Sicily is a mountainous arid island — an extension of the Apennine Mountains separated from the mainland by the Straits of Messina. Many powers have occupied this strategically important area: Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Phoenicians and of course the Mafia. Historical sites related to those powers are part of the island’s attraction. (A Mafia tour visits sites of various Family activities and the graves of infamous godfathers and victims.) But there are many other reasons to visit Sicily: water sports, beaches of rock and sand (including black sand), natural beauty, good food and friendly people.
Hotel Villa Carlotta Featuring breathtaking views over the sea and Mount Etna, this Aristocratic villa occupies a central location, only a 5 minute walk away from the centre of Taormina.
Built in 1896 and completely renovated in 2007, Villa Carlotta is a small, luxury ...
Best Pick: Hotel Vecchio Borgo Situated in the heart of Palermo, just 100 metres from the Politeama Theatre and Square, this hotel is the ideal base for exploring the city?s cultural and artistic heritage and shops.
The charming hotel is equipped with all modern facilities, ...
Kempinski Hotel Giardino di Costanza, Sicily, Italy Nestled in a lush valley and immersed in colourful olive groves and vineyards, this traditionally-designed hotel boasts extensive park grounds and the Mediterranean Sea at its back door. Palermo is also just one hour away.
Escape the noise and ...
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Palermo - Palermo is a noble Sicilian city.
Its rich history is illustrated by the diverse and conflicting civilisations that have determined the different facets of the city. A wealth of different sides of the city exist. There is the arabian element which comprises of stunning architecture and luxuriant tropical gardens, the cultured and refined elegance of Frederick II and also the baroque component which prevails in the city.
Explore the most pertinent examples of this diverse , intriguing culture in the heart of the historical city. Savour the sights of the Cathedral, the Royal Palace , the Cappella Palatina, San Giovanni degli Eremiti, the Martorana church, the Politeama and Massimo Theatres.
Explore the interesting heritage of the island; from the beautiful Monreale with its precious cathedral mosaic and the seventeenth century cloister , to the Solanto castle and the little town of Santa Flavia which is situated 15 km from Palermo. Visit Solunto archaeological park, one of the main Punic cities of Sicily and the beautiful eighteenth century villas of Bagheria . Furthermore , Capo Zafferano gulf and the Scoglio della Formica offer the ideal spots for underwater fishing lovers.
The cuisine is characterised by a rich, fragrant and innovative taste. Hotels Palermo - Last Minute Hotels Palermo
Catania - Catania is a city of art, sea and business, and central for exploring the cultural, archaeological and natural attractions of Sicily.
Catania lies in the shadow of Etna and has witnessed the passing of Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Angevins, Aragonese, Bourbons and more. Its natural location is equally varied, between the perfumed citrus fields and the sparkling Mediterranean. Splendid late Baroque streets have produced writers and musicians like Verga and Bellini. In addition, Taormina, Acireale and the Valley of Temples are only a short drive away. Hotels Catania - Last Minute Hotels Catania
Taormina - Taormina is so beautifully located that it would not need great sights to attract visitors. The fact that it does have them, makes it an absolute must.
Perched on a rocky promonitory at the foot of the Mount Etna and looking out over the azure blue mediterranean the town has attracted visitors over the centuries. Main attraction are the remains of the greek city that was located at about the same spot as the present day town. Hotels Taormina - Last Minute Hotels Taormina
Siracusa - Syracuse, city of art, culture, history, country of Archimedes and Heritage of Humanity.
Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum - the museum illustrates the prehistory and history of nearly all the main archaeological sites in central and eastern Sicily, until the end of classical period.
Maniace Castle - built in the early 13th century, the castle owes its name to the Byzantine general who in 1038 defended Ortygia from the Arabs. Features include the impressive main door, made of polychrome marble and emblazoned with the imperial coat of arms of Charles V.
San Giovanni Catacomb - an extensive underground necropolis dating from the 4th century in which the Adelphia Sarcophagus (circa 340), now housed in the Archaeological Museum.
It is impossible to sum up the beauty of the isle of Ortigia and the old city of Siracusa, but there is always the sea, the large natural port which is extremely beautiful at sunset, the market and the various monuments. Hotels Siracusa
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