Sicily can be discovered through its contrasts: volcanic processes have shaped its landscapes, while its places and buildings tell stories from widely separated eras. Volcanic activity on Mount Etna has been documented for at least 2,700 years. The Aeolian Islands, in turn, preserve evidence of the formation and destruction of volcanic islands, as well as ongoing volcanic phenomena. Together, they offer different perspectives on the forces that shape a landscape.

Volcanic landscapes and nature

Mount Etna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its geological features include summit craters, cinder cones, lava flows, lava caves and the Valle del Bove depression. The variety of these features makes the volcano a compelling subject for anyone interested in geology and landscapes. On the Aeolian Islands, attention is also drawn to certain types of eruptions: examples of Vulcanian and Strombolian eruptions have been studied there since at least the 18th century.

Sicily’s natural environment is not limited to volcanic features. The island is home to an exceptional variety of plant and animal species, as well as mountain landscapes of particular scientific interest. For those interested in observing nature and exploring landscapes, this offers another way to experience the region, distinct from the traces of volcanic activity.

UNESCO heritage from different eras

The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento includes the ancient city’s most important Doric temples, as well as a necropolis outside the city. Agrigento also preserves remains from the Greek colonial period, as well as from the Hellenistic, Roman and early Christian eras. The two UNESCO facts show different facets of the site: monumental temples and evidence of a long succession of historical eras.

The Arab-Norman Palermo UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises nine religious and civic buildings from the period of the Norman Kingdom of Sicily. It is considered an outstanding example of the architectural and artistic fusion of Western, Islamic and Byzantine cultures. This style spread throughout the Mediterranean. The Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto offer a different historical perspective: eight towns in southeastern Sicily reflect, through their historic centres, the rebuilding that followed the devastating earthquake of 1693.

Archaeological discoveries are also spread across the region: Sicily’s archaeological park system comprises 14 parks and extends throughout the island. Admission rules at individual parks may change, so check the local conditions before planning a visit.

Experiences among the sea, trails and wine

For anyone looking to combine the Mount Etna area with a culinary experience, the Circumetnea wine tour starts in Riposto and combines a train journey with visits to wineries and wine tastings. Check the tour’s current availability when making specific plans. For divers and snorkellers, the Area Marina Protetta del Plemmirio marine reserve south of Syracuse offers underwater canyons, Posidonia seagrass meadows and a diverse marine environment. Access rules in the marine reserve may change, so check the current conditions before taking part in activities.

The Sicilian section of the Sentiero Italia offers another way to combine landscapes and a journey. It is listed as 373 kilometres long and highly challenging, and runs in 19 stages from Trapani to Messina. There are also mountain variants with stays in CAI mountain huts. If you are planning a stage, check the current trail conditions before setting out. The listed distance, difficulty and stage sequence each offer different points of reference for planning.

Cultural activities also offer a practical way to explore a subject: at workshops in Caltagirone, visitors can learn to make ceramics as part of an organised activity. Participating workshops may change, so ask in advance about the specific activity. The historical and cultural route through Sicily uses distinctive signposting and QR codes. These provide visitors with interactive access to information, maps, videos, virtual tours and audio guides.

Getting here and other destinations

Direct interregional bus services run from Catania Airport to much of eastern Sicily without passing through central Catania. This transport connection may be useful when planning your arrival. Operators, schedules and fares may change, so check the current timetable before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Agrigento, Aeolian Islands, Caltanissetta, Catania, Enna, Messina, Palermo, Ragusa, Syracuse, Trapani.

For the main travel overview: Italy.