The alluring island of Sicily offers a feast for the eyes with magnificent ruins, delights for the ears with extravagant festivals and of course mouthwatering culinary sensations. The Mediterranean’s largest island features a breathtaking coastline, with a lush interior of orange groves, lemon trees and vineyards – all overlooked by the magnificent Mount Etna. Whether you want an apartment or luxury villa in Sicily to bake in the summer sun, ski down Europe’s largest active volcano or enjoy some of Italy’s famous cuisine.
You may want to look at villas to rent in Sicily during Easter, when many of the island’s exuberant festivals are held. These feature colourful processions with music, dancing, fireworks and performances as well as unique customs relating to their theme. Holiday villas in Sicily are extremely popular during the celebrations, examples of which include La Settimana Santa, a week-long festival that begins on Palm Sunday and Sagra del Mandorlo, the Almond Blossom Festival, which takes place in Agrigento.
Many people staying in holiday villas in Sicily choose the Island’s capital, Palermo, as their destination. Situated on the north-west coast of the island, there are many historical ruins and a selection of museums, art galleries, outdoor markets and one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean.
The most renowned sight of the city is the astounding 12th century Palermo Cathedral which is a mix of Gothic, Muslim, Renaissance, Romantic and Modern architecture. Inside you will find the Tesora Museum, which exhibits the crown jewels of the Sicily kings.
Another sight not to be missed is the eerie Catacombs of the Capuchins, where 8,000 mummified corpses are exhibited underground. These sights can also be seen on a day trip if you are staying in a nearby villa in Sicily.
Of course there are many more cities, towns and villages scattered throughout the island, each with an abundance of exquisite architecture. One of the most popular cities for tourists staying in holiday villas in Sicily is Agrigento, which is home to the mesmerising Valley of the Temples. The World Heritage Site features seven excavated Greek Temples that were originally built in the 5th and 6th centuries.
Another popular day trip for people on a Sicily villa holiday is the exquisite Aeolian Islands, which can be reached by boat ferry and hydrofoil. On the islands you will find breathtaking scenery and the fascinating town of Lipari.
