Given the north of Italy and even Rome would be very cold in December, we decided to take a trip to Sicily. We flew into Palermo and took a car to drive about 2 hours through absolutely gorgeous countryside and mountains to Agrigento arriving in the evening. Early next day we visited the value of the temples, which was absolutely breathtaking yet almost completely empty. We saw not only the ruins but amazing countryside vistas.
In the afternoon we left to drive towards Catania. Our plan was to use Catania as a base for seeing the eastern coast of Sicily. In the way we took a quick detour to see Scala dei Turchi and the amazing limestone cliffs. We also visited the mountain top town of Enna, which has some incredible views over the surrounding Sicilian countryside.
Next day was spent at the seaside towns of Siracusa and Ortigia, with the beautiful architecture and delicious seafood.
The following day we went north from Catania to visit Taormina and the absolutely stunning Greek Amphitheater. The town is very quaint and beautiful even though the Greek Theatre is clearly the star attraction. You can see some amazing views of Mount Etna from Taormina. We also visited the town of Savoca (of Godfather fame) and had a cappuccino at the famous Bar Vitelli.
Last full day in Catania was spent in the town center including a guided tour of the Catania Monastery, which I highly recommend! Lastly we drove up Mt. Etna up to Etna Nord viewpoint for some epic last views of Etna!
The weather was absolutely gorgeous high 50s to mid 60s and sunny. Driving in the Sicilian countryside is splendid however, driving in Catania was an absolute nightmare. The water was too cold to swim, but being the offseason, nothing was crowded, all attractions are open. December would be a great time to visit Sicily!