Must-See Historical Sights In Sicily Italy

Sicily is so full of historic sites that you could spend a lifetime on the island and probably still not see them all. From Unesco Heritage sites like Greek temples and Roman mosaics to Arab-Norman churches, we have narrowed down the must-see historic sites for you.

Want to enjoy Sicily’s historical sights? Book TRIPS by Culture Trip’s 10-day adventure to enjoy a walking tour of Palermo, learn about the town of Taormina and stay in a boutique hotel just five minutes from the ancient temple of Apollo.

1. Palermo Cathedral

Cathedral, Church

Palermo - South portal of Cathedral or Duomo and west towers

The main church for the city of Palermo is a showy example of Arab-Norman architecture. Construction began in the 12th century on the site, and, through the years, there have been additions and renovations, which incorporated gothic, baroque and neoclassical details. Inside, you can visit the royal tombs of Norman kings and their family members. Don’t miss the Byzantine-style jewel-studded crown of Constance of Aragon, wife of Frederick II.

2. Villa Romana del Casale

Building

Mosaic in the Roman Villa of Casale, near Piazza Armerina, Sicily, Italy.

This fourth-century Roman villa is home to some of the most famous mosaics in Itay. One that particularly deserves your attention is the surprisingly modern Coronation of the Winner, better known as the Bikini Girls. Rows of girls in red bikinis are portrayed throwing a ball and long jumping, all created with tiny squares of coloured glass and stone. The villa is enormous, with room after room, once home to an important Roman family who ruled this part of Sicily.

4. Tempio di Segesta

Historical Landmark

Tempio di Segesta, antique temple front view closeup, Sicily, Italy

This well-preserved Greek temple is a must for any visitor to western Sicily. Near Trapani, this part of the island was once known as Segesta. The impressive temple rises from a field that is situated at the foot of Mount Barbaro.

5. Greek Theatre in Taormina

Cathedral, Theater

The Greek Theatre in Taormina, Sicily, Italy

Wind your way all the way to the top left corner of this hilltop town to find the ancient Greek amphitheatre that was constructed in the third century BCE (which actually makes it Roman) and is still used today. The views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea are unparalleled. Back in the day, there was space for more than 5,000 people on the carved stone seats and benches. Today, there are modern seats, from which you get to enjoy operas, symphonies and film festivals during the summer months.

6. Falcone–Borsellino Airport

Architectural Landmark

Falcone Borsellino International Airport Palermo Sicily Italy

If you want to understand modern Sicilian and Italian history, you need to know the names Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino. Both men were anti-mafia judges, who worked their entire careers fighting the stronghold of organised crime. They were killed within weeks of each other in separate bombings, during the summer of 1992. The Palermo airport is named for them, and you should seek out the memorial plaque by sculptor Tommaso Geraci outside the departure hall. You will find schools, public buildings and piazzas bearing the name of these brave men all over Sicily.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.