Looking to escape to a paradise-like island where some the best of Italy’s culture, art, cuisine and history intertwines? Look no further than Sicily!

As the largest island in the Med, it packs a real punch when it comes to variety. You’ve got popular tourist spots with sun-drenched beaches alongside hidden-away old towns where the locals will charm your socks off. Not to mention the mouth-watering food that’s on offer and the historic sights to tick off your bucket list.

Let us tell you about all things Sicilian…

The resorts
From the lively to the low-key, there’s a city, town or village here with your name written all over it. Take a look at the hilltop town of Taormina that’s famed for its bustling, chequerboard-style public square and tremendous views of Mount Etna. Its sister village, Taormina Mare, is not to be missed either, where you can ride a cable car down to uncover the magical island of Isola Bella.

Further south, you’ll find Syracuse, where quaint streets float out on the island of Ortigia and historic sights are peppered throughout. If you’re more of a city type, make a beeline for Catania. Sicily’s second-largest city boasts UNESCO delights, buzzy street markets and atmospheric trattorias.

The beaches
It’s true – the beaches really are as golden and the water really is as blue as you see on the postcards, making Sicily a real haven for beach lovers. Not only are there more than 50 on the island to choose from, but a fair few have Blue Flag status, so they’re in pristine condition with great amenities.

If you’re all about sprawling out on a lounger and having plenty of space on the sand, then the beaches along the edge of Campofelice di Roccella will be right up your street. The resort’s sandy shore stretches for more than three and a half miles, and the beach is split up by lively beach bars and free public areas. Lido Bonito and Lido Giglio are ideal picks if you want to feel the sand between your toes and have cocktails on hand.

Looking to dodge the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet where all you’ll hear is the waves lapping onto the rocks? Plonk down for a day at the Zingaro Nature Reserve. It’s here that you’ll get to experience the Sicilian coastline at its best, thanks to its protected status and pedestrianised surrounding streets. Get ready to be wowed by that cobalt-blue sea!

The top attractions
From intricate churches and grand palaces to trembling temples and castles, there’s a whopping great list of things to do and see. And that’s without mentioning the infamous volcano that dominates the skyline – Mount Etna. Peel back the layers of Ancient Greek history at the amphitheatres in Syracuse and Taormina or admire the marvellous medieval structure that is Cefalu’s Cathedral.

A day trip to the south of the island to see the Valley of the Temples is also not to be missed. This fascinating spot is just one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites that Sicily has to offer. The pillared temple is the most famous attraction here and is one of the best preserved Ancient Greek structures in the whole world!

The food and drink
Italian food is known the world over for its rich, flavoursome pastas and hearty pizzas, but here in Sicily, it’s given an island twist. The renowned Sicilian lemon gets a look in on many dishes of the day while crispy arancini balls remain a fave among the locals. Sweet or savoury, hot or cold, you’d be silly not to try some.

Sicilian hospitality is like nowhere else in the world, and you’ll be given the warmest of welcomes when you step inside a family-run trattoria. Sit down to a meal of freshly caught fish or seafood alongside a glass of the local vino and you’ll be in for a real treat. And if you’ve left room for pud, it’s all about crispy cannoli and scoops of gelato!

In the mood for an Italian island adventure?