The land of oranges, temples and Baroque architecture. Descendant of three civilizations: the Greek civilization, the Arab civilization and the Spanish civilization which have merged in an outburst of colours, scents, and flavours.
Heir of three civilizations
North Eastern Sicily
North Eastern
Sicily
TRADITIONAL FOOD SPECIALTIES: arancine (deep fried stuffed rice balls), pane cunzato (sandwich with tomato, oregano and anchovy fillets), caponata (eggplant and other vegetables seasoned with olive oil, tomato sauce, celery, olives, capers, in a sweet and sour sauce), Trapani-style couscous (seafood couscous), panelle (chickpea fritters), busiate allo scoglio (pasta with seafood), Sicilian granita (semi frozen dessert made from water, sugar and fruit).
WINES: Nero d’Avola, Catarratto, Grillo, Inzolia, Zibibbo and Marsala
MUST DO’S: Erice, Segesta, taste pane cunzato and Sicilian granita, the sunset at Marsala salt pans, a cocktail in San Vito lo Capo.
RECOMMENDED READS:
- The Almond Picker, by Simonetta Agnello Hornby
- The Florios of Sicily, by Stefania Auci
- Drops of Sicily, by Andrea Camilleri
Western Sicily is a vast territory that extends from regional capital and Baroque icon Palermo, to Trapani and Marsala to the west, Agrigento to the south, including the Valley of the Temples, one of the most valued destinations for archeology and ancient culture fans.
The western extreme of the region is unquestionably a land of charm, nature and history, where Phoenician, Greek, Arab and Norman influences merge.
The coastline is one of the most diverse in Italy, showing alternately impressive cliffs, fine sandy beaches and one of the most mesmerizing landscapes of the whole country: the salt road, which runs along the coast from Trapani and Marsala among salt pans and ancient mills, a magnetic scene in a vintage atmosphere.
North Eastern Sicily has something to everyone's liking
Hiking lovers will enjoy the paths overlooking the sea along the Riserva dello Zingaro, leading to delightful beaches, while those searching for relaxation will appreciate the impressive white fine sandy beach of San Vito lo Capo.
Romantics will enjoy walking in Erice‘s medieval village, while lovers of exotic will find traces of the Arab culture in Mazara del Vallo‘ s monuments, traditions and names in this rich corner of Italy.
Hiking and food in North Eastern Sicily
It is easy to take a ferry from Trapani to enchanting Egadi islands: Favignana, the most suitable island for cycling in the Mediterranean, or wild Marettimo. If you have time, you may reach noble Pantelleria. The more audacious can experience boat rides, snorkelling and walks along beautiful scenic trails.
For everyone, lots of tasty traditional food and wine. Capers and passito are waiting for you!
Whether you are traveling with your family or as a couple, alone or with friends, there are so many places of interest in Western Sicily and this land’s food variety is renowned all over the world. By the way: don’t miss Palermo’s street food. Ballarò and Vuccirìa markets will satisfy your senses.
A great variety of tailor-made itineraries can be done in this part of Sicily, balancing relaxation, hiking, culture, beach, according to one’s needs.
best time to go: From late spring to late October. July and August are busy and expensive. Late spring or September are ideal but you may enjoy a good time in winter as well.
how to get there: By plane to Palermo or Trapani, or by ship to Palermo or Termini Imerese if you prefer driving your own car.
how to get around: The best way is to drive, car rentals are available in the main towns.
where to stay: Distances are quite limited so a good choice may be to stay in a lesser known but well connected spot. Renowned towns such as Mondello, San Vito Lo Capo, Castellammare del Golfo tend to be crowded and expensive.
how long should i stay: In 7 days the places of greatest interest can be visited. Having a few more days, the island of Favignana is an unmissable destination for sea lovers with its rocky areas for diving and snorkelling, fine golden sand beaches and suggestive coves of sand and pebbles. If you just have a weekend you can visit Palermo.
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