The Mediterranean jewel of Sicily has long been a magnet for those searching for art, architecture, sandy beaches, mountainous landscapes, and mouth watering cuisine all rolled into one, so it’s of little surprise that the ancient island is the perfect setting for a romantic celebration.
In fact, over the past year, luxury Italian holiday specialists Citalia saw a +22% increase in passengers to Sicily from July 2024 to 2025 ¹ as 27% of UK travellers say they’d consider the area for celebrating a special occasion in their new ‘Celebration Vacations’ survey.
With searches for ‘where to stay in Sicily’ increasing by +160% in the past 90 days, Heather Green, Head of Product at Citalia, has shared the Sicilian holiday destinations perfect for celebrating a special occasion—whether toasting a milestone birthday or recent engagement.
1. Palermo
“Palermo is one of Sicily’s most captivating cities, an ancient port on the island’s north-west coast, where layers of history, culture, and flavour blend seamlessly. From beautiful Baroque churches to aromas of freshly made street food, this is a place where every corner tells a story. With 37% of couples saying food is key to marking a special occasion, and 39% seeking rich cultural experiences, it’s little wonder Palermo is fast becoming a favourite for anniversary getaways. Celebrities such as Dua Lipa and Callum Turner have even been spotted strolling its atmospheric, cobbled streets on a romantic break.”
“Palermo is also a proud centre of Italian opera, home to the magnificent Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house and the third largest in Europe. Built in the late 19th century, it still hosts world-class opera, music, theatre, and dance. For couples looking to celebrate in style, an evening here offers a romantic experience like no other.”
2. Taormina
“Taormina, perched on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, is a Sicilian treasure that brings a touch of luxury to the ancient world. Everything is romantic about the town, from its sun-soaked pebbled beaches to the ancient romance of its Greco-Roman amphitheatre, where Greek ruins frame breathtaking sea views. With three in ten travellers saying boat tours are their top pick for a special occasion, sailing Taormina’s crystal-clear waters is the perfect way to toast a milestone moment.
“Wander hand in hand along the cobbled Corso Umberto, and stop by at the Piazza IX Aprile, where you will encounter the baroque Church of San Giuseppe. The square is an elegant place, characterized by open-air bars, artists, and live music, for an unforgettable evening toasted by a glass of Sicilian wine. And for those looking to mark their celebration with something extra special, Taormina’s boutique-lined streets feature high-end names like Dior and Louis Vuitton, perfect for a luxurious keepsake.”
3. Noto
“Intoxicatingly beautiful, Noto is a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like it’s been permanently bathed in golden hour light. As you stroll along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, you’re surrounded by honey-hued sandstone buildings and sweeping baroque facades, which is a dreamlike setting for a romantic escape. Tucked inland from Sicily’s south-eastern coast, Noto is framed by vineyards and orchards, offering the perfect opportunity to sample local wines with your partner, an experience over a quarter (28%) of travellers say they’d love to enjoy on a wedding anniversary trip.”
“Like many Sicilian towns, Noto has ancient roots, but its layout feels refreshingly elegant. Instead of a maze of narrow alleyways, you’ll find grand boulevards, graceful piazzas, ornate palazzos, and beautifully domed churches. For those looking for a decadent way to celebrate their special occasion, Noto is the Sicilian destination to select.”
4. Cefalù
“Tucked along Sicily’s Tyrrhenian coast, just east of Palermo, Cefalù is a charming snapshot of everything we love about Italy. From its grand Norman Cathedral to the ancient Roman Baths, there is no shortage of cultural gems to discover. Families will appreciate the golden sandy beach, ideal for relaxed days by the sea, while couples can enjoy romantic strolls through cobbled streets or take a scenic walk up La Rocca for sweeping views across the coastline. It is a breathtaking spot to watch the sunset before dining at one of Cefalù’s many atmospheric restaurants.”
“For those looking to explore further, Madonie National Park is within easy reach. It is home to mountain landscapes, traditional Sicilian villages, and rewarding hiking trails. At the top of La Rocca, you will also find the Temple of Diana, an ancient site dedicated to the Roman goddess of the hunt.”
5. Lipari
“Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands, feels like a secret shared only between the sea and the sky. With its volcanic cliffs tumbling into crystal waters and hidden coves, the island is one of Sicily’s best-kept secrets. Couples can wander the cobbled Corso Vittorio Emanuele, lined with gelaterias, cafés, and sun-faded shutters, fishing boats bobbing gently in the marina, and churches that echo with centuries-old vows.
“The island has everything to offer for a romantic celebration with beaches, candlelit seafood dinners, and fiery sunsets over the Tyrrhenian Sea.”
Heather Green, Head of Product at Citalia, concludes: “Sicily has all the ingredients for an unforgettable celebration getaway, timeless history, effortless style, stunning scenery, and food that’s simply unforgettable. It’s no surprise we’re seeing a rise in travellers choosing the island to mark special moments. With 27% of people naming Sicily as a top celebration destination, and bookings up year-on-year this July, it’s clear the island continues to capture the imagination of those looking for something truly memorable.”
To discover more of Sicily and multi-centre holiday offerings in the area, please visit: https://www.citalia.com/