It might be the sight of a dazzling blue sea, a dramatic mountain backdrop or a bustling market that sparks that ‘must take a photo’ moment. What’s for sure is that wherever you are in Sicily, you’ll be struck by that impulse time and time again, finding it hard to resist whipping out your phone for another great picture. Whether you’re into buildings and architecture, nature or simply portraying some local flavour, you’ll find ample opportunity to grab some great pictures at these top photo spots in Sicily.
1- Capturing the spirit of Sicily
Capture the spirit of Sicily and a unique theatrical spectacle at Catania’s fish market and the food markets of Palermo. Arrive at Catania’s La Pescheria in early morning when the market is at its liveliest and the light still gentle. You’ll get some superb shots of the fishmongers in full flow, gesticulating over crates of fresh catches of shellfish and octopus, over trays of gleaming silver sardines and slabs of juicy tuna steaks.
You’ll find an equally vibrant atmosphere if you’re lucky enough to catch one of Sicily’s impressive processions. The Sciacca Carnival in the run up to Lent, the Mysteries of Trapani procession at Easter, and the festivals in Palermo and Catania to celebrate their respective patron saints, Santa Rosalia and Sant’Agata, go hand in hand with some eye-catching rituals and huge crowds.
Where to stay: Case Fil is a contemporary villa with an 18m pool, set amongst the olive groves near Trapani.
2- Best for coastal views
There are plenty of reasons why people flock to Taormina, not least the incredible coastal views. Head for the main Piazza IX Aprile to capture a picture across the square to the Ionian Sea, or to the higher vantage point of the Belvedere di Via Pirandello for a glimpse of the tiny Isola Bella. Our favourite view is from the ancient amphitheatre where, if you position yourself carefully, you can cast the sea and Mount Etna as your backdrop.
On the opposite side of the island, the Zingaro Nature Reserve provides 7km of blissfully unspoilt coastline, with beaches and coves only accessible on foot or by sea. Cala Capreria is one of the reserve’s most idyllic coves, with turquoise water backed by rugged limestone cliffs.
Still on Sicily’s west coast, Erice is a medieval hill town with vantage points from several terraces that provide dramatic views over the coast of Trapani and, on a clear day, of the Egadi Islands. Top photo spots are the Castello di Venere and the terrace at the Giardino del Balio.
Where to stay: Ericea is a beautifully restored rural home with a pool, hot tub and views over the almond and olive groves near Erice.
3- Urban landscapes
Many of Sicily’s towns and cities provide equally dramatic photo stops. If you’re looking for pictures of atmospheric urban nooks and crannies, then the winding alleyways and narrow streets of Syracuse will provide a treasure trove of opportunities. The city’s architecture is also attention-grabbing, particularly the main Piazza Duomo in Ortigia, Syracuse’s historic centre, which is framed by the magnificent baroque cathedral and Palazzo Vermexio. As the light fades, head down to the waterfront to watch the sun cast its glow over the horizon.
You’ll find more honey-hued architecture along the main street of nearby Noto. Buildings – the San Nicolò cathedral, the town hall and a whole string of elaborate baroque palaces – are adorned with extravagantly decorated balconies and façades, colonnades and sculpted cherubs and statues. Take photos in the early morning or late afternoon to maximise the effect of the burnished golden limestone façades.
Where to stay: Villa Renata is a 5-bedroom seafront villa within walking distance of the shops and restaurants at Fontane Bianche and close to Syracuse and Noto.
4- Nature at its best
Mount Etna needs no introduction. Dominating the eastern Sicily skyline, the active volcano takes on the protagonist role in much of Sicily’s most dramatic photography. For the best vantage points, head for the south side of the volcano where the Rifugio Sapienza cable car will whisk you up to the lava fields and craters. If you’re lucky, you may even catch the odd steam vent or ash plume.
On the west of the island, Trapani’s salt pans and historic windmills can produce some stunning photography that few people would associate with Sicily. On a bright day, the glittering white pyramids of salt contrast brilliantly with dazzling blue sea and sky, while at sunset, the fading light tinges the landscape with warm apricot and rose-coloured hues.
Where to stay: Dea Dell’Etna is a 4-bedroom villa with a pool set on the slopes of Mount Etna and just 20 minutes by car from Rifugio Sapienza.
5- Archaeological treasures
The twilight hour is also a winner at the Valley of the Temples on the Agrigento coast when the silhouetted ancient Greek temples are framed by a traditionally Sicilian setting of almond and olive trees. Other archaeological sites on Sicily that produce some great photography include Selinunte in the west of the island, where huge open panoramas provide a backdrop to fragments of the ruined temple.
The Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse yields more great photo opportunities, in the Greek and Roman amphitheatre but also in more unusual settings such as the limestone cave, the Ear of Dionysius.
Where to stay: Villa Liberty is a stunning 2-bedroom Liberty-style villa with direct access to San Leone beach on the outskirts of Agrigento.
