Best summer destinations in Sicily: must-see places this year

The atmospheric island in the Mediterranean attracts tens of thousands of travelers every year. To know where to go and what to see, read on.

Palermo

The sunny capital is divided into four quarters: Kalsa, Albergaria, Seralcadio, and La Loggia. A few years ago, the city served as a refuge for immigrants. Nowadays, it hosts various festivals, music competitions, and sporting events. The mild Mediterranean climate prevails here, and the air temperature ranges from 24°C to 33°C. The beach season begins in May and ends in October. The largest influx of tourists is in July and August.

Mondello and San Vito Lo Capo are the best local beaches. They are famous for their gentle entry, cleanliness, warm sea and accessible infrastructure. They are always noisy and crowded. Still, there is one place where you can retire. If you dream of silence, visit the Isola delle Femmine. It's not far away, just 300 meters from the coast.

Be sure to go to the Norman Palace. Since 1946, it has served as the seat of the Sicilian Regional Assembly. We also recommend going to the Porta Nuova gate, which is located very close by. They were built in 1583 in honor of the victory of Charles V. The building is decorated with carvings, columns and statues.

Also, check out the Massimo Opera House, the largest in Italy. It was here that the final shots of The Godfather were filmed. By the way, the most active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna, is located here, at an altitude of 2550 meters. You can get to the top by cable car.

Taormina

A real medieval town with an azure sea, majestic mountains, and ancient architecture. The tourist season here begins in May and lasts until October. In summer, the air temperature ranges from 27°C to 30°C.

We recommend choosing the coast of the Ionian Sea for your vacation. Of all the beaches, Mazzaro is worth a closer look, with its coastline dotted with many bars and restaurants. You can rent umbrellas and sun loungers here. Also visit Spisone, a small and cozy bay. It's very beautiful here, but unfortunately, the area is not well-maintained.

By the way, in the southwest, 400 meters from the town of Stresa, there is a small island of Isola Bella. Its entire area is occupied by a palace and park complex. Napoleon's personal belongings and paintings by Bernardino Luini and Giordano are kept here. You can get here on foot through a sandy strip or by boat.

We recommend visiting the Ancient Theater. It offers incredible views of the Etna stratovolcano. In summer, concerts and festivals are often held there. Also, be sure to take a walk in the gardens of Villa Comunale. Tropical plants and exotic flowers grow here. Also, be sure to visit the Church of Madonna della Rocca. The shrine was built on the edge of the cliff of Monte Tauro.

Syracuse

A clean and calm city without polluted streets and noisy parties. In summer, there is no strong heat, the air temperature ranges from 27°C to 30°C. The public beach of Minareto is hidden between the rocks and covered with soft sand.

Fans of classicism are advised to visit the Neapolis archaeological park. There is an amphitheater here that dates back to the fifth century. It used to seat 16 thousand people. Not far away is the Latomia Del Paradiso quarry. Once upon a time, stones were mined here for construction work. Later, the catacombs were used to imprison Athenian soldiers. Today, the location is overgrown with fragrant magnolias and citrus trees.

The central square of the Duomo is home to the Alagonian Library. Rare ancient manuscripts are kept here. You can also see a collection of ancient coins.

Ragusa

The province is spread over hilly terrain. The seaside part of the city, Marina di Ragusa, is located on the Mediterranean Sea. By the way, the municipality has its own patron saint. We are talking about John the Baptist.

Be sure to visit the Cathedral of St. George. The previous shrine was destroyed by an earthquake in 1693. After the disaster, it was rebuilt, but slightly modernized. Today, the monument is carefully protected by the UNESCO World Heritage Site as an architectural masterpiece in the Sicilian Baroque style.

In the Purgatorio ad Arco church, you can get to know Byzantine art better. Most tourists are attracted by one interesting detail - the winged skulls of Dionisio Lazzari. They are located near the main altar. Also, go to the magnificent Giardini Iblei Park. It offers incredible views of the surrounding area.

Lampedusa

The island attracts tourists with its clean beaches and white sand. Due to the volcanic origin of the island, there are cliffs, cliffs and picturesque lagoons everywhere. Therefore, diving and snorkeling enthusiasts often come here.

The most popular beach is Rabbit Beach. By the way, it is regularly included in the ratings for a reason. But keep in mind that there is no infrastructure here. Therefore, take care of all the necessary things for your vacation in advance.

By the way, there is a Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in the city. They take care of reptiles and treat them if necessary.

In the northern part of the region are the coastal and oceanic cliffs of Scoglio del Sacramento. Interesting excursions on a pirate ship are organized here.

Experience the beauty of atmospheric Sicily. Take your friends with you and go for an adventure.

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