Sicily Photo Spots

As the largest Mediterranean island, Sicily is a magnet for travel photography, a place filled with beautiful beaches, majestic architecture, and uniquely Instagrammable sights. Regardless of which part of the island you explore, you’ll be met with a blend of influences spanning the Byzantine, Arab, ancient Greek, and even Norman cultures, and you’re never far away from the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea or the striking views of Mount Etna. What to see and do? Let us be your travel guide with this blog about the top 10 places to take photos in Sicily. 🇮🇹

We easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over three million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip forever. Today, we asked our local photographers to show us around all the very best places to take photos in Sicily. 📸

Camera in hands, Andiamo!

TLDR

1. Take in the views of Mount Etna and stroll the charming streets of the city centre in Taormina.
2. Marvel at the exuberant landscape of the Garden of Villa Comunale in Taormina.
3. Put a towel down by the translucent turquoise waters and admire mountain views from Mondello Beach, near Palermo.
4. Experience Sicily’s unique blend of influences in Palermo’s Old Town.
5. Enjoy a dolce far niente way of living while soaking in the peaceful scenery at La Cala, Palermo’s old port.
6. Delve into the old charm of Sicily with a stroll through the city streets and the gardens of Catania.
7. Step back in time by visiting the ruins of the ancient Greek Temple of Apollo in Syracuse.
8. Take a picture at every corner as you explore the historic alleyways of Ortigia in Syracuse.
9. Learn about the rich history of salt production and take in the views from the Museo del Sale in Trapani.
10. Fall in love with the finest examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture in Noto, also known as “La Perla del Barocco.”

Photo: Deborah in Taormina for Flytographer. Kasandra and partner celebrate a babymoon in Taormina with a babymoon photoshoot in the City Centre.

Taormina

1. City Centre

“So pretty it hurts,” said Ernest Hemingway about Taormina, and he was right. This small town on the east coast of the island of Sicily is perched atop a rocky hill, offering stunning vistas of the Isola Bella Marine Reserve and Europe’s highest active volcano, Mount Etna. 🌋 Its city centre feels like an open-air museum, adorned with splendid architecture that showcases a blend of Arab, Roman, Greek, and Norman influences.

Taormina’s Corso Umberto is one of the best places to take photos in Sicily, thanks to the beautiful San Giuseppe church and the medieval Clock Tower nearby. As you wander the cobblestone streets of the city centre, keep an eye out for remnants of the ancient city walls, and be sure to visit Piazza Duomo, where you can admire a Baroque-style fountain and the stone facade of the Duomo di Taormina. ⛪️ ⛲️

Photo: Deborah in Taormina for Flytographer. Rebecca and partner celebrate a honeymoon in Taormina with a honeymoon photoshoot in the City Centre.

2. Garden of Villa Comunale

Taormina is so beautiful that things can get a bit crowded during peak season. To escape the crowds, head to the Garden of Villa Comunale, a public garden that was formerly part of an English noblewoman’s estate. In this large and green oasis, you’ll find pathways adorned with magnolias, hibiscus, and bougainvilleas, as well as picturesque structures used for bird-watching, which give you excellent backdrops for photos. Throughout the garden, you’ll discover a wide variety of greenery, including tropical plants and cacti, as well as olive, pine, cypress, and palm trees. 🌴

As a bonus, the garden provides panoramic views of Taormina, the sea, and Mount Etna. With its great views, ample shade, and seating areas, there’s no better way to fully immerse yourself in the Mediterranean allure. 😌

Photo: Deborah in Taormina for Flytographer. Chirag and partner celebrate an anniversary in Taormina with an anniversary photoshoot in Villa Comunale.

Palermo

3. Mondello Beach

Located next to Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, Mondello Beach stands out as one of the island’s most stunning coastal destinations, making it a must-visit for those seeking to experience the region’s natural beauty. Mondello is a rare find in Sicily, boasting a sandy beach instead of pebbles. Here, you can get rid of your sandals and feel the soft sand beneath your feet as you stroll along the edge of translucent turquoise waters. Nestled between two majestic mountains, Monte Gallo and Monte Pellegrino, this beach offers amazing views in every direction. 🧭 👀

To further savour the scenery, take a stroll along Mondello’s charming promenade, adorned with lush trees and shrubs. For an extra dose of beauty, be sure to catch the sunset and prepare to be mesmerized by a spectacular display of colours casting a magical glow over the entire area. 🌅 This beach is by far, one of the best places to take photos in Sicily! 

Photo: Nino in Palermo for Flytographer. Matt and family capture memories in Palermo with a family photoshoot on Mondello Beach.

4. Old Town

Palermo has been a cultural melting pot throughout its history, and the Old Town is the best place to immerse yourself in the city’s rich blend of influences. Its charming streets showcase a fascinating array of architectural masterpieces, ranging from Baroque palazzos to magnificent Byzantine churches. At the heart of the Old Town lies Piazza Pretoria, home to the Church of St. Catherine and the Praetorian Palace. What captivates visitors, though, is the intricate fountain adorned with nude statues. 😆 Nearby, Palermo Cathedral is another striking backdrop for photos, and if you visit in the morning, you can climb to its roof and enjoy panoramic views of Palermo.

Other must-see sites include the stunning Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele and The Norman Palace. The latter boasts a majestic exterior and lavish rooms adorned with paintings, ornate decorations, and mosaics. You can also explore Palermo’s Arabic heritage by wandering through its bustling markets. Brimming with energy, the markets remind us of the vibrant souks. 👌

Photo: Nino in Palermo for Flytographer. Kimberly and family capture memories in Palermo with a family photoshoot in Old Town.

5. La Cala

La Cala, Palermo’s old harbour, forms a tranquil U-shaped bay that allows you to experience the slower pace of Palermo. As you stroll along the harbour, take in the captivating sight of commercial ships arriving and leaving, alongside many fishing and sailboats peacefully moored in the marina — a truly Instagram-worthy backdrop for photos. ⛵ While walking, you’ll also encounter sailors repairing their boats or preparing to set sail and fishermen casting their lines.

What about finding a cozy bar to enjoy a snack while awaiting the sunset? The golden hour is one of the best times to visit La Cala and a great excuse to practice the dolce far niente way of life. 😁

Photo: Nino in Palermo for Flytographer. Gina and partner celebrate an engagement in Palermo with an engagement trip photoshoot in La Cala.

Catania

6. City Streets & Gardens

At the foot of Mount Etna, the ancient port city of Catania exudes quintessential Sicilian charm. In Catania’s historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Via Etna, and Via Crociferi are wonderful streets for capturing grand Baroque-style churches and palazzos. You can wander through the city’s lanes until you discover the magnificent Piazza del Duomo and the bustling fish market nearby — a truly authentic place to take photos in Sicily. Interesting tidbit: some of Catania’s ancient roads and buildings were constructed with black lava stone, giving the city a unique appearance. 😮

Catania also boasts many gardens, with Bellini Garden being the most famous. Adorned with beautiful trees, plants, flowers, sculptures, and many green spaces perfect for picnics, it serves as an oasis of tranquillity and an ideal backdrop for stunning photographs. 😉

Photo: Deborah in Catania for Flytographer. Chloe and partner capture memories in Catania with a couples photoshoot in the Gardens of Catania.

Syracuse

7. Temple of Apollo

The Ionian coast of Sicily, Syracuse, or Siracusa stands out as one of the island’s prime destinations to immerse yourself in rich history. Amid the city’s Baroque squares and medieval streets, the ruins of the ancient Greek Temple of Apollo hold immense historical significance and provide a solemn backdrop for captivating places to take photos in Sicily. Despite being in ruins, the site’s beauty lies in the preservation of various elements from different historical periods and cultures, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Norman, making it a fantastic window into Syracuse‘s glorious past. ✨

Take your time to admire every angle of this historical gem and allow yourself to be transported into the past. The visual impact of the ruins is heightened by their scenic location overlooking the sea. Get ready to capture some fantastic shots! 🤳

Photo: Giuseppe & Giuseppe in Syracuse for Flytographer. Tracy captures memories in Syracuse with a new chapter photoshoot near the Temple of Apollo.

8. Alleys of Ortigia

Syracuse’s most captivating district is undoubtedly its historic centre, known as the Island of Ortigia. Besides housing the Temple of Apollo, Ortigia’s winding streets and picturesque alleys form a charming maze where you can lose yourself while discovering beautiful hidden gems such as churches, palazzos, and elegant piazzas. It’s a common sight to see Italian “nonnas” hanging laundry or tending to the plants that adorn their Juliet-like balconies — a quintessential southern Italian scene. 👚👖 And, since the old quarter is surrounded by the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, you’re always just a step away from dazzling sea views.

For more Sicilian wonder, be sure to visit Ortigia Market, where you’ll be greeted by a profusion of sights and the vibrant passion of vendors as they announce their daily specials. You’ll spot shelves displaying mouthwatering cheeses and jars of tempting pesto. 🧀 You might even get the chance to join the locals in savouring oysters fresh from the sea. 😋

Photo: Giuseppe & Giuseppe in Syracuse for Flytographer. Lauren and friends capture memories in Syracuse with a headshot photoshoot in Ortigia.

Trapani

9. Museo del Sale

Speaking of hidden gems, in the charming city of Trapani in western Sicily, this small museum is housed in a 17th-century mill, and it offers visitors a unique blend of history and picturesque settings. During a brief tour, you’ll gain insight into the traditional salt-making process that has been practiced in the city for centuries. 🧂 Since the museum is surrounded by salt concentration ponds, you can also observe people shovelling salt into piles, creating a captivating scene. Climbing to the roof will reveal panoramic views of not only the salt pools but also the bay of Trapani. 👍

While in Trapani, taking a ferry to visit Levanzo, the smallest of the Aegadian Islands west of Sicily, is a fantastic idea. This is another Mediterranean paradise of abundant beauty, featuring a charming and tranquil town with white and blue houses. What more could you ask for? 🤷

Photo: Nino in Trapani for Flytographer. Samantha and family capture memories in Trapani with a family photoshoot at the Museo del Sale.

Noto

10. La Perla del Barocco

Just a short drive from Syracuse, Noto makes for a perfect day trip for those seeking more Sicilian Baroque splendour. Known as “La Perla del Barocco,” or The Pearl of Baroque, Noto boasts a magnificent collection of the finest examples of 18th-century Baroque architecture. From Noto Cathedral to Palazzo Ducezio and Palazzo Nicolaci, the abundance of beauty and intricate details is a visual feast. 😍

Here’s an extra tip: if you visit the historic district during the golden hour, you’re in for a spectacle. When the sunshine casts a warm glow over the facades, it enhances all the magic and dramatic grandeur that surrounds you, making for one of the best places to take photos in Sicily. 🙌

Capturing Memories in Sicily

By now, you’ve probably noticed that Sicily is a treasure trove of everything wonderful.

More incredible destinations on the island include Cefalù, Ragusa, Monreale, and Agrigento. Agrigento is famous for the legendary Valley of the Temples, an archaeological site showcasing some of the most impressive ancient Greek architecture in Sicily. A short drive from the city is the fabulous Scala dei Turchi, a white rock cliff surrounded by vibrant turquoise waters. 🤩

For more insights on things to do in Southern Italy, check this awesome Fly guide, which also provides tips for other incredible destinations, such as Rome and Bari.

Too many options? Don’t worry. Wherever you go in Sicily, you won’t be disappointed by the spectacle of its sights, sounds, flavours, and history. To make your Sicilian bonanza even better, connect with our local photographers and let them work their magic, capturing your most memorable moments.💙

What more is there to say? Viva l’Italia!