Set high on Sicily's Monte Tauro in picturesque natural beauty and commanding breathtaking views over two rugged bays below, Taormina has captured the imagination of great travellers and writers for many decades. It is widely considered the most beautiful town in Sicily with its semi-tropical palms, bougainvillea and orange trees. With its charming pedestrianised streets and small piazzas, it enjoys stunning views of the coast with Mount Etna rising in the distance.
CEFALÙ
Cefalù is a captivating seaside town with a tangle of tempting medieval streets and golden sandy beaches, some of the best in Sicily. Explore the majestic Duomo and its glorious mosaics, the pretty churches and the ancient Temple of Diana that commands spectacular views from the mountain that overlooks the area.
AGRIGENTO
Medieval streets form the historic core of the city of Agrigento, while to the south, the Valley of the Temples is home to the most impressive ancient Greek temples outside Greece.
PALERMO
The capital of Sicily, Palermo is a cosmopolitan city of artistic and cultural life, bristling with Norman, Arab and Spanish influences and atmosphere. Its inspirational monuments draw visitors, as does the vibrant street market in Vucciria. With the mildness of its climate and splendour of its buildings, majestic Palermo always enchants.
SYRACUSE
Nestling between two natural harbours, the port of Syracuse was originally a Greek settlement. Today the peninsula Ortigia retains the maze of medieval streets of the old city, crowned by a Baroque Duomo.
a small fishing port that flourished under Arabic rule, the influences of its past and people inherent in the old town quarter. An area of outstanding natural beauty, which includes the Marsala wine region, surrounds it.
VULCANO
According to legend, the Greek god Vulcan had his workshop at the towering peak of the island's volcano. Volcanic activity may have ceased, but visitors take the two-hour walk to the top, for a godlike view over the glittering sea. Back on the beach, the waterside caves make for some excellent swimming, whilst the volcanic mud in Vulcano's thermal springs is said to be therapeutic for skin and back problems.