Why visit?
- Explore the vibrant city of Palermo and discover its rich history and culture
- Relax on the beautiful beaches of San Vito Lo Capo and enjoy crystal-clear waters.
- Indulge in delicious local cuisine and taste some of the best wines in Italy
LUXURY VILLAS IN WESTERN SICILY
WESTERN SICILY HOLIDAYS
Western Sicily is a region of Italy that offers visitors an authentic and unique experience. This side of the island is known for its rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and charming towns and villages. From the bustling and beautiful city of Palermo to the stunning beaches of San Vito Lo Capo, there is something for everyone in Western Sicily.
This area is also famous for its food and wine, and visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine while sipping on a glass of Marsala wine. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun, Western Sicily is a destination not to be missed.
Check out our gorgeous luxury villas in Western Sicily and jet off for a holiday of a lifetime.
Read the Western Sicily Travel Guide
Why stay with us?
Discover the Oliver’s Travels way, where style and character define every handpicked villa in Western Sicily. Our destination experts curate unique homes in beautiful locations that are perfect for families and guaranteed to ‘wow’.
Once you book a holiday, the service doesn't stop there. Our Concierge Service means you'll be in good hands to arrange in-house chefs, fridge stocking, housekeeping, and so much more, to make your stay truly extraordinary.
Villas in Western Sicily: Our Top Picks
Family Friendly Villas
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Villas With Pools
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Villas Near the Beach
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Why visit
There are many reasons to visit Western Sicily, as the region offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history and culture, and culinary delights. Here are a few reasons why Western Sicily is worth a visit.
This region is home to stunning coastlines, rugged mountains, rolling hills, and beautiful countryside dotted with olive groves and vineyards. Western Sicily also has a rich cultural heritage, with ancient Greek and Roman ruins, medieval castles and cathedrals, and vibrant cities like Palermo and Trapani.
Western Sicily offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, snorkelling, and beachcombing. What’s more, the smaller towns and villages offer a glimpse into the local culture and traditions, with charming markets and festivals. Look up the Sagra del Mandorlo in Fiore, a festival that takes place in the town of Agrigento in February and celebrates the blooming of the almond trees with music, dance, and food; or check out Festa di San Vito in late June which honours the town's patron saint with a parade, fireworks, and other festivities.
Frescoed vault in the Martorana
Food and Drink
The food and drink of Western Sicily are a true highlight of the region. Sicilian cuisine is a fusion of flavours from the Mediterranean and the Middle East, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Seafood is abundant and often prepared with simple yet delicious ingredients, such as olive oil, garlic, and the quintessential Sicilian lemon. Pasta is also a staple, with classic dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines). Western Sicily is also known for its delicious street food, such as arancini (fried rice balls filled with meat or cheese) and panelle (chickpea fritters). Stop in at the Vucciria Market in Palermo, a souk-like warren of market stalls where you can sample fine local produce and revel in the scents and hive of activity.
Wine lovers will appreciate the local wines, particularly those produced in the region around Marsala, famous for its sweet dessert wines. A wine tasting and tour while you're in the area is a must! In addition to wine, Western Sicily has a thriving artisanal beer scene, with several microbreweries producing a variety of unique brews.
Overall, the food and drink of Western Sicily are not to be missed, offering a rich tapestry of flavours and traditions that reflect the region's unique cultural heritage.
What Oliver loves
The highlight of Westerns Sicily has the be the local cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood, locally grown and diverse produce, and unique flavours that reflect the region's cultural influences.
Why it’s perfect for families:
Great for babies: There are plenty of beaches with calm waters, such as San Vito Lo Capo or Scopello, where your baby can play in the sand or paddle in the shallow water.
- Great for kids: The Aquarium of Western Sicily in Porto Empedocle is a popular attraction for families with young children. It features a variety of marine life and interactive exhibits that are sure to captivate your kids’ attention.
- Great for teens: A boat tour is a fun way to explore the coast and see some of the local wildlife. Look for tours that take you to places like the Egadi Islands or the Riserva dello Zingaro.
Best beaches in Western Sicily
This side of the island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, with crystal-clear waters and soft, sandy shores. A must-visit beach is the Zingaro Nature Reserve, which is known for its unspoiled coastline and clear water. In Trapani, the beach of Scopello is a hidden gem, surrounded by a stunning rocky coastline and small coves perfect for snorkelling. Further south, the beach of Selinunte offers stunning views of the nearby ancient Greek temples. Finally, the beach of Eraclea Minoa, located near the town of Agrigento with a wild and unspoiled coastline surrounded by lush greenery.
Top Tips
- Explore the smaller towns and villages to experience the local culture and cuisine.
- Rent a car to have the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.
- Visit the beaches in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the stunning scenery.
San Vito Lo Capo
This stunning beach in the northwestern part of Sicily is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. It's a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Castellammare del Golfo
Nestled along the stunning Gulf of Castellammare, this charming coastal town offers a picturesque setting for beach lovers and sun seekers. The beach is great for kids to enjoy and boasts soft golden sands, turquoise waters, and a backdrop of lush Mediterranean vegetation.
Spiaggia dei Conigli
This beach on the island of Lampedusa has been named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It's a protected area with white sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Towns and villages
The wild scenery of the western side of the island is a big draw but make sure to carve out time to see its cities too. The island’s capital of Palermo is here as well as other stunning settlements steeped in history. You won't want to miss a little urban exploration on your Sicilian adventure.
Oliver’s Hidden Gem
The town of Erice, perched high on a mountain and overlooking the coast, offers stunning views and a charming medieval atmosphere. The town is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and an impressive fortress. Take a stroll through the picturesque alleyways, and visit the famous Chiesa Matrice, a 14th-century church that houses a beautiful statue of the Madonna.
Palermo
The dazzling capital city of Sicily is a mesmerizing destination that offers a unique blend of ancient history, modern charm, and vibrant culture. Located on the northwestern coast of the island, Palermo is a melting pot of different civilizations that have left their mark over the centuries, from the Phoenicians to the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish.
Marsala
Marsala is a charming coastal town on the westernmost tip of Sicily. It's a somewhat hidden gem that is not to be missed. Famous for its sweet wine and stunning sunsets, this little city is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the beauty of Sicilian culture. With its picturesque streets, quaint shops, and historic landmarks, Marsala offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. The town is also an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves.
Cefalù
This town is famous for its sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and picturesque streets lined with colourful houses and ancient churches. The most prominent landmark of the town is the stunning Cathedral of Cefalù, a Norman masterpiece that dominates the skyline. Visitors can explore the narrow alleys of the medieval quarter, relax on the beach, or sample the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood and traditional Sicilian dishes.
