Sicily is a destination that has it all for a motorhome: the imposing Mount Etna, some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world (finer than in Greece itself), baroque cities that are World Heritage sites, beaches, and outstanding food. It's intense, chaotic at times and absolutely fascinating. Here's the guide.
Etna and nature
Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, dominates the east of the island and can be visited (excursions to the craters). An impressive moonscape. Sicily also has nature reserves, gorges (Alcantara) and the smaller islands (Aeolian, Egadi).
History: Greeks, Romans and baroque
- The Valley of the Temples (Agrigento): spectacular Greek temples, a World Heritage site.
- Syracuse and Ortigia, Taormina and its Greek theatre with Etna in the background.
- The baroque of the Val di Noto (Noto, Ragusa, Modica), a World Heritage site.
- Palermo and Monreale, with their Arab-Norman blend.
Beaches and food
Beaches and coves all along the coast, and top-class food: arancini, cannoli, granita, fish, Etna wine, Modica's sweets. Eating in Sicily is an experience.
How to get there and tips
- By ferry (a short crossing from Calabria, or from Genoa/Naples/Civitavecchia) (see crossing by ferry).
- Chaotic driving in cities: leave the van outside and walk in.
- Regulated overnight parking; use service areas and campsites (see service areas).
- Spring and autumn: summer is very hot.
In summary
Sicily has it all: Etna, Greek temples, baroque cities, beaches and great food, reached by ferry. The step to take today: plan a route combining Etna, the Valley of the Temples and the baroque of the Val di Noto, travelling in spring or autumn (not in peak heat), and leaving the van outside the cities; it's one of the most complete destinations in the Mediterranean. Combine it with our routes through Italy.