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Curator’s statement
Is Sicily worth visiting? I’ll cut right to the chase - my answer is a resounding YES! This large island off the toe of Italy’s boot is finally being recognized for all it has to offer. For decades, Italy’s classic cities like Rome, Florence and Venice have attracted visitors from around the world, but word is getting out about Siciliy’s picturesque coastline, historic towns, gastronomy and warm hospitality. In addition to its natural beauty, Sicily boasts a unique social, cultural and architectural blend that would be challenging to find anywhere else in the world. All of these elements combine to make for one magical experience. Sicily captured my heart and it will capture yours too!
The Fora Difference
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Killer perks
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Villa Igiea, A Rocco Forte Hotel
A tranquil and stylish retreat in Sicily offering breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the iconic caldera.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel
Perched on a rocky promontory high above the Ionian Sea, this 14th-century convent with panoramic views of Mount Etna offers fine dining and local experiences.
Fora Perks
- ★
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
Villa Sant ’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare
Luxe property from 1830 with upscale rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Lisa to book your trip.
Which areas of Sicily should you visit?
Palermo
Start your visit to Sicily in Palermo, which hosts one of the two airports (the other is on the east coast in Catania) and plan to stay 2-3 nights. Palermo is a cool and gritty city with leftover remnants from WW2 and endless history and art to be discovered. A visit to Palermo wouldn’t be complete without tasting the local gastronomy. My favorites were arancina, cazzilli fritters and of course, cannolis sprinkled with pistachios.
Highlights:
Monreale Cathedral
Palazzo dei Normanni
Palatine Chapel
Teatro Massimo
Mercrato Ballaro
Dinner in the home of a chef. We loved Gabriella Garajo
Agrigento
Sicily is home to some of the world’s best preserved Greek and Roman temples, structures and art. Located along the southwest coast, Agrigento is home to Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most significant representations of Greek architecture and civilization in Italy. This is a site not to be missed!
Image 1: Sunset at Rocco Forte Vedura Hotel; Image 2: Table at Santa Maria LaNave
Highlights:
Valley of the Temples
Scala dei Turchi
Visit a typical Sicilian village like Sant Angelo
Cooking class at Fontes Episcopihttps
Spa/golf at Rocco Forte Vedura Hotel
Taormina
Taormina is a picturesque hilltop town that offers a mix of historic sites, boutique shopping and stunning views. It has become even more popular in recent years due to the popularity of White Lotus Season 2 taking place here. Explore the ancient Greek theater, wander through its vibrant streets, including Corso Umberto, head up to Castelmola for panoramic views and at the end of the day, relax with a granita at Bam Bar.
Highlights:
Greek theater
Castelmora
Boutique shopping
Take the cable car down to the sea and spend the day relaxing on the shore or via a boat excursion
Day trips from Taormina:
Mt Etna
Explore Mt Etna in a 4x4 jeep and walk on lava fields before descending to Santa Maria LaNave, a gorgeous vineyard. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch, including handmade pasta from seven ancient milled grains along with wine pairings from their vineyard. This was definitely a highlight for me!
Val di Noto
Visit the Val di Noto region for its impressive Baroque architecture and stunning splendor. Start your morning in Ragusa, venturing next to Modica where you’ll sample Aztec inspired chocolate, then end your day in Noto.
Need to know
Sicily is a destination in and of itself and deserves a minimum of 7 nights, but 10 would be ideal. The best times to visit are during the shoulder seasons in spring (April, May and early June) and fall (September and October).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Sicily. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Fora Advisor Kara Kassuba's guide, Sicily in April.
Travel Advisor
Lisa Van Brunt
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