Unlike its ritzy neighbours (Amalfi, Capri, Como), the Italian island of Sicily has an unpretentious, almost brutish beauty to it. Situated at the bottom toe of the boot – recognised as the soccer ball to some – it’s a place of stark contrast. There’s the volcanic epicentre, rocky coastline, sparkling blue sea, fruitful vineyards, cliffside resorts, rustic agrihotels and architectural treasures. It’s no surprise it was picked as the backdrop for the stunning second season of The White Lotus.

Whether it’s on your bucket list, or Jennifer Coolidge has influenced you, here are Sicily’s must-visit spots.

Taormina

If it’s full-bodied luxury you’re after, head to Taormina. The seaside town is made up of charming cobbled streets, each one thick with restaurants, boutiques and hotels. A quick cable car ride will carry you down to Isola Bella, where you can swim, spritz and sunbathe till your heart’s content. While you’re there, make a beeline for Villa Sant’Andrea for aperitivo – the Belmond property is actually where the second season of The White Lotus was filmed. Back up the hill, visit Tischi Toschi for dinner; it comes recommended by Yotam Ottolenghi.

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Favignana

Just off the northwestern coast sits Favignana, a small island with 37km2 of wild beauty. You can do a day trip from mainland Sicily, but the hazy beaches and rustic restaurant offering absolutely warrant it as a destination in itself. Grab a bike and cruise around some of the swimming coves, or go all out and hire a boat. This allows you to dip in and out of otherwise inaccessible bays, and steal a few hours at Bue Marino, a picturesque body of water framed by craggy cliffs. Clear and unbelievably blue, the grotto is a Favignana must-do.  

Scopello

About an hour drive to the west of Palermo sits Scopello, a sleepy coastal village with one square, a handful of restaurants and some truly magnificent swim spots. If you can, stay at the idyllic Tonnara di Scopello, a historical tuna fishing port turned museum and boutique accommodation. Waking up in a converted fisherman’s cottage to crystal waters and thick, salty air is about as close to heaven on Earth as one can get. If you can peel yourself away, drive to Riserva dello Zingaro and hike the coastline. It’s a punishing trek in the sun, but 100% worth it for a dip at Cala Capreria, a tiny pebbled beach with the clearest water. Food-wise, the choices in Scopello are minimal but Panificio di Stabile e Anselmo is a standout.

Cefalu

What it lacks in size, Cefalu makes up for in natural beauty and mediaeval charm. The town itself is built around the Duomo di Cefalu, surrounded by a network of serpentine streets. Despite its popularity (it’s said to be the third most-visited town in Sicily), there’s a tranquillity about it, especially during shoulder season. There’s plenty to do: enjoy an early hike up La Rocca and gaze out towards Palermo and Capo d’Orlando, enjoy a cafe in Piazza Duomo or have dinner at La Botte, a family-run institution serving Sicilian classics like pasta alla norma. And then of course, there’s the spiaggia! Kalura beach, Cefalu beach and Lido Angeli Del Mare should all be on your list. 

Palermo

The capital of Sicily, Palermo is rich with history. If 12th-century architecture and former royal palaces are your bag, this city is for you. The Palermo Cathedral houses royal tombs and the Palazzo dei Normanni sits in the centre of the city. Make sure to hit up the markets on Ballaro Street to score a good price on intricate Sicilian jewellery, homewares and more.

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