The Divine Delights of An Italian Holiday in Sicily

By Brooklyn Magazine Staff

If there was just one word to capture Sicily’s essence, it would be passion. The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea is dotted with hilly and lush green mountains—the highest point is Mt. Etna and its active volcano—mixing with rocky cliffs, sandy beaches and bright sun.

Sicily is a cacophony of art, storied architecture, Italian mysticism, and visual gems. The sea salt air wafts through every turn just as the sun illuminates hidden, cozy corners. Balconies overlook bustling streets, and restaurants and cafes spill over with cappuccinos and Aperol Spritzes to be sipped. And of course, there’s always fresh pasta—and seafood—waiting to be savored.

Whether it’s your first visit or one of many, there are so many reasons to explore Sicily. Check out Brooklyn Magazine’s dreamy places to discover from cities and stays to experiences and places.

Cities Full of Sicilian Charm

Should you find yourself in Sicily, there are a few cities to put on your radar. Taormina, Catania, Palermo, and Cefalù. Each place has its own essence laden with unique treasures layered with complex history and culture.

Catania

Ready for culinary delights? First things first, check out the fish market at Piscaria. Here, you can also dive into the famed arancini. Though something to keep in mind: The food options in Sicily as a whole are nearly endless and they’re all delicious. From there, unlock ancient sites like the Roman Theater of Catania, tour the impressive baroque Cattedrale di Sant’Agata, wind through the city square, beautiful piazzas and visit the Fontana dell’Elefante (the elephant is a symbol of the city). No trip is complete without picking up some goodies along Via Etena, the city’s charmed—and large—shopping street. Some culinary spots not to miss: Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab (the sardines are life-changing), Pasticceria Spinella (get the pistachio croissant) and Savia (one arancini, please).

Taormina

A glorious hilltop town near Mount Etna awaits. The effervescent city is a sparkling hub of sun, shopping, ancient ruins, Greek and Arabic buildings and tasty delights. It won’t take long for Taormina to weave its spell—from small but marvelous churches carved into a rock like Santuario Madonna della Rocca, the Greek Theatre, or hop on the cable car and head straight to the Isola Bella beach. Unlock new views at the Piazza Duomo where you’re find the St. Nicholas Cathedral. Don’t forget to shop in the seaside spot, and saunter through Corso Umberto for luxury and enchantments, get lost in a bevy of architecture periods (Arabic, baroque and gothic being just a few) and make your way to the main square Piazza IX Aprile. Notable must-dos: Stay at Hotel Villa Ducale or San Domenico Palace (a la White Lotus), dine at Vineria Modi and savor an aperitivo at Circe.

Palermo

The capital city of Palermo is electric. Brimming with historical landmarks, dreamy piazzas and cafes, there’s so much more underneath the Mediterranean surface. Iconic sights include the Cattedrale di Palermo (with zodiac signs in the marble floor), the opera house Teatro Massimo and the magnificent palace Palazzo Valguarnera Gangi. Pass through the food stalls at Capo Market and Vucciria Market for goodies big and small.

Cefalù

This coastal city is a gem. Cefalù is renowned for its beaches and crystalline blue waters, alongside its splendid dining scene. Reserve an escape at the Cefalù Sea Palace (aka, there’s a pool). Spectacular attractions include a medieval cathedral, an old Dianic temple and the lavatoio (a medieval laundry). Stroll among the city’s winding streets and there you can get lost in boutiques for local chocolate, honey, wine and more. Feast on fine fare at Ristorante La Botte (go for the octopus salad, sardine bucatini and spaghetti with clams), and La Playa del Tirreno (highly recommend any fresh fish or pasta dish). Don’t forget to sip a fresh Aperol Spritz while you lounge (and lay) on the sand.

P.S. Want more? If you want more delightful food excursions, take a day trip to Castelbuono to see Ventimiglia Castle, the Palatina Chapel and sample cannolis, gelato or delicious granita at Naselli (via Piazza Margherita, 12).