I've Visited 18 of Italy's 20 Regions, and This One Is My Favorite

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is the author’s favorite of Italy’s 20 regions, with eight visits ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks. The piece highlights Sicily’s mix of big cities, small villages, vineyards, beaches, archaeological sites, and food, including the remote island of Pantelleria known for its passito dessert wine. It points visitors toward Palermo’s street food markets, coastal views from Taormina, baroque architecture in Val di Noto, tastings on Mount Etna, and ancient ruins in Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples. It also recommends exploring Ortigia, beach clubs in Menfi, and ceramics in Sciacca, while noting wine and culture across the island’s towns.