Ancient theatre of Taormina with Etna in the distance

Sicily vacations

Sicily vacations

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Strategically placed at the heart of the Mediterranean, Sicily’s changing fortunes under a succession of colonizers has left a rich array of historic sites to explore, from crumbling Greek temples to Roman villas, medieval fortresses and lavish Baroque towns. Our specialists can guide you as you plan your trip, using their first-hand knowledge of Sicily to help you decide where's best to go depending on your interests. Whether you only have time to see one set of ancient temples or want to visit the island's finest vineyards, they're there to guide you along the way.

You can learn about ancient history as you explore the Grecian Valley of the Temples, marvel at the intricacies of Byzantine mosaic work in Palermo, stroll along the sophisticated streets of Syracuse or venture onto the slopes of Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano. Sicily is a many-faceted place to visit, and our specialists have explored the main sights and the lesser-known ones. They’ll carefully plan your vacation as an individual tailor-made trip to match your preferences.

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Audley Travel Country Specialist Kerry-Ann

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Sicily by contacting one of our Italy specialists

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Places to visit in Sicily

Featuring heavily on our experiences of visiting Sicily, these selected places are destinations that also prove consistently popular with our travelers. Our specialists can help you choose how to include them in your wider trip, based on your preferences.

Suggested itineraries featuring Sicily

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Sicily, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Sicily

Places & hotels on the map

    Places in and around Sicily

    Photos of Sicily

    • Mount Etna
      Mount Etna
    • Marina, Syracuse
      Marina, Syracuse
    • Slopes of volcano, Mount Etna
      Slopes of volcano, Mount Etna
    • Duomo, Syracuse
      Duomo, Syracuse
    • Olive grove and vineyard, Mount Etna
      Olive grove and vineyard, Mount Etna
    • Local street, Syracuse
      Local street, Syracuse
    • Vineyard, Mount Etna
      Vineyard, Mount Etna
    • Duomo, Syracuse
      Duomo, Syracuse

    Our expert guides to exploring Sicily

    Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Sicily, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Sicily at its best.

    • Where to visit in Sicily
      Ancient statue, Palermo

      Where to visit in Sicily

      Where to visit in Sicily

      Beyond its azure waters and white pebbled beaches, Sicily offers a complex cultural experience, one that is seen in its Baroque churches, open-air markets, Greek ruins and complex cuisine. Discover why it’s the crossroads of the Mediterranean with Audley specialist Kimberly.

      11 min read

      Read this guide

    Accommodation choices for Sicily

    We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Sicily. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

    • Monaci delle Terre Nere, Zafferana Etnea

      Monaci delle Terre Nere

      First Class

      An intriguing blend between a rustic agriturismo (farm stay) and a chic, modern design hotel the Monaci delle Terre Nere offers a retreat from the frantic bustle of modern life.

    • Zash Country Boutique Hotel, Riposto

      Zash Hotel

      Deluxe

      Encircled by citrus groves in the countryside between Catania and Taormina, Zash Hotel is a luxuriously chic boutique property with an excellent gourmet restaurant, spa and swimming pool.

    • Verdura Resort, Sciacca

      Verdura Resort

      Deluxe

      Located on an area of private coastline, surrounded by olive groves, the Verdura Resort is a haven by the sea. The luxurious facilities, refreshing rooms and unparalleled views provide the setting for a relaxing stay.

    • Baglio Oneto Resort, Marsala

      Baglio Oneto Resort

      Medium

      Well-located between Trapani and Marsala, Baglio Oneto is a charming hotel that makes a great base for those exploring western Sicily. With a large swimming pool and its own wine tasting on site, it makes an ideal stopover.

    • Eremo della Giubiliana, Ragusa

      Eremo della Giubiliana

      First Class

      A former Benedictine monastery and stronghold of the Knights of Malta, the Eremo della Giubiliana is a historic country retreat equidistant between Modica and Ragusa.

    • De Stefano Palace, Ragusa

      De Stefano Palace

      First Class

      Situated within a converted period townhouse, the De Stefano Palace is a smart and stylish option with a luxurious spa complex. The hotel is well located for exploring Ragusa and Ragusa Ibla on foot.

    • Roof terrace, Hotel Plaza Opera, Palermo

      Hotel Plaza Opera

      Medium

      Located in the heart of Palermo, Hotel Plaza Opera is a chic city hotel with a charming roof terrace overlooking the nearby Teatro Garibaldi.

    • Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel, Syracuse

      Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel

      First Class

      A charming boutique hotel nestled within the heart of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, the Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel is a beautifully refined and sophisticated option.

    • Outdoor terrace, Mandranova

      Mandranova

      First Class

      Nestled within a large working olive farm, Mandranova is a beautiful, upscale agriturismo (farm stay). The property is well located for exploring the temples at Agrigento and makes for a charming and stylish stay.

    • Hotel Villa Athena, Agrigento

      Hotel Villa Athena

      First Class

      A refined boutique hotel right in the heart of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, the Hotel Villa Athena offers unparalleled views of the Temples of Juno and Concordia, and surrounding landscape.

    • Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna, Agrigento

      Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna

      Medium

      Housed within an ancient fortified farmhouse, the Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna boasts beautiful gardens and views of the surrounding countryside toward the Valley of the Temples. It is a modest but utterly charming property.

    • Belmond Villa Sant'Andrea, Taormina

      Belmond Villa Sant'Andrea

      Deluxe

      A wonderful beachside hotel, located just below the main town of Taormina, the Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea offers plenty of sophisticated luxury, impeccable service and relaxed charm. Guests staying here also have full access to the facilities at the sister property, the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, in the heart of Taormina.

    • The Ashbee suite, The Ashbee Hotel, Taormina

      The Ashbee

      First Class

      The elegant Ashbee Hotel is a refined and sophisticated property within easy walking distance of the heart of Taormina. Outside, a fabulous panoramic terrace boasts views across the sea and coastline below.

    • Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, Taormina

      Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo

      Deluxe

      One of Sicily’s most impressive hotels, Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo offers impeccable service and incredible views across the rooftops of Taormina and down to the dramatic coastline below. Offering a range of excellent facilities, it’s a classically elegant and luxurious hotel.