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Sicily , the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a fascinating tourist destination that perfectly blends history, culture, gastronomy and truly incredible landscapes .
Renting a car is, without a doubt, the best way to discover this Italian island, and with Record go you can do it both from Palermo and from Catania , so you can prepare your route as you prefer and be able to explore both the emblematic places and the lesser-known corners at your own pace.
If you are lucky enough to be preparing a trip to this island, we leave you this article with the 7 things you have to see and do in Sicily , don’t miss it!
7 things about Sicily that you should not miss with your Record go rental car
Palermo: A Journey Through History and Culture
If you fly to Palermo, you can start your adventure in this emblematic city. Pick up your rental car at the Record office Leave Palermo Airport and head to the heart of the city. Palermo is known for its rich cultural and architectural heritage, reflecting Norman, Arab and Byzantine influences .
Visit Palermo Cathedral , a stunning mix of architectural styles ranging from Norman to Baroque. Right next door, the Norman Palace and its Palatine Chapel , with its Byzantine mosaics, are absolutely essential. For an authentic experience, don’t miss the Ballarò Market , where you can try local specialties such as ” arancino ” (rice croquettes) and ” sfincione ” (Sicilian pizza). Palermo, with its bustle and charm, is one of the 7 things to see and do in Sicily .
Valley of the Temples in Agrigento: A Journey to Ancient Greece
Drive south to explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site . This impressive complex is home to some of the best preserved Greek temples in the world.
The Temple of Concord , one of the most intact, stands majestically in the middle of a landscape of olive and almond trees. Don’t miss the Temple of Juno and the Temple of Olympian Zeus . Each offers a window into the splendor of the ancient city of Akragas . Walking among these ruins will allow you to immerse yourself in Greek history and feel like a traveler in time. Without a doubt, the Valley of the Temples is one of the 7 things to see and do in Sicily that stands out for its historical magnificence .
The Baroque Route: Noto, Ragusa and Modica
Continue your journey southeast to discover the Baroque Route of Sicily , which includes the cities of Noto, Ragusa and Modica . These towns were rebuilt in the 18th century after the devastating earthquake of 1693 and are outstanding examples of Baroque architecture.
Noto is famous for its majestic cathedral and its main street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele , flanked by baroque buildings that reflect the splendor of the era. In Ragusa, explore Ragusa Ibla , the old part of the city , offering a maze of cobbled streets and charming squares. Modica , in addition to its baroque architecture, is known for its artisanal chocolate , a tradition that dates back to colonial times. The baroque route will allow you to admire the architectural splendor and taste local delicacies.
Taormina and the Greek Theater: Beauty and Culture
Head northeast to Taormina, one of the most picturesque towns in Sicily . This town, located on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea and the Etna volcano , offers a spectacular setting.
The Greek Theater of Taormina , built in the 3rd century BC, is one of the best preserved ancient theaters in Italy . Its location provides stunning views of the surroundings, making the visit even more memorable. After exploring the theater, stroll down Corso Umberto , the main street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. If time permits, descend to Isola Bella beach, a small gem connected to the coast by a strip of sand. Taormina and its Greek theater are essential on your list of the 7 things to see and do in Sicily .
Mount Etna: A Volcanic Adventure
No visit to Sicily is complete without a trip to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano . From Catania, drive to the Rifugio Sapienza , about 1900 meters above sea level.
From there, you can take a cable car and then an all-terrain vehicle that will take you close to the main craters. Exploring Etna offers you stunning views of lunar landscapes and the opportunity to see volcanic activity live . Furthermore, Etna is famous for its wines produced in the volcanic lands; Visit a local winery to try these unique wines .
Syracuse and Ortygia : History and Charm
Drive southeast until you reach Syracuse, a city with a rich history dating back to the ancient Greeks. The Neápolis Archaeological Park includes the Greek Theater and the Roman Amphitheater , both fascinating testimonies to the ancient greatness of Syracuse.
Don’t miss the island of Ortigia , the historic center of the city. Here you will find the Cathedral of Syracuse, built on an ancient Greek temple, and the Fountain of Arethusa, surrounded by legends . Walking through Ortigia is a delight, with its narrow streets, charming squares and vibrant nightlife.
The Aeolian Islands: A Volcanic Archipelago
Finally, take advantage of your rental car to reach the port of Milazzo and take a ferry to the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Lipari , the largest island, offers beaches, a medieval castle, and the Aeolian Archaeological Museum .
In Stromboli , you can take a night walk to see the volcanic eruptions, known as ” Strombolian . ” Each island has its own character: Vulcano is famous for its mud baths, Panarea for its nightlife, and Salina for its vineyards and caponata , a typical Sicilian dish . The Aeolian Islands are, without a doubt, a must-see stop on your driving route for the 7 things to see and do in Sicily that will provide you with a unique experience in an impressive environment.
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