Discover the must-see places to visit
24 Feb 2023
No matter that the year has just begun, many have already begun to think about their plan for the summer holidays, in the aim of saving money by booking early. Booking now is the best way to enjoy summer 2023 in Sicily.
Until 28 February, with the code UNASUMMER2023 you can get 25% off the superflex rate for stays at the UNAHOTELS Capotaormina in Taormina in April, May, June, September and October, with cancellation up to one day before arrival, and at the nearby UNAHOTELS Naxos Beach Sicilia throughout the year with free cancellation up to 7 days prior to the date of arrival.
Sicily is a land famous for its unique beauties and for the great variety of possible destinations. The choice is endless: from a holiday by the sea, a tour of the villages that dot the island and a trip into the classics of culture.
If you are wondering where to spend your holidays in Sicily, you do not have to worry: here you will find everything, accompanied by very special food and wine traditions.
Discover with us the must-see destinations to explore all aspects of the island.
The most beautiful beaches in Sicily
The beaches and the sea are the pride of Sicily: crystal clear waters, pristine sand and cliffs that plunge into the blue expanses. There are so many destinations by the sea that you often don't know where to start.
The beach of Fontane Bianche is an excellent starting point: located 25 km from Syracuse, it is a stretch of coastline flanked by a cobalt-coloured sea that will take your breath away. It is named after the natural fountains that flow from the seabed and the immaculate colour of the sand.
Also in Syracuse, within the Vendicari Reserve, you will find the beach of Calamosche: here too the crystal-clear sea is the undisputed protagonist, with its perpetually calm waters guaranteed by the rocky promontories that surround it.
And if you need a hotel in the city, the UNAHOTELS One Siracusa, located a few steps from the sea and easily accessible also from the historic centre, will be happy to host you.
Moving over to the northern side of the island, the beach of San Vito Lo Capo will appear before your eyes. It is located 40 km from Trapani and is a sure bet when wondering about where to go to be by the sea in Sicily.
An expanse of white sand lapped by a turquoise sea awaits you where you can spend hours of relaxation, walks and boat trips.
Going further west you will find the Scala dei Turchi, with its famous white cliff, from which you can enjoy a unique and breath-taking view over the entire coast. It is only 7 km from the Valle dei Templi in Agrigento, an essential cultural destination.
The islands of Sicily you absolutely must visit
Spending your summer holidays in Sicily also means immersing yourself in the different islands that surround it.
Favignana, part of the Aegadian Islands archipelago, is a destination whose natural beauty will surprise and delight you: feast your eyes on natural caves and blue-green waters. Also worth mentioning is the liveliness of this place, which is highly populated during the summer.
Then there is the archipelago of the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the different islands you can relax in nature, treat yourself to unique excursions and get lost in the nightlife.
Start with Lipari: it is the largest of the Aeolian Islands and combines the liveliness of the square of Marina Corta and Via Vittorio Emanuele with the tranquillity of places such as Pianoconte and Canneto. Alicudi and Filicudi, on the other hand, are famous for their lush vegetation.
Hiking enthusiasts must not miss a stop at Stromboli, dominated by the volcano of the same name, and Vulcano, known as the Isle of Fire. If you are looking for a glamorous stay where you can combine aperitifs and evenings with natural pursuits, then indulge in a trip to Panarea.
The island of Salina, home of Malvasia, is a beautiful place to experience. In the village of Rinella, you will find L’Ariana Isole Eolie | UNA Esperienze, an elegant 4 star hotel located inside a renovated 1900 villa.
The most beautiful villages in Sicily
There is nothing better than immersing yourself in the small Sicilian villages to learn about the soul and history of the island
An example is Ferla, near Syracuse, populated by rocky outcrops and religious buildings covering different historical eras. Near the city you will also find Marzamemi, a charming seaside village nestled in the waters of the Ionian Sea.
You may already have heard of Castiglione di Sicilia, located 600 metres above sea level. From here you can enjoy a breath-taking view which takes in Etna, the Alcantara gorges, the orange groves and all the distinguishing features of the province.
Just over 20 km away is the UNAHOTELS Naxos Beach Sicilia with its four swimming pools, its many sports facilities at your disposal and the mini club for the little ones.
The UNAHOTELS Capotaormina is also very close and boasts a private beach, wellness centre, saltwater pool, and other amenities to discover.
What to eat in Sicily, the unmissable traditional dishes
It would not be a holiday in Sicily without immersing yourself in its gastronomic tradition. The arancino, for example, is a must if you pass through these parts: a ball of breaded rice, fried and filled with peas, tomato or ragout represents one of the most famous delicacies in the region.
Equally famous are the cannoli stuffed with sheep's ricotta, candied fruit and drops of chocolate or grains of pistachio. Typical at carnival time, over time they have become so popular that they are present at any time of the year.
It would be impossible not to mention aubergine parmigiana, cooked with plenty of cheese, salami, egg and provola, or pasta with sardines, almond biscuits, bread and panelle and the timeless Sicilian cassata.
A classic of Catania and its province is granita with brioche, the most typical way to have breakfast. In the city you will find the Palace Catania | UNA Esperienze, which offers you a special view of Mount Etna and a restaurant where you can sample the typical dishes of the region.
When it comes to Sicily, there is no shortage of ideas on what to see on holiday. Book your stay now to save money and enjoy a holiday among stunning seas, excursions, nightlife and unparalleled food.