Are you looking for bucket list things to do in Sicily?
From exploring ancient Greek theaters to hiking active volcanoes, swimming in crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, and savoring world-famous street food, Sicily offers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
This diverse Italian island combines stunning natural landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and incredible cuisine.
Discover 50 must-do activities and experiences across Sicily and its surrounding islands below.
50 Bucket List Things to do in Sicily
1. Explore the ancient Greek theater in Taormina, with views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean
2. Take a guided hike up Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, and witness its lunar-like landscapes
3. Wander through the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, one of the world’s best-preserved Greek temple complexes
4. Explore the glittering Cappella Palatina in Palermo, with its stunning Byzantine mosaics
5. Sample traditional Sicilian street food in Palermo’s bustling markets like Ballarò and Vucciria
Further Reading: Bucket List Destinations in Sicily You Must See
6. Learn to make authentic Sicilian pasta alla Norma in a cooking class in Catania
7. Visit the stunning Baroque towns of the Val di Noto, including Noto, Ragusa, and Modica
8. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Scala dei Turchi’s white limestone cliffs
9. Take a boat tour around the Aeolian Islands, witnessing Stromboli’s active volcano at night
10. Explore the ancient salt pans and windmills of Trapani and Marsala
Further Reading: Best Day Trips from Trapani
11. Visit Villa Romana del Casale to see the world’s largest collection of Roman mosaics
12. Go wine tasting on the slopes of Mount Etna, sampling unique volcanic wines
13. Spend a day beach-hopping along the San Vito Lo Capo peninsula
14. Explore the medieval hilltop town of Erice with its Norman castle and breathtaking views
15. Visit the ornate Duomo di Monreale, known for its golden mosaics and Arab-Norman architecture
Further Reading: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Sicily
16. Explore the ancient Greek ruins of Selinunte overlooking the Mediterranean
17. Take a boat tour through the Alcantara Gorge’s basalt canyons
18. Watch an opera at Palermo’s opulent Teatro Massimo
Further Reading: How to Rent a Car from Palermo
19. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Syracuse, built incorporating an ancient Greek temple
20. Go snorkeling or diving in the marine reserve of the Egadi Islands
21. Explore the medieval Jewish quarter of Ortygia in Syracuse
22. Watch sunset from the ancient Greek theater in Segesta
Further Reading: Visit the Islands Near Sicily
23. Explore the baroque churches and palaces of Acireale
24. Visit the charming fishing village of Marzamemi with its historic tonnara
25. Explore the historic center of Bagheria, known as the ‘City of Villas’, where 18th-century Sicilian aristocrats built their summer residences
26. Swim in the turquoise waters of Cala Rossa in Favignana
27. Explore the Norman-Arab castle of Caccamo
28. Take a sunset wine tasting at Castelmola’s Piazza Sant’Antonino, overlooking Taormina and Etna
29. Visit the ancient tuna fishing station at Scopello
30. Take a boat tour through the Blue Grotto caves of Filicudi
31. Go hiking in the Madonie Mountains, discovering traditional villages
32. Visit the Cathedral of Palermo, climbing its rooftop terraces for panoramic views
33. Visit the charming fishing village of Aspra, watching fishermen bring in their catch and enjoying the freshest seafood at waterfront restaurants
34. Explore the medieval town of Cefalù with its Norman cathedral and stunning beach
35. Explore the mysterious Necropolis of Pantalica with its thousands of rock-cut tombs
36. Explore the black sand beaches of Stromboli
37. Watch the sunset from Taormina’s ancient Greek theater
38. Watch the sunset from the lighthouse at Sant’Elia cape, followed by dinner in one of the traditional seafood restaurants nestled in its picturesque bay
39. Visit Isola Bella nature reserve and beach, known as the ‘Pearl of the Mediterranean’
40. Visit the remote island of Pantelleria with its ancient dammusi houses
41. Take a traditional fishing trip with local fishermen from Mazzara del Vallo
42. Visit the glamorous island of Panarea, known for its luxury scene and prehistoric village ruins
43. Explore the Arab-Norman UNESCO sites of Palermo
Further Reading: Best Things to do in Southern Italy
44. Explore the wild Vendicari Nature Reserve and its pristine beaches
45. Take a sailing trip around the Pelagie Islands, including Lampedusa
46. Visit the medieval castle of Sperlinga, partially carved into the rock
47. Explore Piazza del Duomo in Catania, with its iconic elephant fountain and baroque architecture
Further Reading: How to Rent a Car from Catania
48. Experience a traditional Sicilian puppet show in Palermo or Syracuse
49. Hike through Riserva dello Zingaro, Sicily’s first natural reserve, discovering pristine coves and beaches
50. Visit the hilltop town of Savoca, famous as a filming location for The Godfather and its historic Bar Vitelli
Final Thoughts on What to Do in Sicily
Want to grab a checklist of what to do in Sicily? We share one just below this conclusion.
These 50 unforgettable experiences only scratch the surface of what this magical Mediterranean island has to offer.
From ancient temples and active volcanoes to pristine beaches and mouthwatering cuisine, Sicily rewards visitors with endless adventures and authentic Italian charm.
Discover more insider tips, seasonal guides, and local recommendations on our Italy travel blog, where we share detailed itineraries and hidden gems across the country.
