During my Erasmus in Rome, I had the opportunity to spend four amazing days in Sicily. As my parents are planning to go soon, I’ve done a small recap for them that I’m sharing with you today!
Their plan is to drive down from Belgium to Genova to take a ferry to Palermo. After exploring the island, they will travel back along the West Italian coast. (I’m quite jealous!) I did a small online research for them and found several sites such as TraghettiPer-Sicilia where they will be able to compare the prices once they decide on their departure date.
The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento
Visiting the remains of 7 Greek temples just near Agrigento was clearly the highlight of my trip. When doing a bit of research, I actually discovered that it is the largest archaeological site in the world. No wonder I was amazed by so much history and nice architecture!
2016 prices for this World Heritage site: 10€ (13.50€ combined with the Archaeological Museum)
Isola Bella & Taormina
The second place I really fell in love with is the nature reserve of Isola Bella. You can reach it from a small rocky beach at the bottom of Taormina or… swim to it!
From Isola Bella, we took a cable car to reach the actual town of Taormina. We escaped from its touristic streets to go visit the beautiful Greek Theater and its stunning view on Etna.
The entrance fee is 8€ (free for my parents as they are over 65!) but check out some of the live music events happening: I just noticed that one of my favourite Italian pianist, Ludovico Einaudi, will be there this summer!
Etna
Of course, Sicily goes with Etna. It was my first time ‘climbing’ a volcano and I absolutely loved it! I don’t know how to describe it. You feel like you are on the moon. Don’t hesitate to experience it yourself (and in winter, you can even ski there!)
Palermo
Palermo was my last stop in Sicily. I distinctively remember the beautiful architecture of its cathedral. The visit was free but you need to pay 7€ to get to see the crypt, the thumbs and the treasure, which I did not do.
However, I must admit that I also remember the streets that were a bit derelict and dirty…
I hope my parents (and you – but not together!) will enjoy your trip!
Travel with Emilie 
Hey Emilie! I really love your blog! It is such an interesting read. I would have loved to write a travel blog but I can’t do much traveling hahaha
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I would love if you could check out my blog, its http://thanksalattesite.wordp%5Bress.com and give me some feedback:)
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Sicily is so great! I Love Palermo and this is the place where I ate the very best things in all my life!
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Love your pictures! This looks like a beautiful place!
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This looks absolutely beautiful! Sicily is actually on my bucket list so this is a fantastic post. Have saved it for my trip next year 🙂
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I know what it feels to live in Rome and to be able to travel around Italy so easily 🙂 I’ve only been to the west side of Sicily and couldn’t visit all these wonderful spots! Next time 🙂
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Loved the photos and post on Sicily!
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Looks like so much fun! I can’t wait to visit myself!
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The Isola Bella looks so pretty! How do you get from the beach to the island, do you take a boat? Sicily looks amazing. I can’t wait to visit!
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Great post Emily! I will definitely take this guide with me when I am in Sicily 🙂
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nice photos!
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Agrigento is stunning. Who knew the best preserved Greek temples are in Sicily! I followed about the same itinerary as you did in July 2016. I guess we just missed each other! The only change I would make is next time to fly into Palermo and out of Catania. Oh – and don’t forget to spend time in Ragusa next time you go. It is a fabulous city on the top of the mountains with a port on the ocean that is equally amazing.
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