Turin's Museo Egizio is the world's oldest museum devoted to Egyptology, and it holds some of the most important archeological pieces that can be seen outside of Cairo. See the website for temporary exhibitions and special events.

Turin's pioneering food scene is a haven for vegans and veggies. You can find plant-based versions of traditional Italian cuisine, including dishes typical of the Piedmont region, and even gelato made from rice milk – a nice change from a sorbetto every now and then.

Stroll through the delightful Parco del Valentino on the west bank of the River Po. Be sure to visit the palace, a stunning 17th-century French building which now houses the university's architecture faculty.

As one of the oldest and largest archaeological museums in the world, here you can see a vast array of Roman and Greek artefacts. Admire the intricate mosaics, frescoes and marble statues from the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Wander through the cool, narrow streets of the Centro Storico and pop into historic churches and galleries along the way.

Visit Piazza del Duomo, Messina's most beautiful and culturally significant square. Here you'll find Messina's cathedral and campanile (bell tower), which features one of the world's largest astronomical clocks.

Uncover Messina's history and culture at the Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare, which showcases local historical artefacts in an eclectic, chronological display from the Middle Ages through to the 19th century.

Lady Florence Trevelyan was a Scottish noblewoman who fled home following an affair with Edward VII, at that time was heir to the British throne. She arrived in Taormina in 1884 and created this beautiful garden, which provides tranquil respite from the bustling town.

Head to the beach to stretch out on the sand or to jump into the sea for a refreshing dip. Giardini Naxos beach, just south of Taormina, has a long strip of soft sand, and the chic bars and restaurants come alive in the evening.

Take a trip up Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, that has dominated Sicily’s landscape and history for 500,000 years. Walk up the unique, dark coloured mountain path to get closer to the bubbling crater. Look out for sparks of lava and billows of smoke as you get closer.

Take a trip on the Ferrovia Circumetnea, the old narrow-gauge railway that circles the foot of Mount Etna. Settle in for breathtaking views of Europe’s most active volcano from all angles (there's usually a short stop at Randazzo for sightseeing).

Explore the cool tunnels and passageways at Catania’s amphitheatre. Built in the 1st century AD, the enormous structure is said to have held 15,000 people.

Visit Castello di Lombardia, one of the largest medieval castles in Italy which was built on top of Byzantine, Arabic and Norman fortifications.

Explore a more genuine unpolished side of Sicily in the medieval town of Calascibetta, which is a name that was derived from the Arab word for "the castle on top of the mountain" (the town sits prettily on a plateau).

Take the number 5 local bus to Pergusa to visit the peaceful lake, the only natural lake in Sicily. It’s an important stop for many migratory birds on their way from Europe to Africa - look out for the rare species as well as porcupines, weasels and marsh turtles.