Sicily's White Lotus locations: Day trip from Palermo

Founded by the ancient Greeks, Cefalu was originally an agricultural settlement. In the 12th century, King Roger II of Sicily shaped the town as it stands today, having it moved to the shore to take advantage of the excellent harbour, and had the Byzantine-style cathedral built. Today, the cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the town’s unique Byzantine, Arabic, and Christian heritage be combining all three styles in its beautiful mosaics and elegant architecture. After admiring the cathedral, visitors can work their way down through the medieval alleys to the picturesque harbour. En route are several historic landmarks, such as a 16th century bath house, and part of a huge 13th-century palace. In the Museo Mandralisca, a relatively small collection showcases the town’s rich history through artefacts like a 4th century BC vase decorated with a fishmonger chopping a tuna.

Established by Greek colonists in the 8th century BC, Taormina was their first colony on the island. While it remained an important settlements from ancient times through the Middle Ages, it lost relevance until Johann Wolfgang Goethe described it in his 1816 travelogue, and transformed it into a destination for 19th century creatives and intellectuals like Oscar Wilde, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Richard Wagner. Today, visitors will find reminders of the town’s rich history, from the Ancient Theatre and the many artefacts preserved in the Antiquarium, to Lady Florence Trevelyan’s hill-top gardens and exoticist buildings. Scattered through the town are charming squares, each crowned by their own monumental landmark, ranging from medieval churches, to the Gothic and Moorish Palazzo Corvaia. And with its splendid panoramic views, be sure to take some time to appreciate Sicily’s stunning beauty - preferably while enjoying some of its excellent cuisine.