Exploring Palermo and Ragusa on Sicily

As the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, it is no wonder Sicily has such a rich history – and it's ripe to explore when you visit this charming island. When booking villas to rent in Sicily, it's easy to place yourself right in the thick of the culture and natural beauty of the island.

Villas to rent in Sicily range from very modern homes in the heart of the capital, to rustic and rural retreats out in the countryside, where your only neighbours are the olive trees and vineyards. Or, you can go somewhere in between and choose to stay in one of the quaint villages dotted around the coast and inland of the island. With any of these options, it's certainly advisable to hire a car to enable you to get around with ease, but the ability to travel around the island while having a base to return to is completely worth it. While you are on this stunning Italian island, why not visit the city of Palermo and then head out to explore the town of Ragusa, for a great contrast.

Palermo

Located on the northwestern edge of the island, around Palermo is the perfect place to find villas to rent in Sicily. The city itself was founded in 734 BC by the Phoenicians, and ever since has been a stronghold of the Mediterranean that was fought over again and again. While you are in Palermo you will discover that there are no shortages of churches. You should definitely take time to pop in and see the Palermo Cathedral, which is so architecturally interesting due to the array of styles built into it over the centuries since it was begun in 1185. From there, visit the red domes of St John of the Hermits before shifting gears and heading to the Palazzo dei Normanni. This palazzo was the seat of the kings of Sicily and has been standing in some form since the 9th century. It is often considered one of the most beautiful palaces in Italy and should not be missed.

Ragusa

If you are looking for villas to rent in Sicily on the southern side of the island, consider narrowing the search near the town of Ragusa, which is just about on the opposite end from Palermo. As you arrive into Ragusa, you can't help but notice the high profile historical aspects of the town. With over 2,000 years of history under its belt, it is no wonder that along with seven other cities in the area it has been labelled as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The main part of the town has two distinct areas: the Ragusa Superiore and the Ragusa Ilba. In the Ragusa Superiore you will find the Cathedral of St John the Baptist and the archaeological museum. In the lower, older part of town, the Ragusa Ilba, you will see a contrast in the streets and Baroque architecture. Be sure to visit the Cathedral of Saint George and the excellently named, "church of the souls of purgatory", before calling it a day.

Looking for your perfect home away from home in Italy? Mark Slaviero is a Director of Holiday Homes in Italy, a company specialising in finding the holiday home, villa or apartment of your dreams. For the ideal villas to rent in Sicily and accommodation in Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, the Italian Lakes, ski resorts and more, we offer the best in every region.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.