Places You'll See

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  Catania

  Catania, nestled on Sicily’s eastern coast at the foot of Mount Etna, is a vibrant city where ancient history and lively street culture collide. Known for its dramatic Baroque architecture built from black lava stone, Catania offers a unique charm—from the bustling Piazza del Duomo with its iconic elephant fountain to colorful local markets like La Pescheria. Travelers can explore Roman ruins, sip espresso in elegant squares, and enjoy views of the smoldering volcano in the distance. Rich in character, food, and heritage, Catania is a captivating gateway to Sicily’s eastern wonders.

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  Taormina

  Situated on the eastern coast of Sicily, Taormina sits on the flanks of the active volcano known as Mount Etna. Visitors can hike the trails to the volcanoes summit and appreciate the seaside views over the city. Known for its still operating ancient Greco-­Roman theater, the Teatro Antico di Taormina, visitors can take in the gorgeous architecture along

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  Mount Etna

  Mount Etna is Europe’s largest active volcano and one of Sicily’s defining natural landmarks. Its volcanic slopes and Silvestri Craters offer dramatic views across the surrounding landscape. Depending on weather and operating conditions, the experience may also include a cable car ride up.

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  Savoca

  Savoca is a picturesque hilltop village surrounded by the landscapes of northeastern Sicily. Known for its medieval character and atmospheric setting, the village became an internationally recognized filming location for The Godfather. The experience includes the Church of St. Lucy and a stop at a historic local bar for the village’s famous lemon granita. 

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  Palermo

  Sitting in the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Palermo is an ancient city full of cultural influences while serving as an important trading hub in the region for over eight thousand years. Today, the capital city of Sicily welcomes visitors to explore its cultural icons such as the numerous cathedrals, Greek amphitheater, and temples, to frolic on its beaches, and taste the best Cannoli in Italy.

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  Monreale

  Located in the hills above Palermo, Monreale is renowned for its magnificent Norman cathedral. The cathedral is celebrated for its extraordinary golden mosaics and harmonious blend of Norman, Byzantine, and Arab artistic influences. Its adjoining cloister provides a tranquil setting filled with carved columns and intricate details.

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  Agrigento

  Agrigento is a historic Sicilian city with a rich Greek heritage. Once known as Akragas, it became one of the most important Greek cities in the ancient Mediterranean. Today, its historic center reflects centuries of Sicilian culture and architecture. The city also serves as a gateway to some of Sicily’s most significant archaeological treasures. 

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  Valley of the Temples

  The Valley of the Temples preserves some of Sicily’s most remarkable ancient Greek ruins. The archaeological area was once part of the ancient city of Akragas, founded by Greek settlers. The Temple of Juno, Temple of Concordia, and Temple of Hercules showcase the grandeur of the ancient settlement. Together, these monuments offer a striking glimpse into the architectural and cultural legacy of classical Sicily.

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  Cagliari

  Cagliari is Sardinia’s historic capital, overlooking the Mediterranean from a series of hills. Its historic districts combine medieval architecture, panoramic viewpoints, churches, and atmospheric streets. The Castello district provides an especially rich introduction to the city’s history and character.

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  Molentargius Natural Park

  Molentargius Natural Park is a protected wetland landscape just outside central Cagliari. Its lagoons and waterways provide an important habitat for numerous bird species, including the distinctive pink flamingos. The park offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s historic character.

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  San Sperate

  San Sperate is a small Sardinian village celebrated for its vibrant murals and open-air artistic character. Streets and buildings throughout the village have become part of an evolving artistic landscape. The Sound Garden, featuring the resonant stones created by Sardinian artist Pinuccio Sciola, adds another distinctive cultural dimension.  

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  Nora

  Nora is one of Sardinia’s most significant archaeological sites, situated on a scenic coastal peninsula. The ancient settlement preserves evidence of Phoenician, Punic, and Roman civilizations that flourished along the island’s southern coast. Its ruins combine archaeological discovery with beautiful views of the surrounding Mediterranean landscape.

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  Barumini

  Barumini is a historic village in central Sardinia, renowned for its remarkable Nuragic heritage and archaeological sites that offer insight into the island’s prehistoric civilization. At its heart lies Su Nuraxi, Sardinia’s most important Nuragic archaeological complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The impressive stone structure, with its towers, walls, and surrounding settlement, reveals the ingenuity of the ancient Nuragic communities that flourished across the island. Together, Barumini and Su Nuraxi provide a fascinating perspective on Sardinia’s early history, distinctive architecture, and ancient cultural traditions.