Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, so it’s no surprise that it offers an incredible variety of destinations for travellers. Whether you’re seeking ancient ruins, pristine beaches, bustling cities, or peaceful countryside retreats, Sicily has a place to suit your travel dreams. Accommodation options are equally varied, ranging from boutique hotels and historic apartments to luxurious private villas.
In this guide, we explore five of the best places to stay in Sicily. Each offers a different taste of the island’s character, whether it’s a glamorous coastal town, a buzzing city centre, or a rustic country escape. Read on to discover where to base yourself to best suit your preferences and find the perfect home away from home.
Palermo
Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant capital, is a city brimming with life, history, and culture. A stay here offers a dynamic urban experience unlike anywhere else on the island. Visitors can wander through colourful markets like Ballaro and Vucciria, sample world-famous street food such as arancini and sfincione, and admire the incredible Norman and Arab architecture at sites like the Palatine Chapel. Accommodation options include boutique hotels, often set in historic palazzi, and charming guesthouses in the old town.
Palermo is also an excellent base for day trips to places like Monreale, with its dazzling mosaics, or the beach at Mondello. Despite its lively chaos, Palermo rewards travellers with genuine Sicilian warmth and authenticity. It’s a destination that invites you to dig beneath the surface and will always leave you wanting more. If you are looking for a rich cultural experience combined with fantastic food, historic sites, and bustling energy, Palermo will captivate you completely.
Taormina
Taormina, perched on the cliffs of Sicily’s eastern coast, is one of the island’s most enchanting destinations. There is so much to see and do here, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Start by taking a visit to the historic Greek Theatre, where you’ll find panoramic views over the Ionian Sea and the famous Mount Etna. Then there’s the bustling Corso Umberto – perfect for shopping, dining, and soaking up the lively atmosphere. You could also take the cable car down to the beaches at Isola Bella or venture inland on a guided Mount Etna tour.
Private tours in Italy often include bespoke experiences in Taormina, helping you discover its hidden gems in comfort and style. Accommodation in Taormina ranges from luxurious five-star hotels to charming bed and breakfasts tucked into cobbled side streets. Whether you spend your days exploring ancient ruins or lounging by a pool with a glass of local wine, Taormina’s timeless glamour makes it a favourite among travellers seeking romance, relaxation, and rich cultural experiences.
Syracuse
Syracuse, located on Sicily’s southeast coast, beautifully combines ancient history with coastal charm. Ortigia Island is its historical centre, enchanting visitors with its baroque piazzas, narrow alleys, and lively markets. Syracuse’s archaeological park is another must visit, home to the Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius which offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. When it comes to where to stay, you could choose from a boutique hotel overlooking the sea or a historic apartment in the heart of the old town.
After exploring, relax on the small but beautiful beaches around Ortigia or enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront trattoria. Renting a private boat to discover hidden coves and crystal-clear waters adds a memorable touch to your stay. Syracuse’s slower pace, compared to bustling cities like Palermo, makes it perfect for families, couples, and history lovers. Here, you can blend days of cultural exploration with leisurely seaside afternoons, providing you with an utterly Sicilian travel experience.
Cefalù
Sitting on the northern coast, Cefalù offers a captivating mix of medieval charm and seaside relaxation. The town’s stunning Norman cathedral dominates the skyline, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with incredible mosaics. To soak up the beauty, the best thing to do is wander through the narrow streets lined with artisan shops, cafes, and traditional bakeries, or relax on Cefalù’s beautiful sandy beaches.
For those feeling adventurous, hike La Rocca – the rocky hill towering above the town – to enjoy panoramic views of the coast. Food lovers will appreciate the town’s authentic Sicilian cuisine, especially fresh seafood dishes served in local restaurants. Accommodation choices range from elegant seaside resorts to quaint guesthouses in the old town, allowing you to tailor your stay to your taste and budget. Cefalù’s combination of historical intrigue and laid-back beach life makes it ideal for all travellers, be it couples, families, or solo travellers. It’s the perfect place to unwind while still soaking up authentic Sicilian culture.
Sicily (The Island Experience)
For an unforgettable Sicilian experience, consider renting a villa in Sicily and using it as a base to explore the surrounding islands. Staying in a private villa offers space, privacy, and an authentic taste of Sicilian life. Villas range from rustic countryside farmhouses to luxurious seaside properties with pools and gardens. Many are located close to picturesque towns like Noto, Ragusa, or the vineyards of Marsala, offering an ideal base for day trips.
Towns like Trapani and Marsala on the western coast make ideal starting points for island hopping, offering easy ferry access to the stunning Egadi Islands, including Favignana and Levanzo. From the east, Milazzo is a gateway to the Aeolian Islands, such as Lipari, Salina, and the volcanic Stromboli. Many villas come with hosts who can arrange private boat tours, guided hikes, and authentic cooking classes. With your own car, you can also explore Sicily’s mainland treasures at your leisure. Renting a villa gives you the perfect balance of freedom, comfort, and adventure, unlocking the very best of Sicily and beyond.
Summary
Sicily offers a remarkable range of places to stay, each showcasing a different side of this beautiful island. Taormina’s glamour, Palermo’s energy, Syracuse’s rich history, and Cefalù’s coastal charm all provide memorable experiences for travellers. For those seeking flexibility and authenticity, renting a villa in Sicily is the perfect way to embrace local life and explore at your own pace. From ancient ruins to vibrant food markets, rugged mountains to sandy beaches, the island’s appeal is endless.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo trip, you’ll find a destination to match your dreams. No matter where you choose to base yourself, Sicily’s warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and rich culture will ensure your visit is unforgettable.