Southern Italy is residence to many fantastic locations, however few are as fascinating as Sicily. The stunning island seemingly has all of it, from high-end trip resorts to historic Greek and Roman landmarks. That’s exactly what makes it a superb trip spot for just about anybody!
Whether your concept of a pleasant trip consists of stress-free on the seashore for hours on finish or limitless adventures, you possibly can take pleasure in your self in Sicily. The island gives a little bit of every little thing, and I would like to inform you all about its greatest points of interest and landmarks.
If you possibly can’t keep in one place for too lengthy, Sicily is a vacation spot you’ll completely take pleasure in. Get behind the wheel and drive from one coastal city to one other, discovering previous church buildings, castles, and mountain climbing trails that lead to scenic viewpoints. It’s the right location for a memorable highway journey, so buckle up as we get into all the very best issues to do in Sicily!
Best Things To Do In Sicily
Sicily’s wealthy historical past and picture-perfect landscapes depart nobody detached. I’m sure you’ll simply discover excursions and points of interest to fill your time on the island and love each second of it! With Baroque cities, Greco-Roman ruins, and delectable meals, having fun with your trip is a given. Consider my favourite Sicily excursions and issues to do, for an unforgettable journey.
Best of Sicily Quick Guide
Must See: Palermo, Taormina, Catania, Valley of the Temples, Syracuse, Mount Etna, Cefalu Where To Stay: Hotel Europa, Hotel Villa Athena, San Domenico Palace Fun To Do: Mount Pellegrino, Godfather excursions, Parco delle Madonia, Food excursions Day Trips: Aeolian Islands, Noto, Marsala Salt Flats, San Vito Lo Capo Must Try Foods: Arancini, Cannoli, Pasta alla Norma, Pesce Spada, Caponata
1. Hop Over To The Aeolian Islands
Situated simply off the northeastern coast of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are the right excuse to get a ship and set off on a enjoyable day journey. The volcanic archipelago boasts a complete of seven islands, the most important of which is Lipari.
The namesake city of this island is understood for its historic hilltop fortress on the heart of an archeological web site. Come right here to see historical ruins, but additionally to take pleasure in unimaginable panoramic views.
If you’re extra in pure landmarks than historic ruins, head to Vulcano Island. Follow a mountain climbing path to the highest of a volcano for surreal vistas of a crater and close by islands. The southern coast of Vulcano options black sand seashores, whereas the western coast boasts grottos and caves. Overall, there’s lots to do and see in the Aeolian Islands, and you may simply spend greater than a day cruising from one waterfront village to the opposite for those who had the time.
Practical Information: Tours of the Aeolian Islands normally depart from Milazzo.
2.Join a Godfather Tour of Sicily
There’s no denying the truth that Francis Ford Coppola’s adaption of The Godfather novel is among the most iconic movies of the twentieth century. The masterpiece featured a number of scenes shot in Sicily, and the locals have lengthy determined to capitalize on this recognition.
Join a Godfather tour of the island and you’ll uncover the place among the film’s greatest scenes had been filmed. Savoca and Forza D’Agrò are the 2 villages that had been most closely featured on the display screen, and excursions will take you to each.
You’ll get to go to the church the place Michael Corleone and Apollonia get married, the long-lasting Bar Vitelli, and even Vito Corleone’s birthplace, the Andolini home. And for those who see some oranges alongside the best way, don’t fear; they’re really fairly widespread on the island and never a foul omen.
Practical Information: Godfather excursions of Sicily normally take round 4 hours.
3. Explore the Best Attractions in Catania
Catania is the second largest municipality on the island, proper after Palermo. Situated on the foot of Mount Etna, this historical port metropolis gives historic buildings, palazzos, ruins, and rather more. Hiking trails lead from the city to the highest of the Etna volcano, making Catania the most effective locations for vacationers who don’t need to hire a automobile in Sicily, however nonetheless need to discover most of its iconic sights.
The Thirteenth-century Castello Ursino with a royal archeological assortment is Catania’s best-known landmark. There’s additionally the 2nd-century Greek-Roman theatre, the spectacular Palazzo Biscari with frescoes and a stucco facade, and the fantastic botanical backyard with a group of palm bushes and succulents.
I’ve barely even scratched the floor of notable points of interest in Catania! If you’re in city just for a day, it’s greatest to organize a guided tour of the historic sights, so that you don’t miss something vital. And for those who’re staying there for some time, take your time touring the city, tasting road meals, and attempting to find time for a museum or two.
Practical Information: Catania is the second-largest metropolis in Sicily, serviced by the Catania International Airport, the island’s busiest.
4. Visit Mount Etna
Hiking to the highest of the most important lively volcano in Europe sounds enjoyable, proper? Tours of Mount Etna happen on daily basis, and it’s some of the standard locations on the island. A cable automobile can take you up the mountain, and it’s the best choice for individuals who need to go on self-guided excursions.
See the craters, get a drink at a bar at an altitude of two,500 meters, and benefit from the enchanting views from the highest of the continent’s largest volcano. It’s a bucket-list expertise, one that would seemingly be the spotlight of your whole journey to Sicily.
Consider reserving a guided tour of Mount Etna for those who’re not a assured hiker.
Practical Information: The cable automobile to Mount Etna prices 50-78€, relying on the ultimate station.
5. Try The Best Sicilian Dishes
Sicily is an Italian island, so after all the meals goes to be the most effective issues concerning the journey! Every night time you’ll have the world’s hardest dilemma – do you eat pasta or pizza for dinner? And on daily basis you possibly can strive one thing new for lunch, gorging on genuine Sicilian dishes and attempting to discover your favourite one.
I already know my favourite road meals from Sicily and it’s arancini. The deep-fried rice balls filled with cheese are the most effective issues I’ve ever had in my life, and I’ve been attempting to recreate them ever since. If anybody is aware of a very good recipe for genuine Sicilian arancini, please share it!
Sicilian delicacies is heavy with seafood, which is obvious in most of the island’s staple dishes.
Sarde a beccafico, Pasta con le sarde, and Involtini di pesce spade are all traditional dishes with fish as the primary ingredient. For dessert, you possibly can eat as many cannolis as you want. The conventional recipe requires a traditional creamy cheese filling, however patisseries typically have a couple of possibility for the filling, normally chocolate and pistachio.
Practical Information: Sicilian meals excursions can be found in all main cities on the island. Palermo, Catania, and Taormina have essentially the most choices.
6. See The Sights In Palermo
Palermo is the capital of Sicily. It’s the largest metropolis on the island and an excellent vacation spot for individuals who want a extra city vibe. Palermo is the middle for tradition and historical past on the north coast, and it’s completely one of many prime locations for a first-time journey to Sicily.
If you solely have in the future in town, it’s greatest to do a traditional guided strolling tour of Palermo’s greatest points of interest. See the Palermo Cathedral, stand on the Baroque Quattro Canti sq., tour the magnificent Norman Castle, and admire the view from Torre di San Nicolò di Bari.
Stay in Palermo for those who’re planning an extended journey to Sicily. The metropolis gives a plethora of historic landmarks, glorious meals, and a fairly good nightlife. It’s additionally acquired stunning seashores and quick access to different close by locations, so there’s sufficient to do right here that you may keep busy for not less than 5 days.
Practical Information: Palermo is serviced by an airport and a ferry from Naples. The metropolis is 2 and a half hours from Catania airport by automobile and bus.
7. Medieval Castles at Parco delle Madonie
Parco delle Madonie is a regional park most simply accessible from Palermo and Cefalu. Featuring historic castles and medieval villages, the park is superb for exploring remnants of a special period in Sicily.
It’s additionally a prime vacation spot for mountain climbing on the island, as there are a number of marked trails inside the park grounds. Also, among the tallest mountains on the island are located inside this park, making it a must-visit for all alpinists who can’t resist a very good climb.
One of the highest points of interest at this park is a huge yellow bench that will make the Hulk seem tiny. It’s an excellent vacation spot for some glorious images, but additionally for limitless views of the island’s rolling hills.
Practical Information: Parco delle Madonie is accessible any time of day or night time free of charge.
8. Day Trip to Noto
Noto is among the beautiful Baroque cities on the southeast coast of Sicily. It’s identified for the Noto Cathedral, a grand 18th-century church with a neoclassical dome. The inside of the cathedral just isn’t fairly as spectacular as you’d count on, however it’s nonetheless value going inside to see some attention-grabbing sculptures and frescos.
Nicolaci Palace is among the city’s most lavish residences. The palazzo as soon as belonged to a rich household, and these days it’s open for public excursions. Period furnishings and beautiful decorations adorn the palace inside, whereas the palace balconies provide a splendid view of Noto’s well-known flower carpet.
Practical Information: Noto is located in southeast Sicily, roughly an hour’s drive from Catania.
9. Experience Saliturismo at Marsala
Marsala is the most important city on the west coast of Sicily, identified for historical ruins, fortified wine, and salt flats. It’s some of the picturesque locations in Sicily, particularly the salt flats with the windmills in the background.
This is the preferred attraction in Marsala and guests may even expertise what it’s like to be a saltworker for an hour. But it’s not the one motive to come to this metropolis. Marsala additionally boasts an archaeological park with Roman ruins and museums, castles, church buildings, and previous metropolis gates.
Isola di San Pantaleo is one other glorious vacation spot to go to shut to Marsala. Accessible solely by boat rides from personal piers on the salt flats, the island options remnants of an previous Phoenician settlement.
Practical Information: Marsala is roughly two hours from Palermo and Agrigento. Experiences on the Salt Resort value 16-60€, and can be found largely from June to September. Only guided excursions of the salt flats can be found year-round.
10. Spend a Day on The Beach
Sicily has many miles of sandy, pebble, and stone seashores. Allow for not less than in the future of pure hedonism mendacity on a lounge chair on the seashore, having fun with the sound of the waves and the scent of salt in the air.
Licata Beach, on the island’s southern shore, is among the greatest if you need to keep away from crowds. It options comfortable sand and crystal clear water, however it’s nowhere close to as touristy as among the different seashores on the island.
San Vito Lo Capo Beach is one other one of many island’s greatest. Boasting white sand and turquoise waters, it’s a superb vacation spot for vacationers who need to spend a day swimming and sunbathing.
Practical Information: Most seashores in Sicily are free to enter. However, in many locations, you received’t be allowed to keep on the seashore until you hire loungers and umbrellas, which value anyplace from 12-25€, relying on the situation.
11. Discover Historic Ruins in Taormina
The hilltop city of Taormina is among the greatest for historical ruins in Sicily. Teatro Antico di Taormina is by far essentially the most well-known landmark in city; the Greco-Roman theater is teeming with historical past, and it gives a superb view of Mount Etna.
Because the city sits atop a hill, the views are out of this world. You’ll take pleasure in limitless vistas of Sicily’s mountains on one aspect and the ocean on the opposite. However, the panoramic location additionally signifies that it’s fairly a little bit of a stroll everytime you need to go down to the seashore.
Taormina is residence to among the greatest resorts on the island, together with the fabulous lodge featured in the second season of White Lotus – San Domenico Palace. Unahotels Capotaormina is one other fabulous resort value mentioning as a result of it has a non-public sandy seashore which you can attain by way of a raise carved into the rocks.
Practical Information: Taormina is located on the east coast of Sicily, roughly an hour from Catania.
12. Tour Ancient Cave Dwellings
The south coast of Sicily boasts fairly a number of attention-grabbing pure landmarks, one in all which is the Archaeological space of Cava d’Ispica. The cave dwellings are carved into the mountain and provide epic views of the attractive island landscapes.
Cava d’Ispica is tucked away removed from the vacationer facilities of Sicily, so it’s a spot you’ll have the option to go to solely when you have a automobile. It’s definitely worth the problem although as a result of the archeological park is sort of massive and likewise encompasses a Water Mill Museum inside a cave, a necropolis, and a cave church with frescos painted on the partitions. This is among the points of interest off the crushed path in Sicily, so you possibly can count on fewer individuals round.
Practical Information: Cava d’Ispica is open from 9 AM to 7 PM. Tickets are 5€.
14. Head to The Valley of the Temples
The Valley of the Temples is an archeological web site in Agrigento, on the southern coast of Sicily. It’s the most effective locations on your complete island if you need to uncover remnants of historical historical past and see some marvelous Greek ruins.
Agrigento is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its historic landmarks, so it’s undoubtedly the most effective cities on the island for historic excursions. The city was based in the sixth century BC as a Greek colony and have become some of the vital cities in the Mediterranean world.
There are many temples in the valley however by far essentially the most well-known one is the Temple of Concordia. The historical Greek temple is extremely properly preserved and serves as an excellent instance of Dorian structure.
Practical Information: The temples could be visited from 8:30 AM to 7 PM. The entrance payment is 12€.
14. Antique Buildings of San Vito Lo Capo
San Vito Lo Capo is greatest identified for its namesake seashore, which boasts comfortable sand, crystal-clear sea, and epic mountain views. But there’s rather more to this beachfront city, and I wouldn’t rule it out totally as a spot to keep in Sicily.
One of essentially the most attention-grabbing landmarks in city is Santuario di San Vito Martire. Dating again to the Byzantine period, the constructing encompasses a weird combination of architectural components. Its top and restricted openings on the partitions point out a former navy objective, however the crypt and bell tower are typical of spiritual buildings.
Tonnara del Secco is one other attention-grabbing historic landmark, hottest for its serene waterfront location.
Practical Information: San Vito Lo Capo is located in the northwest of Sicily, roughly a two-hour drive from Palermo.
15. Anti-Mafia Tour
Sicily has a protracted and tumultuous historical past with the mafia. Cosa Nostra originated on the island, and though many individuals romanticize this due to The Godfather movies, the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries had been a tricky time for the locals.
The Mafia Wars of the late twentieth century triggered the demise of many harmless individuals. Since then, a number of anti-mafia excursions and organizations have popped up in Sicily, which intention to educate individuals concerning the darker aspect of life on the island, which isn’t explored in element in popular culture.
The village of Corleone even has an Anti-Mafia Museum, which you need to think about visiting for those who genuinely need to know extra concerning the subject. The guides will inform you many insane tales concerning the mafia, and it’ll enable you perceive simply how unhealthy the scenario can get when the criminals are in management of on a regular basis life.
Practical Information: The Antimafia Museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM.
16. Walk to Isola Bella
Isola Bella is a small island accessible by a stroll from Taormina. You should cross a sandy seashore to attain the island, and if the tide is excessive, you’ll be strolling by way of knee-deep water. The expertise is totally fantastic although, as this charming little island gives stunning panoramic views throughout.
There’s even a small museum on the island, however don’t count on a lot from it. It options some good strolling paths and a really modest exhibit on the island’s pure historical past.
One factor to observe is that Isola Bella doesn’t have good seashores for swimming. They’re largely rocks that don’t really feel very comfy to stroll on, so maintain that in thoughts. Come right here for beautiful environment and delightful panoramic vistas, ideally on a day stroll.
Practical Information: Isola Bella is accessible solely by strolling paths from Taormina. The entrance payment to the island is 4€.
17. Cave Church at Mount Pellegrino
According to Geothe, Mount Pellegrino is essentially the most stunning promontory in your complete world. The hill overlooks the Bay of Palermo and is accessible by uphill mountain climbing paths from Sicily’s capital. If you keep in Palermo for not less than 2-3 days, you received’t remorse making time for Mount Pellegrino.
Santuario di Santa Rosalia is one more reason to make it up the hill. The Seventeenth-century church is carved into the aspect of the mountain, and it’s devoted to the patron saint of Palermo. The church is an astonishing sight, and anybody can go inside free of charge.
Mount Pellegrino options much more strolling and biking paths, scenic viewpoints, and even a shocking fortress. Addaura Cave is one other well-known landmark right here, however one which’s sadly not accessible to most people. It’s identified for prehistoric drawings on the cave partitions and stays closed to guests for security causes.
Practical Information: Mount Pellegrino is accessible 24/7 free of charge. The Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia is open from 9 AM to 6 PM.
18. Visit an Old Quarry in Syracuse
Syracuse is one more vacation spot in Sicily identified for Greek and Roman ruins. The city boasts an historical quarry in the Neapolis Archaeological Park, which can also be residence to a Greek theater and a Roman amphitheater.
The Tecnoparco Museo di Archimede can also be on the archaeological park, and it’s one other place to think about including to your itinerary. Well, for those who’re a self-proclaimed nerd you would possibly benefit from the place because the open-air museum options fashions and illustrations that display how Archimedes’ ideas work. Otherwise, perhaps you need to stick to the Syracuse seashores.
There’s one other scientific museum in city, and it’s located on Ortigia Island. The Archimede & Leonardo da Vinci Museum options interactive fashions of varied scientific innovations the 2 legends got here up with. The Temple of Apollo can also be on this island, and it’s one other iconic historic landmark of Sicily.
Practical Information: Syracuse is on the southeast coast of Sicily, roughly an hour’s drive from Catania.
19. Marvel at Messina’s Medieval Architecture
The port metropolis of Messina serves as a gateway to Sicily, providing direct ferries to mainland Italy from the island. Most individuals who journey to Sicily in a automobile will move by way of this city, and it’s completely value it to cease right here and discover the sights for a number of hours. Even for those who’ve arrived on the island by different means, Messina is a spot value visiting on excursions.
The city boasts an exquisite mix of Greek, Roman, and Medieval structure. Tour the historic heart to uncover monumental church buildings, historical fortresses, and town’s many fountains.
Additionally, Messina is the third-largest metropolis in Sicily by inhabitants, so it’s acquired nice infrastructure. It’s residence to many glorious eating places and retailers, in addition to pleasant locals.
Practical Information: Messina is a port metropolis in northeastern Sicily, separated from the mainland by the Messina Strait. It’s roughly an hour’s drive from Catania, however two and a half hours from Palermo.
20. Roman Mosaics at Villa Romana Del Casale
Villa Romana del Casale is among the landmarks that can make you need to get a rental automobile in Sicily. Nestled in the central space of the island, midway between Agrigento and Catania, the spectacular property dates again to the 4th century AD.
This historic landmark is surprisingly well-preserved contemplating how previous it’s. Some of the mosaics and wall work are virtually intact and are the primary motive why the palace holds UNESCO World Heritage standing.
Don’t fear, you possibly can go to this magnificent place even for those who don’t have a automobile. Guided excursions of Villa Romana del Casale can be found from each Agrigento and Catania, typically combining the go to to this landmark with excursions of different notable points of interest in the realm.
Practical Information: Villa Romana Del Casale is open for excursions from 9 AM to 6 PM. The entrance payment is 12€.
21. Coastal Hikes at Zingaro Nature Reserve
Zingaro Nature Reserve is located in northwestern Sicily and it’s the most effective locations for day journeys from Palermo. The waterfront nature park options dramatic cliffs, secluded seashores, and rewarding mountain climbing trails.
Come right here if you need to escape the crowds of metropolis streets and spend a while exploring the fascinating Sicilian landscapes. The nature reserve even encompasses a pure historical past museum in a cave, with a small however attention-grabbing exhibit on the native natural world.
If you need to go on hikes at Zingaro Nature Reserve, make sure to pack a swimsuit. Many trails lead to secluded bays and coves, the place you possibly can take pleasure in a crystal clear and tranquil sea.
Practical Information: The Zingaro Nature Reserve is open from 7 AM to 7:30 PM in the summer season season. The admission payment is 5€.
22. See The Turkish Steps
For a very long time, this was the preferred seashore in Sicily. Unfortunately, it will definitely closed to the general public due to erosion and lack of environmental safety. Visitors can not spend time on the seashore, however it’s nonetheless attainable to get a glimpse of this unimaginable pure landmark.
Viewpoints can be found on the cliffs simply above the seashore. There are a number of parking tons off the aspect of the highway right here, and also you don’t have to stroll for greater than a few minutes to have the option to admire this scenic web site. It’s a picturesque place and an excellent spot to pose for some epic images from Sicily. And it solely takes 10-Quarter-hour to examine this landmark off your itinerary, particularly for those who’re already driving round southern Sicily.
Practical Information: The Turkish Steps Beach is on the island’s southern coast, shut to Porto Empedocle. It is most simply accessible on highway journeys.
23. Enjoy the Views From Hilltop Castello di Cefalù
Cefalù is a very talked-about vacation spot on the northern coast of Sicily. The picturesque city is understood for its conventional stone homes, historic landmarks, and lengthy sandy seashores. It’s some of the standard locations for seashore holidays in the north, and it’s acquired an abundance of lodges and resorts to show it.
Even for those who’re not on the lookout for the right seashore city in Sicily, think about touring to Cefalu if just for a day. See the Norman Cathedral of Cefalù with its marvelous Byzantine mosaics and hike to the highest of a hill, the place the ruins of Castello di Cefalù await. It’s an exhausting hike, however the fascinating views from the highest make all of it worthwhile.
Practical Information: Cefalù is roughly an hour from Palermo however two hours from Catania.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sicily greatest identified for?
Sicily is greatest identified for its historical ruins, stunning villages, and spectacular seashores. The standard vacation vacation spot boasts a superb mix of luxurious resorts and historic landmarks, permitting anybody to benefit from the island.
How many days in Sicily is sufficient?
You want not less than 5-7 days to tour Sicily’s most well-known cities and points of interest. A keep of 10-15 days permits you to go to all the preferred landmarks on the island.
What is the nicest a part of Sicily to go to?
Taormina is among the prettiest cities in Sicily, with huge sandy seashores and glorious resorts. Palermo can also be very talked-about, thanks to its many historic landmarks and glorious nightlife.
Is Sicily value visiting and not using a automobile?
Yes, Sicily is value visiting even for those who don’t have a automobile. Stay in both Palermo or Catania, and you’ll simply discover the close by vacationer points of interest (that are considerable) by arranging excursions or utilizing public transport.
Tips And Information For Visiting Sicily
Best Time To Visit
The greatest time to go to Sicily is between April and June, or in October. Any time of the yr is an effective time to go to Sicily; the island’s delicate, Mediterranean local weather means which you can put on light-weight garments and benefit from the sunshine nearly year-round.
July, August, and September are the preferred months for visits to the island. This is when the crowds are the largest and the lodge costs are at their highest, so you may want to skip this busy season. July and August are additionally highly regarded on the island with temperatures which are in the excessive 30s C° all through the day, which implies you possibly can’t get out and discover as a lot whereas staying comfy.
Getting There
Catania Fontanarossa Airport is the most important and busiest airport in Sicily. It’s on the japanese coast very shut to Catania, and an excellent start line on your journey by way of Sicily. A taxi from the airport into Catania city ought to value 25-30€.
The Palermo Airport providers the western coast of the island, and it’s higher to fly there for those who’re planning to spend most of your time in this a part of Sicily. Travel from the airport into city by public transport, taxi, or personal switch.
Getting Around
Renting a automobile is greatest if you need final freedom in Sicily. The island is massive with points of interest on all 4 coasts, and also you merely can’t see every little thing and not using a automobile. Ideally, you’d hire a cute little Fiat 500 to match in with the locals. It’s not a joke – having a small automobile will enable you navigate the slender roads of Sicily extra simply.
Is there a degree in coming to the island for those who don’t have a automobile? Yes, completely! Even for those who’re not in a place to drive across the island, you possibly can nonetheless discover a lot of it by reserving excursions and using public transport. It’s simply that you simply’ll want to give attention to one particular area, and I extremely advocate you select the northeast.
In phrases of public transport on the island, Sicily has trains and buses. However, it’s attention-grabbing that the buses are rather more dependable than the trains. In reality, it’s greatest for vacationers to keep away from the trains just like the plague; the delays are quite common, and when these occur you may get caught in a city and might need to spend the night time there.
How Much Time Do You Need
You want not less than 5-7 days for a radical exploration of Sicily. Every extra day you possibly can spare will permit you to see extra of this beautiful Italian island and its numerous points of interest.
Sicily is sort of massive and has a great deal of attention-grabbing locations to see. Cefalu, Taormina, Syracuse, Palermo, and Mount Etna are only a few, and for those who had been to spend solely a day in every of them, growth – there’s your five-day itinerary. That doesn’t account for any island-hopping and even the inland points of interest.
On the opposite hand, in case your concept of a go to to Sicily consists of spending most of your time stress-free on the resort and perhaps venturing out into the city for an evening or two, then a visit of any size can work. But for those who actually need to get out and discover, you’ll remorse reserving something shorter than per week.
Where To Stay In Sicily
Palermo is an effective place to keep if you need to be in an even bigger metropolis with quick access to different locations on the northern shore of Sicily. Catania, Taormina, and Syracuse are all nice if you need to keep on the east coast and be shut to Mount Etna National Park. Agrigento is among the greatest locations on the southwestern coast of the island. Here are among the greatest lodges in Sicily for all budgets:
Hotel Europa is an reasonably priced place to keep in Palermo, shut to town’s historic heart. Hotel Villa Athena boasts a location smack dab in the center of the Valley of the Temples, and it’s good for a luxurious getaway. San Domenico Palace in Taormina is THE lodge from White Lotus season 2 with comfy rooms and epic views from the lodge restaurant and terrace.