We’re are going to a special place for Bob this week. His grandfather was from Sicily the beautiful island in the south of Italy.

Sicily is a pretty big and busy place. There are now 4,775,000 people there. There is also a huge tourism draw because of the numerous UNESCO world heritage sights, archaeological sites, and castles. It’s placed in the central part of the Mediterranean Sea and was originally inhabited by around 16,000 years ago.

In the classical period, the Sicanis, Elymians, and Sicels (hence, the name) were around. The Sicels eventually controlled the island but were conquered during the Iron Age in 450 BC at the death of their leader Ducetius. Bob’s ancestor? No clue but interesting to learn about the history there. The Greeks took over at that point and there was a lot of war. Much of the ruins to explore now reflect Greek and Roman culture.

We’ll spare you the entire history lesson but there were many periods between then and now including Germanic, Byzantine, and Arab rule. The mixture is fascinating.

On March 17, 1861, Sicily became part of the Kingdom of Italy, and this anniversary is celebrated every year. World War II included the Allied invasion of Sicily and ultimately, Italy became a republic in 1946.

Here we are today and the Sicilian mindset is strong and resilient. They have been through a lot here. Bob’s grandfather made his way to America after the war, but he saw firsthand some of the conflict that went on in that region of the world. It’s inspiring to us to say the least.

Sicily is one of the most beautiful places we have ever seen.

We arrived there by cruising into the Messina Port. From there, it was only a 5 minute walk to Hertz Rentals where we rented a car and hit the road.

We’ve listed the places we went to (because we highly recommend them!) and a few additional ones we’ll make sure to get to next time we return to Sicily…because there will definitely be another time.

Messina is often the first stop for travelers arriving in Sicily by ferry from mainland Italy.

Visit the Cathedral of Messina and watch its famous astronomical clock come to life at noon, one of the largest and most complex clocks in the world. Stroll along the waterfront for beautiful views across the Strait of Messina toward mainland Italy.

Perched high above the sea, Taormina is one of Sicily's most beautiful towns. Its star attraction is the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, a remarkably preserved Greek-Roman amphitheater with stunning views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea.

Wander the charming streets filled with cafés, shops, and scenic overlooks. We could have spent days here just looking out at the sea and strolling through the charming streets.

This quiet hilltop village became famous as a filming location for The Godfather.

Fans can visit Bar Vitelli, where Michael Corleone asked Apollonia's father for permission to court her, and explore the nearby Church of San Nicolò, featured in the movie's wedding scenes.

Even if you've never seen the film, Savoca's narrow streets and mountain views make it worth the trip.

Towering over eastern Sicily, Mount Etna is Europe's tallest (3,403 meters, 11,161 ft) and most active volcano. Visitors can hike, take guided tours, or ride cable cars and off-road vehicles to higher elevations.

Etna is constantly degassing and erupting. You need a volcanological guide to get to the summit. Under 2,500 meters, you can hike yourself and there is plenty to see at that level as well. We particularly enjoyed driving in the countryside north of Etna. The soil is very fertile and there was such an abundance of flora and fauna that the inside of our car started smelling like citrus!

We have linked some tours below including a summit of Etna.

Located just below Taormina, Isola Bella is often called the "Pearl of the Ionian Sea."

This tiny island nature reserve is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of beach that appears and disappears with the tides. The crystal-clear water makes it a fantastic spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Syracuse is one of the most important cities of the ancient Greek world. The history runs deep.

Explore the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to a Greek theater carved into the rock, and wander the beautiful island district of Ortigia. The city's blend of ancient ruins and seaside charm makes it unforgettable.

Palermo is worth including on any Sicily itinerary. It is on the northern coast and a ways from a lot of the other places people visit.

The island's capital is known for its lively markets, grand churches, and fascinating blend of Arab, Norman, and Italian influences. Be sure to explore the historic center and sample some of the city's famous street food.

Refer a friend using your referral link at the bottom of this email so they can see it too. In addition, you’ll get a copy of our “Wonders of the World” eBook if it’s your first referral.

Most international travelers fly into Sicily through the airports in Catania or Palermo.

Many visitors also arrive by ferry from mainland Italy, especially from Calabria to Messina. Renting a car is one of the easiest ways to explore the island's smaller towns and scenic coastal roads.

UNA Hotels Capotaormina - in Taormina: private beach, saltwater pool

Hotel Donna Rosa - near Savoca

UNA Hotels NaxosBeach Sicilia - great for families, private beach

Jolly Charme Suite - in Messina, breakfast buffet included

Sicily is famous for arancini (crispy rice balls filled with savory ingredients), cannoli, and granita, a refreshing semi-frozen dessert often enjoyed for breakfast.

Seafood is featured heavily throughout the island, especially swordfish along the eastern coast. Be sure to try pasta alla Norma, a classic Sicilian dish made with eggplant, tomatoes, ricotta salata cheese, and basil.

Pack comfortable walking shoes, as many Sicilian towns feature steep streets, stone pathways, and historic staircases.

Lightweight clothing is ideal for most of the year, but bring a light jacket if visiting during spring, fall, or at higher elevations around Mount Etna.

*Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you when in Sicily. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob