Struggling to pick a place to stay for your vacation? Sicily is among the largest Mediterranean islands and boasts dozens of magnificent towns, villages, and resorts, each more incredible than the last.
Even to this day, I find myself uncovering new and alluring places all the time to stay when I’m traveling. I know how challenging it can be to narrow down the options. However, my experiences have given me a pretty good idea of Sicily’s best areas for various types of travelers, whether you’re a culture buff or a sun-loving beach-goer.
Take the stress out of your planning with my overview of where to stay in Sicily!
Palermo
I couldn’t kick off this list anywhere other than Palermo, Sicily’s impossibly gorgeous capital. Although Palermo appeals to almost any kind of visitor, it’s the best base for first-timers looking to get a sense of what Sicily is all about.
The entire island is a mecca for foodies, but the culinary scene in Palermo is particularly staggering. When you’re not tucking into mouthwatering street food, you can admire the diverse architecture, sip on local wines, and make day trips to nearby beaches.
Palermo can be explored on foot, and decent bus connections to various points within the city are available. Because of the range of accommodations, it’s also ideal for travelers with low and high budgets.
Siracusa
Siracusa in eastern Sicily offers much of the history and charm of Palermo, yet it’s quite a lot more compact.
At over 3,000 years old, Siracusa, sometimes known as Syracuse, oozes character from every corner, including the striking Teatro Greco. Ortigia, a pint-sized island, is home to the city’s historic center, and I think its picturesque walkways and views over the Ionian Sea are reason enough to visit. They may be small, but Siracusa also has a couple of beaches, should you fancy a dip.
Much like Palermo, many of Siracusa‘s key sights are within walking distance, and prices tend to be reasonable overall.
Taormina
If you’re looking for luxury, it doesn’t get any better than Taormina. This tiny coastal town is renowned for its glamor and elegance, and it’s somewhere that I think is worth splashing out on.
The lineup of stylish resorts is a quintessential aspect of Taormina, but that’s not all it has to offer. During your stay, you have to take the cable car to the breathtaking Isola Bella to catch some rays, and the Greek Theater and quaint Old Town will keep culture and history fans entertained.
Taormina is notoriously expensive, so it may not be the best area to stay in Sicily for budget travelers. With the cable car and a good pair of walking shoes, getting around is generally straightforward.
Catania
Catania is Sicily’s second city and has seen a surge in visitors in the past few years. It’s notably popular amongst adventurous folks hoping to explore the soaring Mount Etna that lies just a short drive away.
Not only is Catania within easy reach of Sicily’s most iconic volcano, but it’s also a fantastic base for day trips to the likes of Taormina and Siracusa. The city itself also has plenty to offer, including elaborate cathedrals, ancient castles, lively markets, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Prices in Catania are noticeably lower than in many other tourist-friendly spots, allowing you to discover eastern Sicily without emptying your pockets. There are a handful of bus routes serving the city when you want to venture out of the center.
Agrigento
Many of the best parts of Sicily are historically significant, but few can compare with the southern city of Agrigento.
I’d advise those of you not overly interested in history to consider Agrigento as a day trip rather than a base, as there’s not a whole lot to do here outside of exploring ruins and museums. The awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples is a must for any visitor to this hilltop city, as is the Archaeological Museum.
Most accommodations are moderately priced, as are general costs in Agrigento. There are buses in place to connect you to nearby landmarks, but otherwise, it’s best to get around on foot.
Interested in visiting the main temples of Sicily? Check my guide to discover the best 4 Greek Temples of Sicily!
Cefalu
Cefalu is one of my favorite spots to stay in Sicily. This family-friendly seaside village is just an hour outside Palermo and one of the best places to stay for a laidback trip.
In recent years, its picture-perfect beaches and turquoise waters have attracted more visitors, but in general, it’s a sleepy, peaceful area ideal for relaxed getaways. If I’m honest, there’s not much to do here in terms of activities, but the Cefalu Cathedral and La Rocca hike are worth checking out. Moreover, its proximity to Palermo means you’re never too far from the action.
You can amble around Cefalu in no time, and a reliable train line connects it to other destinations. Despite its size, Cefalu has a wide range of lodgings, from modest guesthouses to plush hotels.
San Vito Lo Capo
Another special place for beach lovers is San Vito Lo Capo, a small but stunning waterfront town on Sicily’s northeastern tip.
I’m always amazed at how underrated San Vito Lo Capo is. Its sublime white beaches, dramatic limestone backdrop, and pretty town center make it an excellent holiday destination to unwind. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with youngsters, I think San Vito Lo Capo is the best place for a quiet retreat.
The accommodation prices here are primarily mid-range, but it’s possible to find some cheaper or upmarket alternatives, too. When it comes to getting around, you’ll need to rely on a mix of walking or hiring a car.
These Are the Best Areas to Stay In Sicily
At the risk of sounding biased, I don’t think you can have a bad time no matter what area in Sicily you choose to stay!
Coming from someone who lives on the island, these are the best areas to stay in Sicily; they all have something to offer, from the historic ruins of Agrigento and the bustling Palermo to the lavish Taormina.