – Home of the Medici, Cradle of the Renaissance

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In this comprehensive guide to Florence, I’m taking you to the home of the Medici Family and all the paramount spots of the Italian Renaissance.

Looking up Giotto's Campanile, the free-standing tower right next to the Cathedral in FLORENCE - Home of the Medici, Cradle of the Renaissance
Looking up Giotto’s Campanile, the free-standing tower right next to the Cathedral.

To this date, there are so many art treasures that Florence deems rather an open-air museum than a North Italian city with ordinary people and everyday life.

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What Not to Miss in TAORMINA, the Most Beautiful Town in Sicily

Posted onAuthorRenata Green2 Comments

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.

View of Spiaggia di Isola Bella and the Grotta Azzurra on the shore below Taormina, a place definitely not to miss when visiting this beautiful town.
View of Spiaggia di Isola Bella and the Grotta Azzurra below Taormina, the most beautiful town in Sicily.
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