Planning a trip to Sicily in September is a brilliant choice for travellers seeking the perfect balance of glorious weather and manageable crowds. This Mediterranean gem offers a wealth of experiences, from stunning beaches to ancient historical sites, all while enjoying the island's renowned hospitality. Let's explore what makes Sicily such a fantastic destination during this golden month, with a special focus on the exquisite Marsala wine traditions that have put Western Sicily on the global map.

Perfect Weather and Fewer Tourists in September Sicily

Balmy Temperatures for Beach Days and Mediterranean Dips

September in Sicily is absolutely cracking! The summer heat softens to a more comfortable warmth, with temperatures remaining pleasantly hot – perfect for beach lounging and swimming in the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters. The Divino Hotel, situated in Trapani at Strada Marsala 271, makes an excellent base for enjoying these ideal conditions, offering access to some of the island's most beautiful coastlines.

Enjoying sicily's attractions without the summer crowds

One of the greatest advantages of a September visit is the noticeable decrease in tourist numbers. The summer holiday-makers have largely departed, leaving the island's treasures more accessible and enjoyable. This timing allows for a more authentic experience of Sicilian life, with shorter queues at attractions and a better chance of mingling with locals rather than fellow tourists.

Must-visit cities and historical sites

Exploring Palermo's Bustling Streets and Piazza del Duomo

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a must-see on any itinerary. The city buzzes with energy, from its colourful markets to its magnificent architecture. The Piazza del Duomo stands as a testament to the city's rich history, surrounded by buildings that showcase the island's diverse cultural influences. Wandering through the streets, visitors will discover hidden gems at every turn, from ornate churches to charming cafés serving local delicacies.

Ancient wonders at syracuse's neapolis archaeological park

Syracuse deserves significant attention on any Sicilian tour. The Neapolis Archaeological Park houses some of the most impressive ancient Greek and Roman ruins on the island. As you potter about this historical treasure trove, you'll encounter the well-preserved Greek Theatre, the mysterious Ear of Dionysius, and numerous other archaeological wonders that tell the story of Sicily's fascinating past.

Natural marvels and unesco heritage

Mount etna and catania: volcanic adventures

Catania, nestled at the foot of Mount Etna, offers a unique opportunity to explore Europe's most active volcano. This towering natural wonder provides a proper gander for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Guided tours allow visitors to ascend the slopes of this magnificent volcano, offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience of Sicily's dramatic landscapes.

Agrigento's Valley of the Temples and the Stunning Scala dei Turchi

The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento stands as one of Sicily's most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites. This archaeological park features exceptionally preserved Greek temples that date back to the 5th century BC. Not far from Agrigento, the Scala dei Turchi presents a striking natural formation – a brilliant white marl cliff that stair-steps into the azure sea, creating one of Sicily's most photographed landscapes.

Making the Most of Your Sicilian Holiday

Island Hopping to the Gorgeous Aeolian Islands

For those seeking to expand their Sicilian adventure, the Aeolian Islands offer an enticing detour. Similarly, the Divino Hotel's tour package includes visits to Favignana and Levanzo islands, showcasing the stunning archipelagos surrounding Sicily. September provides ideal conditions for island hopping, with comfortable ferry journeys and pleasant conditions for exploring these volcanic isles with their distinct characters and attractions.

September road trip: the ideal way to discover sicily

A road trip around Sicily in September represents perhaps the most rewarding way to experience the island. The Sicilytotaste.MarsalainWestSicily tour package offered by Divino Hotel provides an excellent structured experience for €595.00 per person during this month. This 7-night journey encompasses visits to notable wineries like Florio Cellars – the first Italian Marsala producer established in 1832 – and Nino Barraco winery, alongside cultural experiences at the Salt Pans from Nubia and the historical town of Erice perched high above Trapani. The tour showcases the rich traditions of Marsala wine, which received Italy's first DOC status in 1969, recognizing its significance as one of the world's finest dessert wines. This fortified wine, which began mass production in 1773 thanks to English trader John Woodhouse, comes in various categories based on colour – Oro, Ambra, or Rubino – and sweetness levels. Beyond simply tasting this exquisite wine, visitors learn about its crucial role in Italian cooking and its perfect pairing with traditional Sicilian desserts. The comprehensive itinerary balances culinary delights with cultural exploration, making it an ideal introduction to Western Sicily's treasures.

Marsala's wine heritage: a culinary journey

Sicily's western gem, Marsala, holds a rich viticultural legacy that draws wine enthusiasts from across the globe. This splendid region, situated in the province of Trapani, boasts a remarkable tradition of fortified wine production that dates back centuries. The captivating story of Marsala wine began in 1773 when English trader John Woodhouse recognised the potential of these special local wines and initiated mass production, forever changing the region's destiny.

September offers a brilliant opportunity to explore Marsala's wine heritage while enjoying Sicily's pleasant autumn climate. The Divino Hotel, located at Strada Marsala 271 in Trapani, presents the perfect base for wine lovers with their specialised 'Sicilytotaste.MarsalainWestSicily' tour package. This 7-night experience immerses guests in the authentic flavours and traditions of western Sicily, with pricing at €595.00 per person during the September period.

The florio cellars and marsala's doc status

A visit to the historic Florio Cellars stands as a highlight of any Marsala wine journey. Established in 1832, Cantina Florio marked a significant milestone as the first Italian Marsala producer, setting standards for quality and craftsmanship that continue today. The cellars offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional production methods that have been preserved through generations.

Marsala's exceptional quality received official recognition in 1969 when it became the first Italian wine to achieve DOC status (Protected Designation of Origin). This prestigious classification guarantees authenticity and adherence to strict production standards. Marsala wines are meticulously categorised by colour (Oro, Ambra, or Rubino), sugar content (sweet, semi-dry, or dry), and production method (Fine, Superiore, Superiore Riserva, Vergine, and Vergine Riserva). Each classification offers unique characteristics that wine connoisseurs will delight in discovering.

Wine Tasting and Culinary Experiences at Divino Hotel

The Divino Hotel expertly crafts wine-focused experiences that showcase the best of Sicilian viticulture. Their comprehensive tour package includes visits to several distinguished wineries including Nino Barraco and Porta del Vento, where guests can sample exquisite Marsala varieties whilst learning about production techniques from passionate local experts.

Beyond wine tasting, the culinary journey extends to authentic food experiences that complement Marsala's rich flavours. Visitors will discover how this versatile fortified wine serves as both a sophisticated dessert wine and a key ingredient in traditional Italian cooking, enhancing dishes like veal Marsala and sweet Sicilian cannoli. The tour also includes a visit to the Cucchiara family dairy, offering insight into local cheese production that pairs brilliantly with the region's wines.

The complete experience encompasses more than just wine, with excursions to captivating destinations like the Salt Pans of Nubia, the charming town of Erice, the artistic Cretto di Burri, and the stunning islands of Favignana and Levanzo. For those seeking to truly understand Sicilian gastronomy and wine culture, the Divino Hotel's thoughtfully curated programme offers an unmatched immersion into Marsala's illustrious wine heritage.