Syracuse (Siracusa in Italian) and, in particular, its enchanting island heart, Ortigia, are a must-visit. Within just 1km² of winding cobbled streets, you'll find ancient Greek ruins, elegant Baroque palaces, boutique shops, bustling markets, and some of Sicily's best street food. It's a place where centuries of history and everyday Sicilian life blend seamlessly together. One of our favourite places in all of Sicily.
The jewel of Sicilian Baroque architecture. After the earthquake of 1693 reduced the original city to ruins, Noto was rebuilt from the ground up by architects inspired by the great Roman Baroque masters. Visit at golden hour, when the city's limestone facades are bathed in warm amber light, and enjoy an aperitivo on one of its beautiful piazzas.
One of Sicily's most charming coastal villages. Once a thriving tuna-fishing port, Marzamemi is now known for its picturesque piazza, colourful boats, artisan boutiques, and excellent seafood restaurants. Wander its cobbled streets, soak up the laid-back atmosphere, and settle in for a sunset aperitivo by the sea. A perfect taste of authentic Sicilian coastal life.
Dramatically carved into a deep limestone valley, Modica is one of Sicily's most captivating towns. Wander its maze of winding streets and staircases, admire Baroque architecture, and stop to sample the city's famous chocolate, still made using an ancient Aztec-inspired method.
Sicily has heaps! But here are some of our faves in the South-East: San Lorenzo Calamosche Marianelli Santa Maria del Focallo Fontane Bianche
Feeling a little fancy? Say less. Here are some beach clubs around the South-East: BALSÈ Lido San Lorenzo Kalè Il San Corrado di Noto Lido Fly Beach
Make sure you try- Arancini: Deep-fried rice balls typically stuffed with a ragù meat sauce or a béchamel and ham mixture. Caponata: A sweet-and-sour stew made with fried eggplant, capers, olives, celery, and tomatoes. Pasta alla Norma: A beloved pasta dish from Catania featuring fried eggplant, rich tomato sauce, basil, and grated ricotta salata. Pane con Panelle: A classic Palermo street food featuring crispy chickpea flour fritters served inside a soft roll. Cannoli: The most famous Sicilian pastry, consisting of fried pastry dough tubes filled with a creamy, sweet sheep's milk ricotta, often studded with chocolate chips or pistachios. Granita & Brioche: A semi-frozen dessert for breakfast situation (favorites include lemon, almond, or coffee) served with a soft, sweet brioche bun for dipping.