Evidence has been found of humans on the island as long ago as 12,000 B.C. This is evidenced in the scattered tributes to civilisations past. The island was part of the Roman Empire, although there have been numerous powers that have laid claim to it since.
However, in 1946 it was granted a special status as an autonomous region, so now Sicily is one of five autonomous Italian regions.
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is home to breathtaking scenery, a fascinating past, and a lively present. This is the ultimate destination in Italy for anyone looking for an opulent and secluded escape.
Here is why booking a luxurious villa in Sicily for your next trip could be the height of luxury and provide memories to last a lifetime.
Why Visit Sicily?
What distinguishes Sicily from other holiday destinations?
Sicily really is an amazing island to explore, with so many attractions and places to see. Embrace the allure of Sicily and prepare for an extraordinary escape where relaxation and enchantment intertwine.
Siciliy is the ultimate captivating Mediterranean oasis, is the place which will stay with you long after you've left its shores.
Attractions
Sicily has so many well-known tourist attractions and activities on the island, and it is easy to explore and take in the deep history and culture of the island.
If you are planning a road trip and want to see as many places as possible you should to see the larger towns and cities including Palermo, Syracuse, Agrigento, Catania, Taormina, Ragusa, Cefalù, Trapani and Enna. You can visit the old towns, discover secluded beaches, or do the shopping at traditional local markets.
The majority of the shopping, nightlife and entertainment are in towns and cities near the coast. Of course, you’ll also find some impressive beaches with the warm Mediterranean Sea gently lapping their shores. There is little point in being too far away from these impressive surroundings, so the only question is whether you to stay in the countryside or close to the sea.
Sicily offers a wealth of cultural treasures waiting to be explored. Immerse yourself in the island's rich history by visiting ancient Greek ruins, such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento or the stunning amphitheatre in Taormina.
Some places not to miss include Taormina's historic Greek theatre which offers breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.
Be sure to discover Syracuse's rich past, from its baroque architecture to its Greek ruins. Explore one of Europe's largest archeological sites, including striking remnants of historical temples.
Villa Romana del Casale is waiting to amaze you with its intricate mosaics. Spend an afternoon wandering through the enchanting streets of Syracuse's historic center. It’s impossible not to experience Sicily’s vibrant past.
Where to Stay
If you’re going to stay in Sicily for a long holiday, a short city break or are planning a honeymoon in Italy, then you’ll probably be torn between staying in a hotel or villa.
On the island you'll find an array of buget and luxury hotels, resorts and villas, ranging from beachside havens to charming country retreats and historic properties, offering their own unique charm and features.
The range of luxurious accommodation you can choose from is great, giving you the opportunity of choosing somewhere tailored to your needs and dreams. You can start the process of searching places to stay on comparison websites and find the location you would most love to stay.
Maybe you want to stay in old charming towns, seaside resorts, or maybe the countryside? Or you could travel overland and mix everything.
Although all the options are villas by the sea, there is a big difference between a contemporary villa lapping the beach and a traditional villa set on the cliff above the beach – which usually has impressive views across the ocean and inland, towards the famous and volatile Mount Etna.
Alongside choosing how close you want your villa to be to the sea, you should consider your desired places of interest: there are many so many of those!
Sicily is not a large island but there is little point in staying in Marsala or Messina when your primary aim is going to the beach and visiting the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento on the southern coast.
Benefits of Staying in a Villa
Staying in a villa close to iconic sites allows guests to enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making the most of their time in Sicily. The comfort of staying in a breathtaking Sicily villa, where every moment is a blissful escape, is one of the benefits of this holiday destination.
But is this the right option for you? This is why you should consider a villa stay over a hotel.
Affordability
What may surprise you is how affordable many villas are, especially when you consider the quality of the accommodation.
Unmatched Amenities for a Comfortable Stay
Luxury villas in Sicily are expertly crafted to offer their visitors comfort and convenience. These villas often come furnished with an array of first-rate facilities to meet every requirement. You can savour the convenience of having a private pool, where you can unwind, swim, or sunbathe in total seclusion.
Many villas have barbecue areas, ideal for dining outside and indulging in delectable Sicilian food at home. Whether preparing a quick breakfast or a gourmet dinner, visitors can cook with ease in these modern kitchens, which are supplied with top-notch appliances and utensils. Thanks to the in-villa laundry facilities, you can travel light and always have clean clothes available.
You could reserve a seafront villa with a pool, you have the comfort of using both sweet and salty water, according to your mood. Imagine eating your meals in a lush garden, or on a beautiful terrace with a view of the coastline, and unspoiled landscapes.
Most villas also have fully-equipped kitchens, whilst some benefit from wellness areas, a whirlpool tub and air-conditioning.
Unique Sicilian Charm Meets Modern Design
One of Sicilian luxury villas' most alluring features is their distinctive fusion of modern and traditional design features. The island's rich cultural legacy is reflected in the handcrafted furnishings and hand-painted tiles that adorn these houses. The signature elements of Sicilian design, colourful pottery, elaborate ironwork, and rustic wood beams, will likely be found inside.
These villas include all the modern amenities you could want, like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and cutting-edge entertainment systems, to make your stay comfortable and opulent, even with their historic charm.
Ideal for Privacy and Group Travel
Luxury villas are the perfect option for families or groups of friends who wish to vacation together without having to deal with other visitors, as is sometimes the case in hotels. They provide a private and exclusive setting. Villas usually have large living areas and many bedrooms, so there's plenty of space for everyone to unwind and enjoy their visit.
Guests can spend time without interruptions in these private gardens, pools, and living areas, making their trip more intimate and customized. Unlike hotels, where guests share common areas, villas provide private use of all amenities, enhancing comfort and privacy.
Proximity to Stunning Natural Landscapes
Luxury villas in Sicily are frequently located in scenic settings, either by the sea or tucked away in the countryside. These villas provide stunning views and quick access to some of the most gorgeous beaches on earth. Nestled among rolling hills, olive orchards, and vineyards, several villas in Sicily's tranquil countryside provide a quiet getaway from the bustle of everyday life.
For those who would rather be by the sea, villas close to Sicily's gorgeous beaches offer the ideal setting for sun, surf, and sand. Imagine having sweeping views of the Mediterranean and hearing the sound of waves as you wake up.
Local Knowledge
When it comes to local knowledge, it’s hard to beat a local company that has been established on the island for so long. The staff know their island and the want to help you to know it too.
If you book a villa online you will get their assistance with planning or even arranging trips to all your desired locations, whether that is the awesome Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, or the Zingaro Nature Reserve, where you’ll get a stunning view of the sea (and you’ll get chance to see some dazzling fish and vegetation, also).
It's hard to beat local knowledge!
Fall in Love with the Landscapes and Lifestyle
Sicily has lots of landscapes and places to discover, and it’s definitely not the same as any other island in Europe.
No trip to Sicily is complete without savouring its exceptional cuisine, which will pamper your senses and leave you mouthwatering. Taste delights such as arancini (rice balls), fresh seafood, and cannoli, a delectable pastry filled with sweet ricotta.
You should definitely go to the local markets, where the aroma of fresh produce and traditional ingredients will awaken your senses. You can’t eat Sicily’s food without renowned wines, Nero d'Avola or Marsala.
Sicily Travel Tips
When you’re planning your dream trip to Sicily, consider practical details to make your journey seamless.
Language
Be sure to learn some basic Italian travel phrases before departing, not everyone in Sicily speaks English and you'll really impress the locals.
When to Go
The best months to come to Sicily are July and August when the weather is hot and sunny. The weather will also be beautiful, yet not so hot in spring or early autumn. As a citizen of the EU, you don’t need a visa for a short say.
Getting to and Around
You can easily reach Sicily by plane, or boat from mainland Italy. Low cost airlines fly to Sicily from major European cities and flight prices are affordable. Travelling around the island is quite easy with a rented car, allowing you to reach rural gems. Some hotels and villa rentals can help you with airport transfers, and even a concierge service.
Plan Your Island Escape to Sicily
Discover why Sicily is the destination of choice for those seeking a rejuvenating and unforgettable holiday experience. Picture yourself surrounded by unspoiled landscapes, basking in the Mediterranean sun, and immersing yourself in luxurious relaxation.
Staying at a luxurious villa in Sicily offers the finest in terms of cosiness, seclusion, and accessibility to both historical and scenic attractions. An amazing holiday can be had, whether your goals are to explore ancient sites, relax by your own private pool, or just enjoy the Sicilian charm. Savour the ultimate in luxury and leisure as you surrender to Sicily's seduction.
Indulge in the ultimate getaway as you dive into the unparalleled beauty and tranquility of Sicily and go discover this historical and beautiful island for yourself. Also if you like to idea of exploring more of this beautiful country, view our southern Italy itinerary suggestions.
