Sicily

Sicily

Sicily is not just an island. It is the powerful heart of the Mediterranean. Situated at the very crossroads of Europe and Africa, the island’s history is a complex weave of Greek, Arab, Norman and Baroque influences. Driving here will always be in the presence of Mount Etna, the continent's largest active volcano. The roads here will lead you through spectacular but challenging scenery. You can drive the volcanic slopes of Etna, explore the beautiful eastern coastline. You could aso navigate the chaotic streets of Palermo and Catania. Everywhere you look, empires overlap. Greek temples stand near Norman castles and Byzantine mosaics reflect Arab ceilings. The Baroque towns of the Noto Valley provide magnificent proof of the island’s architectural resilience. Sicilian cuisine is as complex as its history. It is famous for its exceptional street food, rich sweets (cannoli), excellent seafood and unique Arab inspired dishes. The food perfectly reflects the intensity of its culture.

Sicily highlights

Part of these road trips

Follow the routes that cross this destination

The Scenic Route
The Heritage Drive
Is this a good destination for road trips?

We're curating expert road-trip insights for this destination — check back soon.

When is the best time to visit?

Detailed seasonal travel advice is coming soon.

How long should I spend here?

Our itinerary team is building personalised duration guides — coming soon.

What are the top attractions nearby?

A curated list of must-see nearby highlights is on its way.

History of Sicily

The history of Sicily began with its colonization by the Greeks starting in the 8th century BC. Sicily became the jewel of Magna Graecia (Greater Greek) by building spectacular temples and cities like Syracuse and Agrigento. This golden age of culture was brutally ended by the Roman Empire, which conquered the island and turned it into Rome’s breadbasket, primarily exploiting its rich agricultural land. After the fall of Rome, the island was taken by Byzantine, then Arab forces. The Arab era brought new crops, architecture and irrigation systems. The most prosperous time came under the subsequent Norman Kingdom of Sicily. Palermo became a cosmopolitan capital where Arab craftsmen, Byzantine mosaic artists and Norman architects worked together. Creating a unique art and administrative style that exists nowhere else in Europe. Sicily fell into the hands of foreign powers, primarily the Spanish and later the Bourbon rulers of the Kingdom of Two Sicilies. After unification with Italy in 1860, the island struggled to integrate, yet its historical layers remain fully visible today.
Monk's Travel Secrets

Insider road trip tips,
straight to your inbox.

New routes, hidden stops, and seasonal guides —
written for people who travel by car, not by flight.

No spam, ever. Unsubscribe in one click. Read by 12,000+ road trippers.