6 Unmissable Things To Do in Sicily You Need to Know

Do you love discovering hidden gems as much as I do? Sicily is like that cool friend who's got layers of stories, breathtaking views, and unexpected adventures tucked into every corner. You’ve probably ready the top lists of things to do in Sicily, but forget those typical tourist traps – I'm talking about experiences that'll make your travel buddies seriously jealous when you get back home.

The best part? You can partake in every single one of these experiences on our small group trip in May, Scenic Sicily: Panoramas, People, & the Past.

Here are 6 unmissable things to do in Sicily that'll give you more than just Instagram stories – they'll give you memories that'll last a lifetime.

Things to do in Sicily: Hike Lo Zingaro

One thing you’ll definitely be doing is EATING, a lot! So when it comes to finding things to do in Sicily, it’s a great idea to choose something active (to make more room for more food, of course!). Imagine a hiking trail that looks like it was painted by an artist who's obsessed with perfect landscapes. Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve is exactly that.

Wedged between Palermo and Trapani, this spot is Sicily's original protected park – and trust me, it doesn't disappoint. You'll be walking trails that snake between rugged mountains and sparkling Mediterranean waters, discovering hidden coves that feel like your own private paradise.

Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and prepare for your jaw to drop repeatedly at the views. And bring a picnic! There are lots of beaches along the lower trail where you can stop off and enjoy it with aquamarine water lapping at your toes.

Things to do in Sicily: See a Weaving Demonstration in Erice

Picture a medieval hilltop town where time seems to stand still. Erice isn't just pretty – it's where traditional craft comes to life. So if you’re wondering what to do in Sicily, adding a wander through Erice’s cobblestone streets is a great idea!

There are several shops where you can check out beautiful woven rugs, pillows, and more. During a weaving demonstration, you'll watch local artisans transform threads into beautiful textiles using techniques their grandparents (and their grandparents' grandparents) used. It's like stepping into a living history book, except this one has killer views of the surrounding landscape that'll make you want to stay forever.

Pro Tip: Stop by Pasticceria Maria Grammatico and try Erice’s famous “Genovesi Ericine” cookies invented by an ex-nun! (See? We’re already back to food!)

Things to do in Sicily: Visit the Salt Pans of Trapani

If this sounds like a boring thing to do in Sicily, think again. The salt pans near Trapani are like an unexpected adventure straight out of a travel documentary. These aren't just salt fields – they're a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet.

With historic windmills, massive salt mounds, and a history dating back to Phoenician times, this place is a fascinating look into an important part of Sicily’s history. Don’t miss the museum where you can learn about the entire process.

Pro Tip: It's a prime spot for spotting flamingos and other migratory birds, so make bird watching something else you can do in Sicily! I’ve also heard that you can have a cocktail at sunset and see the beautiful sunset reflecting off the pools for an unforgettable moment.

Things to do in Sicily: Experience the Heart of Sicilian Hospitality

Lunch on a Sicilian farm isn't just a meal – it's a full-blown cultural immersion that connects you directly to the island's agricultural heart. Picture long wooden tables set among olive groves, where generations of a family have worked the same land.

On our Scenic Sicily small group tour, travelers get to spend an entire afternoon at a family farmhouse, welcomed like long-lost relatives and lingering over an endless homemade feast right on the land where the family produces their own prickly pears and olive oil. Each course tells a story – from handmade pasta to foraged asparagus, with produce literally picked moments before reaching your plate. It's not just lunch; it's a five-hour celebration of food, family, and Sicilian tradition. The conversations flow as freely as the homemade wine, and you'll feel like you've been adopted into a Sicilian family by the time dessert rolls around. Take a peek now to see if any spots are left on the next departure!

Things to do in Sicily: Explore the Selinunte Ruins

Time travel, but make it Mediterranean. History buffs, this one's for you. Visiting ancient ruins is definitely near the top of the list of things to do in Sicily. Selinunte isn't just another archaeological site – it's a massive Greek city frozen in time. I’m talking about temple ruins from the 6th and 5th centuries BCE, spread across an area so vast you'll feel like you've landed in an epic movie set.

With the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop, you'll be walking where ancient civilizations walked, and honestly, it's way cooler than any history textbook.

The Most Unmissable Thing to Do in Sicily: Chat with a Local

The best souvenir for the lowest price? A genuine conversation with a local. Sicilians are notorious for their warmth and they love a good chat. Whether it's a quick conversation with a market vendor or a longer chat in a neighborhood café, these interactions are your backstage pass to understanding the real Sicily. So don’t forget to add a chat with a local to your list of top things to do in Sicily!

For tips on how to connect with locals, download my free guide, including 25 sample questions to start a conversation!

Sicily isn't just a destination – it's an experience that'll rewrite the way you think about travel. These aren't just stops on a map; they're stories waiting to happen. Creative Edge Travel makes it easy for you to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the Sicilian culture. You can partake in the experiences in this article by joining our small group trip in May, Scenic Sicily: Panoramas, People, & the Past. Take a look, or Get in touch and let’s start planning your own custom adventure!