When choosing your next holiday destination, you have to be as discerning as possible. For people who aren’t native to Italy, it can be difficult to compare all the differences between their beautiful islands. Some of the most popular islands within this region are Sicily and Sardinia.
Both are known for their spectacular beaches, as well as the amazing architecture found in the capitol. But, what unique features do both islands possess that separate them from one another? What are some of the different foods, attractions, and wines offered by these two islands?
If you want to find out more about these spectacular locations, and the things they both have to offer, simply keep reading, as we’ve compiled the ultimate guide below.
Sicily
First, let’s get started with Sicily. Sicily is known as the largest island on the Mediterranean sea, so when you visit, you can expect plenty of things to do and see.
It’s unique for having a number of different distinguishing features, including active volcanoes at its edges, as well as temples fashioned in a Greek style.
So, what are some of the very best features of this particular island? To find out, simply keep reading below.
1. The Beaches
First, let’s take a close look at some of the beautiful beaches the island has to offer. Surrounded by the Mediterranean sea, you can expect to witness some of the most amazing views imaginable when you come here.
Their sea is known for being incredibly warm and clean, and you’ll find lots of gorgeous little pebbles by your feet when you take a walk.
We’d recommend visiting Isola Bella when you come here, as it has some gorgeous restaurants lined up on the beach, where you can dine whilst taking in the breathtaking views.
If you want to feel a sense of adventure, there are several cable cars in operation that can take you to Mazzaro, which is located on a hilltop.
2. Food
When it comes to food, Sicily really knows what they’re doing. Italian people in general are renowned for their spectacular culinary skills, but Sicily has some recipes that are unique to the island.
Some of the most popular dishes that you might find being served here include pasta con le sarde, which is a deliciously fresh dish containing raisins, pine nuts, and fennel.
In addition, they also have a wonderful ricotta cheese salad that truly tastes like no other, and delicious fried rice balls called arancini.
When it comes to dessert, you’ve probably heard of their most famous one, and even tried it yourself – cannelloni. But, we promise you that you haven’t lived until you’ve tried fresh cannellonis directly from the Island they were invented.
3. Architecture
If you’re looking to do a bit of exploring whilst you’re on the island, you won’t be strapped for things to see, as it’s absolutely brimming with culture.
It’s actually known for being one of the main preservers when it comes to Greek and Roman architecture, so you’ll be able to take a historical deep dive into the past.
We’d recommend visiting the ancient Roman theater called the Teatro Greco, which today houses film festivals, concerts, and cinema screenings.
The Regional Archeological Museum is also a great option if you’re looking for some more history, as it houses some of the oldest Roman artifacts in the world.
In addition to this, you have to visit some of the Cathedrals offered by the island, which are truly incredible. In particular, the Cathedral Of Monreale, which displays beautiful Normal architecture is more than worth visiting.
4. Wine
This is a key reason why people love to visit Italy in general, as their wine is regarded to be one of the best in the entire world. The wine making in this region actually dates back to Grecian times, so you know that they have some good practice!
Their wines are known primarily for being full bodied, robust, and with very complex notes that will leave your taste buds tingling.
In addition to this, they’re also known for being highly adept at producing some amazing dry white wines too.
Sardinia
Now that we’ve taken a closer look at some of the amazing things that Sicily has to offer, we can move on to discuss the beauty that is Sardinia.
Sardinia is a large Mediterranean island, which is known for having lots of spectacular hiking trails, as well as glorious sandy beaches designed for relaxation.
It’s most well known for having amazing ruins that date back to the Bronze Age, and you can visit these while you’re here to experience the island’s amazing history.
Now, let’s just jump straight in and take a look at some of the amazing things that Sardinia has to offer.
1. The Beaches
If you’re into the ultimate relaxation experience, then we’d recommend that you come and visit Sardinia. It’s known for having some of the whitest sands in existence, as well as possessing the most spectacular turquoise colored sea.
If it’s relaxation you’re after, then we’d recommend that you visit Cagliari, which is truly breathtaking.
However, if you’re looking for a sense of adventure, there are some rocky beaches that you can visit too via a hiking trail. These are located on the Orosei Gulf, and are well worth the walk for the spectacular views you’re met with.
Sardinia also offers some of the very best boat tours around, so if you have some extra cash in your pocket, we’d recommend investing it in one of these. We promise it will be the most spectacular boat trip you’ve had in your life.
2. Food
When it comes to Sardinian food, they really have some of the most unusual and interesting dishes around. One of the very best is a pizza-like dish that’s called a pizzetta sfoglia. This is essentially a rounded flaky pastry that’s been filled with marinara sauce and mozzarella. The buttery crust is truly to die for.
In additon to this, Sardinia is also known for their incredible grilled meats, so if you’re trying to ditch the carbs, then don’t worry, there are plenty of tasty dishes to eat. In particular, their lamb and pork is known to be spectacular.
When it comes to dessert items, we’d recommend that you try their potato based desserts, which are super sweet and tasty. In addition, Sardinia is also known for a delicious cheese based dessert, that’s coated in a honey sauce.
3. Architecture
When it comes to architecture, there is truly plenty to see in Sardinia. If you go into the capitol, you’ll be met with a whole host of different cathedrals which are adorned with magnificent artwork.
In addition to this, Sardinia is also known for having lots of amazing castles. That’s right, you can feel just like a princess when you step into their castle Doria, which has now been transformed into a museum.
There are also lots of castles in the region that boast towers, which if you’re brave enough, you can climb up to see the spectacular views.
If you’re very much into history, then you simply have to visit the town of Nora. Nora contains some of the most incredible Roman sites you’ll ever see in your life. You can witness first hand the incredible mosaic floors, bath houses, and amphitheaters first hand.
In addition to this, there’s actually a historical trail that you can take, that leads you to traverse underwater roads with a snorkel on. Underneath the sea, you’ll find all sorts of hidden Roman ruins that are sure to pique your interest.
4. Wine
When it comes to the wine of Sardinia, you have to choose some of their gorgeous reds. Their red wines are known for being incredibly robust, and pair excellently with their many tomato based pasta dishes.
They’re known for producing their wine from an unusual variety of grape, which is called the Garnacha. This grape is particularly large, and has a very thick skin. If you try their wine, you’ll notice that the acidity levels are incredibly low, and that they have very spicy, herb -like aromas present.
We should also mention that there are lots of wineries to visit in sardinia. You can either undertake these by yourself or with a guide.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, both Sicily and Sardinia have their merits, and will prove to be spectacular holiday destinations. Whichever one you choose, it’s totally up to you. Either way, you’ll find yourself surrounded by glorious food, gorgeous beaches, and amazing architecture.
