Historic cities and Mediterranean shores

Once the intellectual capital of southern Europe, Palermo has always been at the crossroads of civilization. Favorably situated on a crescent-shaped bay at the foot of Monte Pellegrino, it has attracted almost every culture touching the Mediterranean world. To Palermo's credit, it has absorbed these diverse cultures into a unique personality that is at once Arab and Christian, Byzantine and Roman, Norman and Italian. The city's heritage encompasses all of Sicily's varied ages, but its distinctive aspect is its Arab-Norman identity, an improbable marriage that, mixed in with Byzantine and Jewish elements, created some resplendent works of art. No less noteworthy than the architecture is Palermo's chaotic vitality, on display at some of Italy's most vibrant outdoor markets, public squares, street bazaars, and food vendors, and above all in its grand climax of Italy's most spectacular passeggiata (the leisurely social stroll along the principal thoroughfare).

The medieval cliff-hanging town of Taormina is overrun with tourists, yet its natural beauty is still hard to dispute. The view of the sea and Mt. Etna from its jagged cactus-covered cliffs is as close to perfection as a panorama can get—especially on clear days, when the snowcapped volcano's white puffs of smoke rise against the blue sky. Writers have extolled Taormina's beauty almost since it was founded in the 6th century BC by Greeks from nearby Naxos; Goethe and D. H. Lawrence were among its well-known enthusiasts. The town's boutique-lined main streets get old pretty quickly, but the many hiking paths that wind through the beautiful hills surrounding Taormina promise a timeless alternative. A trip up to stunning Castelmola (whether on foot or by car) should also be on your itinerary.

The largest and most developed of the Aeolians, Lipari welcomes you with distinctive pastel-color houses. Fields of spiky agaves dot the northernmost tip of the island, Acquacalda, indented with pumice and obsidian quarries. In the west is San Calogero, where you can explore hot springs and mud baths. From the red-lava base of the island rises a plateau crowned with a 16th-century castle and a 17th-century cathedral.

Stromboli is an active volcanic island in the Aeolian archipelago off the north coast of Sicily, Italy. As of April 2026, the volcano remains in a state of continuous eruptive activity, with recent reports from April 13, 2026, confirming ongoing "strombolian" explosions and lava flows down the Sciara del Fuoco

Gaeta is a picturesque coastal city located in the Lazio region of Italy, along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Known for its stunning beaches, historic charm, and scenic views, it sits between Rome and Naples, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and culture.

The city is rich in history, dating back to ancient Roman times, and features landmarks such as the imposing Castello Angioino-Aragonese, which overlooks the town and offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Another notable site is the Sanctuary of Montagna Spaccata, famous for its dramatic split mountain and spiritual significance.

Gaeta’s old town is filled with narrow streets, medieval buildings, and charming piazzas, reflecting its long and diverse history. The city is also known for its local cuisine, especially seafood dishes and the traditional “tiella,” a savory pie filled with ingredients like octopus or vegetables.

With its mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxed seaside atmosphere, Gaeta offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors exploring the Italian coast.

Located in the South of Corsica, Bonifacio is one of the island’s most beautiful destinations. From its breathtaking views and sandy white islands to its historic citadel, the city is a must visit for anyone travelling to the island.

For centuries, Rome ruled much of Europe, building a vast empire from the power of emperors. More than 2,500 years of history live in the city’s streets. Ancient structures recall those heady days when the cheers of 80,000 spectators roared from the Colosseum, citizens mingled in the Forum and senators asked the gods for guidance at the Pantheon. Along with the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, this rich pocket of Italy is one of the world’s greatest repositories of history and civilization.