Things and activities to do in Sicily
Things to do in Sicily
From cultural must-visits like the Greek Theatre of Syracuse, to exploring Mount Etna, to keeping the children occupied at Etnaland. Sicily is a hub of history, culture, and swoon-worthy scenery.
Whether visitors are travelling solo, on a romantic getaway , or with family, there’s a treasure trove of exhilarating day and night activities to behold. But equally, there’s more than enough relaxing excursions and experiences to revel in too. So whatever a Sicilian holidayer’s preference, golden memories are guaranteed to be made.
Read on to discover unmissable things to do in Sicily and find some inspiration for a trip to Club Med Cefalù .
Top spot: Exploring Mount Etna
As one of the world’s most active volcanoes and Europe’s highest active volcano, Mount Etna is a must-visit when in Sicily. Found on the southeast coast and around a three hour drive from our Club Med Cefalù resort, there’s a melting pot of sights and unforgettable activities to be revelled in on the volcano.
For hikers of every ability, set off on a guided morning hike of the volcano to discover lava flows and impressive old craters, as well as exploring a lava cave by headlamp. At only a 1 hour 30 minute ascent, it’s the ideal day trip for couples, families, or as a solo escapade. For those who prefer to explore via wheel than foot, Jeep tours of Mount Etna acquaint passengers with the verdant flora and fauna and cover more ground. Some tours polish off the experience with a tasting of the local honey, wine and liqueurs. Alternatively, cable car rides are available up Mount Etna for a completely unrivalled view of the volcano.
Runner-up: Zingaro Nature Reserve
Just a two hour drive from our Club Med Cefalù resort you’ll find Zingaro Nature Reserve - Sicily’s first natural reserve, established in 1981. A hub of charming foliage and wildlife, this gem is home to 700 species of Mediterranean flora and over 40 bird species, including Bonelli’s eagle.
A complete haven of natural wonders and wholesome moments, take in the sounds and sights of the waves alone with no cars or roads to interrupt. For a walk that’s unrivalled in peace, we recommend embarking on the 7 kilometre coastal route from Scopello to San Vito Lo Capo. Spot coves like Cala Tonnarella dell’Uzzo, Cala Marinella, Cala Berretta, Cala della Disa, Cala del Varo and Cala Capreria on your Mediterranean meander for a two to three hour escapade you’ll certainly write home about.
Top spot: Spiaggia di Cala Rossa
Would a trip to Sicily be complete without visiting its relaxing beaches? In short: definitely not. And at only a two and a half hour drive from our Club Med Cefalù resort , a day trip to one of Sicily’s best beaches, Spiaggia di Cala Rossa, is completely doable.
A true Sicilian escape, Spiaggia di Cala Rossa is surrounded by pristine, blue waters made for a peaceful swim. If visitors plan on spending a day by the water, we recommend aqua shoes for protection against the rocky surface. Paying a visit between the morning and afternoon is best, as this spot is free, meaning it can fill up quickly.
For those who prefer to admire the turquoise waters rather than get up close and personal, boat trips around the Favignana area are available to admire the beach from uncharted angles. Learn about the history of the area and indulge in local aperitifs aboard some boat trips. Or, visit the most beautiful coves of Favignana and Levanzo and head out in the blue on a snorkelling expedition.
Runner-up: Cape of Milazzo
In the Tyrrhenian Sea towards the Lipari Islands, you’ll find the Cape of Milazzo. A peninsula in the north-east of Sicily, it’s known for its postcard-perfect coastal scenery. Revel in exotic cactuses and saccharine flowers amid the contrasting rocky terrine as you follow the coast and walk towards the end of the peninsula. Drenched in the sounds of the sea and alongside striking beauty, this natural landmark is one of the most relaxing things to do in Sicily.
We recommend delving into what the Piscina di Venere (Pool of Venus) has to offer whilst taking in the Cape of Milazzo. Found at the end of the peninsula, the Piscina di Venere is a breathtaking natural cove. Surrounded by rocks and with enough charm to enchant any onlooker, it’s merely 20 metres wide and only 30 centimetres deep. So paddling in the fresh, pristine lagoon is safe.
Top spot: Etna donkey trekking
For a less than conventional Sicilian excursion, donkey trekking up Mount Etna is also on the cards as well as hiking up the volcano. The perfect activity for families, young children, and adventure-seekers, donkey treks are available between May and October.
Rove amongst the epitome of Italian scenery and take in verdant panoramic views amid vineyards, olive trees, and a 600 year old crater. Choose between riding atop your personal donkey companion or walking alongside them whilst enjoying a different experience in nature. And leave with a myriad of stories and anecdotes from your local tour guide for a first-hand authentic taste of Italy.
Mount Etna is around a three hour drive from our Club Med Cefalù resort and different length tours are available, so we recommend arranging other Mount Etna activities or escapades around the southeast coast to make the most of your day.
Runner-up: Etnaland
The perfect, reasonably priced activity for families holidaying in Sicily throughout the summer months, Etnaland is the biggest amusement park in Southern Italy. Just over a two hour drive from our Club Med Cefalù resort , families can venture to and from the park within the day.
Made up of different parks, Etnaland features a range of roller-coasters and rides for all ages. Favourites include The Storm (a 32 metre megalite coaster which isn’t for the faint-hearted) and Quasar (a thrilling, spinning mega disk.) An array of waterslides and minilands lie at Acquapark, including a toboggan, lazy river, and wave machine. Jungle Splash, a speedy 20-seater boat with a 30 metre drop, is also a must-try for those who chase the thrill of a water-soaking roller-coaster. Finally, Parco Della Preistoria transports visitors back 430 million years ago, featuring an array of scientific reproductions of prehistoric animals as well as a look at centuries-old trees and plants.
Top spot: Greek Theatre of Syracuse
Set upon the Temenite hill in Southeastern Sicily sits the Greek Theatre of Syracuse, overlooking the modern city of Syracuse itself. Still in use today, those lucky enough to visit between May and July can take an authentic step back in time and watch a Greek theatre show as intended: alongside exquisite scenery.
Originally built in the 5th century BC, rebuilt in the 3rd century BC, and then finally renovated again in the Roman period, onlookers can truly soak up a mass of history at this spot. Guaranteed to make its way onto your list of most romantic Sicilian moments, choose from a myriad of Greek tragedies like Medea and Prometeo Incatenato, and watch by moonlight.
Runner up: Banacher Club
Known for its electrifying atmosphere, excellent service, and infectious music scene, Banacher Club is the biggest nightclub in Southern Italy. Open every summer between June and October until the early hours, it’s the perfect Silicilan night escape.
Featuring an open dance floor, guests can dance at Banacher by the glow of moonlight whilst revelling in the warm Sicilian evenings. And when it comes to scenery, you can lap up the luxurious setting of a swimming pool set amid a tropical oasis of flora and palm trees. Serving all the noteworthy ingredients needed for an unforgettable Sicilian night out, this spot is a must-visit for disco-lovers.
Top 5
1. Catania’s markets
Found in the heart of the city, the Catania fish market is a hubbub of local produce. From fish to trinkets to snacks, take home something authentic.
2. Noto cathedral
Noto’s breathtaking Roman Catholic cathedral epitomises the Italian Baroque style, making it no surprise it’s an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Villa Romana del Casale
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Villa Romana del Casale is home to one of the largest and richest Roman mosaic collections in the world.
4. Palermo’s street art
A hub of stunning artwork and graffiti, the streets of Palermo are brimming with culture, colour, and photo opportunities not to be missed.
5. Valley of the Temples
An archaeological site in Agrigento, the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples is a prime example of why Greek architecture is so renowned.
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