1. Taormina

Panorama across the stage building and seating of Taormina’s ancient theatre
Panorama across the stage building and seating of Taormina’s ancient theatrePhoto: CHMunro · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Resized for responsive web variants and cropped in the display

Best for: couples, a first visit and classic postcard views.

Taormina is beautiful, famous and more expensive than many other areas. It is excellent for a short stay or a romantic trip, but less suitable if you want peace, space and easy parking.

2. Catania

Piazza del Duomo in Catania with the cathedral and elephant fountain
Piazza del Duomo in Catania with the cathedral and elephant fountainPhoto: Daniele2399 · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Resized for responsive web variants and cropped in the display

Best for: city life, food and a short journey from the airport.

Catania is a lively city with plenty of restaurants. Choose it if city life matters most and you are happy to visit beaches and nature on day trips.

3. Syracuse and Ortigia

Ortigia’s historic waterfront seen from the water at Syracuse
Ortigia’s historic waterfront seen from the water at SyracusePhoto: Kiki K · Pexels · Pexels License

Best for: culture, history and a slower pace.

Ortigia has historic streets, sea views and a lovely evening atmosphere. It is a good base if you want a classic Sicilian setting without the pace of a major city.

4. Cefalù

Best for: a beach holiday with a charming town.

Cefalù is a popular and photogenic town with a beach close to the centre. It is easy for a relaxed holiday, but can be busy in high season.

5. Palermo

Palermo’s Norman cathedral seen from the square along its south façade
Palermo’s Norman cathedral seen from the square along its south façadePhoto: Julian Lupyan · Wikimedia Commons · CC0 1.0 · Resized for responsive web variants and cropped in the display

Best for: city life, street food and museums.

Palermo is a lively city with a strong local identity and many distinct neighbourhoods. It suits travellers who put city experiences ahead of daily beach trips.

6. Noto and the south-east

Front view of the Baroque façade of Noto Cathedral
Front view of the Baroque façade of Noto CathedralPhoto: Viaggia e Scopri Travel Blog · Pexels · Pexels License

Best for: architecture, peace and smaller towns.

The south-east is elegant and more relaxed, with an easy mix of culture and nature. It is a good choice if you prefer to avoid the busiest tourist areas.

7. Giarre on the east coast

Mount Etna rising above an eastern Sicilian town beneath a clear sky
Mount Etna rising above an eastern Sicilian town beneath a clear skyPhoto: Mehtap Kurekci · Pexels · Pexels License

Best for: a flexible base, day trips and more space for the money.

Giarre is conveniently placed between Etna, Taormina and the coast. You stay in a local town, often get more space and can take day trips in several directions without very long drives.

Why many travellers choose Giarre as a base

  • A good position for trips around eastern Sicily.
  • A quieter pace than the busiest tourist towns.
  • Easier parking and a choice of larger accommodation.
  • A good balance between local life and famous sights.

Which area fits you?

  • To get the most from one week, choose a central base on the east coast.
  • For city life all day, choose Catania or Palermo.
  • For a romantic short break, choose Taormina or Ortigia.
  • For peace and space, choose Giarre or a smaller town in the south-east.

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FAQ

Is Taormina best for everyone?

No. It is beautiful but often expensive, and a nearby base gives many travellers more flexibility.

Is Giarre too far from the sights?

No. Its location is precisely what makes day trips to both Etna and the coast easy.

Should you change hotels during the trip?

Usually not. Staying five to seven nights in one good base makes the holiday calmer and easier.