As part of our seasonal site inspections exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, we recently visited Sicily — a region bursting with authentic experiences and stunning event venues.
We have selected four exceptional properties, each with a deep connection to the territory and owners who treat visitors as valued guests rather than just clients.
These are perfect settings for corporate retreats, team building activities, incentive trips, conferences, product launches, and small private events — all designed with a positive impact on the local community.
Feudo San Pietro – Milazzo
Located in the countryside near Milazzo, Feudo San Pietro is a historic estate dating back to the 15th century. Surrounded by landscapes rich in history and tradition, the property offers a peaceful and authentic Sicilian atmosphere far from mass tourism.
Once a noble family residence, today Feudo San Pietro is a unique venue for sustainable events, from wellness retreats to corporate meetings with a cultural focus. Hosting an event here means contributing to the preservation of Sicily’s architectural heritage while enjoying views of the nearby medieval castle, the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the Aeolian Islands on the horizon.
Why it’s perfect for your event:
Its serene, secluded location encourages focus and creativity, while nearby cultural attractions make it easy to integrate authentic activities into your event programme.
Example of an authentic experience we planned at Feudo San Pietro:
In collaboration with our sister company, Creative Italy, Italian Special Occasions DMC organised a “Jasmine Perfume Creation Workshop”. It was a sensory and creative workshop led by a botanical perfumery expert. Participants discovered the scent, symbolism, and traditional uses of jasmine, trained their sense of smell with natural raw materials, and crafted a base jasmine accord by hand. Read the full perfume-making story here.
Feudo San Pietro (also in the article’s cover image)
Casa Cuseni – Taormina
Casa Cuseni is a historical villa and museum in Taormina, built between 1902 and 1905 by British artist Sir Robert Hawthorn Kitson. Designed in the Liberty style and decorated by Sir Frank Brangwyn, it has hosted world-famous guests such as Pablo Picasso and Tennessee Williams. Today, it is a National Monument of Italy and part of the UNESCO network of cultural heritage.
This enchanting venue is ideal for small conferences, board meetings, cultural incentive programmes, and intimate private events. Its historic interiors, original art collections, and panoramic gardens overlooking Mount Etna and the Bay of Naxos provide a setting that inspires reflection, creativity, and connection.
Why it’s perfect for your event:
It combines the charm of an artist’s residence with the prestige of a heritage site, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for discerning groups.
Example of an authentic experience at Casa Cuseni:
We can organise an unforgettable private cooking lesson and dining experience with highly qualified chefs. The dining room of Casa Cuseni is the only surviving interior in the world designed by Sir Frank Brangwyn, British Royal Academician. In 2019, this interior has been recognised as the world’s best example of the Arts and Crafts Movement outside Britain and a Place of Identity and Memory of the Sicilian Region! The entire experience allows participants to explore the culinary art developed in Sicily since ancient times.
Radicepura – Giarre
Nestled between Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, Radicepura is a contemporary botanical park and event complex set within 5 hectares of lush gardens. Born from a renowned Sicilian plant nursery, the venue is home to more than 3,000 plant species, striking architectural structures, and an award-winning greenhouse. It also hosts the internationally acclaimed Radicepura Garden Festival.
With spaces for up to 1,500 guests, Radicepura is perfect for corporate events, product launches, conventions, and gala dinners. Its open-air areas allow for stunning seasonal set-ups, while indoor halls provide flexibility for year-round events.
Why it’s perfect for your event:
It offers a seamless blend of modern infrastructure and natural beauty, making it ideal for companies seeking green, design-led venues in Sicily.
Example of an authentic experience at Radicepura:
We can plan a sensory product launch in the sustainable conference greenhouse. It is a modern and functional glass building, hydraulically and energetically self-sustaining thanks to the use of solar panels. Surrounded by lush tropical plants, aromatic Sicilian herbs, and Mediterranean flora from the venue’s botanical park, guests can explore the new product through sight, scent, and touch in a setting that celebrates both innovation and nature. This immersive, eco-conscious environment enhances the sensory impact of the launch and also reinforces your brand’s commitment to sustainability and authentic local connections.
Teatro di Tindari – Tindari
The Ancient Theatre of Tindari, built in the 4th century BC and later adapted in Roman times, is one of Sicily’s most spectacular archaeological sites. Set high on a promontory, it offers breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Aeolian Islands.
Since 1956, it has been home to the Tindari Festival, one of the island’s oldest and most prestigious cultural events, featuring opera, theatre, music, and dance performances.
Hosting an event here — whether a corporate gala, opera evening, or product presentation — means offering your guests a truly immersive cultural experience in a venue that blends history, art, and natural beauty.
Why it’s perfect for your event:
Few places can match the drama of performing or presenting against a backdrop of ancient stone and endless sea.
Example of an authentic experience we planned at Teatro Tindari:
As part of a bespoke incentive trip programme, we accompanied a small group of international managers to attend Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida. The open-air performance, set against a backdrop of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Aeolian Islands, combined world-class music with the timeless atmosphere of an archaeological treasure. Guests experienced not only the grandeur of Verdi’s opera, but also the magic of a venue where history, culture, and natural beauty meet. It was an unforgettable evening that deepened their connection to Sicily and offered a rare opportunity to enjoy a cultural masterpiece in a setting unlike any other in the world.
Why These Venues Are Ideal for Your Event in Sicily
- Sustainability: Each venue supports cultural heritage preservation or environmental stewardship.
- Authenticity: Locations deeply rooted in Sicilian culture, history, and traditions.
- Positive Local Impact: Events here support local communities, artisans, and small businesses.
- Flexibility: Spaces suitable for corporate, incentive, cultural, and private events.
- Unique Experiences: Combine meetings with cooking classes, vineyard visits, artisan workshops, and guided heritage tours.
Enriching Your Event Programme
At Italian Special Occasions DMC, we design every programme with seasonality, sustainability, and authentic engagement in mind.
Here’s how we bring events in Sicily to life:
- Seasonal Menus – curated with local chefs using fresh, regional ingredients such as citrus fruits, seasonal vegetables, and traditional recipes.
- Authentic Activities – from hands-on ceramic workshops in Caltagirone to vineyard tours on the slopes of Etna.
- Community Involvement – partnering with local guides, artisans, and producers to share their craft and stories.
- Educational Impact – integrating sessions on Sicilian history, biodiversity, and traditions into your itinerary.
Your Sustainable Event in Sicily
For international companies seeking a trusted sustainable event planner in Sicily, Italian Special Occasions DMC offers tailor-made solutions that respect the environment, celebrate traditions, and create a positive impact on the local community.
With venues like our hand-picked ones for your corporate retreat, incentive trip, or product launch will be immersive, responsible, and truly unforgettable. Contact us today and let’s plan together your Italian Special Occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions about Planning Events in Sicily
Why should I choose Sicily for my corporate event or incentive trip?
Sicily offers a unique blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty. Unlike mainstream destinations, it allows your guests to experience authentic venues, engage with local communities, and enjoy meaningful activities in a sustainable way.
What types of events can be organised at these venues?
From board meetings, team building, and incentive trips to product launches, cultural programmes, and private celebrations, the venues we select in Sicily are highly versatile and adaptable to your needs.
How do you ensure events are sustainable?
We prioritise venues and suppliers that value heritage preservation, environmental stewardship, and local engagement. Our programmes integrate seasonal menus, artisan workshops, and cultural activities that directly support the community.
Can you combine business with leisure experiences?
Absolutely. We design itineraries where corporate meetings or product presentations are paired with immersive experiences, such as cooking classes, vineyard visits, artistic workshops, or open-air opera performances.
What size of groups can you accommodate?
Our venues range from intimate historical villas ideal for small executive groups to larger hotels, botanical parks and theatress. We tailor the choice of venue to your group size and event goals.
How far in advance should we plan our event in Sicily?
For the best availability of venues, accommodations, and local experts, we recommend planning at least 6–12 months ahead. However, thanks to our local network, we can also assist with shorter timelines when needed.
Do you also offer support with logistics and travel arrangements?
Yes. As a Destination Management Company, we provide end-to-end event planning, including logistics, accommodations, transfers, and on-site coordination, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for you and your guests.
This article was first published in 2015; last update in August 2025. We constantly inspect venues and update our blog!
