East Sicily is the perfect holiday destination for those who want to enjoy some Italian delights while experiencing the benefits of an island destination. More recently, Sicily has become an even more attractive travel destination thanks to being featured in the acclaimed second season of The White Lotus.
The eastern part of Sicily is home to locations including Taormina, Siracusa and Ragusa-Modica, which serve as the ideal bases for exploring the best that Sicily has to offer. Enjoy a memorable holiday in East Sicily with the help of our handy travel guide.
The Charm of Eastern Sicily
From the food to the stunning landscapes, eastern Sicily has it all. Home of the Ionian Riviera, this is where you’ll find some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Plus you get to see its incredible sights, including Mount Etna, while avoiding a lot of the tourists who tend to flock to the west coast of the island for its beaches and resorts.
Wherever you choose to holiday in Sicily, you can be sure of a magical time as you take in the sights of this stunning island.
Historical Palaces
Sicily is absolutely steeped in history, and you’ll never be short of some historical buildings to explore. But if it’s historical palaces you’re looking for, you’ll be pleased to know that east Sicily is home to some of the best, including:
Palazzo Bellomo (Syracuse)
This spectacular palace dates back to the 13th century, with a mesmerising façade that leaves a lasting impression. Today, the palace houses the Regional Gallery of Art, and features a collection of Sicilian art that helps tell the history of the island. You’ll find Palazzo Bellomo in the heart of Syracuse, a must for your eastern Sicily itinerary.
Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata (Noto)
Noto’s Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata is a classic example of 18th century Sicilian Baroque architecture. Some of the most famous features include its detailed balconies, decorated with wrought-iron railings and elaborate carvings. It’s a grand palace that reflects the luxury of the region.
Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco (Taormina)
The Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco overlooks Taormina and was originally built as a residence in the 17th century. It’s an impressive example of Sicilian architecture, and its gardens are a must-see. You’ll also get to see some divine views of both the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, making it a highlight of your trip.
Key places to visit
You can spend several weeks in eastern Sicily and still not discover all of its treasures! But no matter the length of your stay, we’ve put together some of the key places for you to visit to help you enjoy a true taste of Sicily.
Syracuse (Castello Maniace)
Syracuse, or Siracusa, is a medieval city with many historical sites to discover, including the impressive Castello Maniace. It’s perched on Ortigia island, at the entrance to Syracuse. It was built in the 13th century by Frederick II, and features some incredible architecture that has stood the test of time.
Portopalo
Portopalo is one of east Sicily’s quieter villages, a fishing village that is not only beautiful, but full of charming characters too. It’s the perfect place for a more relaxed day out, and you won’t want to miss out on sampling some of the fresh local seafood during your visit.
Noto
Noto is known for being one of east Sicily’s most popular places to visit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s celebrated for its opulence and Baroque architecture. It’s very well-preserved, and you can spend a really enjoyable day exploring the different sites Noto has to offer.
Fontane Bianche
One of east Sicily’s most beautiful beaches, Fontane Bianche has wonderful golden sands and crystal blue waters – a favourite spot for enjoying the sun. You will also find plenty of bars and restaurants here, making it a must-visit for both daytime and evening entertainment during your holiday.
Enjoy the Delicious Food of the Area
Sicily is known for many local culinary delights, including arancini (fried risotto balls) and cannoli, a filled fried pastry filled with ricotta and toppings such as chocolate and pistachio. You’ll find plenty of charming eateries to sample the local cuisine, and don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from the locals!
Going to the Beach in East Sicily
Your eastern Sicily itinerary wouldn’t be complete without some visits to the region’s incredible beaches. While Fontane Bianche is a stand-out, you can also venture to Sampieri, Marianelli and Carratois. The temperature can really heat up during July and August, so a dip in these waters will be sure to help you cool off.The east coast of Sicily is simply full of magic. At Dimore in Sicily, we have a range of luxury holiday homes to ensure you enjoy your dream holiday there to the max. Fall in love with the splendour of east Sicily and book your stay today.
