Sicily Unveiled: Timeless Beauty and Chic Charm

Sicily is a vast island with a variety of attractions, so it's important to choose the ones that appeal to you the most. As beach lovers looking for relaxation, we designed our itinerary to make the most of the island's stunning coastline and leisure spots. We flew into Palermo and out of Catania, taking full advantage of driving across the island to explore its beauty.

Palermo

Palermo is one of Sicily's main gateways. If you're flying into Palermo, take one or two days to explore this vibrant city before venturing out to the rest of the island.

Staying in the heart of Palermo is a must. It makes exploring the city on foot a breeze. We loved wandering through the old city's streets, soaking in the beautiful architecture and authentic Sicilian charm.

Here are some highlights you shouldn't miss:

Via Maqueda: This lively street is a must-visit at night, lined with fantastic restaurants. Grab a seat, enjoy a delicious meal and indulge in some prime people-watching.

Palatine Chapel: Marvel at the stunning mosaics in this beautiful chapel — definitely worth a visit.

Teatro Massimo: A must-see for theater enthusiasts, though optional for others.

Restaurant Recommendations

Taverna dei Canti: This charming restaurant offers a delightful mix of traditional Sicilian dishes and a cozy atmosphere. The seafood here is particularly outstanding.

Maccio Osteria Alcolica: A fantastic place to enjoy authentic Sicilian cuisine with a modern twist. Their pasta dishes and local wines are a must-try.

Mak Mixology: If you're looking for great drinks and vibrant music, this is the place to be. It's perfect for a fun night out with expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere.

Cefalù

We rented a car from Locauto for the drive from Palermo to Cefalù, which was a very positive experience. Cefalù, a charming coastal town, is perfect for a romantic and relaxing stopover.

Park next to Hotel Riva del Sole and walk the boardwalk to the old center. Losing yourself in the streets of Cefalù is incredibly romantic, with its narrow, winding lanes and historic buildings.

Piazza del Duomo: Visit this central square, home to the magnificent Cefalù Cathedral with its stunning Norman architecture and beautiful mosaics.

Lavatoio Medievale: Discover this historic medieval washhouse, a hidden gem with stone basins and flowing water from natural springs.

Beach time: Near the pier, you can rent sunbeds in a tranquil cove. Although it’s not a serviced lido, the calm water makes it perfect for relaxation. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for a refreshing swim, and you can purchase drinks from a nearby restaurant.

Lungomare Beach: This long sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The boardwalk along the beach offers stunning views of the sea and the old town.

Restaurant recommendations

Ristorante La Brace: Known for its seafood and traditional Sicilian dishes, this spot offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Ti Vitti: A great spot for fresh seafood and local cuisine, with outdoor seating for enjoying the sea breeze.

Il Normanno: Delicious pizzas and local specialties with a fantastic view of the cathedral.

Taormina

We drove from Cefalu to Taormina. The drive took about three hours and was smooth and scenic. Taormina is an idyllic dolce vita town where we spent four blissful days, mostly on the beach due to the stunning coves and shores. The highlight of Taormina is leisurely strolling its streets, enjoying gelato and listening to street musicians — truly embodying the dolce vita spirit.

Accommodation: We stayed at Villa Carlotta, a 10-minute walk from town, which we found to be a pleasant end-of-the-night leisure activity.

Beach

Lido La Pigna: Excellent service and they offer a shuttle from a lot of the Taormina hotels.

Isola Bella: A quintessential Taormina experience. Avoid the right turn to the crowded lidos; instead, head left to the quieter end of the cove with better prices and views. We rented kayaks to explore the cove and its surroundings.

Restaurant recommendations

Ristorante La Tavernetta: Enjoy a warm and inviting atmosphere with a menu featuring classic Roman dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.

La Trattoria de Ugo: A cozy spot perfect for experiencing authentic Italian cuisine. Their pasta and house specialties are not to be missed.

Ristorante Badia: This elegant restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on traditional and contemporary Italian dishes.

Casa Matta: For an exceptional wine experience, head to Casa Matta. Their extensive wine list and knowledgeable staff will guide you through some of the best wines Italy has to offer.

Explore the Mt. Etna wineries

Mt. Etna, Europe's active volcano, offers exciting tours and hikes to the top, but if you're like us and prefer a more relaxed adventure, visiting the wineries at its base is a fantastic option. Using Taormina as our home base, we visited Villa Grande Winery and Gambino Winery. Both were incredible. It was the perfect way to enjoy a leisurely day with breathtaking views and delicious wine.

Day trip to Siracusa and Ortigia

A two-hour drive from Taormina, this day trip is well worth it. Go to see the Greek-Roman theater and the charming town of Ortigia, which offers a more intimate and historical experience.

Greek-Roman Theater: The ancient Greek theater in Siracusa is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of classical antiquity. The theater is remarkably well-preserved and still hosts performances, creating a direct link to the past.

Archaeological Park of Neapolis: Beyond the theater, this park includes the impressive Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave with exceptional acoustics, and the historical Roman Amphitheater.

Ortigia: The small island of Ortigia, the historical heart of Siracusa, is characterized by its narrow streets, baroque architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The island is connected to the mainland by a couple of bridges and is a delight to explore on foot.

Piazza Duomo: This stunning square in Ortigia is home to the Siracusa Cathedral, built on the remains of a Greek temple. The blend of architectural styles over the centuries makes this a fascinating site.

Fountain of Arethusa: A legendary freshwater spring with papyrus plants, offering a serene spot for relaxation and reflection.

Sicily offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, and each town provides its own unique charm. From the bustling streets of Palermo and the romantic alleys of Cefalù to the dolce vita of Taormina and the historical allure of Siracusa, Sicily is a diverse and captivating destination. Whether you are lounging on pristine beaches, wandering through ancient streets or indulging in the local cuisine, Sicily promises an unforgettable experience.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Sicily. In need of further inspiration? Check out Angela Marini’s guide, The Perfect Sicily, Italy, Honeymoon.