Spring Travel Trends 2022: Sicily, Italy
It is difficult to describe Sicily in just one short paragraph. A mesmerizing island full of extraordinary history and traditions. Also, where art, culture, and sublime food come together with wonderful natural beauty. From the sea to majestic Etna and the beautiful countryside, there are so many reasons to visit Sicily. Our clients agree – it is becoming one of our most requested destinations of this coming year!
After a long period of staying at home, we see 2022 turning into record year in tailor made vacations. The island is shaped like a three sided triangle, the “trinacria”. A trip here is easily divided into stops including Palermo, Taormina, and Siracusa.
Sicily is the perfect destination to choose as your first trip back in the world of travel!
About Sicily
Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, is just off the “toe” of Italy’s “boot.” The summer here stretches longer than the summer in the north and central of Italy. Swimming and beach activity is possible most years through November! We recommend a trip in this “shoulder” season of spring and early fall. Though the summer is great for submerging yourself in the sea, the sky high temperatures can make exploring a little exhausting in the sun all day!
Flights arrive easily through the major airports of Palermo and Catania. Domestic Italian flights and boats arrive through other cities in Sicily as well. However, Sicily is a destination that can truly stand alone. There is so much to see and do that there is no need to add on another stop to the mainland if you don’t wish to.
Exploring Palermo
Palermo is a city full of people, colors, and scents. It’s a mix of history, beautiful architecture, and the renowned gastronomy of Sicily.
Palermo is famous for its open markets. Stroll through the colorful stalls full of fresh seafood, fruits, herbs, and local products of any kind. Listen to the noises and experience the true Sicilian lifestyle.
A recent trip also introduced us to one of the most anticipated openings in Italy. The Rocco Forte property here truly lives up to expectations. There are so many great ideas of how to spend your time in the city – here are just a few experiences we can arrange for you!
A guided city tour of the capital of Sicily
Take a walk in Palermo’s streets visiting the most important monuments and feel the unique atmosphere of this busy city. Your private guide will lead you through the most enchanting places in the city. You will admire the eclectic architectonical style of the Cathedral that is a synthesis of history and art of the last millennium in Sicily.
Hop in the car for a quick drive to visit the Norman Cathedral of Monreale that arises above the very fertile valley called ‘’La Conca d’oro’’ (‘’The Golden Shell’’) where the almond, orange, and olive trees grow. You will be enchanted by the gold mosaics of the Cathedral, which covers almost the whole interior of the church!
Private Excursion to Segesta, Erice with Lunch at a Farm
Segesta is one of the three cities of the Elymians. First, admire a majestic Doric temple, which is located into the wonderful scenery of rocks and vineyards. Second, reach the Acropolis, where a delicious ancient theater still stands. Finally, enjoy a stunning view on the temple below and the marvelous landscape around it.
Then stop in an 18th-century Sicilian rural farm and have an authentic lunch with a local family. This is the perfect experience to feel at ease sitting together around the table and enjoying the Sicilian conviviality and warmth.
Erice, nested on its 717m summit, with its medieval streets, monasteries, churches, and traditional confectioneries is another gem of the area. A tour discovers the ancient and fortified settlement of Erice, which is closed by huge city walls of Phoenician origins.
Taormina, one of the gems of Sicily
Taormina is one of the most famous destinations on the island. In the foot of Mt. Etna and steps from the sea, it’s a can’t miss stop. It’s also home to another spectacular property, San Domenico Palace. We were fortunate to inspect this great spot on our recent trip. Working with a travel planner means that every step of your holiday is tailor made. We have a wide selection of accommodation choices for every type of traveler!
Explore Taormina & Castelmola
Taormina lies on the slopes of Monte Tauro. Every Church, every street, and building are full of the colors, people, and magic that make Sicily famous. The most remarkable monument of all is the Ancient Greek Theater. Set in a breathtaking location with an unbeatable view of Mount Etna and the beautiful coastline of the Ionian Sea. Visit this wonderful historical site with our professional licensed guide.
During this walk, you will visit the famous Ancient Theatre. Also, the beautiful Palazzo Corvaja, the Odeon – a small Roman theater, the church of Saint Catherine. Finally, Vicolo Stretto – the narrowest street in Taormina and Corso Umberto – the fashionable and charming main street. We will finish in Piazza IX Aprile. This is the main square with a magnificent view of the majestic profile of Etna. You can also see the coast of the Bay of Giardini Naxos stretching up the hill to the Greek Theater.
Reach the Medieval hamlet of Castelmola, which has been recently added to the list of the 100 most beautiful Italian hamlets. The village is famous because of its narrow streets and the ruins of the ancient castle, but also for its delicious “almond wine”, which will be served in a well-known bar.
North Mt. Etna Tour with Winery Visit & Lunch
Enjoy the great outdoors as you explore the majestic Mount Etna! After pickup from your hotel, begin your tour through Mount Etna National Park and follow your knowledgeable guide through the protected area surrounding the volcano. Our tour will conclude with a Sicilian homemade lunch in a beautiful winery, located on the slopes of the volcano.
The southeast of Sicily and Siracusa
The entire city of Syracuse is a Unesco World Heritage Site. The city was founded in 734 BC by Greek colonizers and became one of the most powerful cities of the Mediterranean sea. Rich in Ancient Greek history, Syracuse features stunning architecture and was the birthplace of mathematician Archimedes. It’s a great third stop on the island!
We can arrange so many activities for you here and the southeast of the island – these are just a handful of ideas from our portfolio.
A private tour of Ortigia and the ancient ruins
Visit the archeological sites of ancient Syracuse with Greek theater, Necropolis, Amphitheater of Roman Imperial age and famous for acoustic properties Ear of Dionysius. The majestic Greek Theatre of Syracuse, carved into the heart of the mountains, today is the place where still ancient Greek tragedies are played during the summer theatre festival.
Then travel to the charming Ortigia Island – the center and the heart of Syracuse. Start the sightseeing of Ortigia with a walk around to soak up the sights. Enjoy the beautiful promenade along the sea where you can find the Fountain of Arethusa, famous for the Greek myth.
Sicilian Food & Wine Adventure
Another option is a tour through the history of red tuna fishing and the red colors of the tomatoes of Pachino and the Nero D’Avola wine.
The southern end of Sicily represents one of the excellent areas in the agricultural backdrop of the island. Home to PGI products (“Protected Geographical Indication”) such as the Tomatoes of Pachino and the grapes used to make the Nero d’Avola wine. Fishers have been casting their nets to catch packs of Red Tuna coming back from the season of love since Greek times.
We will go through the vibrant colors of the Sicilian countryside by entering the world of the Tomato of Pachino and by delighting our palates with the sweetness of this fruit. We will continue our tour of flavors by visiting a winery, walking among the small trees of Nero d’Avola grapes, and sipping the best wine products of this extraordinary area. Then, we will move to the old fishing village of Marzamemi where, within one of the most ancient fish businesses in Sicily, we will get to know and taste a thousand sides of tuna.
Baroque Wonders of Modica and Noto
Modica is a beautiful city with numerous majestic Churches including two grand Baroque Cathedrals. Modica is particularly famous for its delicious chocolate that is dark and rich, produced in accord with the ancient recipe brought to Sicily from the New World by the Spanish conquerors. Visit a traditional chocolate Bottega and bring home all its flavors: pistachio, cinnamon, orange, vanilla, or lemon.
Then reach Noto, a small Sicilian baroque city surrounded by orange, almond, and olive trees. The magnificent churches and palazzi are all constructed in fine local stone which splendid golden tint shines in the sunset light. You will enjoy a guided visit to Noto that will end at the Church of San Carlo Borromeo, one of the most stunning baroque buildings designed by the famous 18th-century architect Rosario Gagliardi along the main street of Noto.
Visit an olive and almond farm nearby Noto where the owner will welcome you. You will have a pleasant stroll among olive and almond trees and then discover the importance of olive oil in Sicilian culinary tradition. You will have a great homely lunch with all the delicacies produced and cooked by this wonderful family.
Sicily tailor made just for you
If Sicily looks like your perfect tailor made Italian vacation, contact us to learn more. These are only a few of the many ideas we have organized for clients. Sicily is becoming highly requested in the upcoming year. A great destination on its own with so much to see.
There are so many different activities we can arrange for you – for more ideas, check out our discover Sicily sample itinerary! We can’t wait to show you want makes this island so special.
