Known as the city of black and white, because of the lava rock used in many of its buildings, Catánia is an elegant place with an opera house, a beautiful cathedral, a castle and a 2nd Century Roman amphitheatre. For 21st century shopping and perhaps a coffee and sweet pastry, head to the Piazza del Duomo.

This medieval town has a wonderful piazza and a pretty fishing harbour. The restored 6th Century washhouse and 5th Century temple provide fascinating reminders of Cefalù’s past. There is also a fine beach flanked by stylish restaurants.

The capital of Sicily was one of the most important cities in the whole of Europe. Inhabited by Greeks, Romans, Arabs and Normans amongst others, it provides a wonderful glimpse of Sicilian life and culture. Aim for the Royal Palace, Palermo Cathedral, Vucciria street market and the 19th Century Palazzo Mirto. Children will love the puppets at Museo delle Marionettes.

If you want a pretty seaside resort that remains resolutely unspoiled, and without hordes of fellow tourists, head for San Vito lo Capo and enjoy its glorious valley setting and some of the finest restaurants on Sicily.

Gateway to the nearby Egadi islands, Trapani’s cultural treasures include the seventeenth century Giudecca Palace, the Romanesque-Gothic Church of Sant'Agostino and the Pepoli Museum’s huge range of medieval artefacts.