- The 2 main sailing areas during your cruise in Sicily
- The most beautiful cities to discover during your cruise in Sicily
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and is one of the most beautiful destinations in the region. Just a few miles from the Italian peninsula, Sicily is highly appreciated for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters and lush nature. Several small islets and archipelagos surround Sicily, of which there are two main ones that you are sure to recognize for their beauty:
- The Aeolian Islands archipelago
- The Egadi Islands archipelago
Embark on a cruise to Italy and experience the dolce vita on your next vacation! Succumb to Sicilian gastronomy and the great diversity of its dishes, mainly based on fish, meat and vegetables, not forgetting gelati, those famous Italian ice creams. "Sicily is not far away and it's a great destination whether for the culture, the gastronomy, the beauty of the landscapes... It's great!" says Eric Cousam, Filovent customer.
Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, Sicily is a great place to live all year round. However, we recommend that you go between the months of April and October to enjoy optimal sunshine and pleasant temperatures!
The 2 main sailing areas during your cruise in Sicily
Sicily is located at the point of the Italian boot and is surrounded by many other small islands, including two archipelagos renowned for their beauty. "The islands in Sicily, unlike the Greek islands, are smaller and therefore more intimate. On each island you arrive in a small village that is easier to discover and you feel like you belong there," says François Cabaret, a Filovent customer who went on a cruise last summer. A cabin cruise in Sicily is therefore the best option for discovering this sublime region, which is full of natural treasures and heavenly landscapes.
The Aeolian Islands
The Aeolian Islands archipelago consists of 7 islands located to the north-east of Sicily and belongs to the province of Messina. Lipari, Alicudi, Stromboli, Salina, Vulcano, Panarea and Filicudi are islands of volcanic origin, which emerged from the seabed several million years ago. With very fertile soil due to the volcanic activity, the Aeolian Islands are conducive to the growth of flora. Omnipresent on these islands, some of which are still very wild, it offers its visitors superb landscapes. "I really fell in love with the Aeolian Islands, especially the westernmost one, Alicudi, but I was also impressed by Vulcano," says Michel, one of our customers.
Today, only the volcanoes of Stromboli and Vulcano are still active. François Cabaret tells me, "my favorite island is without a doubt Stromboli, it's magnificent. The skipper took us to the foot of the volcano during sunset and we could see the fire erupting from the volcano! It was absolutely superb!"
You can climb to the summits of these volcanoes by following the hiking trails, one of the region's star activities. Don't forget to pack a good pair of walking shoes!
The Egadi Islands
There are three Egadi Islands: Levanzo, Favignana and Marettimo. They form a small archipelago located opposite the city of Trapani, in the west of Sicily. Less well known than the Aeolian Islands, they are just as beautiful and well worth a visit! Eric Cousam, who went on a cruise to Sicily last summer, tells me that his favorite island is "Marettimo, the furthest from the Egadi Islands. That's surely why it's less crowded and wilder. As the Egadi Islands belong to a national park, the area is protected and the anchorages are magnificent," he adds.
These islands have beautiful beaches and magnificent bays with white sand and turquoise waters. With a landscape mainly composed of hills, hiking is perfect on the islands of the archipelago. Numerous possibilities are available to you, there is something for all levels and superb panoramas await you.
The most beautiful cities to discover during your cruise in Sicily
Palermo, the capital
Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is the largest city in the region. Discover its rich historical heritage during a stopover and take a stroll through the city. There are many monuments to see, such as the Norman Palace, dating from the 9th century, or Palermo Cathedral. Take a stroll around Piazza Bellini, which is without doubt one of the most beautiful squares in the city. It is surrounded by the theater that bears his name and the Church of the Mortorana. Eric tells me that he and his friends "all loved Palermo, the city has a crazy charm! It is very authentic and there are many cultural treasures to be found there." Don't leave without visiting one of Palermo's two large markets, Ballarò or Vucciria. A warm and joyful atmosphere reigns in these popular markets with their colorful stalls and bewitching scents.
Catania
This is the second largest city in Sicily. It is located in the far east, at the foot of Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The volcano has destroyed the city several times. During your cruise to Sicily, stop off at Catania, a dynamic port city that attracts many tourists for its splendid monuments. Don't miss the Elephant Fountain, a symbol of the city, near the Cathedral of Sant'Agata. Stroll through the city streets until you reach the fish market, a picturesque and authentic market. Set off to climb Mount Etna! You will be treated to impressive scenery, between lava fields and smoking craters, and you will be left speechless by such a spectacle.
San Vito Lo Capo
Located at the foot of Mount Monaco, this seaside resort is renowned for its vast white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Stroll through the town's narrow streets and fall under the spell of the small, traditional and colorful houses. Nature lovers can veer off on a hike right in the heart of one of the two large nature reserves surrounding the town.
Agrigento
From your boat, you can admire the temples that rise up on the hills. No fewer than 8 Greek temples, very well preserved, listed as UNESCO heritage sites, dominate the city. A true open-air historical treasure! Take the time to stroll through the alleys of the old town of Agrigento and you will discover sublime monuments: cathedral, palace and monastery. At the end of the day, head to the top of the Scala dei Turchi. A few kilometers from the city of Agrigento, it is an impressive limestone cliff overlooking the sea. Renowned for its natural staircase, it offers a spectacular sunset!