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The things to do in Sicily, Italy, offer an exhilarating mix of cultural heritage, culinary treats and adventures. Sicily is the largest Mediterranean island, home to archaeological marvels like the Valley of the Temples and the imposing Mount Etna volcano. Visitors can wander through ancient Greek ruins, explore bustling open-air markets and savour locally produced wines and cheeses among the various things to see in Sicily. Experience dramatic coastlines, timeless architecture and unique island traditions that make this destination an unforgettable escape for every curious traveller.
Best Things To Do In Sicily, Italy
The things to do in Sicily, Italy, include exploring historic sites, sampling traditional cuisine and enjoying breathtaking scenery at every turn.
1. Scale The Fiery Heights Of Mount Etna
Photo: Mstyslav Chernov / Wikimedia Commons
Experience one of the adventurous things to do in Sicily by scaling Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Traverse stark black lava fields and peer into ancient craters that expose nature’s raw force. Choose a guided ascent with options for trekking or cable car rides to reach higher altitudes. Enjoy wine tasting at vineyards cultivating distinctive wines from volcanic soil. This adventure unites natural wonders with cultural experiences in an unforgettable Sicilian setting.
Location: Eastern Sicily, accessible from Catania or Taormina
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
Best Time To Visit: May to October
2. Travel Back In Time At Taormina’s Ancient Theatre
Photo: LeZibou / Wikimedia Commons
Discover one of the top things to do in Sicily by visiting Taormina’s Ancient Theatre. Perched on a cliff with amazing sea views, this Greco-Roman amphitheatre offers a spectacular setting. Mount Etna stands in the background, enhancing the historical appeal of this 10,000-seat structure from the 3rd century BC. Its clear acoustics and precise construction highlight past engineering skills. Experience sunset illuminations that revive the theatre’s classical atmosphere and timeless cultural heritage.
Location: Taormina, eastern Sicily
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM
Best Time To Visit: April-June, September-October
3. Savour Authentic Flavours On A Palermo Street Food Tour
Photo: Dedda71 / Wikimedia Commons
Indulge in one of the finest things to do in Sicily by exploring Palermo’s street food. Discover culinary heritage influenced by Arab, Norman, and Mediterranean traditions. Taste treats such as arancini, panelle, and pani ca’ meusa. Local guides offer insights as you wander historic Ballarò and Capo markets. This immersive tour clearly connects you with authentic Sicilian food traditions and offers a taste of the island’s diverse flavours in a dynamic urban environment.
Location: Centre of Palermo
Timings: 10 AM – 1 PM
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
4. Witness Timeless Beauty At The Valley Of The Temples
Photo: cattan2011 / Wikimedia Commons
Discover one of the best things to do in Sicily by exploring the Valley of the Temples. This site presents impeccably preserved Greek temples arrayed on a rocky ridge, including seven majestic Doric structures from the 5th century BCE, notably the Temple of Concordia. Wandering among ancient ruins with the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop creates a memorable experience. Evening lights enhance the unique atmosphere of this archaeological marvel, a testament to precise architectural design.
Location: Agrigento, southern Sicily
Timings: 8:30 AM to 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: March-June, September-October
5. Relax On The Golden Shores Of Cefalù Beach
Photo: Jeanne boleyn / Wikimedia Commons
Discover one of the top things to do in Sicily by relaxing on Cefalù Beach. Enjoy Mediterranean sunshine on this beautiful shoreline where golden sands merge with clear waters against a dramatic mediaeval town backdrop. The beach provides ample space for leisure and offers stunning views of the Norman-Arabic cathedral and nearby ancient structures. Its gentle slope supports family visits, and the lively promenade with cafes invites a pleasant coastal stroll along the seafront.
Location: Cefalù, northern Sicily
Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
Best Time To Visit: June to September
6. Marvel At Of Palermo Cathedral
Photo: Victoria / Wikimedia Commons
Experience one of the standout things to do in Sicily by visiting Palermo Cathedral. Here, diverse architectural styles merge as Norman, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical influences are on display. Inside, discover royal tombs and precious artefacts, including Frederick II’s porphyry sarcophagus. A climb to the rooftop walkway provides amazing views of Palermo. This remarkable cathedral reflects Sicily’s historical role as a cultural crossroads where multiple civilisations have contributed enduring architectural feats.
Location: Via Vittorio Emanuele, 490, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy
Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
7. Conquer The Summit Of Stromboli Volcano
Photo: DarwIn / Wikimedia Commons
Experience one of the most thrilling things to do in Sicily by conquering the summit of Stromboli Volcano. Join a twilight expedition that reveals regular eruptions and glowing lava against the darkening sky. A guided trek leads to the 400m Sciara del Fuoco viewpoint, where molten rocks cascade into the sea below. The torchlit descent adds extra excitement to this extraordinary journey steeped in ancient myth, closely linked with the legendary Aeolus, the mythological wind god.
Location: Stromboli Island, Aeolian Islands
Timings: 3 to 4 PM
Best Time To Visit: May-October
8. Discover Ancient Artistry At Villa Romana Del Casale
Photo: Peppe64 / Wikimedia Commons
Explore one of the captivating things to see in Sicily by visiting Villa Romana del Casale. Step into a Roman time capsule that houses an extensive collection of intricate mosaics from the 4th century CE. These detailed artworks portray mythological scenes, hunting adventures and athletic competitions, offering clear insights into Roman daily life and cultural practices. The preserved mosaics narrate stories of historical opulence and creative expression, providing a distinctive window into the island’s fascinating ancient heritage.
Location: Piazza Armerina EN, Italy
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM
Best Time To Visit: April to June, September to October
9. Wander Through Ancient Syracuse And Ortygia Island
Photo: Agostino Artnoir Sella / Wikimedia Commons
Experience one of the popular things to do in Sicily by wandering through ancient Syracuse and Ortygia Island. Explore a city where archaeological ruins intersect with mediaeval structures. The archaeological park features a well-preserved Greek theatre still hosting classical plays, while Ortygia, the historical core, charms visitors with narrow streets and enchanting piazzas. Discover the Piazza del Duomo’s unique cathedral, built on ancient temple foundations, which vividly embodies the island’s captivating legacy of history and culture.
Location: Syracuse, southeastern Sicily
Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: April to June, September to October
10. Journey To Prehistoric Times At Levanzo’s Cave Art
Photo: Anonymous / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
Experience one of the most intriguing things to do in Sicily by journeying to Levanzo’s Cave Art. Travel to this small Egadi island to explore Grotta del Genovese, where prehistoric rock etchings from 12,000 years ago are clearly visible. Accessible by boat through a guided tour, the cave displays distinct Paleolithic and Neolithic art depicting dolphins, goats, and human figures. A torchlit journey creates an intimate connection with ancient artistic traditions and offers a profound insight into early human expression.
Location: Levanzo Island, Egadi Islands (accessible from Trapani)
Timings: 10 AM – 2 PM
Best Time To Visit: May to September
These things to do in Sicily, Italy, combine ancient treasures, majestic landscapes and mouth-watering culinary adventures. Enjoy the blending of historical sites and natural beauty that captivates every visitor. Whether you are marvelling at ancient ruins or relishing savoury Sicilian cuisine, each moment is filled with excitement and wonder. Make memories of what to do in Sicily that last a lifetime. For a seamless holiday experience, explore TripXL’s travel packages and let your Sicilian journey begin with ease and discovery.
Cover Photo: Anonymous / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
