Due to its versatile landscapes and rich history, it is no wonder that Sicily captivates so many that travel there. Full of cultural treasures, sparkling seas and vast mountains there is so much to see and do. However, what if you only had a week to explore this region? Sicily has an area of 25,711 km², so it may be hard to explore the whole island in just a few days. We suggest it might be better to focus on one particular area, for example, you can choose to visit the west coast of Sicily, or devote yourselves exclusively to the Etna area or the Temples in Agrigento.
Those wishing to choose the west coast will be able to see a lovely handful of things to fill up your time. The ideal starting point is the beautiful town of Marsala, then heading towards Trapani, while taking mandatory stops in Erice and Sav Vito Lo Capo, and then continuing northeast towards Palermo. Before arriving in the capital of Sicily, which can be visited rather summarily in a single day, you should spend some time in the ancient Segesta, in Scopello and Castellammare del Golfo. If you have some time after the whirlwind tour in the centre of Palermo, you can use it for a quick trip in Monreale.
Alternatively, Marsala, which is just 13 km from the Trapani international airport, can be the base of a memorable journey to the south-east in the direction of Agrigento. Among the approximately 135 km separating the two cities, lie the beautiful Mazara del Vallo, the Archaeological Park of Selinunte, Castelvetrano, Sciacca and Porto Empedocles. The last stage can be the extraordinary location of the Valley of the Temples, which you can visit in a couple of hours. Some incredible finds which date back more than 2,500 years ago are still visible in other interesting cities of this area, such as Eraclea Minoa, Naro, Licata and Sant’Angelo Muxaro.
From west to east of Sicily, you can see other amazing spectacles of this beautiful island. In just three days you can see the entire east coast from Syracuse to Messina (or the opposite, for those coming from the north) through Catania, but you run the risk of overlooking too many attractions. In Melilli, Aci Trezza, Acireale with deviation toward the crater of Etna and its Park, Giardini Naxos, Isola Bella and Taormina; it is any hit-and-run itinerary for particularly determined travelers.
With this being said, below you will find some things that you should also add to your itinerary list.
Mount Etna
One of the most memorable landscapes which you will see on your visit to Sicily. There are several approaches up to the volcano, and if you hire a car, you can enjoy some of the better views which stretch across the north side of the volcano. To get to the very top of the volcano, you can either go by foot or cable car. Your breath will be taken away by the spectacular views, and it really is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be able to see a volcano.
Valle dei Templi
Sicily is known for being a cultural haven, and Valle dei Templi or Valley of the Temples, shows us exactly this. Located on the south coast of the island, this is Sicily’s most fascinating archaeological site which covers the ruined ancient city of Akrages. You will feel like you have stepped foot in Greece, and these beautiful ancient structures are truly magical to set your eyes on.
Isola Bella
For those looking to relax, Isola Bella Beach is the most famous in Taormina. Protected by the bay and the mountains, this means that bathing season is longer here than the rest of the island. Surrounded by nature, crystal clear water, it is a great place to unwind and appreciate the scenery surrounding the coastline.
When visiting this beautiful region, finding somewhere great to stay can be hard, especially if you are looking for a good base for your daily adventures. There are lots of options, but why not look for luxury villas in Sicily? What could be better than spending a long day exploring and returning to a stunning and luxurious abode?
