Sicily is a volcanic island in the south of Italy, right in front of the tip of the boot. It is beautifully located in the Mediterranean Sea and is home to the mysterious Mount Etna, the most active volcano in Europe. This is also the biggest attraction here next to the capital Palermo. Many holidaymakers spend their holidays here because of the Roman excavations and the art treasures, but landscape and nature are also usually the focus. Some places in the hinterland have beautiful churches and art treasures, but the coastal areas are also worth a visit. In addition, there are always special markets with cheap clothes for the shopping fans among us.
In the east of the island lies the volcano Etna and the city that is located directly in front of it is called Catania. There used to be trams here, but they have been replaced by buses. There is still a large port today and the excursions to Mount Etna start here in the city. On a city tour, you can explore the ancient traces in the city center. In the towns around the city of Catania you can spend a wonderful beach holiday, because the beaches are magnificent, with their sun loungers and umbrellas that can be rented in summer. The city center has some beautiful ancient sights to offer. You can climb the tower from one of the many churches and have a wide view down to the sea and Mount Etna, the cathedral is reminiscent of an image of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and the Castello Ursino is also worth a visit. The Elephant Fountain is usually the starting point for a guided tour of the city.
Giardini Naxox
One of the most beautiful seaside resorts on the island is Giardini Naxos, which is of Greek origin. There are Greek god figures everywhere in the city and the beach is just fine sand, long and wide. In summer, but also in autumn or spring, you can go swimming here. In recent years, the town has grown and numerous hotel complexes have been built. There is an archaeological park that tells about the history of the city. On the horizon, from Giardini Naxos , you can see the mighty crater of Mount Etna. It erupts regularly every few years and is the most active volcano in Europe. You can make hikes to the New Year’s Eve craters and take a cable car up to the Schlund. The Volcanic Mountains, which are located around Mount Etna, are particularly charming. Even the runines of the houses that burned down after an eruption still stand, like a memorial in the landscape. Here you can see how powerful the force of nature can be.
Alcantara Gorge
One of the most beautiful scenic highlights in Sicily is the Alcantara Gorge, where you can make numerous hikes, look at the river deep down in the rock layers and have to overcome numerous stairs. This gorge was also formed from the lava rock of Etna and is therefore of volcanic origin. Scenically, the date and lemon trees here are a hlighlight. The area around the gorge is very fertile, not only fruit can be found here, but also vines. Here in the hinterland of the island it is very mountainous. The small town of Castiglione di Sicilia is particularly beautiful. It is located high up on a mountain. You can take a train across the Nebrodi Mountains here.
The Isola Bella
One of the most beautiful islands located off Sicily is Isola Bella. Excursion boats regularly sail there from the well-known seaside resorts. A stop is made at the Grotte de l’amore, the grotto of love, which could not shimmer more beautifully in the warm sunlight. On the boat trips, swimming stops are planned in the most beautiful bays. The grotto glows blue, like the Blue Grotto on the island of Capri, but there are also orange corals on the walls. Shortly behind it is the Elephant Rock, which looks like a mighty animal looking out to sea. During the boat trips you get to know the most beautiful places along the coast, namely secluded bays and beautiful small beaches.
Taormina and Castelmola
Two jewels in the north of the island are the towns of Taormina and Castemola, both located high up on the mountains. The best way to discover these places is to rent a scooter. Along the coast stretch small jewels, such as Sant Alessio Siculo or Mazzaro, all with a beautiful sandy beach that invites you to swim. Castelmola is located high above all this on a limestone rock, at an altitude of about 500 meters. You can go for a wonderful stroll, look at numerous artistic shops and find very good Italian restaurants and pizza shops. The castle at the top of the mountain can be visited. Particularly charming is the small bar San Giorgio, where almond wine is served. There are numerous souvenir shops along the shopping street. Taormina is also worth seeing, with its shopping streets, the view over the wide Mediterranean Sea and the numerous galleries located in colorful little houses. There is a Roman amphitheatre right on the hillside, with a wonderful view over the coastal area of northern Sicily.
Capital Palermo
The capital Palermo also has a lot of culture and art treasures to offer. It is the largest city on the island and is located in the northwest. Palazzo Reale and the Cathedral are just two of the famous sights here. 8 kilometres from the city centre is the Dome de Monreale, which is also worth a visit. The big city has plenty of shopping and dining options. It offers its guests all kinds of activities.
