Sicily and Sardinia

The two largest and most appealing islands in the Mediterranean have an incredible amount going for them. With Azure, your only difficult decision is which one to choose.

Sicily

South of mainland Italy, Sicily comprises a fabulous mix of scenic splendour and historical glory. Book one of our luxury holidays in Sicily to discover this enchanting island for yourself.

Sicily’s regional capital, Palermo, boasts a rich and fascinating heritage. Stroll through one of its lively street markets and try some of the delicious local food on offer. Visit the magnificent Palermo Cathedral with its medieval Royal Tombs and gaze out at the astounding vista from its roof. Marvel at the ornate architecture of the Palazzo dei Normanni, formerly the royal palace, with the 12th-Century Byzantine mosaics contained in its Palatine Chapel. Don’t miss the nearby Cattedrale di Monreale, with its impressive Norman architecture and intricate mosaics, or the fabulous Teatro Massimo - the second largest opera house in Europe.

Oozing culture, this island harbours a huge selection of stunning architecture and ancient sites that are guaranteed to take your breath away. In Agrigento, you’ll find the Valley of the Temples, encompassing the ruined city of Akragas and the amazingly preserved Temple of Concordia. In Syracuse, visit the pearly Teatro Greco in the Neapolis archaeological park and the wondrous Piazza del Duomo. Meanwhile, in the west you’ll find the ruins of Segesta, including the Doric temple and Greek theatre.

Mount Etna in the Catania province is the highest and most active volcano in Europe. Hike on its craters or take a cable car into the dizzying heights.

With 1,500km of coastline, Sicily has no shortage of beautiful beaches. These include the golden sands of Cefalu and white rock formations of Scala dei Turchi. Bird enthusiasts will love Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, close to the peaceful Marinella Bay, with over 40 species of bird life and a vast range of Mediterranean flora.

Sardinia

With its mountainous interior ringed by stunning beaches and turquoise ocean, it’s easy to see why discerning travellers opt for luxury holidays in Sardinia.

Like Sicily, Sardinia has a unique charm and is home to many historical sites. Visit Nuraxi su Barumini, one of numerous beehive-like structures called Nuraghi, found only on this island. Explore the Roman ruins of Tharros or Nora, the old mining village of Ingurtosu and the Santissima Trinità di Saccargia, with its fine Pisan architecture and 13th-Century frescoes. In the vibrant regional capital of Cagliari, climb the hill at Bastione San Remy for a wonderful view across the Gulf of Cagliari.

All equally stunning, the island’s beaches vary greatly from the glamorous Costa Smeralda in the northeast to the spectacular Le Pelosa in the west and Scoglio di Peppino in the southeast. Along the coast you can spot monk seals, turtles and even fin whales in the sparkling waters.

Hike the mountains and forests where diverse wildlife includes flamingos, golden eagles and unique species of deer and fox. Visit the remote villages in the Gennargentu Mountains and learn more about the island in the Museum of Sardinian Traditions in Nuoro.

Whichever island you choose, we’ll ensure your Mediterranean holiday is perfect in every way. Get in touch with us today to find out more about our tailor-made packages.