Italy
Sicily’s Best Viewpoints and Local Delights: A Perfect Combo for Foodies and Travelers
1. Erice
Perched nearly 750 meters above sea level, Erice is a medieval town frozen in time. Its origins trace back to the Elymians, and it later became a stronghold under the Normans and Arabs. The cobbled streets, stone archways, and timeless churches give it a fairytale feel — all wrapped in the scent of pine and pastry. The town was once a spiritual center dedicated to the goddess Venus, and remnants of her temple still remain. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Egadi Islands and even the African coastline. Today, it’s a favorite escape for both locals and travelers seeking charm, history, and views.
- Viewpoint: Garden of Balio – Stunning panoramic views of Trapani, the salt flats, and the surrounding coastline. The garden is tranquil and shaded, ideal for a quiet moment.
Local Delight: Visit Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, where you can try handmade genovesi ericine — warm, sugar-dusted pastries filled with lemon-scented custard.
2. Castellammare del Golfo
Once a key port in ancient Segesta’s trade network, Castellammare del Golfo later became an Arab stronghold and Norman castle site. Its layered history unfolds along the coastline, where fishermen’s boats still dot the marina, and timeworn buildings overlook the sea. The Arabo-Norman Castle guards the harbor like a timeless sentinel, with panoramic views over the turquoise gulf. Today, it’s a favorite among locals for its nightlife, harbor strolls, and authentic cuisine.
- Viewpoint: Belvedere Castellammare del Golfo – Located just outside the town on a cliffside bend, this is the spot for the ultimate photo of the harbor, castle, and coastline.
- Local Delight: Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional pasta dishes like busiate at Luxor, a beloved restaurant by both locals and visitors.
3. Cefalù
Cefalù flourished under Norman rule, and its iconic 12th-century cathedral was commissioned by King Roger II. This coastal gem combines medieval charm with beachside beauty. Its historic center is a labyrinth of narrow streets leading to golden sands and vibrant piazzas. The town retains a timeless air, and its blend of history and sea make it one of Sicily’s most photogenic spots.
- Viewpoint: Rocca di Cefalù – A moderately steep hike rewards you with panoramic views over the cathedral, rooftops, and Tyrrhenian Sea.
- Local Delight: Grab arancine or a seafood cone from a beachside vendor and eat with your feet in the sand.
4. Trapani Salt Pans
Used since Phoenician times, the salt pans of Trapani have shaped the area’s economy and ecology. The landscape becomes magical at sunset when the pools mirror the sky and windmills stand still in the golden light. Nearby museums preserve the heritage of salt harvesting, offering a fascinating peek into this coastal tradition.
- Viewpoint: Near Mamma Caura restaurant or the Salt Museum – best at golden hour for colorful reflections and birdlife.
- Local Delight: Sip aperitivo with a view at Mamma Caura and try local seafood or a Trapani-style pesto pasta.
5. Segesta
Founded by the Elymians, Segesta’s ancient ruins sit quietly amidst Sicily’s rolling hills. The unfinished Doric temple stands as a monument to cultural fusion, while the Greek theater, carved into the stone, peers out across the valley and the distant sea. It’s a place to feel history breathe with every step.
- Viewpoint: The theater itself – dramatic views over hills, valleys, and the Gulf of Castellammare.
- Local Delight: Nearby agriturismos offer rustic meals, but pack antipasti and enjoy a scenic picnic near the temple.
6. San Vito lo Capo
San Vito lo Capo is a beach lover’s paradise, known for its Caribbean-like sand and water. Its cultural roots trace back to Arab and Norman times, centered around a sanctuary-fortress dedicated to Saint Vitus. The surrounding cliffs and watchtowers tell stories of seafaring and defense. Today, it’s a vibrant summer destination.
- Viewpoint: Walk along the beach promenade for stunning views of Monte Monaco framing the turquoise bay.
- Local Delight: Try traditional couscous at a local trattoria or cool off with a gelato from La Sirenetta.
7. Scopello & Zingaro Reserve
Scopello is a stone-built village that centers around a 13th-century tonnara, once used for tuna fishing. The nearby Zingaro Nature Reserve was Sicily’s first protected park and remains a haven for nature and beach lovers. The coastline features coves, cliffs, and paths with Mediterranean views at every turn.
- Viewpoint: Along the coastal path from Scopello into Zingaro – Cala Capreria and Cala dell’Uzzo offer postcard-worthy scenery.
- Local Delight: Don’t miss a slice of Pane Cunzatu, a rustic bread topped with tomato, anchovies, olive oil, and cheese.
8. Scala dei Turchi
Named for pirate landings in centuries past, this natural staircase of white marl stands dramatically against the sea. The unique limestone formation has been shaped by wind and waves into smooth, gleaming steps. It’s one of the island’s most iconic natural wonders, though often closed for preservation.
- Viewpoint: Belvedere Scala dei Turchi – offers the safest and most scenic overlook without needing beach access.
- Local Delight: Head to nearby Realmonte for gelato or a beachside granita, perfect after viewing the cliffs.
9. Tonnara di Scopello
This ancient tuna fishery dates back to the 13th century and is set against a dramatic rocky coastline. Once a hub of Sicily’s maritime economy, the Tonnara is now a serene historical site with turquoise waters and iconic sea stacks known as faraglioni.
- Viewpoint: Walk to the cliffside just above the Tonnara for postcard views of the sea stacks and old buildings.
- Local Delight: Grab a freshly made Pane Cunzatu at a local café in Scopello village—rustic bread topped with tomatoes, anchovies, and cheese.
10. Palermo
Sicily’s vibrant capital is a mosaic of architectural styles and cultural influences—from Arab-Norman cathedrals to Baroque palaces and bustling street markets. With over 2,700 years of history, Palermo offers a rich tapestry of past and present.
- Viewpoint: Climb to the rooftop of the Palermo Cathedral for panoramic views over the old city and mountains beyond.
- Local Delight: Sample traditional street food like arancina or sfincione in the Ballarò or Capo markets for a true taste of local life.
Try arancine (fried rice balls) from Antica Focacceria San Francesco or Ke Palle.
Sample sfincione (Sicilian pizza) at Panificio Graziano.
Visit the historic Ballarò, Capo, or Vucciria markets for pane ca meusa (spleen sandwich), stigghiola (grilled intestines), or panelle (chickpea fritters).
End with a sweet cassata or cannolo from Pasticceria Cappello or Pasticceria Costa.
