Which is better sicily or sardinia

Rome2Rio will identify the segments for which the train is an option. Where there's no train service, you can follow Rome2Rio's links to the appropriate bus companies for schedule information. If at all possible, scrounge an extra day or two for Sicily and establish 3 or 4 bases. It's a fabulous island, and you will be very glad to have the extra time there. Since you mentioned churches: Palermo has a wealth and great variety of churches and oratorios.

Visiting days and hours vary, so you can pretty easily make full use of your time in Palermo, no matter what days you are there. Seeing working churches on Saturday can be a bit of a challenge, however, because they are often occupied with weddings. You'll also enjoy the local markets, and Palermo is a good base for a side-trip to Cefalu along the coast to the east.

Monreale a must is so close that I'd hardly call it a day-trip. Agrigento over two hours would be pushing it, even with a car. I'd make my second base in Siracusa, whose historic Ortygia district was my favorite stop in Sicily. It's a good base for day-trips to Ragusa, Noto, Modica and Scicli. Taormina's about 2 hours by train but less than 90 minutes by car. Also possible by car would be the interior city of Piazza Armerina with the nearby Villa Romana del Casale great mosaics.

Getting to Sicily by train will be a slog. A bus might be a bit faster if you depart from Matera but still would mean a full day on the road.

I like the idea of flying. There are no direct flights from Bari, so it might work best to see the Adriatic destinations and Matera first, then the Amalfi area, then fly from Naples as previously suggested.

If you prefer Amalfi first, then the Adriatic and Matera, your flight options from Bari will require a change in Rome and will take over three hours. You can fly into Palermo or Catania. I agree that trying to see "Sicily" from one or two places means a LOT of driving, although you can of course see just sections from each base.

I also agree that flying to Sicily is much faster and easier than taking the train. If you start your trip on the southern mainland and work up to Sorrento, you can take the Curreri bus direct from Sorrento to Naples airport, then fly to either Catania or Palermo.

Catania is actually a bigger airport with more flight options. To see varied parts of Sicily, flying into Palermo and out of Catania, or vice versa, works well. As a result, both islands have an incredible array of ancient towns, and unique sights to see and visit.

The most famous embodiment of ancient classical Sicily is the Valley of the Temples. The breathtaking 12th century mosaics here mix Byzantine, Norman and Fatimid architectural style — a perfect blend of the tri-cultural island at the time.

For travelers looking for culture, a performance here is a must. Etna-dominated Catania also has a lively market worth visiting for a taste of 21st century Italy — La Pescheria fish market. For something more upmarket, find boutique shopping in the city at via Etnea. For arguably the most beautiful town in Sicily, get the ferry to the Island of Ortigia, which is the historical centre of Syracuse. Every road and alley here is steeped in history and is centuries old — it really feels like stepping back in time.

If you visit the Aegadian Islands then the small island of Levanzo is a must. This picture-perfect island is home to cave art. This National Geographic map of Sicily is also incredibly useful, highlighting numerous attractions and walks across the island. Perfect for a road trip. Archaeologically rich Sardinia contains the Nuraghe — Bronze Age structures in various places across the island, with the best-preserved found in Arzachena in the north near Olbia, as well as Barumini in the south near Cagliari.

The city is watched over by the spectacular Mount Etna, an active volcano with trails leading to the summit. Enjoy warm evenings in one of the many super cool outdoor bars, snacking on aperitivo and Aperol spritz whilst watching the world go by. Located on the Ionian Coast of Sicily, this charming city is known for its rich Greek history and ancient ruins. This includes a historic Greek theatre where plays are still performed and an extensive archaeological park. Syracuse is a pretty labyrinth of cobbled streets surrounded by Roman, Greek, Baroque and medieval buildings and impressive boulevards.

Look out for tasty arancini balls from small eateries and the world famous lemon granita! Located off the big main island of Sicily, these volcanic islands all have their own individual personality, however, they are all pricey to visit.

Almost all visitors to the Aeolians come by sea. Be sure to drive around and explore gorgeous tiny villages surrounding this massive volcano. There are a number of reliable ferry and hydrofoil options that run from Milazzo to the Aeolian Islands. Sardinia, a perfect paradise, positioned in heart of the Mediterranean. Travel to: Sardinia. I especially loved renting a small boat and cruising around the Golfo di Orosei. The color of the water was truly incredible and these small beaches were way less crowded even during the high season than Spiaggia della Pelosa for example.

If shopping is your thing, enjoy the many stores located in leafy tree-lined boulevards and chic arcades. Fans of Romanesque design will find a lot more to enjoy in Sardinia, and the famous Bronze Age structures are also a highlight if you have an interest in very early human history. Sardinia has a similarly distinct cuisine that again has been influenced by the Mediterranean climate enjoyed by the island, its history of inhabitants and its proximity to other countries like France and Tunisia.

As a past agricultural haven, the ingredients produced on the island are exceptional and many dishes focus on local produce like fish, cheese, fruit and bread.

The seafood along the coast is excellent, and the wine produced in the region is also renowned. Both Sicily and Sardinia offer a refreshing alternative to classic Italian cuisine if you visit either island, along with being excellent places for local wine.

Neither location is a stand-out shopping destination, but both have their hidden gems and well-stocked shopping malls. Some areas are more exclusive and expensive than others, but there are plenty of coastal and central locations that have dining, activities and accommodation options suitable for all budgets. When it comes down to cost, Sicily is a brilliant holiday destination if you are looking to try and save money when you are visiting Italy.

If you want a wider variety of budget-friendly things to do and places to stay, Sicily has the better choice out of the two islands. Sicily is a brilliant destination choice if you like your vacation locations to offer a really wide variety of different things to see and do.

Rem is the owner of Italy4Real and the original Italy enthusiast! Coronavirus Italy Updates. Licensed as a Seller of Travel and Tour Operators. USA Registration No. Things to Do. Best For…. Rem Malloy.