The 5 million people living on the island surely make Sicily the largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. It has a rich and unique culture, especially with regard to arts, music, cuisine history and language. If visiting for a week, here’s our list of top 5 things to do when in Sicily.

#1. Etna – Europe’s largest active volcano

Etna is a must. To see Europe’s largest active volcano, is a fantastic experience. We recommend getting right to the top along with a volcano guide and wander around the crater.

#2. Ciccino’s pizzeria in Castelmola

Really nice place that not many get to. Ciccino itself is old folk singer and always sits and plays and sings for the guests, who sit under the stars in a hidden corner in Piazza Duomo. A better night in Siciliansk spirit can not be found!

#3. Volcanic islands off Sicily‘s northern coast

Visit the Aeolian Islands with their mud baths and Stromboli with its still active volcano.

#4. Discover the countryside

Do not miss a trip to the countryside. For example, the route Gole Alcantara – Motta Camastra – Castiglione di Sicilia – Linguaglossa and back to Taormina. Stop off at a winery and have lunch at an agriturismo. Especially nice is it in the spring when the almond trees blossom.

#5. The special atmosphere of Ortygia

Go to Ortygia, the historic center of Syracuse. Here you can see the old part of town with the cathedral, the statue of Saint Lucia, the remains of ancient temples and stroll around the narrow streets.

Psst! The most common mistake people make when planning a trip to Sicily, they make because they do not realize how big the island really is. You do not have time to see everything in a week, there are big distances and my advice is to concentrate on the part of the island you will find most interesting. From Taormina to Palermo takes at least 4 hours by car and many more hours if you choose to travel by bus or train. It could become stressful to take it as a day trip!