The incredibly elegant Grand Hotel des Etrangers 5* is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Ortigia, just a few metres from the beach. Enjoy the sea view from this refined establishment that boasts a historic yet modern Art Deco style. Dine in style at Clou, the hotel's restaurant and bar, with its excellent service, attention to detail and a menu that's sure to dazzle.

The Superior Rooms, meticulously decorated and adorned with elegant parquet flooring, are filled with natural light. They provide uninterrupted views of the sea, extending all the way to Ortigia.

This is a bed and breakfast stay.

Indulge your senses with a pampering massage or ritual at the sublime spa before heading out to discover the Port of Syracuse and the Ionian coast of Sicily. Syracuse is also famous for its ancient ruins, so why not explore the Roman Amphitheatre or the Teatro Greco?

Stay connected on your travels with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your complimentary eSIM and stay connected wherever you go. Share your hotspot, have easy access to maps, or find the best local spots to eat. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible here.

Explore the island of Ortigia from the sea on a boat trip. Learn more about its thousand-year-old history, admire its emblematic sites and enjoy a swim before returning to the port.

Explore Mount Etna on a group tour departing from your hotel in Catania, including hikes around the craters and a visit to a lava cave. End the day with a tasting of local produce at an organic farm in Zafferana Etnea.

Embark on a captivating guided tour of Catania, where you'll explore its most breathtaking monuments, from the impressive Roman Amphitheatre in Piazza Stesicoro to the stunning Cathedral in Piazza Duomo. As you journey through the city, you'll meander down charming Baroque streets, stroll through historic squares, visit the vibrant Pescheria market, and admire the grandeur of Ursino Castle.

Welcome to Sicily

A sun-drenched mosaic of cultures, Sicily is a land where ancient history and dramatic landscapes collide. Greek temples rise from golden plains, Baroque cities gleam under the Mediterranean sun, and Mount Etna smoulders on the horizon. Whether you're drawn to its archaeological wonders, pristine beaches, or time-honoured traditions, Sicily captivates with its raw beauty and rich heritage.

Don’t miss

• The Valley of the Temples – an awe-inspiring collection of ancient Greek ruins in Agrigento
• Palermo’s vibrant markets – a sensory overload of colour, noise, and mouth-watering street food
• Taormina’s ancient theatre – a spectacular setting with Mount Etna as a backdrop
• The Aeolian Islands – a volcanic archipelago perfect for hiking, diving, and unwinding
• Baroque splendour in Noto, Ragusa, and Modica – stunning towns that are works of art in themselves

Culinary culture

Sicilian cuisine is a feast of sun-ripened flavours and multicultural influences. Cannoli and cassata showcase the island’s sweet tooth, while arancini – crisp, golden rice balls – are a beloved street food staple. Seafood lovers can savour pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines) and fresh swordfish, while the island’s citrus groves provide zesty delights. Pair it all with a glass of bold Nero d’Avola or a chilled Marsala wine for the perfect taste of Sicily.

Dive deeper

Beyond the postcard sights, Sicily is home to unique cultural gems. Witness the fiery spectacle of Easter’s Processione dei Misteri in Trapani or experience the age-old Opera dei Pupi, a traditional marionette theatre. In the countryside, age-old bagli (fortified farmsteads) offer a glimpse into Sicily’s rural soul, while Marsala's salt pans shimmer in pink and gold hues at sunset.

Good to know

Sicily enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters – spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing. Public transport links major cities, but renting a car is the best way to explore remote villages and coastal hideaways. The currency is the euro, and while Italian is the official language, many locals speak Sicilian, a distinct and poetic dialect shaped by the island’s layered history.