TOP 5 attractions in Sicily – rent a car and go!
Sicily is the largest of the Mediterranean islands. It offers a wide range of attractions and places that cannot be found elsewhere - so it is no wonder that it attracts tourists from all over the world. The entire island delights with its architecture, vegetation and monuments, so identifying only 5 places worth seeing here was quite a challenge. Check out what we have prepared!
Etna
It is probably not an exaggeration to say that the most famous volcano in Europe attracts the most tourists to the island. And this is hardly surprising - the majestic "mountain" both delights and terrifies. You can get to Etna by cable car to an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level. The next part of the route can be covered on foot (preferably with a guide!) or by rented off-road vehicle. Of course, visiting the highest parts of the volcano is only possible if weather conditions allow it. We assure you that the Nocca Centrale crater, Bocca Nuova, Bocca Subterinale, numerous caves and solidified lava rivers will make a stunning impression on you.
The Etna volcano is located near Catania and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. From Castellammare del Golfo, the journey to the foot of Etna by car will take approximately 4.5 hours.
Noto
The charming, baroque town of Noto delights tourists during the day and at dusk - because it is beautifully lit. Just walking through the city's side streets is a delight, and visiting the local architectural gems, palaces and churches is an amazing experience. Palazzo Nicolaci Villadorata, Palazzo Sant'Alfano (Centro Storico), Palazzo Castelluccio Via Cavour, Church of San Francesco, Church of San Carlo Borromeo, Church of San Domenico - we assure you that you will not be bored.
An interesting fact is that in 1693, Noto was hit by a powerful earthquake. The destruction was so great that the authorities decided to build the town from scratch! In just a few dozen years, a new "ideal city" was created, built with attention to the smallest details and in line with the trends of the time - that is why Noto is a real pearl and the most perfect example of Sicilian Baroque.
The best time to visit Noto is May, specifically the third Sunday in May. Then the town celebrates Primavera Barocca, the flower festival. During this time, you will be able to admire the colorful floral carpet that stretches from Via Corrado Nicolaci to the Montevergini church.
From Castellammare del Golfo, traveling to Noto by car will take approximately 4 hours.
Syracuse
The city of Archimedes, where Plato and Aeschylus often stayed - Syracuse, the most Greek of Italian cities. Thousands of tourists come here, mainly lovers of Greek philosophy and ancient monuments. However, we assure you that the architecture and views will make a great impression on everyone.
Mandatory points on the map of Syracuse include, among others: Parco Archeologico della Neapolis (with a Greek theater from the 5th century BC and a Roman amphitheater), the Altar of Hiero II, the rock cave Ear of Dionysus, as well as Ortigia - the historical center of Syracuse known as the Old City, where we probably would not be able to mention all the ancient and sacred monuments in this short entry. In any case, there is one conclusion - you must see Syracuse with your own eyes!
We will also add that Syracuse has been included on the UNESCO World National Heritage List.
From Castellammare del Golfo, traveling to Syracuse by car will take approximately 3.5 hours.
Cefalù
Located on the northern coast of Sicily, at the foot of the La Rocca rock overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, the historic town of Cefalù has gained the reputation of being fabulous. As you probably guessed, we agree with this opinion. The charm of the city attracts tourists from all over the world, even Sicilians spend their holidays here.
In Cefalù you will find everything you need for your holiday:
- a sandy beach in the city center,
- a picturesque old town surrounded by water,
- many excellent restaurants serving delicious local dishes,
- the Midonie Mountains with one of the highest peaks in Sicily, Pizzo Carbonara (1979 m above sea level),
- many interesting monuments, such as the ruins of the Greek temple of Diana, the ruins of the Norman fortress, the Cathedral built in Piazza del Duomo, the Osterio Magno palace and the church of San Giorgio from the 12th century.
Cefalù also has many viewpoints from which there is a view of the entire amazing city. And just a leisurely stroll through the streets of the charming town will put you in a truly holiday mood.
From Castellammare del Golfo, traveling to Cefalù by car will take approximately 1.5 hours.
Marsala
This charming town is famous primarily for its good wine of the same name, but we guarantee that it has much more to offer. Many of you have probably also heard about another treasure of the region - Marsala's white gold, or sea salt. Tourists eagerly look for Salins here, i.e. swamps with sea salt, which look really impressive.
Another picturesque point on the town map is the old town. Although small, it is truly unique. You will find here original fragments of city walls, beautiful cathedrals, churches and charming squares. In Marsala, it is also worth seeing the archaeological museum (with the famous Carthaginian ship), the former cinema where the modern Cine Impero theater is located, and the Giardino Cavallotti park, called the green lungs of Marsala.
We will also add that the Marseille lagoon is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Here you will find ideal conditions for surfing and windsurfing.
From Castellammare del Golfo, the journey to Marsala by car will take you less than an hour.
Of course, we have not forgotten about other must-see places in Sicily - in our guide you will also find separate entries about Palermo, Trapani and Erica . Enjoy your visit!
