Although many people when they visit Italy tend to choose to spend time exploring Rome and Milan there are a number of other wonderful places to explore. One of these is the Island of Sicily situated off the cost of Italy and in the Mediterranean Sea.
Yet even though this island is part of Italy the language you will soon discover is somewhat different from that spoken on the main land. Plus although their cuisine is influenced by that of mainland Italy it still comes with some of its own uniqueness as well.
You need to be aware that although this island still greatly relies on the growing of lemons and oranges to help its economy, tourism is very crucial to this island as well. In fact the number of people visiting this island has steadily been on the increase over the last few years and this is mainly because the landscape is very beautiful. This is a place that one should visit if looking for a holiday that provides you with plenty of space and time to relax and unwind and forget about the stresses and strains that modern living places on one’s life.
But when it comes to visiting the Island of Sicily there are plenty of wonderful things to do and see during your time here. Plus the journey from mainland Italy to this place isn’t very long and can be done either by plane or ferry.
So what places are worth considering visiting during your time on this exotic Mediterranean Island?
1. Cefalu – This is a town full of an array of different architectural styles which have been influenced by the many different cultures that have resided in within it. There is the wonderful Norman Cathedral that is based on a French one along with an ancient Sicanian Temple to be found on the rocky cliffs that look over the town. There are many interesting shops in this town which are situated down a number of very narrow medieval streets and is situated only an hour’s drive from the Islands capital Palermo.
2. Erice – The best time to visit this town is on Good Friday when the Passion Procession takes place through the medieval streets of this town. In fact the atmosphere on this day is unlike anywhere else that such processions take place either in Greece or Italy. But as you watch the procession go by or you are just wandering around the streets it is important to try some of the local pastries as well.
3. Mount Etna – Of course no visit to the Italy, Island of Sicily would be complete without taking a jeep trip that takes you up to the upper parts of this living mountain. Even if you are going to be visiting this in the summer make sure that you include some warm clothing in your suitcase as it always remain cool at the top.