Real Cost of Living in Sicily: What We Didn't Expect

A Week in Sicily That Wasn’t Planned But Meant Everything

This wasn’t a vacation or scripted, but a week in Sicily that reminded us why life here feels so vivid and full. From quiet towns and ocean views to new friends and unexpected moments, it was the kind of week that unfolds on its own, showing you what matters most when you let go of the schedule and just live.

In fact, a week in Sicily gave us a fresh look at everyday life here, the rhythms and surprises that make this place special beyond the usual tourist spots.

It’s these small, unscripted moments that reveal the true character of the island and why so many feel drawn to call it home.

A Zucchini Side Dish, a Jackhammer, and an Early Start

The week began with a broken pipe behind our cottage in Carini. Workers were coming, jackhammers in tow. Rather than stick around, we left early for a lunch invitation at Susan and Steven’s and turned it into a full-day outing.

Before we even got out of Carini, we found ourselves behind a vehicle with clothes hanging all around the outside—an image more memorable than anything in a boutique window. It was a perfect little reminder of the charming unpredictability you find everywhere here.

Morning in Capaci: Coffee, Fountains, and a Sorrel Horse

Our first real stop was Capaci. We grabbed an espresso and cappuccino at Calici é Caffé, lingered for a few minutes, and then set off to explore. The main square held a large fountain, a quiet church, and a tucked-away butcher shop.

We passed locals resting on benches and were suddenly overtaken by a group of cyclists racing by. An old stone fountain caught our eye, still working after centuries. Just as we were about to turn back, a man strolled by leading a sorrel horse. A few steps later, we saw carved stone lions under a building’s terrace—small details, but unforgettable.

Exploring Capaci was just one part of a week in Sicily, a place full of small details and unexpected encounters that make living here so rich. These moments may seem small, but they fill your heart and give texture to daily life.

Longo Bakery: Four Generations of Tradition

Then came a spontaneous stop. We hadn’t planned to go into Longo Bakery, but something about it pulled us in. The man behind the counter turned out to be Mr. Longo himself—a fourth-generation baker whose great-grandfather started the business.

Stopping at Longo Bakery was one highlight of a week in Sicily—where tradition, family stories, and incredible pastries blend into a perfect snapshot of local life.

He told us about the time he and his wife made a 400-kilo cassata and gave it away to the whole town. Every pastry in the glass cases looked like artwork: cannoli, ricotta-filled sweets, handmade candies, gelato, and miniature desserts too perfect to touch.

We thanked Mr. Longo for his warmth and headed toward the coast, carrying with us the sweet taste of history and hospitality.

Isola delle Femmine: Ocean Views and Another Cappuccino

Our next stop was Isola delle Femmine. We parked near the water—though not without a challenge since the EasyPark app wasn’t working. While Croce found a parking meter, I crossed the street to take in the sea views, framed by distant mountains. The gentle breeze carried the salty scent of the sea, making the moment feel peaceful and refreshing.

We popped into Gran Caffé for a break. I had another cappuccino, and this time I couldn’t resist filming the pastry case—with permission, of course. The selection was different from Longo Bakery but just as beautiful. Croce has a serious sweet tooth, so I was surprised when he didn’t get anything. The cozy atmosphere inside made it a perfect spot to rest and soak in the day before continuing our adventure.

The peaceful atmosphere at Isola delle Femmine really lets you soak in the slower, more relaxed pace of Sicilian life. Watching the gentle waves lap the shore while surrounded by the soft, salty scents of the sea and blooming plants is calming in a way that only this special place can offer.

It’s not just about the stunning views — it’s about feeling deeply connected to the natural rhythm here. Taking a moment to simply be present makes the entire experience even richer.

Whether you’re sipping your cappuccino or chatting with friendly locals, these quiet pauses are part of what makes a week in Sicily so unforgettable. They gently remind you to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the small joys that often go unnoticed in busier places. This is truly the essence of living here — moments filled with beauty, simplicity, and warmth.

The relaxed pace here truly captures the essence of a week in Sicily, where every moment invites you to pause and soak in the beauty around you.

A Scenic Detour in Trabia

We still had time before lunch, so we decided to explore Trabia—somewhere we’d never stopped before. As we drove along the highway, I asked Croce to pull over. The view took my breath away. It might have been the most beautiful sight I’ve seen in Sicily so far. The bay looked like a postcard, the light soft, and perfect.

We stopped again a little farther up the road just to take in the same scene from another angle. That clear June day, during a week in Sicily, is something I’ll remember forever. These quiet pauses during a week in Sicily allow you to soak in the peaceful rhythm of coastal life, making each moment linger a bit longer.

The scenic views in Trabia reminded us again why a week in Sicily is more than just time passing—it’s about soaking in moments you’ll carry with you. Watching the small boats bob gently on the water, I felt a deep sense of peace settle over me.

Lunch With Friends in the Hills

When we finally arrived at Susan and Steven’s villa, we were greeted with hugs, smiles, and warm hellos from Joe and Diana, who had just pulled in. The house felt alive with laughter, conversations, and the kind of easy togetherness that doesn’t need effort. It’s rare to find a place where everyone just slips into comfort so naturally, and this was one of those moments. The air was filled with the aroma of fresh herbs from the garden and the soft sounds of Sicilian music playing in the background.

We walked up to the rooftop veranda and took in panoramic views of the Sicilian mountains and the Tyrrhenian Sea. A soft haze made the light almost dreamlike, blurring the edges of the landscape just enough to make it feel like a painting. The mountains stood tall and silent while the sea sparkled below—a perfect setting for a day spent with good friends.

It’s in these simple, quiet moments during a week in Sicily that you begin to understand the deep connection between the land and its people.

Lunch was incredible. Homemade dishes, sweet desserts, and good conversation filled the afternoon. Seeing Bri and Nino again was a highlight, and we left with full bellies and even fuller hearts.

Stories With Giovanni and Vita

Midweek, we met our neighbor Giovanni and his friend Vita for dinner. Giovanni is 83 and full of stories—about painting houses in New York and Switzerland, and about never really stopping his love for Carini. His tales were peppered with laughter and nostalgia, a reminder that every person here carries a unique piece of Sicilian history within them.

He told us about his two homes: the one he lives in, and a country house where they spend three or four months a year. His voice carried more than nostalgia—it carried peace. The way he described the slower pace of life in the countryside made me want to slow down and soak in more of the moments we often rush past.

We shared a relaxed evening, one that made us reflect on how friendships and simple pleasures shape this season of our lives. The warm glow from the fireplace and the clinking of glasses set the perfect tone for heartfelt conversations.

Back to Carini, Then Off to Balestrate

On Friday afternoon we met up with Rosario and Giovanna. Both were born in Carini but raised their family in Philadelphia. Their grandkids now speak a mix of English and Italian. Being with them felt effortless like no time had passed. If you want to learn more about life in Carini, check out our Living in Carini: First Impressions & Price Shock post.

That same evening, we headed to Balestrate to visit Joe and Diana again. You may remember them from a past video—they bought and renovated a beautiful place there. We played cards, laughed, and walked through the streets of their town, catching up on the week and even practicing a little Italian.

Dinner at Terra Mia was perfect. Joe’s pizza looked amazing, and the whole meal hit the spot. Afterward, we strolled through the town square—alive with energy, families, kids on scooters, and outdoor cafés buzzing with conversation.

Live music filled the air. It was a night full of small joys, the kind that makes you pause and take it all in.

The Week That Grounded Us

We didn’t film any of this to prove a point. It wasn’t meant to be content. It was just a week.

But it was a week that reminded us why life in Sicily feels so alive. Not because it’s perfect, but because it pulls you into the moment. And this week, we let ourselves be fully present.

From the unexpected scenes in Capaci to the rooftop views in the hills, from roadside ocean stops to spontaneous dinners with friends—it all came together without effort, without planning. Just real life in a week in Sicily one beautiful moment at a time.

If you’re curious about what it’s really like to move here, we shared more in Our Journey: Relocating to Sicily from the USA in Our 60s.