The Best Places to Visit in SICILY in One Week

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!

Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean. It is located southwest of Calabria at the southern tip of Italy. Sicily’s central location in the Mediterranean has shaped the eventful history of this island. The cities of Sicily have always had great importance as bases for shipping and trade. New conquerors repeatedly took possession of the island, stayed, mixed with the already resident population, and left their mark on the culture of Sicily.

In ancient times, in addition to the local peoples, Greeks and Carthaginians also settled on the island. It was the main area of ​​Magna Graecia from 241 BC. From 400 BC, it belonged to the Roman Empire.

Then, in the Middle Ages, Arabs, Byzantines, and Normans in particular, shaped the island. The Kingdom of Sicily arose under them. And of course, all of these cultures left their imprints that you can trace on the island to this date.

Six World Heritage Sites in One Week

Yes, admittedly, I’m a culture vulture and you can lure me by whispering UNESCO World Heritage to practically every spot. It’s all the more surprising that I didn’t come to the island primarily for Sicily’s overwhelming cultural treasures. I wanted to do a language course and it was November. So I followed the migratory birds and flew south. That said, of course, I let some pros fly me down there.

Yet, I have to admit, at that point, I didn’t care about the rich culture and heritage. I was attracted by 24 degrees Celsius when it was beginning to snow back home. It wasn’t until I started thinking about what I could do after school and on the weekends that I realized how extraordinarily rich Sicily really is in cultural treasures. Without my intention, all the places I visited are on UNESCO’s World Heritage List! Hence, I have a strong feeling that you can’t avoid following in the footsteps of the Greeks, Carthaginians, Arabs, and Normans – even as you are meandering off the beaten path.

In this post, I put this down in writing – as well as what Sicily has to offer in terms of leisure and culinary splendor and, above all, meteorological and human warmth. You can find the detailed guides to the six places I visited linked below.

I wholeheartedly invite you to follow me to the Mediterranean’s largest and most beautiful island!

Places to Visit in One Week

First things first: This itinerary is based on the fact that I’m not driving so I visited all the places mentioned by public transport, except for the Greek ruins on the outskirts of Agrigento and the Villa Romana in the vicinity of Piazza Armerina that is. Getting there by public transport is possible, yet, it is a bit more complicated and takes too long to be done in one day. However, if you have a bit more time, you can always hop on a public bus to see these ancient wonders.

Also, I’m listing the places in an order that presumes that you are arriving in Palermo. Your outbound flight can then be again from Palermo, however, it will be far less time-consuming if you can leave Sicily from the airport in Catania. Following my itinerary, both options are feasible.

Palermo

Palermo is not only the political and cultural center of Sicily but also Italy’s fifth-largest city.  The Phoenicians founded the city as a trading post in the 8th century BC and in the following centuries, different rulers alternated until in 1860, Giuseppe Garibaldi moved into Palermo and just the following year, Sicily became part of the newly founded Kingdom of Italy.

From the end of WWII to the end of the 20th century, Palermo was firmly in the hands of the Mafia. It was the scene of two major mafia wars and was one of the most violent cities in Europe. Nonetheless, during Mayor Leoluca Orlando’s long tenure from 1985 to 2022, there was a major improvement in public life in the city. Supported by politicians, artists, and the population, Orlando fought resolutely against the mafia. The crime rate decreased, and today Palermo is considered the safest city in Italy.

A Place of Many Colors

Palermo, with all its contrasts, is a place where ancient traditions coexist with modern vibrancy. Its diverse cultural heritage, amazing historical landmarks, mouthwatering local cuisine, and most importantly warm Sicilian hospitality create a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Palermo’s historic center is rich in attractions that reflect the city’s fascinating history and cultural diversity. Most are located west of the main shopping street Via Roma in the area around Via Vittorio Emanuele. Here the most amazing landmarks alternate with countless restaurants and bars as well as small specialty shops. Basically, you could spend days on the two kilometers of this boulevard, which runs from Porta Felice almost on the shores of the Mediterranean in the east to Porta Nuova in the west, right next to the Palazzo dei Normanni. 

As I mentioned above, the Via Vittorio Emanuele connects the city gates Porta Nuova in the west and Porta Felice in the east. The latter is a stone’s throw from the shores of the Mediterranean in Palermo’s Kalsa district. It is one of the city’s most historic and culturally significant areas. Its story spans centuries, reflecting Palermo’s diverse influences and transformations which makes the neighborhood one of the city’s must-see places.

Once in Palermo, you need to

• get a panoramic view from the top floor of the Rinascente department store
• climb down to the Catacombe dei Cappuccini 
• explore the amazing Palazzo dei Normanni
• rub shoulders with locals in the Kalsa district
• enjoy Sicilian street food at the Mercato di Ballarò

But there is so much more to explore – as you can read in my post Best Things to Do in Two Days in PALERMO.

Agrigento And Piazza Armerina

One of the most memorable things I did in Sicily was an extraordinary excursion to two of its most iconic archeologic 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.

The first part took us to the so-called Valle dei Templi on the outskirts of Agrigento. This area south of today’s city center is among the most impressive archaeological sites in Sicily. It was founded in the second wave of Greek colonization in the 1st century BC. It then developed into the second-most important Greek polis in Sicily after Syracuse. To this day, the magnificent Doric temples remain one of the most outstanding monuments of Greek art and culture. They bear witness to the size, power, and cultural heyday of the city at that time.

Rightfully, UNESCO declared the archaeological sites of Agrigento a World Heritage Site in 1997.

Villa Romana del Casale

While the Valle dei Templi was pretty impressive, the Villa Romana, that we visited in the afternoon, definitely took the cake. I must say that I’m a huge admirer of mosaics from the Antiquity, hence, at this Roman villa, I found my Dorado as it is best known for its vast and intricate mosaic floors. Those are undoubtedly some of the finest surviving examples of Roman art and are proof of exceptional craftsmanship and ingenious storytelling.

The Villa Romana del Casale is located near the town of Piazza Armerina about halfway between Agrigento and Catania almost 100 kilometers from each of those cities. It is one of the most remarkable examples of a late Roman villa and a masterpiece of Roman architecture. With its intricate design featuring baths, private apartments, a basilica, and central courtyards, it also reflects the opulence and sophistication of Roman life.

The villa was built between the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD, hence, during the height of the Roman Empire. It has probably been the luxurious country residence of a wealthy Roman aristocrat.

Yet, after the fall of the Roman Empire, also the villa fell into disuse. During the medieval era, soil and rubble from landslides covered the edifice. Ironically, this actually helped preserve its mosaics. After its rediscovery in the 19th century, systematic excavations began in the 20th century. In 1997, UNESCO designated the villa a World Heritage Site.

For more info on how to visit these sites as well as comprehensive guides go to my post The Valley of the Temples of Agrigento And La Villa Romana del Casale di Piazza Armerina: A Day Trip Not to Miss.

Syracuse

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!

Syracuse is Sicily’s fourth largest city and is located at the southeastern tip of the island. It is particularly known for its rich and eventful heritage.

Yet, the modern city of Syracuse is relatively unspectacular. Relaxed and friendly, but generally speaking, nothing to write home about. However, there is an archaeological park, home to the stunning Greek Theatre and the so-called Ear of Dionysius, as well as the Chiesa di Santa Lucia al Sepolcro where you can admire Caravaggio’s painting Burial of Saint Lucy.

Most visitors, however, are mainly drawn to the Ortigia peninsula off Syracuse. Here you can meander through a dazzling labyrinth of narrow streets lined with baroque palaces and ancient ruins, all that surrounded by the sparkling Ionian Sea. Every corner whispers stories of Greek philosophers, Roman emperors, and medieval knights. Two bridges connect the islet with the modern part of Syracuse.

Grand Past

Ortigia was settled by the Greeks in the 8th century BC when Corinthians founded Syracuse. It became the nucleus of the city, playing a pivotal role in Greek colonization. It housed important sanctuaries, such as the Temple of Apollo, one of the oldest Doric temples in Sicily.

During its peak, Syracuse rivaled Athens and Carthage in wealth and power, partly due to Ortigia’s strategic position. The Temple of Athena, later converted into a cathedral, is a symbol of this era’s prosperity. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Byzantine, Arab, and Norman influences shaped Ortigia’s faith and appearance.

Following a devastating earthquake in 1693, the Baroque period brought significant architectural renewal. You’ll see it around the stunning Piazza del Duomo and its cathedral.

Once in Syracuse, you need to

• pay Caravaggio’s painting Burial of St. Lucia at the Santa Lucia al Sepolcro church
• explore the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis
• enjoy long walks criss cross the peninsula of Ortigia
• get mesmerized by the golden afternoon light illuminating the baroque buildings
• sample a humongous sandwich at Caseificio Borderi

But there is so much more to explore – as you can read in my post SYRACUSE Unveiled: A Trip to the Ancient Wonders and Coastal Charms of Sicily.

Noto

Noto is one of the late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto, which UNESCO declared a World Heritage Site in 2002. The city is located 35 kilometers southwest of Syracuse on the southern edge of the Monti Iblei. It is ideal for a day trip as it can be easily reached by public bus.

About eight kilometers northwest of today’s city lies ancient Neton. It was founded by the Sicels and came under the control of Syracuse early on. Hieron II ruled the city from 263 BC. Eventually, the Romans took over.

Noto gained national importance under the Arabs in the Middle Ages and was the last Muslim bastion in Italy until 1091.

Today’s city only emerged southeast of Noto Antica in 1703. The earthquake of 1693 completely destroyed its predecessor. The new city was built in a general and uniform manner in the Sicilian Baroque style.

A rectangular street grid was used. The preferred building material for churches and palaces was light limestone. This is not insignificant, because, in addition to the breathtaking architecture, everyone raves about the light in Noto. And indeed, the light stone reflects the sun’s rays in such a way that the buildings appear to be bathed in gold, especially in the soft light of the waning afternoon sun.

So if you like photography and really want to get to know Noto from its most beautiful side, I definitely recommend that you visit the city in the afternoon.

Once in Noto, you need to

• take a look around from the roof terrace of the Chiesa di San Carlo al Corso
• walk in the footsteps of the HBO series The White Lotus around the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi all’Immacolata
• take a glimpse into Noto’s glorious past as you pay the Palazzo Astuto di Fargione a visit
• shop for high-quality ceramic souvenirs at Maioliche Artistiche di Sebastiano Caristia
• get mesmerized by the golden afternoon light illuminating the baroque buildings

But there is so much more to explore – as you can read in my post What to See in NOTO, the Baroque Town of Sicily.

Taormina

Agreed, Taormina is definitely one of the most touristy places in Sicily, and this comes with all the annoyances overtourism tends to cause. Regardless, no one can deny that Taormina is the most beautiful town in all of Sicily.

The picturesque town of Taormina is perched on the eastern coast of Sicily and renowned for its breathtaking views. From Taormina, you get to see the Ionian Sea as well as Mount Etna. Founded in the 4th century BC by the Sicels and later colonized by the Greeks, it became a significant hub during the Hellenistic period. The ancient Greeks built Taormina’s most iconic landmark, the Teatro Greco. Even today, you can enjoy performances at this stunning venue!

Just like all of the mesmerizing island of Sicily, various civilizations shaped Taormina throughout its history. The influences of the Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish are evident in its architecture, cuisine, and cultural heritage to this date. During the Middle Ages, it thrived as a Norman stronghold, and its medieval charm remains a draw for visitors.

Resort for the Rich’n’Famous

Much later, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Taormina gained fame as a retreat for European aristocracy and artists. Obviously, they were enchanted by its idyllic setting and romantic allure. It has been a muse for writers, filmmakers, and artists, its stunning landscapes and rich cultural history serving as an evocative backdrop in literature, film, and other fine arts.

Today, Taormina is still a premier tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the globe. Its appeal lies in its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. You can explore ancient ruins, stroll through charming medieval streets, and enjoy luxury accommodations and fine dining. However, you can also join excursions to nearby attractions such as Mount Etna, the Alcantara Gorge, and Isola Bella.

Taormina’s mix of its historical legacy with luxurious amenities, its rich heritage, and scenic splendor has cemented the city’s status as Sicily’s crown jewel.

Once in Taormina, you need to

• go back in history at the  Teatro Greco
• stroll up and down Corso Umberto
• let the hustle’n’bustle of Piazza IX Aprile make your head spin
• take in iconic views of Mount Etna from the lush Villa Communale
• soak in sun’n’fun on one of Taormina’s pristine beaches

But there is so much more to explore – as you can read in my post What Not to Miss in TAORMINA, the Most Beautiful Town in Sicily.

Catania

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 built during the Baroque period after the city was reconstructed after the devastating earthquake of 1693 reflect the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Although there is no exact number, there are certainly around 50 notable palaces in and around the city, many of which are private residences or used for public purposes today.

Like all major cities in Sicily, Catania weaves ancient history with vibrant modernity. Nestled in the shadow of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, Greek settlers founded Catania back in 729 BCE. Over centuries, it flourished under various rulers. Each of them left an unique imprint. The city’s resilience is legendary, having been rebuilt multiple times after devastating earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Today, you can see traces of its layered history in its stunning architecture, from Roman amphitheaters to Baroque palaces. However, the proximity to Mount Etna makes the city an adventure seeker’s destination. Guided hikes, lava cave explorations, and wine tours on Etna’s fertile slopes offer unforgettable experiences.

For a more relaxed outing, head to the coast, for instance below the picturesque town of Taormina, where beaches and azure waters await.

Once in Catania, you need to

• get the big picture from the roof of Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata
• take a stroll up Via Etnea to admire the fading glory of majestic palaces
• admire murals by Demetrio Di Grado in Via San Michele
• awe at Mount Etna from the Villa Bellini
• have the best pastry in all of Sicily at the Pasticceria Savia

But there is so much more to explore – as you can read in my post One Day in CATANIA, Sicily’s Building Ground of Grand Palaces.

Sicily in Books’n’Series

Here are five of Sicily’s most influential writers and their main works. They offer manifold perspectives on Sicily as well as various approaches and literary styles.

Giovanni Verga wrote I Malavoglia in 1881. The novel follows a fishing family that struggles with poverty and social conflicts. Verga describes the hard life in Sicily and portrays nature and fate as overpowering forces. None other than the famous writer D. H. Lawrence translated the book into English in 1927. Its title is The House by the Medlar Tree.

Leonardo Sciascia’s Il Giorno della Civetta was published in 1961 and tells the story of an inspector who investigates the mafia in a Sicilian village. It examines a society in criminal structures and the power of the mafia. Sciascia is known for his astute criticism of the mafia and Sicily’s political grievances. Archibald Colquhoun carried out the English translation under the title Day of the Owl.

Elio Vittorini’s 1949 novel Le donne di Messina is set during WWII as it follows a group of partisans fighting against fascism. It addresses the tensions between political ideals and personal experiences. Wilfrid David translated the novel into English under the title Into the Sun.

Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa’s 1958 novel Il Gattopardo tells the story of the 19th-century nobleman Fabrizio Salina. It reflects the social changes in Sicily during Italy’s unification and addresses the decline of the nobility and the emergence of the new middle class. Archibald Colquhoun translated the novel which was then published as The Leopard in 1960.

La forma dell’acqua is the first novel in the Montalbano series by Andrea Camilleri and was published in 1994. It follows Inspector Montalbano, who solves criminal cases with a dose of humor, targeting regional problems and social tensions. Local color and human complexity characterize the novel. Stephen Sartarelli translated it into English. The title is The Shape of Water.

The White Lotus II

Obviously, Sicily has not only found its way into world literature. The island has also provided an excellent backdrop for films and series.

Most recently, Taormina lent its dramatic setting and luxurious ambiance to the hit HBO series The White Lotus and enriched the series’ storyline. The series explores themes of privilege, power dynamics, and interpersonal drama among guests and staff at a high-end resort. Taormina, of course, serves as the perfect backdrop.

The series’ fictional White Lotus Resort is located in the opulent San Domenico Palace. Originally a 14th-century monastery, this historic hotel enchants with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, as well as its lush gardens and timeless architecture.

The inclusion of Taormina in The White Lotus has further strengthened the city’s profile as a luxury destination, obviously. Fans of the series flocked to Taormina to experience the cinematic charm first-hand. The series has reinforced Taormina’s image as a glamorous and emerging destination by combining its natural beauty with the appeal of storytelling.

I’m introducing the town in my post What Not to Miss in TAORMINA, the Most Beautiful Town in Sicily. However, one of the key scenes of the series takes place in the Sicilian baroque city of Noto, and of course, you can also find a post about this architectural gem on my blog: What to see in NOTO, the baroque town of Sicily.

Mafia Only Kills in Summer

If you, like me, have fallen deeply in love with Sicily and would therefore like to get closer to the recent Sicilian history, everyday life, and the people, I have a great tip for you: The series Mafia Only Kills in Summer takes you very close to the family Giammaresi.

To the father Lorenzo who wants the best for his family and strives to live uprightly despite the generally accepted trickery and corruption all around him. You get to meet the mother Pia who, after working as a teacher for decades, has not been able to get a permanent contract because everyone else is cheating their way into their position through small scams. Then there is their daughter Angela, who is in love with love and therefore falls from one disappointment to the next.

The adorable ten-year-old son Salvatore is also the narrator of the story and guides you through the entire series.

Laughter Sticks in Your Throat

The story of this family is charming, touching, and often very, very funny. The only downside is that they were living in Palermo in the 1970s. At an era when the everyday life of all citizens, no matter how blameless they are, is affected by the machinations and crimes of the Cosa Nostra, hence, the Sicilian Mafia.

In this series, the depiction of the mafia is not a glimpse into the decadent, glittering world of organized crime. There is no horse’s head in bed, small traders are brutally beaten if they cannot raise the protection money. In this series, the mafia’s greed, corruption, cold-bloodedness, and cruelty are far from being thrilling. They are simply frightening and destructive.

Apart from the excellent cast of all the protagonists, historical film footage from the 1970s is seamlessly intertwined, so that you really feel like you are experiencing first-hand what life was like for ordinary people in Sicily not so long ago.

If you have just been to Palermo, you will enjoy seeing many of the places and buildings that I also present in my post Best Things to Do in Two Days in PALERMO: The high school that Angela attends is the Liceo Classico Vittorio Emanuele II right next to the cathedral, and she strolls around the amazing Praetorian Fountain with her boyfriend. After his promotion, Lorenzo works in the stately Palazzo dei Normanni, to name just three places that you will immediately recognize.

The series Mafia Only Kills in Summer consists of two seasons of 12 episodes each and I simply cannot recommend it enough.

Practical Information

How to Get There And Around

By Plane

Sicily, being the largest island in the Mediterranean, has actually four international airports. Since Catania Airport and Palermo Airport are the primary gateways for global travelers, they offer the most extensive networks and facilities. Then, Trapani and Comiso serve as secondary airports, ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those visiting exclusively specific regions of Sicily.

Catania’s Vincenzo Bellini Airport in Fontanarossa is only six kilometers south of the city center. It is the busiest airport in Sicily with a wide choice of domestic and international flights.

There are various bus connections to Catania city center as well as direct connections to other Sicilian cities such as Syracuse and Taormina.

Palermo’s Falcone–Borsellino Airport in Punta Raisi is located 35 kilometers west of Sicily’s capital, however, due to amazing connections by train as well as bus it’s as easily accessible as the hub in Catania. From here, there are also domestic as well as international flights, with many connections to Europe and North Africa.

Finally, the Vincenzo Florio Airport near Trapani and the Vincenzo Magliocco Airport near Comiso are primarily hubs for low-cost airlines, charter flights, and seasonal connections. However, access to adjacent towns is easy. From the Comiso Airport, you can even catch buses to Ragusa or Modica.

By Ferry

Travelling to Sicily by ferry is a popular and scenic option, offering connections from mainland Italy and other locations. The most common national routes are from Villa San Giovanni in Calabria to Messina. This is the shortest crossing as it connects the tip of the mainland to northeastern Sicily so the ride takes only around half an hour. Also, ferries run frequently, often every 30 minutes.

However, you can also take a ferry to Palermo from Sardinia’s capital Cagliari. This seasonal service takes around twelve hours and is a very scenic way to combine visits to both islands. From Pozzallo in Malta, you’ll get to Catania in two to three hours, depending on the route and the vessel. Also, there are frequent high-speed ferries from Valletta to southeastern Sicily.

When looking for ferry connections, make sure to check also the respective ports as those might differ. Also, taking the ferry is not necessarily cheaper than going by plane. However, it is a more eco-friendly way of travelling. Also, it is the only option if you have to take your car across the sea.

Land Transport

Getting to Sicily by train or overland bus from mainland Italy is straightforward, thanks to well-established transportation networks. Also, it is a very relaxed and scenic option.

Direct trains connect major Italian cities to Sicilian destinations such as Palermo, Catania, Messina, and Syracuse. As you opt for an overnight service, you save time and even money for accommodation. Trains to Sicily board a ferry to cross the Strait of Messina which usually takes around half an hour. Passengers remain on the train as it is loaded onto the ferry.

To give you an idea: From Milan, the overnight train takes 20 hours, from Rome it takes twelve hours, and from Naples, it takes only seven. Tickets can be purchased through Trenitalia and advanced booking is recommended, especially during the high season and for overnight journeys.

Obviously, long-distance buses connect cities on the Italian mainland with major cities in Sicily, too. They take a bit longer but are also cheaper. The most popular operators are Flixbus and Itabus.

In Sicily, trains are also connecting bigger cities, however, travelling by overland bus is far more popular as it is a more reliable and even a bit cheaper option. Also, in contrast to trains, buses serve smaller towns and villages. The biggest players are Interbus and SAIS.

Organized Trips

Although the regional bus system in Sicily is not bad at all, there are places on the island that are difficult to reach by public transport. If you are a slow traveler and can plan an additional overnight stay, it is definitely possible to explore Sicily exclusively by public bus.

But if you can’t plan a whole day for each remote attraction, here are some great options for exploring Sicily on organized day trips*:

Where to Stay

Obviously, Sicily has been a popular tourist destination for national as well as international visitors alike. Therefore, you’ll find at least a small choice of lodging options even in more remote places. Apart from big, luxurious hotels, there are small guest houses and privately run B&Bs and apartments. There, in general, the hosts will get out of their way to make you feel comfortable.

I recommend accommodations for specific places in the individual posts. However, this map will help you find convenient places to stay during your visit*:

What to Eat

Sicilian food is a vibrant reflection of the island’s rich history and cultural influences. Situated in the heart of the Mediterranean, Sicily has been influenced by Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, and Spanish cultures, and its cuisine tells this story with bold flavors, unique ingredients, and diverse cooking techniques. The Arab influence is particularly strong, seen in the use of raisins, pine nuts, saffron, and couscous in dishes.

No, the most iconic dish is not pizza, the inalienable staple are Arancini, deep-fried rice balls filled with ragù, hence a juicy meat sauce, cheese, or vegetables. They are the perfect snack and – according to pure bone Sicilians – eating them with a knife and fork is a sacrilege.
Another highly popular fast food is are so-called Panelle. These fritters are made from chickpea flour and are often served in sandwiches.

My favorite Sicilian dish is Caponata, a sweet and sour eggplant stew, seasoned with olives, capers, and tomatoes. Add ricotta cheese and basil, and you have a sauce alla Norma that you can pour over pasta or stuff into Arancini. Another incredible pasta sauce is con le Sarde, hence with sardines, but also with fennel, pine nuts, and raisins. This sauce clearly showcases Arab influences in local cuisine.

And yes, there is also pizza. The Sicilian kind is called Sfincione. It is softer and thicker than its Neapolitan counterpart and topped with tomatoes, onions, anchovies, and breadcrumbs.

Arancino Or Arancina?

For years, I called the delicious rice ball an arancino. Until I went to buy one of these delicacies at the Palermo bus station and was surprised to see that the sign said arancina.
Well, you live, you learn.

The next day, I wanted to get my daily fix of deliciously stuffed rice in a crispy crust in Syracuse – and the saleswoman called it an arancino.

How now?

Quite simply: depending on where you are, both are correct. In most Italian regions, delicious rice cones are called arancini, in the singular arancino.
But in Palermo, they say arancina, which makes it arancine in the plural.
Because here – and only here! – the treat is not a cone, but a ball.
Round like an orange.
Which is called arancia in Italian.
Hence, for Palermitani, the matter is clear: an orange-shaped ball can only be an arancina.

Buon appetito!

Bakeries’N’Bars

I have often sung the praises of Italian coffee bar culture. I just love the atmosphere when police officers, students, garbage collectors, and elegant office ladies gather at the counter in the morning for a quick coffee, a pistachio cream-filled croissant, and a friendly chat. Nevertheless, the fact that a classic Italian breakfast doesn’t fill me up is an obvious flaw in the system. Luckily, almost all bars also offer lavish sandwiches and stuffed savory pastries, so I can enjoy those.

Although I don’t really have a sweet tooth, cannoli have conquered my heart – and most importantly my taste buds. This is primarily because they are traditionally filled with only slightly sweetened ricotta cheese. This creamy filling in combination with the crispy coating is simply irresistible.

The other traditional sweets such as Cassata, a decadent layered cake with ricotta, marzipan, and candied fruit, and marzipan fruits just made it onto my souvenir list. They’re pretty and colorful, but the taste isn’t for me.

Cash and Cards

Until now, 20 European countries have replaced their former local currency with the €uro starting in 2002. Obviously, Italy is one of them. The exchange rate is 1 US$ = 0.92 EUR as of February 2025. However, you can check today’s conversion rate on this page. Mind you, paying by card as well as contactless is accepted basically everywhere.

Language

Zushini, Gnotchi, Raditcho – I’m bleeding from my ears as I hear these mispronunciations so often.
Seriously, it’s not so hard.

So here are some general rules: As in any other Romance language, C is hard when written before A, O, and U, hence, it’s pronounced K.

If followed by E or I, it’s tch as in witch.

Now, if a C followed by E or I should be pronounced K, an H is added: Bruschetta, Zucchini, Gnocchi, Radicchio – Brusketta, Zukini, Gnoki, Radikio.

On the other hand, if C followed by A, O, or U should be pronounced tch, they slip in a – silent! – I: Ciocolata, Ciabatta – Tchocolata, Tchabatta – forget about the I in-between.

Italian Classes in Sicily

As a matter of fact, it might be a great idea to learn some Italian or brush up on what you already know while in Sicily. A great place to do so is for instance the Italian Academy in Syracuse.

They advertise that they are professional and friendly and I can fully confirm that. I took a two-week intensive course and progressed a whole level in that time. So if you want to completely immerse yourself in Italian life with all your senses, take a look at what the school has to offer.

If you are interested in taking Italian classes, but you’re insecure about how to organize your stay, don’t worry. The friendly and efficient ladies at the academy’s office are accommodating and can arrange literally everything for you.

After a placement test, they advise you which class would be your best choice and help you with every little detail including providing housing for the duration of your course.

Connection and Communication

Since June 2017, no roaming charges have been applied within the EU with a European mobile phone contract, This applies in all 27 countries of the European Union as well as in Great Britain, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway and to all contracts.

In case European roaming is unavailable, you can connect to the internet without any issue at basically every museum, eatery, café, and, of course, hotel.

If you insist on being online 24/7, you can get a SIM card, obviously. There are prepaid SIM cards by various companies. For non-European travellers visiting Italy, the best SIM cards are Telecom Italia Mobile, in short TIM. It is Italy’s largest mobile operator with excellent coverage and data speeds. Their best plan should be TIM Tourist SIM which supplies you bis 20 GB and 200 minutes to international numbers. It costs around 20 €uros and is valid for 30 days.

A good alternative is Vodafone Italy with their plan Vodafone Holiday. For 30 days, you get 30 GB and 300 minutes for calls, including international numbers, for around 30 €uros.

Finally, WindTre is a great option for budget-conscious travelers as their WindTre Tourist Pass offers 20 GB and 100 minutes for international and unlimited calls within Italy, all this also for 30 days.

This being said, e-sim cards are the easiest way to stay connected as you arrange everything on the internet.

Get the Power

The standard voltage in Europe is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. In Italy, they use three plug types, namely C, F, and L.
Whereby, since nowadays, all these chargers have integrated adapters, in general, the voltage and frequency don’t really matter. You only need an adapter for small appliances such as curling irons or hair dryers. But keep in mind that at basically every accommodation you will have a hair dryer at your disposal.

You’ll find comprehensive travel info in my post World’s Most Complete Travel Information – an indispensable globetrotter-classic.

These Are the Places I Visited

Pinnable Pictures

So, you’re planning on visiting the phenomenal island of Sicily? Then make sure to pin one of these pix for future reference:

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