After exploring much of Sicily, these four sites were our most memorable experiences. (romas_ph (Adobe Stock))
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Sicily is truly the land of sun, fire and history. It is a great place to visit all year round. We planned our trip for November as it was still warm enough to enjoy the sunshine and simultaneously escape the grayness of German winter.
We took a RyanAir flight into Catania and spent six wonderful days in Sicily. We rented a car for island travel and hired a local company for some local tours. After exploring much of Sicily, these four sites were our most memorable experiences.
The first and most adventurous place we visited was hiking on Mt. Etna. At 3000m tall, Mt. Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe, and it continuously erupts. The journey up the volcano involved a ride in a huge trekking vehicle and a guided hike up the mountain.
We hiked near “fresh” lava and felt the warmth as we walked by. Once we returned from our excursion, we visited a local shop where we tasted the goodness of fresh local products (olive oils, jams and honey).
We booked our tour with a local tour operator for ease of navigation and to have an off-the-beaten track guided adventure. It is also possible to drive and book your own tickets to a designated part of the mountain at www.funiviaetna.com.
At 3000m tall, Mt. Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe, and it continuously erupts. (Deborah Herceg)
Next up: getting an iconic picture at the Taormina Ancient Theater. The views of the Taormina Ancient Theater were absolutely breathtaking – with sweeping vistas of Etna and the dramatic coastline. As we walked through the theater, we could almost hear the echoes of the ancient Greek tragedies.
During the peak of summer, it’s recommended to purchase tickets to ancient theater ahead of time to ensure you can get in. Visit the official website for details and booking.
The views of the Taormina Ancient Theater were absolutely breathtaking – with sweeping vistas of Etna and the dramatic coastline. (Deborah Herceg)
For folks that truly enjoy history, Villa Romana del Casale will not disappoint. This Roman Villa contains one of the world’s most impressive collection of well-preserved Roman mosaics.
There are mythological narratives, athletic “bikini girls,” hunting scenes and so much more. It offers a vivid glimpse into a Roman life of luxury.
The Villa Romana del Casale is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and archaeological park. Tickets can be purchased at the gate.
This Roman Villa contains one of the world’s most impressive collection of well-preserved Roman mosaics. (Deborah Herceg)
The most impressive sights on the island were inside the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. This is one of the best-preserved Greek temple complexes in the world, and the sight is extraordinary beyond belief.
As we walked through the park in the afternoon, the temples were bathed in Sicilian sunlight. Before leaving, we stopped at cafe for some Arancino, a deep‑fried rice cone filled with ragù, and, my favorite chocolate cream-filled cannoli.
It’s possible to buy tickets to the Valley of the Temples ahead of time at the Italian Coop Culture website, but it is also just as easy to buy them at the gate when you arrive. During peak summer tourist season, pre-booked tickets may help you avoid long lines.
The most impressive sights on the island were the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. (Deborah Herceg)
While Sicily offers so much for every traveler, these sights left a lasting impression on our family and offered countless opportunities to browse local artisan shops.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of War.
