If you want to enjoy Italy to the fullest, the best place to visit is Sicilythe largest island in the Mediterranean. This is also the result of a survey of the top ten destinations of Falstatt TRAVEL readers. Because Sicily is in ninth place. Dream beaches alternate with breathtaking landscapes, mountainous regions and beautiful cities. Pleasantly warm temperatures prevail all year round, and in summer it is not unusual for the temperature to break the 40 degree mark. Holidaymakers appreciate the island for its unique flair, the varied cuisine and the Italian attitude to life.

Currently, entry to Sicily is still difficult due to the corona pandemic. In addition to a negative PCR test, a 14-day quarantine is also required. Until the regulations are relaxed again, you can get some inspiration for your next holiday in the south of Italy.

The sunny island from its most beautiful side

Fresh olives, fragrant lemons the size of grapefruits and unique ceramics: these are just a few of the things that make Sicily a perfect holiday destination. The island's diverse landscape delights families, romantics and active holidaymakers alike. Sights range from winding old towns, to historic excavations, to an active volcano. Whether you're in the north or on the south coast, everyone is happy in Sicily. But let's start in the north, with Palermo, the capital of the island. In the old town, one can discover countless highlights that are sometimes thousands of years old. Monuments, medieval churches, winding alleys (which you should better not approach by car, trust us!) and magnificent avenues characterize the cityscape of Palermo. In between, the vibrant life takes place as locals and holidaymakers make a foray into the colourful markets, restaurants and bars.

The journey continues to the charming fishing town of Cefalù. Situated directly on the coast, the town delights with its picturesque sandy beaches, which have often served as film backdrops, postcard motifs and artist inspirations. However, the town is especially popular for its crystal clear water, which shimmers in countless shades of blue, as well as the numerous small restaurants on the beach promenade, which is surrounded by beautiful lemon trees, olive groves and vineyards.

In total, the coast of Sicily is 1150 kilometers long. Many destinations are easily accessible by train, otherwise it is recommended to explore the various places with a rental car, if you have not already made the long journey with your own car. As also the east of the island is a popular destination for vacationers. There, one impressive sight follows the other. In addition, there is the natural wonder Etna - the highest volcano in Europe. If you want to get to the top of the still active volcano, you will find yourself at 3,300 metres. The adventure starts at the mountain station Rifugio Sapienza. There you go by cable car to an airy height of 2,500 metres. The rest of the way to the south crater has to be done by cross-country bus. The ascent is worth it, as visitors are amazed by a breathtaking panoramic view of the island while surrounded by small craters and lava flows. Do not be surprised, often the smell of sulphur comes to the nose. But this will be forgotten at the latest when one sees the gorgeous flora that adorns the volcano. Our tip: make sure to pack sturdy shoes and warm clothes. Because while the place where Etna stretches can measure around 40 degrees in high summer, it is often frosty cold at the volcano.

If you feel more like relaxing, the chic seaside resort of Taormina is just right for you. Only 40 kilometers from Mount Etna, the beautiful city stretches along the east coast of Sicily. Kilometres of often unspoilt beaches make Taormina a perfect destination for a day out. But the place is very special because it is situated on a rock, about 200 meters above sea level and you can enjoy a magnificent view of the sea and the natural landscape. But also the ancient theatre under the open sky from the Roman times is worth a visit. Even today it is used for open-air performances.

A little further on is the second largest city on the island after Palermo: Catania. The special thing about it is its spectacular location. On one side, Mount Etna borders Catania and from the other, the Oasi del Simento nature reserve. Those who visit the city should in no case miss the Centro Storico, in which countless baroque buildings cavort. But also the Piazza Doumo or the imposing Castello Ursino are very worth seeing. At night, the city transforms into pulsating life and radiates pure energy and joy.

If you want to take a detour further south, you should visit the coastal towns of Sciacca and Agrigento.

Top addresses in Sicily

What would Italy be without its markets and treasures? You should not miss these addresses.

Mercato Ballaro, Palermo

Via Dalmazio Birago, 2-14, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy

Young and old, locals and holidaymakers meet at Palermo's impressive street market. And they all have just one goal: to taste regional delicacies, to let themselves be driven by the market activity and to soak up the Italian flair. The Marcato Ballaro is open every day.

Osteria Antica Marina

Via Pardo, 29, 95131 Catania CT, Italy
anticamarina.it

Anyone who visits Sicily should also dine at least once in an osteria. The Antica Marina is distinguished by excellent fish specialties at hood level.

Ceramiche Sireci pottery, Cefalù

Via Mandralisca, 47, 90015 Cefalù PA, Italy
ceramichedireci.com

Souvenirs are always a good idea, whether for yourself or for others. But how about something typically Sicilian? Like beautiful ceramics from a traditional pottery, like the one in Cefalù. The offer ranges from exclusive handmade pots, plates, bowls and mugs.

3 of the most beautiful hotels in Sicily

Sicily has countless unique and exclusive hotels to offer. To make a selection is almost impossible and yet we have found for you three of the most beautiful hotels on the island.

San Domenico Palace, Taormina

Piazza S. Domenico de Guzman 5, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy
Tel: +39 0942 613111
fourseasons.com/taormina

In the beautiful seaside resort of Taormina, in the middle of the old town, you will find the charming Hotel San Domenico Palace. The view of the bay is spectacular! And also inside the historic walls, the hotel offers luxurious interiors and noble design. Guests appreciate the peace and relaxation that the hotel's own garden brings. In addition, the dreamy outdoor pool area invites guests to swim and sunbathe. But also exclusive offers such as golfing, fitness and massage treatments provide the perfect holiday feeling.

Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel, Sciacca

S.S. 115, Km 131, 92019 Sciacca AG, Italy
Tel: +39 0925 998001
roccofortehotels.com

Verdura Resort is located directly on the Mediterranean coast and covers 230 hectares of land. In order to provide guests with complete privacy, the resort has a two-kilometre stretch of coastline, which is a great place to relax. The highlight, however, are two large, beautifully manicured golf courses designed by Kyle Phillips. Those who prefer to relax can do so either on the white sandy beach or along the 60-metre-long infinity pool. And the hotel's own spa also invites you to relax.

Villa Athena

Via Passeggiata Archeologica, 33 - 92100 Agrigento - Sicilia
T. +39 0922. 596288
hotelvillaathena.it

Villa Athena is so exclusive and unique that it has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site. No wonder, the luxury hotel is located in the middle of the archaeological park in the Valley of the Temples. If you think that's all there is to it, you're wrong! Because in the 18th century, the building served as a princely residence and is, after all, located almost directly opposite the Concordia Temple - a masterpiece from the 5th century B.C. The rooms shine in a combination of modern and historical elements and exude a breathtaking atmosphere. The hotel's own park is also special, lined with centuries-old olive trees.

Picture Credits: notiziecatania / Pixabay, Michoff / Pixabay, Duotone / Pixabay, Peter H / Pixabay, hirisflower / Pixabay, salvatore galle / Pixabay, Verdura Resort, San Domenico Palace, Villa Athena