Visit Sicily in 1 week: our favourites to see

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Visit Sicily: our top must-sees 

Between the Valley of the Temples, Etna, Taormina and Palermo, here are 8 must-see places not to be missed on your holiday in Sicily.

Climbing Etna, a unique experience

Top bookings for climbing Etna (free cancellation):

• Mount Etna: Trekking at 3,000 m with cable car and jeep
• Etna: Quad bike excursion 

Climbing Etna is like walking on another planet. As soon as you start to climb, the vegetation changes: chestnut forests and vineyards give way to a mineral landscape shaped by lava flows. The contrast between the intense black of the volcanic rocks and the deep blue of the sea below is striking. 

At the summit of the largest active volcano in Europe, the ground sometimes crackles underfoot and lets out little fumaroles, reminding us that the volcano is very much alive. For a first time, it is better to go with an approved local guide: not only for your safety, but also to understand the legends and history of this giant that has shaped the lives of Sicilians since time immemorial. Tip: bring a warm jacket, even in summer, as the wind at the top can be icy.

Practical information: the site is accessible all year round, from 9am to 4pm (check the hours nonetheless depending on the time of year). 

Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

The Valley of the Temples is not just an archaeological site, it is a dive into the grandeur of ancient Greece in the heart of Sicily. Imagine yourself wandering among columns more than 2,500 years old, surrounded by almond trees in blossom in spring. The Temple of Concord is so well preserved that you almost feel the priests have just celebrated a ritual there. What makes the place even more fascinating is the light: at sunset, the temples take on a golden hue that contrasts with the orange sky, creating an almost unreal setting. 

Wandersand tip: Remember to book in advance and allow at least three hours to make the most of the site, contemplate each temple and soak up the history.

Visit the Aeolian Islands, a blue paradise in the heart of the Mediterranean

If you are looking for a wild and authentic Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are a jewel not to be missed. Each of them tells a different story. Stromboli impresses with its rumbling volcano and its eruptions visible at night, a hypnotic spectacle. Lipari, the largest, charms with its little whitewashed lanes, its fresh fish restaurants and its coves with turquoise waters. Vulcano, with its fumaroles and mud baths, is a unique sensory experience. More secret, Salina, Panarea and Filicudi charm with their calm and their unspoilt landscapes. The archipelago is a UNESCO site, and for a first visit, the best is to combine two or three islands to grasp their full diversity. 

Practical tip if you come to visit Sicily in 1 week: book your ferry crossings in advance in high season, as they quickly sell out.

Admire Taormina and its surroundings

Taormina is a bit like the postcard of Sicily. Perched on a promontory, the town offers a dizzying view of the Ionian Sea with, in the background, majestic Etna. Its perfectly preserved Greek theatre is the emblematic place: imagine attending an ancient show facing this grandiose panorama.

We especially love its cobbled lanes lined with craft shops, its flower-decked terraces and its gentle way of life that charms you immediately. If you come for the first time, don't miss Isola Bella, an islet linked to the coast by a thin strip of sand, perfect for a swim. In the surrounding area, Castelmola, a little perched village, offers a more authentic atmosphere and an even more spectacular view.

Stop in Palermo

Among our must-sees when you come to visit Sicily in 1 week is obviously Palermo, a city that leaves no one indifferent. Noisy, lively, colourful, it blends Arab, Norman, Spanish and Italian cultures. Its street markets, such as Ballarò or Vucciria, are an explosion of flavours and scents: crispy arancini, panelle, sun-ripened fruit… everything makes you want to taste. But Palermo is also architectural treasures, such as the Palatine Chapel, a true jewel of golden mosaics.

Wandersand tip: Let yourself be carried along by the organised chaos of the city: get lost in its lanes, watch local life and give yourself time for a coffee on a terrace. Here, you don't just visit a capital, you live an experience.

Discover Syracuse & the island of Ortigia

Syracuse, once one of the greatest cities of the ancient world, is today a fascinating destination. The Neapolis Archaeological Park houses the Roman amphitheatre, the Greek theatre still used for performances today and the famous "Ear of Dionysius", an impressive cave known for its acoustics. 

Don't miss the charming island of Ortigia with its concentration of Baroque lanes, lively piazzas and flower-decked balconies, here too. On site, you can see: Piazza Duomo, with its cathedral built on an ancient Greek temple, the Temple of Apollo, Syracuse Cathedral, not forgetting the sublime Fountain of Arethusa. Come and stroll at sunset, when the light softens the façades and the restaurants set out their terraces. Ideal for a convivial evening facing the sea and living the dolce vita.

Take your time in Cefalù

Cefalù, a little seaside gem, charms you immediately with its authentic character. Imagine an old fishing village, dominated by a Norman cathedral with Byzantine mosaics, and bordered by a long golden-sand beach. It is the ideal place to combine culture and relaxation. You come here to get lost in the medieval lanes, enjoy a granita while watching the fishermen mend their nets, then dive into the translucent sea. Climb up to the Rocca, a rocky promontory, to admire the incredible view of the coast. Of course, the climb takes a bit of effort, but the reward is unforgettable.

See the Scala dei Turchi

The Scala dei Turchi is arguably one of the most spectacular landscapes in Sicily. This white cliff, sculpted by wind and sea, looks like an immense staircase plunging into turquoise waters. The contrast between the dazzling limestone and the Mediterranean Sea is breathtakingly beautiful. Its name comes from the Saracen pirates who once used this coast as a landing point. 

Wandersand tip: plan to arrive early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy the light that makes the rocks glow. Don't forget your water shoes as the limestone can be slippery.

How to visit Sicily in 1 week? The perfect itinerary

Sicily is an island that blends thousand-year-old history, breathtaking landscapes and Mediterranean gentleness. In a week, it is possible to discover the must-sees while keeping a pleasant pace. Here is a day-by-day itinerary to make the most of your trip to Sicily.

Day 1: Visit Palermo

Palermo, the vibrant and teeming capital of Sicily, is an immediate immersion in the Sicilian soul. From the morning, stroll through the historic centre between colourful markets such as Ballarò or Vucciria, where vendors shout out their local specialities. Then, don't miss: 

• Palermo Cathedral, an emblematic monument that reflects the city's different influences: Arab, Norman, Baroque and neoclassical.
• The Palace of the Normans, former residence of the kings of Sicily & the Palatine Chapel
• The Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy and the 3rd in Europe
• The Church of La Martorana (Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio), a masterpiece of Arab-Norman style
• Piazza Pretoria and its monumental 16th-century fountain adorned with nude statues, nicknamed the "Fountain of Shame" at the time
• The Capuchin Catacombs, an unusual visit not to be missed
• The lively Kalsa district, the former Arab quarter
• The Botanical Garden with its exotic plants, its orange trees and its giant cacti

Finally, if you come to visit Sicily in 1 week, you must also try Palermitan street food with its arancini (stuffed, fried rice balls), its sfincione (soft Sicilian pizza) and of course its cannoli (sweet ricotta pastry)

Day 2: Taormina & Etna

For this last day, head to Taormina, a real jewel perched on the east coast. Its ancient theatre, with Etna and the Ionian Sea as a backdrop, is one of the most spectacular panoramas in Sicily. The town's lanes, lined with craft shops and elegant cafés, invite you to wander.

In the afternoon, set off on an excursion on the slopes of Etna. Depending on the weather and your energy, you can go up by cable car or accompany a guide to reach the most recent craters. The landscape, between black lava, pine forests and fumaroles, is absolutely unique. It is a perfect way to end this trip, facing the raw force of nature.

Day 3: Cefalù

Head for Cefalù, a former fishing village with intact charm. Its medieval centre is a maze of cobbled lanes leading to small lively squares. The Norman cathedral, a UNESCO site, houses magnificent Byzantine mosaics, including the Christ Pantocrator, a true masterpiece.

After the cultural visit, nothing beats a swim on the large golden-sand beach that borders the town. For the bravest, the climb up la Rocca offers a panoramic view over the whole coastline and the red roofs of the village: an unforgettable moment at sunset, to put on your to-do list if you come to visit Sicily in 1 week.

Day 4-5: Agrigento & Scala dei Turchi

Head to the south of the island to discover Agrigento and its mythical site: the Valley of the Temples. This vast archaeological park, a UNESCO site, houses some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world, such as the Temple of Concord or that of Hera. The place is even more magical at nightfall, when the columns are lit up by floodlights and the atmosphere becomes almost mystical.

The next day, take the road to reach the spectacular Scala dei Turchi, a white limestone cliff shaped like a staircase plunging into a turquoise sea. It is a perfect spot for a walk, incredible photos and a moment of relaxation by the water. A little tip: bring suitable shoes, as the rock can be slippery.

Day 6 - 7: Syracuse and Ortigia

It is impossible to visit Sicily in 1 week without going through Syracuse, one of the greatest cities of Antiquity. Start with the Neapolis archaeological park, where the Greek theatre, the Roman amphitheatre and the impressive "Ear of Dionysius", a cave known for its acoustics, are found.

Then head for the island of Ortigia, the real historic heart of Syracuse. Its cobbled lanes, flower-decked balconies and lively squares charm all visitors. Piazza Duomo, with its Baroque cathedral built on the remains of an ancient Greek temple, is one of the most beautiful sites in Sicily. In the evening, stroll along the quays and sit down in a restaurant to enjoy a seafood dish facing the Ionian Sea.

Other places to see in Sicily

Monreale, a little town perched on the heights. Its cathedral is world-famous for its Byzantine mosaics that cover almost the entire interior: more than 6,000 m² of gilding telling biblical scenes. The adjoining cloister, with its finely sculpted columns, invites contemplation. From Monreale, the view over Palermo and the coast is splendid.

For beaches, you have San Vito Lo Capo, Mondello, or Fontane Bianche. For nature lovers, go and discover the Zingaro Nature Reserve, and the Alcantara Gorges.

FAQ: Visit Sicily in 7 days 

Here are our answers to your most frequent questions for visiting this magical island in the south of Italy. 

What are the beautiful towns to visit in Sicily?

For a first stay in Sicily, we recommend Palermo, Catania at the foot of Etna, Syracuse, Taormina and Agrigento. Trapani & Erice are also two sublime towns to visit for their authentic atmosphere and spectacular panoramas.

What is the most beautiful part of Sicily?

Sicily is beautiful everywhere, but many consider the east coast the most spectacular, with Taormina, Syracuse and Etna as a backdrop. The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the Scala dei Turchi also offer unique landscapes. The Aeolian Islands charm with their wild beauty. Each region has its charm, but if it is a first visit, the east of the island is often travellers' favourite.

What should you not miss in Sicily?

You can't miss the Valley of the Temples, the climb of Etna and the discovery of Palermo with its lively markets. Syracuse and the island of Ortigia are among the island's Baroque jewels. Taormina, with its ancient theatre and its view of Etna, is unforgettable. Finally, plan a stop at the Scala dei Turchi or Cefalù to combine culture and idyllic beaches.

What is the average budget for a trip to Sicily?

The budget varies depending on the season, but on average allow €70 to €100 per day per person for a comfortable stay (accommodation, meals and visits). Accommodation by the sea or in very touristy areas such as Taormina is more expensive. Sicilian street food lets you eat well and cheaply. Adding car hire and petrol, allow about €800 to €1,000 per week for two.

How long to visit Sicily?

Visiting Sicily in 1 week lets you see the main sites and get an overall picture of the island. Less than 7 days would be a shame, which is why we advise allowing a week at a minimum to take your time and enjoy this trip while living exceptional experiences.

What is the best month to visit Sicily?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are the ideal periods: mild temperatures, pleasant sea and less crowded sites. In summer, Sicily can be very hot, especially in July and August, with often crowded beaches. In winter, the atmosphere is calmer, but some tourist areas close. If you are looking for the right compromise between weather and price, May and September are the best months.

That's it, our article “Visit Sicily in 1 week” ends here.  We hope all these good addresses and activities help you plan your holiday in this sublime region of southern Italy. All that's left is to wish you a great stay and plenty of good vibes 😎