Italy
From Scenic Views to Sicilian Cuisine: Top 10 Must-Visit Spots on the Island
1. Erice – Hilltop Views & Almond Pastries
From Castello di Venere, gaze over the Trapani coast, Egadi Islands, and salt flats. The old town feels frozen in time.
Bonus: Visit Torretta Pepoli and walk the stone streets at golden hour.
Try: Genovesi pastries filled with warm custard.
2. Castellammare del Golfo – Coastal Charm & Nightlife
This lively seaside town has roots dating back to Arab and Norman times, with its Arabo-Norman castle overlooking a picturesque harbor. Wander the old town’s steps, viewpoints, and historic alleyways.
Best View: Head to the Belvedere Castellammare del Golfo by car for sweeping views of the bay, castle, and surrounding coastline — especially stunning at sunset.
Try: Fresh seafood pasta or busiate al pesto trapanese, followed by a stroll along the marina for gelato or drinks — the nightlife here is popular with locals too!
3. San Vito lo Capo – Beach Bliss & Couscous
White sands and turquoise water framed by Monte Monaco.
Bonus: Visit in September during the Cous Cous Fest, celebrating Mediterranean cuisine.
Try: Gelato in brioche from La Sirenetta.
4. Cefalù – Seaside Beauty & BEST CANOLLI
This picturesque coastal town combines a long sandy beach with a stunning Norman cathedral, part of a UNESCO site. The town’s old quarter is a maze of stone lanes and seaside charm.
Bonus: Hike up La Rocca di Cefalù for panoramic views over the town and Tyrrhenian Sea — a sunrise or sunset here is unforgettable.
Try: A seaside dinner with seafood pasta or classic Sicilian pizza, followed by pistachio gelato from a local gelateria.
5. Mount Etna – Europe’s Tallest Active Volcano
Ride the cable car or hike lunar-like lava fields. On clear days, you can see from the summit to the sea.
Bonus: Explore nearby villages like Zafferana Etnea or take a guided crater tour.
Try: Etna DOC wine from local vineyards.
6. Palermo – Street Food & Splendor
Norman-Arab churches, chaotic markets (like Ballarò), and the stunning Palermo Cathedral rooftop.
Bonus: Visit the Palatine Chapel for dazzling mosaics.
Cuisine: Arancini, sfincione, pane con panelle—street food capital of Sicily.
Don’t Miss: Capuchin Catacombs and Ballarò Market.
7. Monreale – Gold Mosaics & Valley Views
The Cathedral of Monreale, with its glittering Byzantine mosaics and a terrace overlooking Palermo.
Bonus: Climb to the roof for sweeping valley views.
Cuisine: Grab a cannoli or cassata siciliana from pastry shops near the cathedral.
Don’t Miss: The stunning mosaics inside Monreale Cathedral.
8. Scala dei Turchi – White Cliff Wonder
A dazzling white marl cliff plunging into the turquoise sea near Agrigento.
Bonus: Visit at sunset or walk down to nearby Capo Rossello beach.
Tip: Access is often restricted, so check if viewpoints or guided visits are allowed.
Cuisine: Nearby trattorias serve spaghetti ai ricci (sea urchin pasta).
Don’t Miss: Dusk views from Belvedere Scala dei Turchi.
9. Segesta – Ancient Theater & Hillside Temples
360° views from the Greek theater over untouched countryside.
Cuisine: Rustic local food at nearby agriturismi—panelle, pecorino, olives.
Don’t Miss: Shuttle or hike to the hilltop theater.
10. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro – Coastal Trails
A wild stretch of coastline with turquoise coves like Cala Tonnarella and Cala del Leone.
Bonus: Bring water and swimwear — no cars, just hiking and swimming.
Try: Pane cunzatu (seasoned bread) in nearby Scopello.
