Perhaps not the obvious time to visit an island famed for sun-drenched beaches. But go ‘in-the-know’ and winter is when to discover how local life thrives.
This is also a time when craftsmanship is celebrated with the arts season in Palermo. Delightful yuletide food and festivities begin and the adventurous enjoy skiing on Mount Etna and wild walking on deserted beaches.
We’d recommend booking a countryside retreat and learning to cook like a Nonna. Or try living as a local in Ortigia. The island city is filled with chic shops, windy streets and classical ruins.
Tangy blood oranges and oxidant rich pomegranates start to ripen. Freshly juiced they keep immunity boosted throughout the winter months. Or, if you prefer something more indulgent, sip artisan hot chocolate, piled with whipped cream in Modica.
Meanwhile, opera season begins at Palermo’s Teatro Massimo. Festive markets pop-up and towns and villages are lit for Christmas. Round off the year with feasting and a taste of Sicily’s most glamorous social life.