From the ravishing views, to the captivating historic towns to the divine cuisine, Sicily has it all and then some. While Taormina and Catania seem to always top visitors’ must-see list, the Sicilian “Wild West” offers a beautifully authentic experience, minus the crowds. Heavily influenced by the Arabs and the Carthaginians, both of which have had their turn in ruling over this part of the island, the result is a colourful medley of architecture and traditions.

Palermo

“There’s something magnetic about Palermo. I don’t know if it’s the air, the people, the history or a combination of these,” says Peppe Nicotera, who lived in the city for 35 years and has returned every summer since moving away. “Until this day, I stumble upon something new with every visit. An alley, a church, a market – there’s always something to discover.”