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 you won't find anywhere else – so it's no wonder it attracts tourists from all over the world. The entire island is filled with stunning architecture, vegetation, and historical monuments, so choosing just five places worth seeing was quite a challenge. Check out what we've prepared!
Etna
It's probably no exaggeration to say that Europe's most famous volcano attracts the most tourists to the island. And it's no wonder – this majestic "mountain" is both enchanting and terrifying. You can reach Mount Etna by cable car, reaching a height of 2,500 meters above sea level. The rest 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 permit. We assure you that the Nocca Centrale crater, Bocca Nuova, Bocca Subterinale, numerous caves, and solidified lava rivers will make a stunning impression.
Mount Etna is located near Catania and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Castellammare del Golfo, the drive to the foot of Mount Etna takes approximately 4.5 hours.
Noto
The charming, baroque town of Noto delights tourists both during the day and at dusk, beautifully illuminated. Just a stroll through the town's side streets is enchanting, and exploring its architectural gems, palaces, and churches is an incredible experience. Palazzo Nicolaci Villadorata, Palazzo Sant'Alfano (Centro Storico), Palazzo Castelluccio Via Cavour, the Church of San Francesco, the Church of San Carlo Borromeo, the Church of San Domenico – we guarantee you won't be bored.
Interestingly, in 1693, Noto was hit by a massive earthquake. The destruction was so extensive that the authorities decided to rebuild the town! Within just a few decades, a new "ideal city" emerged, built with attention to the smallest details and in line with the trends of the time – making Noto a true pearl and the most perfect example of Sicilian Baroque.
The best time to visit Noto is May, specifically the third Sunday of May. This is when the town celebrates Primavera Barocca, or flower festival. During this time, you'll be able to admire a colorful floral carpet stretching from Via Corrado Nicolaci to the Montevergini Church.
From Castellammare del Golfo, the journey to Noto by car will take you approximately 4 hours.
Syracuse
The city of Archimedes, where Plato and Aeschylus often stayed, Syracuse is the most Greek of Italian cities. Thousands of tourists come here, primarily lovers of Greek philosophy and ancient monuments. However, we assure you that the architecture and views will impress everyone.
Must-sees on a Syracuse map include the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis (with a 5th-century BC Greek theater and a Roman amphitheater), the Altar of Hieron II, the Ear of Dionysus rock cave, and Ortigia – the historic center of Syracuse, also known as the Old Town, where it's impossible to list all the ancient and sacred monuments in this short post. In any case, the conclusion is simple: you must see Syracuse for yourself!
We will also add that Syracuse has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
From Castellammare del Golfo, the journey to Syracuse by car will take you approximately 3.5 hours.
Cefalù
Situated on the northern coast of Sicily, at the foot of La Rocca, a cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, the historic town of Cefalù has earned the reputation of being a fairytale town. As you can probably guess, we agree. The city's charm attracts tourists from all over the world, and even Sicilians spend their holidays here.
In Cefalù you will find everything you need during your holiday break:
- 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 a Norman fortress, the Cathedral built in Piazza del Duomo, the Osterio Magno palace or the 12th-century church of San Giorgio.
Cefalù also boasts numerous viewpoints offering panoramic views of the entire, stunning city. Even a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of this town will put you in a truly holiday mood.
From Castellammare del Golfo, the journey to Cefalù by car will take you approximately 1.5 hours.
Marsala
This charming town is primarily known for its excellent wine of the same name, but we guarantee it has much more to offer. Many of you have probably heard of another treasure of the region – Marsala's white gold, or sea salt. Tourists eagerly seek out the salt marshes, or salt marshes, which are truly impressive.
Another picturesque spot on the town's map is the old town. Although small, it is truly unique. Here you'll find original sections of the city walls, beautiful cathedrals, churches, and charming squares. Also worth seeing in Marsala are the archaeological museum (with the famous Carthaginian ship), the former cinema, which houses the modern Cine Impero theater, and the Giardino Cavallotti park, known as the green lungs of Marsala.
We'd also like to add that the Marseille lagoon is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Here you'll find ideal conditions for paddle boarding and windsurfing.
From Castellammare del Golfo, the journey to Marsala by car will take you less than an hour.
Of course, we haven't forgotten about other must-see places in Sicily – our guide also includes separate entries about Palermo, Trapani, and Erice . Enjoy your visit!
